Darroch Ball MP

Spokesperson for Social Development
25 MARCH 2015

State House WOF Trial Results Withheld Too Long

New Zealand First says the Government is deliberately hiding results of the national warrant of fitness (WOF) trial for state houses at the expense of vulnerable New Zealanders.

“The Government was sure to have known state houses were in an appalling condition before the attempted sell-off. The WOF trial was completed almost nine months ago,” says Spokesperson for Social Development Darroch Ball.

“Delaying release of the trial results has not attracted community housing providers to buy the houses.

“Research by the Salvation Army revealed Housing New Zealand houses had been left in an ‘appalling state’. Other organisations no longer want to buy in.

“This is embarrassing for the Government. They have neglected their responsibility to provide safe living standards for vulnerable New Zealanders. Many are continuing to get sick from sub-standard housing.

“New Zealand First is calling on the Government to release results of the national WOF trial for state houses immediately so work can progress for Kiwis who need it most,” says Mr Ball.”

ENDS

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