Darroch Ball MP

Spokesperson for Social Development
22 APRIL 2016

Out-of-Work Young Kiwis on the Rise

New Zealand First disputes the government’s claims that unemployment is down – when the number of young unemployed has risen.

“The Ministry of Social Development’s latest figures show the number of under 24 year olds looking for a job has gone up to over 17,500 with young people in the regions significantly affected by lack of jobs,” says New Zealand First Spokesperson for Social Development Darroch Ball.

“These young people are ready, willing and able to work and actively searching for jobs, but those jobs are not there.

“The young people without a job add to the 70,000 who are already inactive and disengaged. It’s a ticking time-bomb.

“Deputy Prime Minister Bill English’s comments that young people are lazy typifies this government’s attitude to job creation, training, qualifications and ensuring young people are work ready.

“Unemployed and disillusioned youth become unemployed and disillusioned adults,” says Mr Ball.

“Instead of filling jobs with immigrants, the government needs to ensure young Kiwis are trained, educated and provided with opportunities before it’s too late.”

ENDS

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