Youth Missing Out on Jobs under National
4 MAY 2016
Youth Missing Out on Jobs under National
The rate of young people not in work, education or training is now at its highest since 2013, says New Zealand First.
“The rate has climbed since John Key became Prime Minister, remaining above pre-2008 levels for eight straight years,” says New Zealand First Spokesperson for Social Development Darroch Ball.
“The government’s claims on youth unemployment figures have no basis given the latest data. The number of unemployed 15-19 year olds increased by 8,400 or 12.1%. The NEET rate – those youth not in education, employment or training – is now over 12.4%, its highest level for more than three years.
“The number of young men out of work and with no education or training is the worst result since records began.
“In Parliament today the Prime Minister could not confidently state whether youth unemployment rates had increased or decreased. He fumbled over his government’s previous statements about so-called ‘positive unemployment’.
“The fact is New Zealand is well behind in OECD rankings. The government appears to be void of any successful strategy to address this situation which is vital to the wellbeing of our next generation.
“Where is the ‘brighter future’ for our young people? It’s nothing more than a National Party myth,” says Mr Ball.
ENDS