The Massive Fiscal Mess Jacinda Left Behind

“Jacinda Ardern has left a massive mess behind in New Zealand after an explosive report on the Government’s ban on oil and gas was released today by the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment (MBIE), says ACT Leader David Seymour.

“One year into Government, Labour have another fiscal hole. Except this time it’s Ministry officials firing warnings to the Government not politicians.

“Today MBIE warned that the Government’s decision would cost the country $8 billion in tax revenue, decrease economic activity in Taranaki and even lead to higher global emissions.

“That $8 billion could be spent on giving an extra $7,000 per year to every teacher up and down New Zealand.

“This was completely foreseeable. I visited Taranaki in April after the Government’s first announcement to ban oil and gas and businesses knew it would be looking bad for the region.

“Yet, the Government hell bent on creating their own nuclear-free moment have disgracefully blindsided and ignored the industry, Taranaki, and officials warnings.

“The sheer incompetence of this Government is mind-boggling. This is yet another example of Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern governing by what feels good, rather than what works.

“This is a complete own goal but they’re too stubborn to see it.”

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