Sandra Lee MP Thu Aug 26 1999

The Alliance is supporting Auckland mayors calls for changes to economic policy and more regional development and is prepared to work with them to solve problems of poverty and an overloaded infrastructure.

'Even former national party cabinet Ministers such as Christine Fletcher can see that this government has caused extensive poverty in Auckland as well as the impoverishment of the regions,' Alliance deputy leader Sandra Lee said.

'Auckland's problems are New Zealand's problems, and many have been caused by this government's short sighted health, housing and infrastructure policies.

'Local government should be seen as a partner with central government in alleviating poverty, and poor housing, and promoting healthy and equal communities offering opportunities for all, as envisaged by Agenda 21

'The Alliance believes there needs to be greater sharing of central government funds to help meet new responsibilities such as better public transport or resource management.

'Our Economic Development Fund will make available substantial investment funds which will be crucial to development in all areas of the country. We will look to local government as partners in regional development.

'Regional development is not just about keeping jobs and services in the regions.

'It is about making sure the infrastructure in the cities is not stressed as a result of the urban drift brought on by the strangling of the regions.

'We also agree with the Mayors analysis of Wellington's meddling in their affairs.

'The ARST debacle had more to do with this government's ideology of privatisation rather than letting local communities decide how to use their own resources to fix their own problems.

'Local government is part of the solution not part of the problem,' Sandra Lee said.

ENDS

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