AUCKLAND ACTION AGAINST POVERTY
Media release 8th November 2012, 12pm

Welfare Reform Cruel Punishment During Rising Unemployment

“Figures released today showing the highest unemployment rate in 20 years are a clear indication that National's welfare policy is cruel punishment for beneficiaries”, says Auckland Action Against Poverty Spokesperson Chris Zack.

“This government seems to think a solution to the now 175 000 unemployed is to punish beneficiaries rather than engage in the responsible task of creating opportunities for people.”

“We don't have a benefit dependency problem, we have a job creation problem.”

“The second wave of welfare reforms recently introduced to Parliament is a textbook example of how this government's policies towards beneficiaries are nothing but a cruel distraction from the real problems we have.”

“We are consistently shocked and appalled by the seemingly inept and basically non existent job creation strategies by the National Government. The market will not magically change for the better based on such unimaginative governance.”

“John Key previously promised a 'brighter future' with 170 000 more full-time jobs, these figures show how much of an incredible failure that promise has been.”

“AAAP remains committed to doing what we can to stop the second wave of welfare reforms that are currently before Parliament.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media

Metservice: Where Will Snow Fall And What To Look Out For

The deep Antarctic air that is expected to sweep across the country this week is bringing very significant weather to many provinces.Here's the official MetService view of the key weather concerns for the country.

MetService Media and Communications Meteorologist Dan Corbett commented,"While snow will be a major issue for those in the South Island, wind and hail will affect many North Island districts."

Snow is expected to fall to sea level, or very near it, from Southland to South Canterbury from late Wednesday into Thursday and Friday. The snow level is expected to rise to 200m from about Christchurch northwards... More>>