Media statement
For immediate release
Tuesday, 28 August 2007

Turner back Sallies' housing report

UnitedFuture MP Judy Turner says investing in housing is investing in the community.

“UnitedFuture totally endorses the Salvation Army report on housing which calls for the Government to invest up to a billion dollars a year in affordable housing.

"We recognise the need for investment to happen now and be sustained until results are forthcoming.

“The New Zealand situation is getting dangerously close to a point of no return in the housing market and home-ownership rates. If the Government continues to fail to act, our home-owner society will be lost forever,” says Mrs Turner.

“First-time buyer schemes are an essential element, along with ensuring there is a decent supply of housing at the cheaper end of the spectrum. Developers need to be building a range of housing types – not just the high end.

“Labour should immediately sell the most expensive State house properties, and reinvest in more housing stock. Why do we have State house tenants living in $1.5 million homes owned by tax payers – the majority of whom will never dream of living in such an expensive property?” questions Mrs Turner.

“Investment needs to occur now, and needs to be ongoing. This report suggests a long-term strategy to combat unaffordable housing – a strategy the Government is sadly lacking,” says Mrs Turner.

ENDS

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