5 Februrary 2008 Media Statement

Unemployed deserve more than platitudes

The Minister of Social Development is offering platitudes to the unemployed rather than hope, says Labour social development spokesperson Annette King.

“The Minister of Social Development needs to get on and tell people what initiatives the National Government has planned to help the unemployed rather than continuing to delay and dither on the topic.

“New Zealanders need to know their Government is working to help them and the economy, yet all we have heard so far is that they are going to talk about doing something,” Ms King said.

“The Minister of Social Development says New Zealand is in a better position than most other OECD countries concerning unemployment.

“Ms Bennett needs to stop relying on the good work the Labour Government did in reducing unemployment and get on with developing initiatives that will help those most in need,” Ms King said

“The Minister of Social Development is a key portfolio, yet Ms Bennett was not even invited to take part in a meeting of Ministers planning a ‘jobs summit’ to be held later this month.

“Ms Bennett needs to let the unemployed of this country know she is fighting for them and is getting her voice heard in the National Government. But this year Ms Bennett has only released two public statements, one on a personal matter and one today which does not show that she has any plan to help those who have lost their jobs get back to work.

“As for the Government’s restart package launched last year, it does little more than provide some assistance with accommodation, and it’s doubtful that it will actually help get people back to work,” Ms King said.

ENDS

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