31 March 2009 Media release
New Zealand Trade and Enterprise decision ridiculous

New Zealand exporters should be extremely worried by the Government’s decision to include New Zealand Trade and Enterprise in a cap on public servants, says Labour Trade spokesperson Maryan Street.

“We need a strong trade organisation working tirelessly to promote New Zealand products and businesses to new markets, but National is handicapping the department in what can only be described as an extremely short-sighted move.

"NZTE is one of the Crown entities told that it has effectively a sinking staffing lid --- no replacements and no additional staff --- for three years. This is lunacy when we are trying to trade our way out of recession. Is this Government actually serious about doing that?” Maryan Street asked.

“Clearly Tony Ryall as Minister of State Services isn’t serious about it if he is so prepared to put obstacles in the way of an organisation whose purpose is to help develop New Zealand businesses.”

Maryan Street said New Zealand products were well thought of internationally and it was important that during the recession these businesses were able to maintain their current market position as well as looking for new markets to expand into.

“Our businesses need to be given every opportunity to compete internationally. We have some of the best export products in the world and by helping businesses to look at new markets and new opportunities we may be able to save jobs and even create new ones.

“It is simply staggering that this Government is clearly not attempting to encourage an export-led recovery,” she said.

“New Zealand is a small country and our businesses, particularly during these harsh economic times, need a government championing them at every opportunity instead of putting roadblocks in their way,” Maryan Street said.

ENDS

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