Press Release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Christchurch

Libertarianz Want Income Tax Reprieve in Christchurch

In response to New Zealand First’s call for a rent freeze in Christchurch to help low income families, Libertarianz Leader Richard McGrath says the last thing Christchurch needs is more government interference. "The Christchurch recovery continues at a snail's pace under the direction of Government Ministers. Even more restrictive regulations being enacted in Christchurch are the last thing victims of the earthquake need."

Richard McGrath says that what Christchurch’s residents and business people need is less Government to make living more affordable and recovery faster. "I'm calling on Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee to use his special powers granted by Parliament to declare Christchurch a free enterprise zone. For the next five years residents and businesses based within the Christchurch area should be completely exempt from income tax in order to enable them to sort out their own lives and finally clean up the ruins of their battered city."

"Over two years since the first earthquake and where is Christchurch now? Growth is still stunted by skills shortages while national unemployment hovers near eight percent. Parts of the city are still in ruins while developers are hamstrung by planning rules and obstructive politicians. High rents, partly the result of a housing shortage caused by excessive regulation, make life a struggle for lower and middle class families."

"A three year exemption from income tax for Christchurch residents and business owners will make Christchurch attractive for families, workers, housing developers and businesses alike. It will lead to a quick recovery and booming economy in the region. It will reduce the financial risk and provide a real incentive for individuals and capital to flood into the region. A natural disaster zone doesn't need politicians and bureaucracy, it needs capital, workers and free enterprise."

ENDS

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