ACC Minister Nick Smith has announced that levies will rise next year. However, these increases will be considerably less than those recommended by ACC.
These levy increases are necessary because ACC’s claims costs have increased by 57 per cent in the past four years. We’re moderating the increases by pushing out the full funding date to 2019, pulling back on extensions to the scheme made by the Labour Government, and putting in place a wide range of cost-saving measures.
Setting the levies has been a difficult balance between minimising the cost increases and families and businesses, keeping the pressure on ACC to better manage its costs, and ensuring ACC’s long-term sustainability. I believe we’ve struck the right balance.
These changes will help get ACC back on a more sustainable path and protect our 24/7, no-fault accident insurance programme.
For more information: www.beehive.govt.nz/release/government+announces+201011+acc+levy+rates
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Helping prevent child abuse
This Government is taking action on preventing child abuse.
The statistics in New Zealand must change. Vulnerable young babies and toddlers are at greatest risk of abuse, as they are completely dependent on the adults who care for them.
The ‘Never, Ever Shake a Baby’ campaign, launched on 6 December, is part of a wider programme to protect young children. We are starting with this multi-media campaign, raising awareness about the vulnerability of young children, and making sure every New Zealander understands why you must never, ever shake a baby.
We need every New Zealander to take a stand on this issue, and look out for the children who can’t look out for themselves.
More information:
http://www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/newsroom/media-releases/2009/pr-2009-09-03.html
The statistics in New Zealand must change. Vulnerable young babies and toddlers are at greatest risk of abuse, as they are completely dependent on the adults who care for them.
The ‘Never, Ever Shake a Baby’ campaign, launched on 6 December, is part of a wider programme to protect young children. We are starting with this multi-media campaign, raising awareness about the vulnerability of young children, and making sure every New Zealander understands why you must never, ever shake a baby.
We need every New Zealander to take a stand on this issue, and look out for the children who can’t look out for themselves.
More information:
http://www.msd.govt.nz/about-msd-and-our-work/newsroom/media-releases/2009/pr-2009-09-03.html
Energy sector moves will benefit consumers
Measures to improve the New Zealand electricity system will give consumers confidence that power bills will not keep skyrocketing.
Our reforms, introduced this week, will also increase security of supply, and ensure effective and streamlined governance.
Power bills climbed rapidly during the previous government’s term, well above the rate of inflation. We also faced many power shortages in dry years.
Among our initiatives is a requirement for generators to compensate consumers if consumers are asked to save electricity through a national conservation campaign.
The Electricity Industry Bill will improve retail competition, while ensuring that signals for investment in new generation are clear.
More information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/energy+sector+transformation+benefit+consumers
Our reforms, introduced this week, will also increase security of supply, and ensure effective and streamlined governance.
Power bills climbed rapidly during the previous government’s term, well above the rate of inflation. We also faced many power shortages in dry years.
Among our initiatives is a requirement for generators to compensate consumers if consumers are asked to save electricity through a national conservation campaign.
The Electricity Industry Bill will improve retail competition, while ensuring that signals for investment in new generation are clear.
More information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/energy+sector+transformation+benefit+consumers
Section 59: law is working
National does not want to see good parents criminalised for a light smack.
Prime Minister John Key asked Police Commissioner Howard Broad, Social Development Ministry chief executive Peter Hughes, and Nigel Latta, a well-known clinical psychologist, to examine the policies and procedures being used around the issue of smacking.
They found parents are not being criminalised for a light smack, and that section 59 of the Crimes Act is working as it was intended.
The National-led Government has accepted all of their recommendations.
We will establish a parent support phone line, ensure the immediate publication of guidelines for social workers, and require police and social workers to provide families with specific information on their rights and on what to expect.
We want to reassure parents that they will not be criminalised for a light smack, and we will continue to monitor the way the law is being implemented.
More information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/prime+minister+welcomes+s59+review+report
Prime Minister John Key asked Police Commissioner Howard Broad, Social Development Ministry chief executive Peter Hughes, and Nigel Latta, a well-known clinical psychologist, to examine the policies and procedures being used around the issue of smacking.
They found parents are not being criminalised for a light smack, and that section 59 of the Crimes Act is working as it was intended.
The National-led Government has accepted all of their recommendations.
We will establish a parent support phone line, ensure the immediate publication of guidelines for social workers, and require police and social workers to provide families with specific information on their rights and on what to expect.
We want to reassure parents that they will not be criminalised for a light smack, and we will continue to monitor the way the law is being implemented.
More information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/prime+minister+welcomes+s59+review+report
Thursday, November 19, 2009
A Great Night of Sport (and drama)
I've been to a number of sporting contests in New Zealand and around the world but none would beat the atmosphere I experienced being part of the 35,000 crowd in attendance at Westpac Stadium in Wellington last Saturday night. What a fantastic result for the team, the game of soccer and for New Zealand sport. I was so proud of their effort. My voice is only coming back now, several days later!
Good luck to the all Whites for World Cup 2010 in South Africa.
Good luck to the all Whites for World Cup 2010 in South Africa.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
On the Road to Recovery
Whether you’re a small business owner, a graduate looking for a job, or someone at home making ends meet, this economic downturn has been tough. This has been a worldwide recession but it has been felt very much at a local level.
Faced with the worse economic downturn in decades the National-led Government took the necessary steps to support jobs and families, and creating the environment that gave businesses the confidence to maintain and create new jobs.
Our ReStart package gave assistance to those who have lost their jobs during the economic downturn. The nine-day fortnight, the Job Support Scheme and Job Ops initiatives have helped keep people employed and created jobs for our young people.
In addition to the assistance given through government agencies, more jobs have been created through our home insulation package, and bringing forward infrastructure projects. Work is also beginning on the New Zealand Cycle Trails, which will create jobs, and be a real boost for local businesses in those regions.
We have maintained Superannuation entitlements, benefits for low-income families, and Working for Families assistance. It’s important to give people certainty at a time of economic uncertainty. Our decision to maintain spending on entitlements and public services, borrowing on average $250 million a week, has helped cushion New Zealanders from the hardest edges of the recession.
There are signs that the economy is coming out of the downturn. We’ve recorded a positive increase in growth in the last quarter. Business and consumer confidence is improving. And our major trading partners, like Australia and the United States, are also seeing signs of growth.
However, the road to recovery will be quite bumpy and this is reflected in the financial statements issued recently. Certainly, the impact of the recession on the Government's revenue will be felt for some time.
Government spending and short-term initiatives won’t bring about sustained economic growth. That's why it is critical we get a step-change that permanently lifts our economic performance.
We have already started this by removing regulations and streamlining the Resource Management Act, which will make it easier to do business. The tax cuts we delivered this year have helped put more money into the pockets of workers. Our small business package put in place a range of initiatives to reduce compliance costs, help keep up cashflow, and help businesses retain staff.
We need to continue this step-change by cutting the red tape that restricts business growth and prosperity, investing in productive infrastructure, delivering better, smarter public services, lifting education and skills, pursuing innovation and business assistance, and ensuring our tax system promotes economic growth.
This will be the focus of Budget 2010.
Faced with the worse economic downturn in decades the National-led Government took the necessary steps to support jobs and families, and creating the environment that gave businesses the confidence to maintain and create new jobs.
Our ReStart package gave assistance to those who have lost their jobs during the economic downturn. The nine-day fortnight, the Job Support Scheme and Job Ops initiatives have helped keep people employed and created jobs for our young people.
In addition to the assistance given through government agencies, more jobs have been created through our home insulation package, and bringing forward infrastructure projects. Work is also beginning on the New Zealand Cycle Trails, which will create jobs, and be a real boost for local businesses in those regions.
We have maintained Superannuation entitlements, benefits for low-income families, and Working for Families assistance. It’s important to give people certainty at a time of economic uncertainty. Our decision to maintain spending on entitlements and public services, borrowing on average $250 million a week, has helped cushion New Zealanders from the hardest edges of the recession.
There are signs that the economy is coming out of the downturn. We’ve recorded a positive increase in growth in the last quarter. Business and consumer confidence is improving. And our major trading partners, like Australia and the United States, are also seeing signs of growth.
However, the road to recovery will be quite bumpy and this is reflected in the financial statements issued recently. Certainly, the impact of the recession on the Government's revenue will be felt for some time.
Government spending and short-term initiatives won’t bring about sustained economic growth. That's why it is critical we get a step-change that permanently lifts our economic performance.
We have already started this by removing regulations and streamlining the Resource Management Act, which will make it easier to do business. The tax cuts we delivered this year have helped put more money into the pockets of workers. Our small business package put in place a range of initiatives to reduce compliance costs, help keep up cashflow, and help businesses retain staff.
We need to continue this step-change by cutting the red tape that restricts business growth and prosperity, investing in productive infrastructure, delivering better, smarter public services, lifting education and skills, pursuing innovation and business assistance, and ensuring our tax system promotes economic growth.
This will be the focus of Budget 2010.
Protecting our Families
On November 25 we mark White Ribbon Day. This is when we send the message that violence against women and children must stop.
Violence damages the lives of tens of thousands of New Zealanders. National is determined to change this. We want to secure a brighter future for all New Zealanders and their families.
We are ensuring the right laws are in place, that the police and justice systems work for victims, and that victims have better access to support.
Before the election, we promised to give police the power to issue on-the-spot protection orders to help protect victims of domestic violence.
We have kept our word. We passed the Domestic Violence (Enhancing Safety) Act which gives police that power, and allows sentencing judges to issue protection orders on behalf of victims.
This will provide better protection for people at immediate risk of family violence, and is in addition to the normal court process for considering requests for protection orders.
We also promised to increase the maximum sentences for offenders who commit acts of violence and abuse against children.
Last year we passed the Sentencing (Offences against Children) Amendment Act. This requires the courts to take into account the defencelessness of children when it sentences offenders.
We have also introduced a Child and Family Protection Bill which gives the courts some additional powers to protect children and families from all forms of violence and abuse.
We are continuing to work in this area. We want to ensure our laws send a clear message that crimes against children are totally unacceptable and will be punished accordingly.
Recently the Ministry of Women’s Affairs completed its two-year research project on sexual violence. The findings will help us to better understand the needs of victims, and to improve their safety and well-being.
The Ministry is also looking at ways to eliminate domestic violence to ensure that women are safer in their homes. We must speak out now and ensure that women remain safe.
The Government cannot solve the problem of violence on its own – we need to change the attitudes that have allowed some New Zealanders to tolerate family violence and sexual violence.
White Ribbon Day is a chance for our communities to stand together, in solidarity, against violence being inflicted on women and children.
We must come together as a community and ensure the message “It’s not okay” resonates in every family and in every home.
Violence damages the lives of tens of thousands of New Zealanders. National is determined to change this. We want to secure a brighter future for all New Zealanders and their families.
We are ensuring the right laws are in place, that the police and justice systems work for victims, and that victims have better access to support.
Before the election, we promised to give police the power to issue on-the-spot protection orders to help protect victims of domestic violence.
We have kept our word. We passed the Domestic Violence (Enhancing Safety) Act which gives police that power, and allows sentencing judges to issue protection orders on behalf of victims.
This will provide better protection for people at immediate risk of family violence, and is in addition to the normal court process for considering requests for protection orders.
We also promised to increase the maximum sentences for offenders who commit acts of violence and abuse against children.
Last year we passed the Sentencing (Offences against Children) Amendment Act. This requires the courts to take into account the defencelessness of children when it sentences offenders.
We have also introduced a Child and Family Protection Bill which gives the courts some additional powers to protect children and families from all forms of violence and abuse.
We are continuing to work in this area. We want to ensure our laws send a clear message that crimes against children are totally unacceptable and will be punished accordingly.
Recently the Ministry of Women’s Affairs completed its two-year research project on sexual violence. The findings will help us to better understand the needs of victims, and to improve their safety and well-being.
The Ministry is also looking at ways to eliminate domestic violence to ensure that women are safer in their homes. We must speak out now and ensure that women remain safe.
The Government cannot solve the problem of violence on its own – we need to change the attitudes that have allowed some New Zealanders to tolerate family violence and sexual violence.
White Ribbon Day is a chance for our communities to stand together, in solidarity, against violence being inflicted on women and children.
We must come together as a community and ensure the message “It’s not okay” resonates in every family and in every home.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Congrats to the Stags
It was a bittersweet moment for Otago supporters last Thursday as Southland lifted the Log of Wood from Canterbury. I was speaking at a meeting in Christchurch and the mood was somber to say the least. While delighted for Southland, one wonders at the number of former Otago players (7?) and what might have been for the Blue and Golds had they stayed in Otago. On the other hand, the Stags broke a 50 year drought - next year it will be Otago's turn to do the same!!!
Securing the future of ACC
ACC has become financially unsustainable and reform is needed to secure its future for New Zealanders.
ACC lost $4.8 billion this year on top of $2.4 billion last year. Its unfunded liabilities have ballooned from $4 billion to $13 billion and its claim costs by 57 per cent in just four years.
That’s why we’ve moved to tighten up some entitlements. This week the Injury Prevention, Rehabilitation, and Compensation Amendment Bill passed its first reading. The changes in this Bill are needed to make the ACC scheme affordable, sustainable and fair. Our changes will see ACC's proposed levy increases reduced by half.
We hope the public will engage with the select committee. There needs to be an open and honest conversation as to how we’re going to fund ACC’s shortfall.
For more information: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/speech/injury+prevention+rehabilitation+and+compensation+amendment+bill+2009
ACC lost $4.8 billion this year on top of $2.4 billion last year. Its unfunded liabilities have ballooned from $4 billion to $13 billion and its claim costs by 57 per cent in just four years.
That’s why we’ve moved to tighten up some entitlements. This week the Injury Prevention, Rehabilitation, and Compensation Amendment Bill passed its first reading. The changes in this Bill are needed to make the ACC scheme affordable, sustainable and fair. Our changes will see ACC's proposed levy increases reduced by half.
We hope the public will engage with the select committee. There needs to be an open and honest conversation as to how we’re going to fund ACC’s shortfall.
For more information: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/speech/injury+prevention+rehabilitation+and+compensation+amendment+bill+2009
Herceptin helping more women
Just weeks after taking office National honoured an election promise to publicly fund
12 months of Herceptin for women with HER2 breast cancer.
We started the funding from the day we were sworn in and by the end of last month, 191 New Zealand women had received Herceptin under this Government's policy.
Our commitment allows patients and their doctors to have a choice. The nine-week treatment option also remains funded and available. Women who began treatment as private patients have also been reimbursed their costs from the day the Government was sworn in.
The 12-month course is being funded from the extra $40 million the Government is spending on pharmaceuticals this year.
At this time of economic restraint, National is working to achieve better access to medicines for patients.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/more+women+taking+12+month+herceptin+course
12 months of Herceptin for women with HER2 breast cancer.
We started the funding from the day we were sworn in and by the end of last month, 191 New Zealand women had received Herceptin under this Government's policy.
Our commitment allows patients and their doctors to have a choice. The nine-week treatment option also remains funded and available. Women who began treatment as private patients have also been reimbursed their costs from the day the Government was sworn in.
The 12-month course is being funded from the extra $40 million the Government is spending on pharmaceuticals this year.
At this time of economic restraint, National is working to achieve better access to medicines for patients.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/more+women+taking+12+month+herceptin+course
Hunt for proceeds of crime
A team of hardened fraud investigators will be formed to hunt down and seize the millions of dollars in profits made by organised crime.
The new 22-strong Assets Recovery Unit will be at the sharp end of our fight against organised crime and methamphetamine.
The unit will support new laws that give police the power to detect and seize the assets and profits gangs and organised crime obtain illegally. By taking away their vast profits, organised crime will have less reason to exist.
The proceeds will be used to fund methamphetamine rehabilitation, Youth Aid programmes and other initiatives that prevent kids from joining gangs.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new+unit+hunt+assets+organised+crime
The new 22-strong Assets Recovery Unit will be at the sharp end of our fight against organised crime and methamphetamine.
The unit will support new laws that give police the power to detect and seize the assets and profits gangs and organised crime obtain illegally. By taking away their vast profits, organised crime will have less reason to exist.
The proceeds will be used to fund methamphetamine rehabilitation, Youth Aid programmes and other initiatives that prevent kids from joining gangs.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/new+unit+hunt+assets+organised+crime
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Engaging youth in learning
National is committed to giving students every opportunity to achieve and meet their potential.
Five trades academies will open their doors across the country in 2011.
Trades academies are a key part of our Youth Guarantee and will help keep more students engaged in learning.
They’ll provide more career choices for 16- and 17-year-olds, and give them greater opportunities to develop their knowledge, skills and talents through trades and technology programmes
Academies will be opened at Northland College, Waikato Institute of Technology and Cambridge High School, Wellington Institute of Technology, Taratahi Agricultural Centre and Catlins Area School.
For more information go to:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/five+new+trades+academies+more+come
Five trades academies will open their doors across the country in 2011.
Trades academies are a key part of our Youth Guarantee and will help keep more students engaged in learning.
They’ll provide more career choices for 16- and 17-year-olds, and give them greater opportunities to develop their knowledge, skills and talents through trades and technology programmes
Academies will be opened at Northland College, Waikato Institute of Technology and Cambridge High School, Wellington Institute of Technology, Taratahi Agricultural Centre and Catlins Area School.
For more information go to:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/five+new+trades+academies+more+come
More help for victims of serious crime
National knows that victims of crime, and in particular victims of serious crimes, face significant financial and emotional costs as a result of the crimes committed against them.
We have made a commitment to increase the amount of support available to victims from November 2009.
Initiatives include:
A significant increase in the funeral grant to families of homicide victims.
A daily court attendance grant of $124 per person for up to five adult members of a homicide victim's family.
An increase in the discretionary grant for families of homicide victims which are suffering financial difficulties, from $1500 to $5000.
A court service for victims of sexual violence which give them access to a trained adviser who understands the dynamics of sexual violence cases and the needs of victims.
Funding for the initiatives will come from the Offender Levy and the disestablished Sentencing Council.
For more information go to:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/more+help+way+victims+serious+crime
We have made a commitment to increase the amount of support available to victims from November 2009.
Initiatives include:
A significant increase in the funeral grant to families of homicide victims.
A daily court attendance grant of $124 per person for up to five adult members of a homicide victim's family.
An increase in the discretionary grant for families of homicide victims which are suffering financial difficulties, from $1500 to $5000.
A court service for victims of sexual violence which give them access to a trained adviser who understands the dynamics of sexual violence cases and the needs of victims.
Funding for the initiatives will come from the Offender Levy and the disestablished Sentencing Council.
For more information go to:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/more+help+way+victims+serious+crime
MMP Referendum at 2011 election
National is delivering on its pre-election promise to hold a referendum on MMP no later than 2011. We want the public to have their say on this important issue.
At the 2011 general election voters will be asked two questions – if they want to change the system, and what alternative voting system they would prefer.
If a majority of voters want to change the system, a further referendum will be held in 2014 asking voters if they prefer MMP or the alternative voting option that receives the most votes in 2011.
The 2017 general election will be held under the alternative system if more people prefer that option.
If voters want to change the system, there will be plenty of time for the public to discuss the merits of MMP and the alternative option before the second referendum.
For more information go to:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/mmp+referendum+be+held+2011+election
At the 2011 general election voters will be asked two questions – if they want to change the system, and what alternative voting system they would prefer.
If a majority of voters want to change the system, a further referendum will be held in 2014 asking voters if they prefer MMP or the alternative voting option that receives the most votes in 2011.
The 2017 general election will be held under the alternative system if more people prefer that option.
If voters want to change the system, there will be plenty of time for the public to discuss the merits of MMP and the alternative option before the second referendum.
For more information go to:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/mmp+referendum+be+held+2011+election
Improving health services for patients
National is committed to putting patients first. We want to free up resources for more and better frontline services for patients.
That’s why we’re having a major shake up of the public health service’s back office and administrative functions.
New Zealand’s 21 District Health Boards need to stop reinventing the wheel 21 times in areas like payroll and IT. Shared and better planning of these back office services will free up money for better quality frontline services for patients.
Our changes will save up to $700 million in the next five years. This would pay for 16,000 heart bypass operations or build two large city hospitals.
These changes are about making the current system work better by filling in the missing links, and aiming to provide better, sooner, more convenient, services to patients.
For more information go to:http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/major+push+lift+public+health+performance
That’s why we’re having a major shake up of the public health service’s back office and administrative functions.
New Zealand’s 21 District Health Boards need to stop reinventing the wheel 21 times in areas like payroll and IT. Shared and better planning of these back office services will free up money for better quality frontline services for patients.
Our changes will save up to $700 million in the next five years. This would pay for 16,000 heart bypass operations or build two large city hospitals.
These changes are about making the current system work better by filling in the missing links, and aiming to provide better, sooner, more convenient, services to patients.
For more information go to:http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/major+push+lift+public+health+performance
Making our communities safer
For far too long residents of many of our towns and cities have had to put up with excessive noise, danger, and intimidation from boy racers.
High-powered cars and younger drivers have created a lethal combination on our roads.
A culture of dangerous driving has evolved, putting lives at risk.
It is a culture that has pushed some communities to the very edge of their tolerance limit.
In one case, a lone policeman was cornered by several hundred boy racers. His patrol car was pelted with bottles and peppered with pot-shots from an air rifle.
In another case, about 100 of these cowardly bullies trapped a lone aviation security guard in her car. She was left covered in shattered glass after the car windows were smashed.
Hospital patients have had to be moved from rooms overlooking the street because of a noise likened to squadrons of dive bombers circling the hospital.
Moteliers tell of losing tens of thousands of dollars because of rooms that can’t be used.
And then there is the road carnage – on average there are 10 deaths from illegal-street racing a year.
The National-led Government has moved quickly to show that this dangerous, disruptive, antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated.
Less than six months ago, we introduced two bills to strengthen the laws around illegal street racing and give police greater powers to deal with it. I was on the Select Committee that heard submissions into those bills.
Through public submissions you made it clear you wanted safer communities. This week we passed those two bills into law.
The Land Transport (Enforcement Powers) Amendment Act allows councils to make by-laws to stop cars cruising the city and suburbs. This legislation significantly increases demerit points for illegal street-racing offences and closes loopholes which have allowed boy racers to get away with ignoring fines.
The Vehicle Confiscation and Seizure legislation introduces a suite of changes including the ultimate sanction of giving the courts the power to send cars driven by repeat offenders to the crusher.
Everyone has the right to feel safe in their homes, their streets, and their communities.
The boy racer laws are part of National’s package of law and order reforms to make our communities safer and to promote the security of law-abiding families.
High-powered cars and younger drivers have created a lethal combination on our roads.
A culture of dangerous driving has evolved, putting lives at risk.
It is a culture that has pushed some communities to the very edge of their tolerance limit.
In one case, a lone policeman was cornered by several hundred boy racers. His patrol car was pelted with bottles and peppered with pot-shots from an air rifle.
In another case, about 100 of these cowardly bullies trapped a lone aviation security guard in her car. She was left covered in shattered glass after the car windows were smashed.
Hospital patients have had to be moved from rooms overlooking the street because of a noise likened to squadrons of dive bombers circling the hospital.
Moteliers tell of losing tens of thousands of dollars because of rooms that can’t be used.
And then there is the road carnage – on average there are 10 deaths from illegal-street racing a year.
The National-led Government has moved quickly to show that this dangerous, disruptive, antisocial behaviour will not be tolerated.
Less than six months ago, we introduced two bills to strengthen the laws around illegal street racing and give police greater powers to deal with it. I was on the Select Committee that heard submissions into those bills.
Through public submissions you made it clear you wanted safer communities. This week we passed those two bills into law.
The Land Transport (Enforcement Powers) Amendment Act allows councils to make by-laws to stop cars cruising the city and suburbs. This legislation significantly increases demerit points for illegal street-racing offences and closes loopholes which have allowed boy racers to get away with ignoring fines.
The Vehicle Confiscation and Seizure legislation introduces a suite of changes including the ultimate sanction of giving the courts the power to send cars driven by repeat offenders to the crusher.
Everyone has the right to feel safe in their homes, their streets, and their communities.
The boy racer laws are part of National’s package of law and order reforms to make our communities safer and to promote the security of law-abiding families.
Thursday, October 15, 2009
More patients getting elective surgery
National is delivering on its election promise to provide better, sooner, more convenient
healthcare to New Zealanders.
In 2008/09, more patients than ever got the elective surgery they needed. Elective surgery is
for procedures that are necessary but not always urgent.
During the year, there was an increase of 11,805 operations – which is eight times the
average annual increase since 2001/02. The largest increase was in the first six months of
this year.
The average caseweight, which measures the complexity of the operations, has remained
unchanged from the previous year but more patients are getting the treatment they need.
National is committed to putting patients first. These figures give patients and their families
more certainty that the surgery they need gets done. We promised to deliver an extra 4000
elective procedures a year over the first three years. We have already reached our goal.
For more information visit:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/more+patients+getting+elective+surgery+-+ryall
healthcare to New Zealanders.
In 2008/09, more patients than ever got the elective surgery they needed. Elective surgery is
for procedures that are necessary but not always urgent.
During the year, there was an increase of 11,805 operations – which is eight times the
average annual increase since 2001/02. The largest increase was in the first six months of
this year.
The average caseweight, which measures the complexity of the operations, has remained
unchanged from the previous year but more patients are getting the treatment they need.
National is committed to putting patients first. These figures give patients and their families
more certainty that the surgery they need gets done. We promised to deliver an extra 4000
elective procedures a year over the first three years. We have already reached our goal.
For more information visit:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/more+patients+getting+elective+surgery+-+ryall
Focusing on sustainable jobs and growth
National’s economic policy during the global recession has been focused on sustainable jobs
and growth.
We’ve taken steps to keep people in employment or assist them when they lose their jobs.
And we’ve put in place policies that encourage economic growth built on exports and
investment, rather than Government or consumer spending.
In addition, the Government has taken the necessary, and prudent, steps to get the books in
order after inheriting a decade of deficits from the previous government.
New data out this week shows New Zealand's economy is on the right track. The current
account deficit has hit a five-year low and GDP data shows the economy grew 0.1 per cent in
the June quarter following five quarters of contraction. This is ahead of forecasts made in
Budget 2009.
This shows that our economy is stabilising, but there is a lot of work to do if we are to have a
strong recovery that leads to sustainable jobs and growth.
We know that many individuals and families are still struggling. That is why we are continuing
to roll out initiatives to help people back into work or training, and we are maintaining support
to low-income families and those most vulnerable during these tough economic times.
For more information:
http://statistics.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/balance_of_payments/Balance
OfPayments_MRJun09qtr.aspx
http://statistics.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/GDP/GrossDomesticProduct_
MRJun09qtr.aspx
and growth.
We’ve taken steps to keep people in employment or assist them when they lose their jobs.
And we’ve put in place policies that encourage economic growth built on exports and
investment, rather than Government or consumer spending.
In addition, the Government has taken the necessary, and prudent, steps to get the books in
order after inheriting a decade of deficits from the previous government.
New data out this week shows New Zealand's economy is on the right track. The current
account deficit has hit a five-year low and GDP data shows the economy grew 0.1 per cent in
the June quarter following five quarters of contraction. This is ahead of forecasts made in
Budget 2009.
This shows that our economy is stabilising, but there is a lot of work to do if we are to have a
strong recovery that leads to sustainable jobs and growth.
We know that many individuals and families are still struggling. That is why we are continuing
to roll out initiatives to help people back into work or training, and we are maintaining support
to low-income families and those most vulnerable during these tough economic times.
For more information:
http://statistics.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/balance_of_payments/Balance
OfPayments_MRJun09qtr.aspx
http://statistics.govt.nz/browse_for_stats/economic_indicators/GDP/GrossDomesticProduct_
MRJun09qtr.aspx
Lifting Education Standards
Your children deserve the best possible start in life. All young New Zealanders should have a chance to climb the ladder of opportunity.
Currently, one in five school leavers don’t have the numeracy and literacy skills they need to succeed. The National-led Government is determined to change this. We are committed to securing a brighter future for all New Zealanders, and this relies on unlocking the potential of our next generation.
It’s timely to look at the progress your children have made this year. We know parents want to know how their children are doing at school, and what they can do to help them at home.
From next year, our National Standards initiative will make this easier for you. National Standards will ensure all primary and intermediate schools assess your children’s progress in reading, writing, and maths. The standards will describe what children should have learnt by a certain age or year level. They will help teachers identify when children are falling behind, help get them on back track, and help them achieve. Parents will get plain language reports on their children’s progress, giving you a better idea of how your children are doing at school and what you can do to make a difference.
Teachers will use the same tools they work with now to measure children’s progress, and all children will be assessed against the same standard – no matter what school they are at.
Schools will begin using the standards next year, and parents will receive reports on their child’s progress. Schools will report back to the Ministry of Education in 2012.
National is dedicated to providing all children with the opportunities and tools they need to fulfil their potential. It’s been great to receive positive feedback about National Standards and our other education initiatives from parents in Dunedin.
We’re delivering on our promise to help all New Zealand children learn the basic skills they need to do well at school, prepare for the workforce, and climb the ladder of opportunity.
Currently, one in five school leavers don’t have the numeracy and literacy skills they need to succeed. The National-led Government is determined to change this. We are committed to securing a brighter future for all New Zealanders, and this relies on unlocking the potential of our next generation.
It’s timely to look at the progress your children have made this year. We know parents want to know how their children are doing at school, and what they can do to help them at home.
From next year, our National Standards initiative will make this easier for you. National Standards will ensure all primary and intermediate schools assess your children’s progress in reading, writing, and maths. The standards will describe what children should have learnt by a certain age or year level. They will help teachers identify when children are falling behind, help get them on back track, and help them achieve. Parents will get plain language reports on their children’s progress, giving you a better idea of how your children are doing at school and what you can do to make a difference.
Teachers will use the same tools they work with now to measure children’s progress, and all children will be assessed against the same standard – no matter what school they are at.
Schools will begin using the standards next year, and parents will receive reports on their child’s progress. Schools will report back to the Ministry of Education in 2012.
National is dedicated to providing all children with the opportunities and tools they need to fulfil their potential. It’s been great to receive positive feedback about National Standards and our other education initiatives from parents in Dunedin.
We’re delivering on our promise to help all New Zealand children learn the basic skills they need to do well at school, prepare for the workforce, and climb the ladder of opportunity.
Thank You
My very grateful thanks on behalf of the family to all those who expressed condolence after my Mother passed away on October 1st. Very much appreciated.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Rugby World Cup - two years to go!
Last week I attended a Parliamentary function to record the fact that it is now just two years until kick-off in the first fixture of the 2011 Rugby World Cup. That function brought it home to me how soon the tournament will be upon us.
There will be 48 matches at 13 venues across the length and breadth of the New Zealand – "the stadium of four million people".
And we will host more than 60,000 visitors expected to flood into our country for the tournament that billions of people across the globe will watch on television or online.
It will raise our international profile, boost our economy and give us lasting gains in trade and tourism. And, of course, we will have a great celebration along the way.
Come 2011, we will not only be showcasing our national game but we also have an unprecedented chance to show off our beautiful country and what we do well - from our food and wine, our fashion design and film-making, our science, to our tourism. We need to turn 2011 into a year of showing our very best to the world.
We want to encourage all New Zealanders to think of ourselves as a nation of four million hosts. We want to ensure that every visitor has a warm and uniquely New Zealand experience wherever they go – from Cape Reinga to Stewart Island.
For some Kiwis, that will mean being part of a team of volunteers who will make the RWC an outstanding event. There will be many roles to fill, from making sure things run smoothly at grounds on game days to supporting festival and business showcase events. You can register your interest in becoming a volunteer now if you like – visit http://www.nz2011.govt.nz/
Let’s give it 100% over the next two years and make 2011 New Zealand’s year.
There will be 48 matches at 13 venues across the length and breadth of the New Zealand – "the stadium of four million people".
And we will host more than 60,000 visitors expected to flood into our country for the tournament that billions of people across the globe will watch on television or online.
It will raise our international profile, boost our economy and give us lasting gains in trade and tourism. And, of course, we will have a great celebration along the way.
Come 2011, we will not only be showcasing our national game but we also have an unprecedented chance to show off our beautiful country and what we do well - from our food and wine, our fashion design and film-making, our science, to our tourism. We need to turn 2011 into a year of showing our very best to the world.
We want to encourage all New Zealanders to think of ourselves as a nation of four million hosts. We want to ensure that every visitor has a warm and uniquely New Zealand experience wherever they go – from Cape Reinga to Stewart Island.
For some Kiwis, that will mean being part of a team of volunteers who will make the RWC an outstanding event. There will be many roles to fill, from making sure things run smoothly at grounds on game days to supporting festival and business showcase events. You can register your interest in becoming a volunteer now if you like – visit http://www.nz2011.govt.nz/
Let’s give it 100% over the next two years and make 2011 New Zealand’s year.
SECTION 59: Terms of Reference for review announced
National doesn’t want to see good parents criminalised for a light smack. The recent
referendum reinforces that most New Zealanders don’t want that either.
That’s why we’re looking at the policies and procedures used by New Zealand Police and
Child, Youth and Family when it comes to smacking.
The review will include the referral process between Police and CYF to help identify any
changes that will ensure good parents are treated as Parliament intended.
The Chief Executive of the Ministry of Social Development, Peter Hughes, Police
Commissioner Howard Broad and well known clinical psychologist Nigel Latta are conducting
the review.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/s59+terms+reference+review+announced
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/referendum+safeguards+give+parents+comfort
referendum reinforces that most New Zealanders don’t want that either.
That’s why we’re looking at the policies and procedures used by New Zealand Police and
Child, Youth and Family when it comes to smacking.
The review will include the referral process between Police and CYF to help identify any
changes that will ensure good parents are treated as Parliament intended.
The Chief Executive of the Ministry of Social Development, Peter Hughes, Police
Commissioner Howard Broad and well known clinical psychologist Nigel Latta are conducting
the review.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/s59+terms+reference+review+announced
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/referendum+safeguards+give+parents+comfort
Undie 500: Enough is Enough
Last Saturday night I spent several hours watching in anger and frustration as events unfolded in Castle St. Before I talk about those events I want to say that I'm no wowser. I realise that students, alcohol and antics have gone together for all time. But the Undie 500 has developed a tradition where the only way the evening will end is by the Police being forced by drunken students to don riot gear and disperse the crowd under a hail of glass. No amount of threats of expulsion or no diversion, no appeals to common sense will stop a small number of idiots from going crazy and starting a fracas.
And its not a defence for those others present to say "I didn't throw anything". No-one throws glass at police when no-one is watching. The voyeuristic bystanders provide the audience for those nutters, and are also culpable.
The police did a great job in incredibly difficult circumstances. The need to push students back into their flats came from the drunken impunity with which they stood in their front yards drinking, baiting and then throwing bottles.
Appeals to Canterbury University ENSOC students not to come south are likely to fall on deaf ears. Dunedin might not be able to prevent them coming but we need a circuit-breaker - a strategy to prevent the mass-gathering in Castle or Leith Sts that result in the mayhem. I propose a by-law or local Act to prevent gatherings at certain places and/or times in numbers exceeding say 15-20 people. Over this you are moved on or arrested. It sounds a bit draconian, and might only be needed for a couple of years to break the tradition of riots ending the evening.
Sure we can simultaneously focus on the root causes of this behaviour, i.e. liquor laws, youth drinking culture, alternative events etc., but this will take a long time. A short term strategy to manage the symptoms is necessary.
Let's not leave it too long lest we be saying the same things next year, just as we have for the last five years.
And its not a defence for those others present to say "I didn't throw anything". No-one throws glass at police when no-one is watching. The voyeuristic bystanders provide the audience for those nutters, and are also culpable.
The police did a great job in incredibly difficult circumstances. The need to push students back into their flats came from the drunken impunity with which they stood in their front yards drinking, baiting and then throwing bottles.
Appeals to Canterbury University ENSOC students not to come south are likely to fall on deaf ears. Dunedin might not be able to prevent them coming but we need a circuit-breaker - a strategy to prevent the mass-gathering in Castle or Leith Sts that result in the mayhem. I propose a by-law or local Act to prevent gatherings at certain places and/or times in numbers exceeding say 15-20 people. Over this you are moved on or arrested. It sounds a bit draconian, and might only be needed for a couple of years to break the tradition of riots ending the evening.
Sure we can simultaneously focus on the root causes of this behaviour, i.e. liquor laws, youth drinking culture, alternative events etc., but this will take a long time. A short term strategy to manage the symptoms is necessary.
Let's not leave it too long lest we be saying the same things next year, just as we have for the last five years.
Friday, August 28, 2009
Unlocking Youth Potential
National believes every young Kiwi should be able to find their way onto the path of success.
We’ve announced a number of initiatives to help young people make the best of themselves -
our future success relies on unlocking their potential.
Helping youth ‘break-away’
Our $12.1 million Break-Away Package is designed to increase opportunities for young
people on school holidays.
Our Holiday Activity Programmes will give kids from deprived communities a break away
during the school holidays to undertake exciting and meaningful activities they might not
otherwise get a chance to experience.
Our Residential Respite Camps will give foster caregivers and extended whanau a break
away from their responsibilities, while their wards are treated to a holiday camp.
Our Prime Minister’s Youth Programme will give selected young people a break away in
fun and challenging activities with high-profile role models as a reward for turning their lives
around.
Helping troubled youth get a Fresh Start
It’s vital we offer young people in trouble with Police, or who are before the youth justice
system, an effective range of opportunities – based on the severity of their offending – to turn
their lives around and give them a fresh start.
We want to ensure that judges, when faced with a young offender, are able to tailor a
package of measures to address that young person’s criminal behaviour.
The National-led Government is funding a range of initiatives. These include courtsupervised
camp programmes with a 10-day wilderness component for youth offenders at
the lower end of the scale, and additional military-style activity programmes and camps for
more serious youth offenders.
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/young+kiwis+%e2%80%9cbreak+away%e2%80%9d+sc
hool+holidays
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/3000+troubled+youth+get+fresh+start
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/holidays+amp+youth+justice+packages+announced
We’ve announced a number of initiatives to help young people make the best of themselves -
our future success relies on unlocking their potential.
Helping youth ‘break-away’
Our $12.1 million Break-Away Package is designed to increase opportunities for young
people on school holidays.
Our Holiday Activity Programmes will give kids from deprived communities a break away
during the school holidays to undertake exciting and meaningful activities they might not
otherwise get a chance to experience.
Our Residential Respite Camps will give foster caregivers and extended whanau a break
away from their responsibilities, while their wards are treated to a holiday camp.
Our Prime Minister’s Youth Programme will give selected young people a break away in
fun and challenging activities with high-profile role models as a reward for turning their lives
around.
Helping troubled youth get a Fresh Start
It’s vital we offer young people in trouble with Police, or who are before the youth justice
system, an effective range of opportunities – based on the severity of their offending – to turn
their lives around and give them a fresh start.
We want to ensure that judges, when faced with a young offender, are able to tailor a
package of measures to address that young person’s criminal behaviour.
The National-led Government is funding a range of initiatives. These include courtsupervised
camp programmes with a 10-day wilderness component for youth offenders at
the lower end of the scale, and additional military-style activity programmes and camps for
more serious youth offenders.
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/young+kiwis+%e2%80%9cbreak+away%e2%80%9d+sc
hool+holidays
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/3000+troubled+youth+get+fresh+start
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/holidays+amp+youth+justice+packages+announced
Folic Acid Fortification Deferred
Mandatory fortification of folic acid in bread will be deferred until May 2012.
National agrees with public health advocates that folic acid is beneficial to the health of
women and can prevent neural tube defects in babies, but we also understand consumers
overwhelmingly want to be able to choose whether or not the bread they buy is fortified.
Representatives of the baking industry have said they are prepared to develop a voluntary
code targeted at increasing women’s intake of folic acid, particularly at child-bearing age.
This approach will provide for consumer choice while also helping to address folate
deficiency and increase the protection for babies resulting from unplanned pregnancies.
During the consultation period, 124 submissions were received. To see a summary of the
submissions, visit: http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/consultation/folic-acid/index.htm
Unlocking
National agrees with public health advocates that folic acid is beneficial to the health of
women and can prevent neural tube defects in babies, but we also understand consumers
overwhelmingly want to be able to choose whether or not the bread they buy is fortified.
Representatives of the baking industry have said they are prepared to develop a voluntary
code targeted at increasing women’s intake of folic acid, particularly at child-bearing age.
This approach will provide for consumer choice while also helping to address folate
deficiency and increase the protection for babies resulting from unplanned pregnancies.
During the consultation period, 124 submissions were received. To see a summary of the
submissions, visit: http://www.nzfsa.govt.nz/consultation/folic-acid/index.htm
Unlocking
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Securing a brighter future
To build a job-rich and export-rich economy, New Zealand needs an electricity
market that delivers reliable, continuous electricity at competitive prices.
And residential consumers need to know they are not going to be hit with steeply
rising power prices as has been the case in the past 10 years.
As part of its strategy to deliver a reliable electricity system, we set up a
ministerial review into the power sector.
The review team issued a report last week and made 29 recommendations,
including compensating consumers when they are asked to save power during a
conservation campaign, allowing lines companies back into retailing, and
replacing the Electricity Commission.
We want your feedback on this discussion document and look forward to hearing
your views.
The report can be found at: www.med.govt.nz/electricity-market-review
market that delivers reliable, continuous electricity at competitive prices.
And residential consumers need to know they are not going to be hit with steeply
rising power prices as has been the case in the past 10 years.
As part of its strategy to deliver a reliable electricity system, we set up a
ministerial review into the power sector.
The review team issued a report last week and made 29 recommendations,
including compensating consumers when they are asked to save power during a
conservation campaign, allowing lines companies back into retailing, and
replacing the Electricity Commission.
We want your feedback on this discussion document and look forward to hearing
your views.
The report can be found at: www.med.govt.nz/electricity-market-review
Another Job Summit Initiative Underway
National is committed to making it easier for small and medium businesses to
grow and remain competitive. Better and less regulation is essential to boosting
New Zealand’s productivity, international competitiveness and living standards.
We have recently released the Government Statement on Regulation, which
contains two key commitments:
• Introduce new regulation only when the Government is satisfied that is
required, reasonable and robust
• Review existing regulation to identify and remove requirements that are
unnecessary, ineffective and excessively costly.
These commitments respond to the Job Summit's recommendation that the
Government delay introducing regulations that impose extra substantive costs on
business during the current difficult economic conditions.
This initiative complements National’s $484 million business assistance package
- announced in February - aimed at improving cashflows and reducing
compliance costs for small and medium-sized firms.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/cutting+red+tape+create+better+smarter+eco
nomy
grow and remain competitive. Better and less regulation is essential to boosting
New Zealand’s productivity, international competitiveness and living standards.
We have recently released the Government Statement on Regulation, which
contains two key commitments:
• Introduce new regulation only when the Government is satisfied that is
required, reasonable and robust
• Review existing regulation to identify and remove requirements that are
unnecessary, ineffective and excessively costly.
These commitments respond to the Job Summit's recommendation that the
Government delay introducing regulations that impose extra substantive costs on
business during the current difficult economic conditions.
This initiative complements National’s $484 million business assistance package
- announced in February - aimed at improving cashflows and reducing
compliance costs for small and medium-sized firms.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/cutting+red+tape+create+better+smarter+eco
nomy
Making New Zealand’s roads safer
National is taking action to make New Zealand's roads safer. Texting while
driving is a no-brainer. So from 1 November, drivers caught talking or texting on
a handheld cellphone will be fined and given demerits.
Other driver distractions need to be addressed so we have made this a priority
for the Safer Journeys discussion document, which is out for public consultation.
Feedback from road users will be used to develop a national road safety strategy
for the next 10 years.
For more information: www.saferjourneys.govt.nz
driving is a no-brainer. So from 1 November, drivers caught talking or texting on
a handheld cellphone will be fined and given demerits.
Other driver distractions need to be addressed so we have made this a priority
for the Safer Journeys discussion document, which is out for public consultation.
Feedback from road users will be used to develop a national road safety strategy
for the next 10 years.
For more information: www.saferjourneys.govt.nz
Encouraging young Kiwis into sport
National is committed to increasing opportunities for young Kiwis to play sport.
That’s why we’ve launched Kiwisport to deliver $82 million over the next four
years to ensure more children have the chance to play sport.
We’re directly funding all schools, giving them the freedom to spend the money in
a way that ensures more of their pupils can play sport.
Funding will also go to regional sports trusts, helping link community groups and
sports clubs with schools to provide programmes to keep kids active.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/kiwisport+initiative+good+young+people
That’s why we’ve launched Kiwisport to deliver $82 million over the next four
years to ensure more children have the chance to play sport.
We’re directly funding all schools, giving them the freedom to spend the money in
a way that ensures more of their pupils can play sport.
Funding will also go to regional sports trusts, helping link community groups and
sports clubs with schools to provide programmes to keep kids active.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/kiwisport+initiative+good+young+people
Putting Patients First
Patients should be at the centre of all health services. Whether you’ve got a broken bone, the winter flu, or a baby on the way, it’s important you get the care you need.
The National-led Government inherited a public health system with significant staffing, service and financial problems. The health budget doubled in nine years, but there was little improvement in services. This is unacceptable so we asked some of the most experienced doctors and managers in the health sector to recommend how to best improve our public health system.
The independent group’s report recognises that to improve frontline health services we need more input from frontline staff. There are also recommendations to strengthen clinical leadership and clinical networks. It’s vital that our doctors and nurses are involved in running the health system.
The report proposes consolidating back office functions across the 21 District Health Boards to harness the power of bulk buying. We don’t need 21 payrolls, 21 approaches to IT, and 21 procurement systems. It also proposes cutting by two thirds the number of committees that advise the Health Ministry.
The Government will not accept anything that increases bureaucracy and takes resources away from frontline health services. We’re going to do what’s best for patients. We’ll ensure District Health Boards have the same autonomy they’ve always had to plan and fund local health services within the Government’s priorities.
We want your feedback – people should write to the Health Minister’s office by 18 September. Cabinet will consider the report’s recommendations over the next couple of months.
National is committed to delivering better, sooner, more convenient healthcare for you and your family. To do this, we’re building a strong and enduring public health system based on need.
Just as families and businesses are tightening their belts and economising in the current economic times, the health system needs to do the same. But this won’t be done at the expense of frontline services. We need to deliver greater efficiency and productivity, so we need to take suggestions that could deliver that seriously. Any savings we make in health will be reinvested into health.
Your health, and the health of your family, is an important priority for National. We are committed to putting patients first and building a healthier future for all New Zealanders.
The National-led Government inherited a public health system with significant staffing, service and financial problems. The health budget doubled in nine years, but there was little improvement in services. This is unacceptable so we asked some of the most experienced doctors and managers in the health sector to recommend how to best improve our public health system.
The independent group’s report recognises that to improve frontline health services we need more input from frontline staff. There are also recommendations to strengthen clinical leadership and clinical networks. It’s vital that our doctors and nurses are involved in running the health system.
The report proposes consolidating back office functions across the 21 District Health Boards to harness the power of bulk buying. We don’t need 21 payrolls, 21 approaches to IT, and 21 procurement systems. It also proposes cutting by two thirds the number of committees that advise the Health Ministry.
The Government will not accept anything that increases bureaucracy and takes resources away from frontline health services. We’re going to do what’s best for patients. We’ll ensure District Health Boards have the same autonomy they’ve always had to plan and fund local health services within the Government’s priorities.
We want your feedback – people should write to the Health Minister’s office by 18 September. Cabinet will consider the report’s recommendations over the next couple of months.
National is committed to delivering better, sooner, more convenient healthcare for you and your family. To do this, we’re building a strong and enduring public health system based on need.
Just as families and businesses are tightening their belts and economising in the current economic times, the health system needs to do the same. But this won’t be done at the expense of frontline services. We need to deliver greater efficiency and productivity, so we need to take suggestions that could deliver that seriously. Any savings we make in health will be reinvested into health.
Your health, and the health of your family, is an important priority for National. We are committed to putting patients first and building a healthier future for all New Zealanders.
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Defence of Provocation
National believes there is no place for the partial defence of provocation on the statute books. The defence wrongly enables defendants to besmirch the character of victims, and effectively rewards a lack of self-control.
That's why this week we introduced the Crimes (Provocation Repeal) Amendment Bill to Parliament, which removes the defence from the statute.
This follows two reports by the Law Commission, both of which recommended its abolition. We're hoping to have this legislation passed by the end of this year.
To read more about National's justice agenda visit: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/speech/national039s+justice+agenda+keeping+our+word
That's why this week we introduced the Crimes (Provocation Repeal) Amendment Bill to Parliament, which removes the defence from the statute.
This follows two reports by the Law Commission, both of which recommended its abolition. We're hoping to have this legislation passed by the end of this year.
To read more about National's justice agenda visit: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/speech/national039s+justice+agenda+keeping+our+word
Better access to medicines, sooner
National has increased the amount of money in the Community Pharmaceutical Budget by $31 million this year. The budget is managed by Pharmac and pays for the subsidised medicines we pick up from the local pharmacy.
On top of this, District Health Boards and the Ministry of Health are getting another $9 million for cancer drugs including Herceptin. National has made the commitment to a significant increase in funding to ensure better access to medicines.
Pharmac is well advanced in its planning on how it will spend the extra money, with greater access to drugs for some people suffering from cystic fibrosis, hepatitis B, leukaemia, and auto-immune disorders.
For more information: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/health+minister+confirms+new+medicines+spending
On top of this, District Health Boards and the Ministry of Health are getting another $9 million for cancer drugs including Herceptin. National has made the commitment to a significant increase in funding to ensure better access to medicines.
Pharmac is well advanced in its planning on how it will spend the extra money, with greater access to drugs for some people suffering from cystic fibrosis, hepatitis B, leukaemia, and auto-immune disorders.
For more information: http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/health+minister+confirms+new+medicines+spending
‘Great Kiwi Invite’ tourism campaign
Tourism is a major economic driver in New Zealand, and increasing our number of overseas visitors has the potential to help get our country through the recession in good shape.
The "Great Kiwi Invite" campaign, run by Tourism New Zealand, was launched by the Prime Minister on 31 July and encourages New Zealanders to invite their overseas relatives and friends to visit New Zealand.
More than 30,000 people have already accepted the challenge and visited www.thegreatkiwiinvite.co.nz to send a personal animated invitation to someone overseas. When the invitation is accepted, the person goes in the draw to win one of 15 trips for two to New Zealand.
National knows Kiwis can play a part in getting people to visit New Zealand, boosting tourism numbers, and providing positive spin-offs for many businesses, from hotels and attractions to cafes and taxis.
The "Great Kiwi Invite" campaign, run by Tourism New Zealand, was launched by the Prime Minister on 31 July and encourages New Zealanders to invite their overseas relatives and friends to visit New Zealand.
More than 30,000 people have already accepted the challenge and visited www.thegreatkiwiinvite.co.nz to send a personal animated invitation to someone overseas. When the invitation is accepted, the person goes in the draw to win one of 15 trips for two to New Zealand.
National knows Kiwis can play a part in getting people to visit New Zealand, boosting tourism numbers, and providing positive spin-offs for many businesses, from hotels and attractions to cafes and taxis.
Trustpower Community Awards
Last Monday night it was my pleasure to attend the annual Trustpower sponsored Community Awards.
These awards are given to voluntary organisations in our region that work tirelessly to improve their communities.
It was a real privilege for me to hear the stories of these organisations and individuals who contribute so much to our communities.
Congratulations to all the nominees, the winners and in particular the overall winner – the Dunedin English Language Programme. The very best of luck to them as they head to Nelson for the National awards.
These awards are given to voluntary organisations in our region that work tirelessly to improve their communities.
It was a real privilege for me to hear the stories of these organisations and individuals who contribute so much to our communities.
Congratulations to all the nominees, the winners and in particular the overall winner – the Dunedin English Language Programme. The very best of luck to them as they head to Nelson for the National awards.
Youth Employment Initiatives Applauded
It’s been terrific to note the widespread support for the government’s recently announced initiatives around youth employment.
The Prime Minister has announced a raft of issues, including:
- Six month job placements for low skilled young people in business;
- Jobs for up to six months in community programmes plus one supervisor per four jobs;
- Jobs for young people on national cycleway projects;
- New industry-specific job and training opportunities for young people;
- 2000 new places for 16 and 17 year olds not engaged in school;
- 1,250 new places in six week military style training programmes;
- 700 extra study places in polytechs and technical institutes;
- 1,600 new places in summer research scholarships for university students.
All in all, nearly 17,000 new job opportunities are available through this initiative.
It is a clear sign the government is not prepared to sit on its hands regarding youth unemployment.
Already the phone is ringing off the hook from businesses looking to take advantage of this and that can only be positive for our youth.
Pete Scores an Own Goal
The decision by the National government to withdraw the funding offer for the Otago Institute of Design at the Otago Polytechnic has drawn sharp criticism from Dunedin North MP Pete Hodgson.
Pete continues to throw barbs in the direction of the government including his offering in a July issue of the Dunedin magapaper DScene (22/7/09).
It’s worth bearing in mind (and Pete knows this all too well) that the reason the offer was withdrawn was that the terms of the suspensory loan came with conditions that were deemed unacceptable to the Polytechnic.
Who imposed those conditions?
None other than Pete Hodgson himself in his capacity as Tertiary Education Minister in the last months of the previous Labour government.
Therefore, in criticising the government’s decision, Pete’s doing nothing more than criticising his own decision!
Me thinks it’s time for Pete to shut up and stop shooting himself in the foot.
Pete continues to throw barbs in the direction of the government including his offering in a July issue of the Dunedin magapaper DScene (22/7/09).
It’s worth bearing in mind (and Pete knows this all too well) that the reason the offer was withdrawn was that the terms of the suspensory loan came with conditions that were deemed unacceptable to the Polytechnic.
Who imposed those conditions?
None other than Pete Hodgson himself in his capacity as Tertiary Education Minister in the last months of the previous Labour government.
Therefore, in criticising the government’s decision, Pete’s doing nothing more than criticising his own decision!
Me thinks it’s time for Pete to shut up and stop shooting himself in the foot.
Flu HitsHome
Last weekend I had every intention of enjoying the victory conference: the National Party’s 2009 annual conference in Christchurch.
Sadly however, I spent the weekend caring for sick family members who have been stricken with influenza. Whether its seasonal flu or swine flu is not known but what I do know is that it has hit them pretty hard.
I have managed to stay clear of it which is probably a testament to the flu vaccination. I was the only member of the family to have it.
Based on my first hand experience I wouldn’t wish this flu on anyone and the primary prevention strategies being promoted by the Ministry of Health and health authorities should be carefully heeded.
Sadly however, I spent the weekend caring for sick family members who have been stricken with influenza. Whether its seasonal flu or swine flu is not known but what I do know is that it has hit them pretty hard.
I have managed to stay clear of it which is probably a testament to the flu vaccination. I was the only member of the family to have it.
Based on my first hand experience I wouldn’t wish this flu on anyone and the primary prevention strategies being promoted by the Ministry of Health and health authorities should be carefully heeded.
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Increase in Police Numbers a positive Sign
This afternoon I issued a Press Release (which can be found on my website http://www.michaelwoodhouse.co.nz/) welcoming news that full time police staff in the Southern district had increased by 28 between June 2008 and June 2009. This is a clear sign that the Governments commitment to increase numbers of police by 600 by the end of 2011 is on track to be met.
While the majority of committed police will be appointed in South Auckland I'm delighted that Dunedin is also included in this Government's committment to keep us safer by increasing police numbers. We live in a fantastic city but it is important that we not be complacent about rising crime. Dunedin can be confident that I will work hard to ensure that this is not the case.
While the majority of committed police will be appointed in South Auckland I'm delighted that Dunedin is also included in this Government's committment to keep us safer by increasing police numbers. We live in a fantastic city but it is important that we not be complacent about rising crime. Dunedin can be confident that I will work hard to ensure that this is not the case.
Funding boost for children’s health camps
It was great to hear that the Government is giving New Zealand's seven health camps a $1.5 million boost in funding to ensure they keep operating. During the canpaign and before becoming an MP I had strong representations made by the good people who run the Roxburgh Health Camp about the desparate plight they were in in the absence of the necessary support from the previous Labout Government.
The wellbeing of children is a high priority for National and the funding boost is a win-win for
all involved. We see a lot of potential for children’s health camps to develop their relationship
with the Government further.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/funding+injection+children%e2%80%99s+health+camps
The wellbeing of children is a high priority for National and the funding boost is a win-win for
all involved. We see a lot of potential for children’s health camps to develop their relationship
with the Government further.
For more information:
http://www.beehive.govt.nz/release/funding+injection+children%e2%80%99s+health+camps
Folic Acid
The issue of whether mandatory fortification of folic acid in bread has been a hot topic lately.
The Government believes New Zealanders should have a choice about whether the
bread they eat contains folic acid or not.
This week a discussion document proposing that the mandatory fortification of folic acid in
bread be deferred until May 2012 was released.
We are confident that this deferral will address the concerns the public have, while ensuring
our relationship with Australia under the joint food regulatory system remains strong. It will
give us more time to evaluate the risks and benefits of the standard and to take into account
the wishes of New Zealanders.
Submissions close on August 12. A copy of the discussion document is available at:
www.nzfsa.govt.nz.
The Government believes New Zealanders should have a choice about whether the
bread they eat contains folic acid or not.
This week a discussion document proposing that the mandatory fortification of folic acid in
bread be deferred until May 2012 was released.
We are confident that this deferral will address the concerns the public have, while ensuring
our relationship with Australia under the joint food regulatory system remains strong. It will
give us more time to evaluate the risks and benefits of the standard and to take into account
the wishes of New Zealanders.
Submissions close on August 12. A copy of the discussion document is available at:
www.nzfsa.govt.nz.
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Submissions on the "Boy Racer" Bills
Last Friday a Sub-committee of the Transport and Industrial Relations Select Committee was in Christchurch to hear submissions on the Land Transport (Enforcement Powers) Amendment Bill and the Vehicle Confiscation and Seizure Bill. Three main groups gave evidence - local Councils, residents groups and boy racers themselves.
The feeling about the need to take action to reduce the impact of illegal behaviour was very strong. Residents and business owners talked of intimidation, fear, damage, but above all, NOISE. The consistent theme was 'reduce the noise impact, reduce the problem'. There is no direct amendment regarding noise limits in the legislation, nor is there reference to alcohol controls (another issue raised by submitters) so the Committee will need to reflect carefully on these submissions. I also wonder if the noise problem is the cause or a symptom of deeper problems.
Some car owners submitted that their legitimate behaviour will be negatively affected by this legislation if passed. Perhaps, but maybe they would be better directing their energies towards helping the authorities stamp out the attrocious behaviour carried out by the perpetrators of illegal acts. A system of texting details of trouble spots to Police was suggested and might have merit. That would be ironic given that this appears to be the technology used to assist boy racers avoid the authorities!
Cross-party support for efforts to stamp out this problem is strong. The activities described are more than anti-social rebellion. It is intimidation and illiegal behaviour on an unacceptable scale and the Government will pick up any gauntlet thrown down by the crimimal cohort of the boy racer community.
The feeling about the need to take action to reduce the impact of illegal behaviour was very strong. Residents and business owners talked of intimidation, fear, damage, but above all, NOISE. The consistent theme was 'reduce the noise impact, reduce the problem'. There is no direct amendment regarding noise limits in the legislation, nor is there reference to alcohol controls (another issue raised by submitters) so the Committee will need to reflect carefully on these submissions. I also wonder if the noise problem is the cause or a symptom of deeper problems.
Some car owners submitted that their legitimate behaviour will be negatively affected by this legislation if passed. Perhaps, but maybe they would be better directing their energies towards helping the authorities stamp out the attrocious behaviour carried out by the perpetrators of illegal acts. A system of texting details of trouble spots to Police was suggested and might have merit. That would be ironic given that this appears to be the technology used to assist boy racers avoid the authorities!
Cross-party support for efforts to stamp out this problem is strong. The activities described are more than anti-social rebellion. It is intimidation and illiegal behaviour on an unacceptable scale and the Government will pick up any gauntlet thrown down by the crimimal cohort of the boy racer community.
Welcome on Board!
Welcome to my Blogspot. This is the place where you can receive regular updates on activities in the House, Select Committee activities and constituency work. I will also be adding a personal view on issues as they arise.
This is your opportunity to provide comment and feedback to enable me to have the broadest range of views to inform the policy discourse. Please get involved in our democracy by letting me know what you think.
Mike
This is your opportunity to provide comment and feedback to enable me to have the broadest range of views to inform the policy discourse. Please get involved in our democracy by letting me know what you think.
Mike
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