Starving one to feed another – Earthquake rebuild does not justify a zero budget

“Rebuilding earthquake damaged Christchurch does not need to come at the expense of limiting funding sources that support children and young people to fully participate in our society” says Rose Black, of Poverty Action Waikato.

Prime Minster John Key recently stated in a UK interview that "New Zealand finds itself in economically quite a strong position with gross debt to GDP under 20%". He went onto say, however, that the government is planning a ‘zero budget’ with no funding increases.

“Rather than increasing our investments both in post earthquake rebuilding and in strengthening children and young people, our government is proposing to starve one to feed the other. Investing in our children and young people always makes economic sense, even when Christchurch is in need”, Rose Black comments.

In a recent report, Poverty Action Waikato highlights a lack of opportunity for young people particularly in the rural Waikato. Despite tremendous resilience and creativity, with cuts to community education, business closure and dwindling government services, many Waikato communities are struggling.

“We simply cannot afford a zero budget for our children and young people. We need a budget that prioritises people and growth”.

Poverty Action Waikato and the Public Service Association present:

Debunking the Myths on Budget Cuts and Budgeting for our Children
Monday, May 23, 12:30pm - 1:30pm,
Celebrating Age Centre, 30 Victoria St South, Hamilton.
Guest Speakers include Conor Twyford (NZ Public Service Association), Dr Natalie Jackson (University of Waikato) and Alan Johnston (Child Poverty Action Group).