Welfare reforms, take three...

Coming on the back of growing criticism of the Prime Minister’s coalition partner, John Banks, today’s round of welfare reform ‘announcements’ from the Government look decidedly overstated, Labour’s Social Development spokesperson Jacinda Ardern says.

“Once again we have Paula Bennett talking up what she says is the most comprehensive reform of the welfare system in decades.

“Once again today’s ‘news’ isn’t news, but regurgitates a raft of previously announced measures that, in real terms, will change little for those trying to find work.

“There has been much fanfare around drug testing and pursuing those with warrants yet, while those issues need addressing, the vast majority of job seekers do not fit these categories.

“Ms Bennett has conceded there are not enough jobs for everybody who wants them. While she is making an effort to simplify benefit categories - something Labour supports - she is still not doing enough to turn our system from a passive one that shuffles people through Work and Income, into an active springboard that moves them into wellness, work, and a better life.

“It’s time the Minister faced the big issues - job creation, skills and training, genuine efforts to assist people from wellness to work, and access to child care.

“That, of course, requires action, not distraction. We don’t need more of the same, we need real change and genuine support,” said Jacinda Ardern.