17 May 2007

United Future Budget Comments

Student Allowances

While United Future welcomes increased parental income thresholds and the CPI adjustments for personal income threshold abatements, there is no reduction in the age of eligibility for student allowances.

“We are disappointed that students continue to be treated as children by this Government.”

“United Future will work to fulfil the Confidence and Supply Agreement with the Labour-led government to see lowering of the age of eligibility to a student allowance,” said Mrs Turner

Housing
$1.4 million has been allocated to design and implement work for a shared equity home loan scheme, to begin 1st July 2008.

“At long last the Government has set a date for the introduction of a shared equity scheme – it’s just a pity such a measly amount has been set aside for such an anticipated scheme. This will not remedy the falling rates of home ownership in New Zealand,” said Mrs Turner.

Conservation – Deer, Chamois, Tahr and Pigs Consultation Panel
$200 000 has been allocated to establish a Deer, Chamois, Tahr and Pigs Consultation Panel who will publish a discussion document, receive public submissions and make recommendations to Government on the future management of these species.

“United Future has worked tirelessly to have the status of these animals reviewed,” said Mr Dunne.

“Deer, chamois, tahr and pigs lie in an uncomfortable statutory and policy position; while in many areas they do have an impact on native plant species, they also provide tremendous enjoyment and a valuable resource to thousands of New Zealanders.”

Climate Change/Energy Efficiency
$72.4 million will be invested over the next four years to improve the energy efficiency and healthiness of New Zealand homes. $15 million of which will go to a Home Energy Rating Scheme, which is a central plank to United Future’s Climate Change Policies.

“Our policy includes a requirement that all homes will be given a standardised energy efficiency rating based on insulation, double glazing, heating methods, use of solar energy etc. I am glad to see that the Government is reading off the same page that we are,” said Mr Dunne.

“The most effective way to improve the energy efficiency of our lifestyles and mitigate climate change is to give New Zealanders the tools for them to make their own decisions regarding what they use, buy or live in. The Home Energy Rating Scheme is a positive step towards that.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media