Megan
WOODS
Youth Affairs Spokesperson

7 February 2013 MEDIA STATEMENT

Youth hung out to dry yet again

The Government’s so-called ‘focus’ on youth unemployment has been shown up for what it is – a PR stunt - with figures out today that show the number of young Kiwis not in education, training or work has gone up yet again, says Labour’s Youth Affairs spokesperson Megan Woods.

“Statistics show there is now 90,000 young people not working, not studying or not in any training. Over 30 per cent of 15 to 19 year olds are unemployed. That is shocking.

“It proves that the Government has done little in the last four years to help this ‘target’ demographic. It has ridden rough-shod over young Kiwis through its failed education policies, and now its failed youth policies.

“Its newly announced apprenticeship programme doesn’t kick in until next year – conveniently election year. In the meantime more of our kids are going to fall through the cracks. That’s hardly a brighter future for 90,000 young people.

“National’s welfare reforms – their only priority – will do nothing to help these youth into work or training. They do not grow our economy, get them employment or ensure a career prospect.

“Youth unemployment is now at crisis level and it is getting worse.

“Labour’s forward-thinking and bold vision to address the economy will ensure that our young people actually have a future here.”

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