Media Release- August 3rd
Auckland Action Against Poverty
Work & Income and Housing New Zealand combine to evict West Auckland Family

In an appalling example of a system that does not care about people, a father and his three children face homelessness if they are evicted from their family home of sixteen years today, says Auckland Action Against Poverty spokesperson Alastair Russell.

“Auckland Action Against Poverty and a handful of supporters are currently supporting Nigel at the family home of 34 Zefiro Drive. Bailiffs could arrive at any moment.

“Former care-giver worker Nigel is visibly exhausted. The toll of a looming eviction and months of financial deprivation have meant that the 48 year old loving father of three has not slept for days, scared of what lies in store for his children. He fears the insecurity and financial stress has already taken its toll on the kids schooling.

“Work and Income stopped benefit payments to Nigel Davis in March 2015, because of unsubstantiated allegations that he and the mother of their children continue to have a marital relationship. The couple separated years ago, but like many separated parents, they have maintained civil contact for the welfare of their three children. The two have not divorced because of their Christian faith.

“Housing NZ have chosen to evict Nigel and children on the basis of unpaid rent. HNZ was not interested in the reason why rent was not paid. Work & Income declined to assist with rent arrears knowing that the only outcome for the father of three would be homelessness.

“A 2014 Child Poverty Action Group report shows that there are up to 800 benefit fraud prosecutions per year, and only 60 prosecutions for tax evasion. The same report also highlighted the disproportionate emphasis on relationship fraud. What we see is a presumption of guilt and loss of income even before any investigation is complete.

“This situation is but one example of an overly eager Work and Income’s punishment of people without any proof of any wrong doing. The Ministry of Social Development is more keen to stop benefit payments than it is to consider the welfare of families.

“Data released by the the Council of Christian Social Services showed 80,202 beneficiaries had their benefits sanctioned between July 2013 and September 2014.

“Tax evasion is estimated to cost the taxpayer up to 7 billion per year, where is the determination and political will to pursue wealthy tax evaders? We know there is political will to punish the poor

ENDS

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