Amy in Action: August 2015

An update from Hon Amy Adams, MP for Selwyn

Our resilient economy

New Zealand’s economic story over recent years has been one of solid, moderate growth supporting more jobs and higher wages.

We have a diversified economy that's resilient and well placed to continue growing, despite falling dairy prices and uncertainties in China and Greece.

Dairy farmers are doing it tough, and the sector is important, but many of our other primary industries are doing well, as is high-tech manufacturing and construction. Also, tourism is growing strongly with a record 3 million overseas visitors coming here in the past year – up 7 per cent on the previous year.

Our exchange rate has fallen in recent weeks, which is helping exporters. Lower interest rates will also help businesses and families with debt, and those who want to invest.

Stopping methamphetamine at the border

Methamphetamine, or P, creates a whole raft of problems for families and communities and the Government is not prepared to tolerate it. Stopping methamphetamine at the border is a big part of this fight.

Customs officials have been working hard and have made 1660 drug seizures between January and June this year. This includes 252 seizures of methamphetamine or precursors to the drug. Their efforts have kept $246 million worth of methamphetamine off New Zealand streets.

Stopping drugs before they even hit the market prevents a huge amount of heartache for New Zealanders. Customs is working closely with Police as part of our whole-of-government Methamphetamine Action Plan to combat the trade of drugs.

Family Violence Discussion Document

In my role as Minister of Justice I have recently launched a comprehensive review of family violence laws. The aim of this review is to make sure that the broad set of laws that apply to family violence are effective and work well together. New Zealand’s family violence laws are not the whole picture but they are a cornerstone element in how we respond to family violence.

The discussion document that I have released includes a range of innovative ideas that will prompt debate and kick-start a national conversation around how we deal with this issue.

If you would like more information on the family violence discussion document or would like to make a submission, visit the following website.

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