01 Sept 2011

The PSA welcomes the re-introduction of public service cadetships as part of a Labour Party initiative to ramp up apprenticeship schemes and prioritise youth employment.

“This is a step in the right direction and one that better supports young people and provides the skills the country so desperately needs, says PSA National Secretary Richard Wagstaff.

“Cadetships were once common across the public service. Labour’s policy document states that it would expose cadets to a range of workplaces within the public service. This is a good way to introduce the varied career options that are available and attract young talent into public sector employment.

“It also puts an onus on government to be an exemplary employer and lead the way in supporting the future prospects of young people. Schemes like these could also support the employment of young people with disabilities and mental health issues, helping them into the workforce.

“44 percent of unemployed people in New Zealand are under 25 years old, so it makes sense to focus resources on assisting young people before they leave school.

“The PSA also welcomes Labour’s plan for local government to work with youth transition providers and match young people with local industry and skills providers.

“This policy recognises the leadership role that local government can play in particular communities It also draws on recommendations by the Mayors’ Taskforce for jobs and is consistent with proposals from Auckland Council to support school leavers into meaningful employment.

“Today’s move from Labour is consistent with the job-focused government procurement policy that the party has already announced.

“Both policies reflect an investment in New Zealand jobs and New Zealand’s public services, something we haven’t seen over the last three years,” says Richard Wagstaff.

ENDS

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