Time for DCC to take a more active lead in Dunedin’s economic development

July 8th 2013

Dunedin has been hard hit by recent announcements regarding job losses at NZ Post, Dunedin Hospital Kitchen & Delta. Green Dunedin Mayoral Candidate Aaron Hawkins says it is crucial for Dunedin’s economy long term that the fight to keep these jobs sits alongside a plan to create new jobs in sustainable industries.

“It is up to the DCC to inspire the entire community to be a part of the solution, and to guide them through the process. We need a Council that listens but also one who leads from the front,” Mr Hawkins said.

“Green Dunedin has a strong alternative plan for our economy, one that supports and protects Dunedin jobs and helps create new ones. We have proposals that make the most of our strengths, celebrate our uniqueness and show it off to the world.”

Mr Hawkins says that for Dunedin to thrive as a great small city the Council needs to take a more active role in supporting local businesses and developing new, sustainable ones.

“The DCC needs to urgently develop a procurement policy that favours local business and is prepared to pay a premium for tenders from Dunedin contractors. Combined with our Green Business proposal announced recently, it would send a very clear signal to local employers that their Council has helping their bottom line at heart.

It is also crucial that we protect and promote the work created by our world-class wildlife and creative industries.”

Despite its inclusion as part of the DCC’s own Economic Development Strategy, Mr Hawkins said it was disappointing so little had been done so far to encourage University & Polytechnic students to stay and work in Dunedin after graduation. Graduate retention wasn’t even on the radar as something that warranted immediate attention.

“We train some of the most innovative and talented minds in the world here in Dunedin, and currently have plenty of empty office and retail space. Working together as a City to have graduates set up in these properties is a huge opportunity for us to be more than just an exporter of education.”

ENDS

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