Budget supports economy
Bill English’s eighth Budget will be unveiled on Thursday this week.
Budget 2016 will be delivered as our economy continues to outperform many others within the OECD group of developed economies.
This has been achieved by careful management of the country’s finances.
It allows us to invest more in the services that matter most to New Zealanders like health and education.
We’ve turned an $18.4 billion operating hole in the Crown accounts into a modest surplus last year.
Sound finances also permit Budget 2016 to have a strong focus on our business growth agenda to facilitate a more productive, innovative, and competitive economy.
This includes investing in the training, skills, and innovation needed in a growing, modern economy for our future generations.
We’ve also announced $14.4 million for more apprentices to get more people engaged in vocational training and going on to build lifelong careers.
Discussions with our job advisory board, job seekers, apprentices, training providers and employers in South Waikato have welcomed funding for more apprenticeships.
Over the last few weeks we’ve seen some exciting pre-budget announcements including a Smefriendly tax package, making tax much simpler for small businesses.
A $39 million increase in funding for Pharmac and a further $41 million over the next four years for emergency housing and non-recoverable Special Needs Grants, further supporting families and individuals in need.
Our tourism and technology sectors are also getting a real boost, and in education, more kids that need it will have access to teacher aide help with a $15.3 million funding increase.
What matters with all initiatives, of course, is not how much extra we’re spending but rather the positive results they will deliver for New Zealanders.
I’ll be holding post-budget coffee catch ups around the electorate.
For information about these, you can contact Isabel in the electorate office on (07) 886 5554 or by email Upston.sthwaikato@parliament .govt.nz.
❚MP Louise Upston