Increase in unemployment benefit claimants

Figures released from the Ministry of Social Development show a large increase in applications for the jobseekers benefit, says National’s Coromandel MP, Scott Simpson.

“Although the curve has been flattened, the hard work is only just beginning.

“The Thames-Coromandel district has experienced a 33 per cent increase in people applying for the benefit. The numbers of those applying in the Western Bay of Plenty district has increased by 25 per cent.

“While it’s great the threat of Covid-19 is becoming smaller by the day, it’s clear we need to get the economy back up and running - and fast.

“The fact such a large number of people sought job seeker support when the Wage Subsidy was available, shows the scale of the new unemployment challenge.

“These aren’t just statistics, behind every job loss is a family now struggling to pay the bills and put food on the table.

“We can be proud we’ve flattened the Covid curve. We don’t want to flatten the economy too. I want to see the Coromandel

working again. I trust our businesses to get working again safely.

“The rate of unemployment has already increased and is expected to surge after the lockdown is over, as many business owners struggle to decide if they can pick up the pieces or if they should just move on.”

Scott Simpson was promoted in new National Party Leader Todd Muller’s front bench line up. The MP continues to hold the Environment and Climate Change portfolios. In addition, he has been allocated responsibility for Resource

Management Act Reform and Planning.

“I am very pleased that Todd Muller has asked me to continue my work in the environment and climate change space. The addition of RMA Reform completes the circle in those areas.

“National’s focus through until the election and beyond is clearly on Covid19 recovery and over the next few months, Todd Muller and my colleagues will present a very clear case for why National is better placed to lead that recovery than the current Government.”