Let’s see how Budget handles inflation, health
It’s been two weeks of parliamentary recess, and it has been great to be out and about in the Southland region meeting a variety of people and organisations.
The cost of living is rocketing. Inflation has hit a new 30-year high of 6.9% and has contributed to the rising living costs.
A high inflation rate means there is a general increase in the prices of everyday essentials like food and fuel but with a decrease in the value of your money.
When I met the Salvation Army, they told me that the organisation is seeing an increase in people seeking assistance with life basics. Families are finding it hard to make ends meet.
Housing and rental costs are significant issues too.
The Queenstown Lakes Community Housing Trust is doing great work with its housing developments in the district to support low-income families in housing. MP Chris Bishop joined me for a tour of the trust’s Toru apartments, the 44-lot development, the Alps View development, and the flagship project, Nerin Square.
It is critically important that the Government commits to the principle of inclusionary zoning in the district.
The trust’s unique leasehold model and Secure Home programme will provide longterm housing affordability, and tenure-assisted home ownership.
I’m working with key community stakeholders on petitioning the Government to make changes to the Social Security Act 2018 to ensure the legislation meets the realities of population changes in the district when people apply for the accommodation supplement.
Health and the lack of GPs and rural medical staff are ongoing issues across the region. Our services are stretched, especially rural health, and we need to spare a thought for our GPs and nurses who have seen increased workloads as Covid spreads through our communities.
While hospitals deal with exploding case numbers, elective and other services mustn’t suffer.
Access to colonoscopy, gynaecological and orthopaedic services, for example, remains an issue for many in our electorate. I’ve written to the prime minister and the minister of health, imploring them to urgently consider the plight of our health workforce and ensure that rural New Zealand is not left behind.
The Southland Charity Hospital building nearing completion is exciting news.
I’m in regular contact with Missy Vining and her team for updates on their cause on behalf of the community.
Its success highlights the importance of addressing the issue of the lack of government funding for cancer patients.
Budget Day this year is on May 19. This is when the Government will outline how it intends to spend our hard-earned taxes. I plan to host a series of post-Budget meetings to explore what Budget 2022-23 will mean for businesses and workers.