An UpDate from Kate #6
Well, Budget Day has come and gone and New Zealanders are still left waiting, and wanting for some real assistance from the Government to cope with the rising costs of food, petrol and power which, when combined with high mortgage rates is making it really tough for a growing number of Kiwi’s. Dr Cullen made it clear that Budget 2008 was all about survival for this tired Labour Government, rather than addressing the real priorities of New Zealanders or about our country’s future direction.
In the House
The Block of Cheese Budget
After nine long years of waiting, the average New Zealand wage earner has been ‘rewarded’ in Dr Cullen’s final budget - with a mere $16 per week, or the equivalent of a family-size block of cheese, due to kick in a few weeks out from the election. Then, in a few years time, these same workers will receive $6 more.
However this is too little, too late from Labour, and a long wait between toasted sandwiches for taxpayers. No finance minister in New Zealand history has had the opportunity to cut taxes like Michael Cullen. Yet, after more than 3,000 days in office, he says he will finally deliver – just days from an election. New Zealanders will see this as the desperate and cynical move it is.
National’s plan for the economy is focused on getting New Zealand onto a much stronger path of economic growth and opportunity, and building a wealthier future for all New Zealanders. Tax cuts will be our priority and will form an essential part of our five-point plan for the economy; which includes:
1. An ongoing programme of personal tax cuts
2. Bringing discipline to government spending
3. Tackling bureaucracy and red tape
4. An unwavering focus on lifting education standards
5. Boosting infrastructure to help this country grow
This plan for the economy is focused on making New Zealand a wealthier, more successful country. Under National, New Zealanders will do better.
In the Electorate
Opening of SunGard’s New Premises
Earlier this month I attend the opening of SunGard’s new premises in Christchurch along with John Key who was the keynote speaker. SunGard is a global software company, whose Christchurch operation contributes $15 million to the local economy. This company is a great illustration of the way in which businesses flourish when their staff perform, and staff are rewarded when businesses succeed. The employees trust each other. The employer trusts the employee. The employees trust the employer. There is no clockwatching. Showers and even mountain bikes are provided for staff use. All have trust and faith in each other that the work will be done. Retention is excellent. Staff turnover is low. Everyone is happy – they are all treated fairly and they fairly treat others. Is that not a recipe for a successful workplace relationship?
Sichuan Earthquake Memorial Service
On Saturday 24 May, I joined with many others at Cathedral Square to take part in the Sichuan Earthquake Memorial Service. This is truly a disaster on a scale that is almost incomprehensible. It was an opportunity to express my deep sadness at the desperate situation currently facing millions of people in the south-western Sichuan Province of China, and to convey my own personal condolences and support for the victims of the Sichuan Earthquake of 12 May 2008, along with those of the National Party.
Opening of Rangiora High School Administration Block
I was pleased to attend the opening of Rangiora High Schools Administration block on Thursday 15th May. This new facility is absolutely fantastic and will be welcomed by the teaching and administrative staff at the school along with the students who have endured months of construction.
Clinics:
My next open clinics will be held:
16 June 2008 = Kaiapoi, Kaiapoi Library, 10 – 11am
23 June 2008 = Redwood, St Silas Church Hall, Redwood, 10 – 11am
14 July 2008 = Kaiapoi, Kaiapoi Library, 10 – 11am
21 July 2008 = Oxford Jaycees Hall, Main Road, Oxford, 10 – 11am
Until next time,
Well, Budget Day has come and gone and New Zealanders are still left waiting, and wanting for some real assistance from the Government to cope with the rising costs of food, petrol and power which, when combined with high mortgage rates is making it really tough for a growing number of Kiwi’s. Dr Cullen made it clear that Budget 2008 was all about survival for this tired Labour Government, rather than addressing the real priorities of New Zealanders or about our country’s future direction.
In the House
The Block of Cheese Budget
After nine long years of waiting, the average New Zealand wage earner has been ‘rewarded’ in Dr Cullen’s final budget - with a mere $16 per week, or the equivalent of a family-size block of cheese, due to kick in a few weeks out from the election. Then, in a few years time, these same workers will receive $6 more.
However this is too little, too late from Labour, and a long wait between toasted sandwiches for taxpayers. No finance minister in New Zealand history has had the opportunity to cut taxes like Michael Cullen. Yet, after more than 3,000 days in office, he says he will finally deliver – just days from an election. New Zealanders will see this as the desperate and cynical move it is.
National’s plan for the economy is focused on getting New Zealand onto a much stronger path of economic growth and opportunity, and building a wealthier future for all New Zealanders. Tax cuts will be our priority and will form an essential part of our five-point plan for the economy; which includes:
1. An ongoing programme of personal tax cuts
2. Bringing discipline to government spending
3. Tackling bureaucracy and red tape
4. An unwavering focus on lifting education standards
5. Boosting infrastructure to help this country grow
This plan for the economy is focused on making New Zealand a wealthier, more successful country. Under National, New Zealanders will do better.
In the Electorate
Opening of SunGard’s New Premises
Earlier this month I attend the opening of SunGard’s new premises in Christchurch along with John Key who was the keynote speaker. SunGard is a global software company, whose Christchurch operation contributes $15 million to the local economy. This company is a great illustration of the way in which businesses flourish when their staff perform, and staff are rewarded when businesses succeed. The employees trust each other. The employer trusts the employee. The employees trust the employer. There is no clockwatching. Showers and even mountain bikes are provided for staff use. All have trust and faith in each other that the work will be done. Retention is excellent. Staff turnover is low. Everyone is happy – they are all treated fairly and they fairly treat others. Is that not a recipe for a successful workplace relationship?
Sichuan Earthquake Memorial Service
On Saturday 24 May, I joined with many others at Cathedral Square to take part in the Sichuan Earthquake Memorial Service. This is truly a disaster on a scale that is almost incomprehensible. It was an opportunity to express my deep sadness at the desperate situation currently facing millions of people in the south-western Sichuan Province of China, and to convey my own personal condolences and support for the victims of the Sichuan Earthquake of 12 May 2008, along with those of the National Party.
Opening of Rangiora High School Administration Block
I was pleased to attend the opening of Rangiora High Schools Administration block on Thursday 15th May. This new facility is absolutely fantastic and will be welcomed by the teaching and administrative staff at the school along with the students who have endured months of construction.
Clinics:
My next open clinics will be held:
16 June 2008 = Kaiapoi, Kaiapoi Library, 10 – 11am
23 June 2008 = Redwood, St Silas Church Hall, Redwood, 10 – 11am
14 July 2008 = Kaiapoi, Kaiapoi Library, 10 – 11am
21 July 2008 = Oxford Jaycees Hall, Main Road, Oxford, 10 – 11am
Until next time,
