Labour claims the government's target to reduce Jobseeker numbers is now unachievable as beneficiary numbers continue to rise.
The Labour Party has accused the Minister for Social Development, Louise Upston, of failing to address the growing issue of unemployment. According to recent statistics, the number of beneficiaries has risen by over 22,000 since Minister Upston's pledge to reduce Jobseeker numbers by 50,000 was made. This means that the government's target is now 72,000 people away from being met.
Minister Upston has been criticized for removing weekly benefit reporting and tightening guidelines on hardship assistance payments, including food grants. Labour spokesperson Carmel Sepuloni argues that these measures will only make life harder for vulnerable individuals who are already struggling due to the government's policies.
The unemployment rate is at a four-year high, with thousands of jobs lost as a result of the government's decisions. Labour claims that clamping down on those receiving benefits is heartless and ineffective in addressing the root causes of poverty. Instead, they urge Minister Upston to "read the room" and work towards creating positive change for Kiwis in need.