Media Release; Surplus needed for infrastructure

With the Government about to announce a record surplus, students are calling on Labour to invest the money in education and health, rather than continuing to under-fund the country’s infrastructure with unnecessary tax-cuts.

“New Zealand already has some of the lowest income tax rates in the western world, there’s no way we should be considering tax-cuts until we have a well functioning health and education systems, decent roading, affordable power, etc.” said Natalie Absalom, OPSA Co-president.

“As the Government is set to make a record $10 billion surplus, fees are still increasing and two thirds of students don’t have a living-allowance. This under-funding is also
having an impact on staff wages and constantly threatens quality.” said Richard Mitchell, OPSA Co-president.

“It is disappointing that Labour, who fought the last election on investing in public services, is considering tax-cuts while health and education is still in disarray.” said Natalie Absalom, OPSA Co-president.

“This is a great opportunity to invest in health and education. The Government should use the surplus to create a world-class tertiary education system, where all full-time students are supported with a living-allowance.” said Richard Mitchell, OPSA Co-president.