Govt announces changes to dole. Wellington People's Centre spokeswoman Kay Brereton says cuts will create underclass
23 December 2009 There is confirmation from the top that the Government will be taking a serious look at the way unemployment beneficiaries are managed.
Social Development Minister Paula Bennett has indicated those receiving the dole may be taken off the benefit and made to re-apply for it if they have been receiving it for a 12 month period.
Acting Prime Minister Bill English says National did flag the idea in its pre-election manifesto last year and intends following through on its undertaking. He says it is really important when the job market is starting to pick up that people are given the signal that the dole is a transitional benefit.
However there are fears limiting unemployment benefits will create a desperate underclass in New Zealand.
Wellington People's Centre spokeswoman Kay Brereton says the move is outrageous and will only create a desperate underclass doing anything they can to survive. She says that is a recipe for a sick society and is a kick in the guts from the Government for Christmas.
