Nick Smith - Nelson MP, Minister National Government

Most difficult budget in a generation, says Smith

19 May 2011

Budget 2011 has been the most difficult to put together in a generation with tough choices on how to get New Zealand back in the black, Nelson MP and Cabinet Minister Nick Smith said today.

"We've taken a very responsible approach despite the temptation to sweeten people up in an election year," said Dr Smith.

"The top priority had to be the rebuilding of Christchurch with the $5.5 million for the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Fund. Our other priorities have been core services like education and health, and ensuring we make the investments in science, skills and infrastructure to build the long-term platform for growth. These investments can only be afforded by pruning back Government department spending and trimming back programmes like Kiwisaver and Working for Families.

"This Budget invests in Nelson's core public services. Schools will receive an additional $30 million over the next three years to ensure quality education for our children in maintained. Our health services will receive an additional $47 million over four years enabling additional elective surgery, maternity services and preventative health measures. Nelson is also a likely benefactor from the extra investment in science, broadband, and water infrastructure.

"I'm particularly pleased by the Education Minister's commitment to fund five additional trades academies. I will be working closely with Nelson College on their proposal to try and ensure these trades opportunities are available for Nelson students.

"This is a moderate and sensible Budget that avoids the extremes of 'slash and burn' or 'borrow and hope'. It gets New Zealand back into financial surplus within 3 years and sets out a clear plan for growing the productive parts of the economy.

"The practical benefits to Nelson families of this Budget are more jobs, low interest rates, and real incomes increasing faster than the cost of living," said Dr Smith.

ENDS