ACT Northland-based MP Dr Muriel Newman says official figures which show Northland unemployment has rocketed 36 percent in the past year demonstrate the failure of the Government to get to grips with the region’s problems.

“The Household Labour Force Survey, released today, shows that as at the end of March 2002 the rate of unemployment in the region was 10.5 percent, compared with just 7.7 percent in March 2001. Our rate is now nearly double the national average.

“It is a very bad sign for Northland that our unemployment should be rising, and so quickly, when around the rest of the country unemployment is falling. The national unemployment rate is now just 5.3 percent.

“Northland’s unemployment rate is much more than double the rate in regions such as Gisborne, Hawke’s Bay and Taranaki and more than triple the rate in Nelson, Marlborough and Southland.

“Government policies have failed to address unemployment problems in the far North at a time when most of New Zealand has enjoyed buoyant labour market conditions.

“When Employment Minister Steve Maharey talks gloatingly about creating ‘real jobs’ he certainly isn’t talking to Northlanders.

“ACT is committed to putting emphasis on engaging the long term unemployed in 40 hour-a-week job seeking and training schemes. Unless there are Government-led changes which genuinely assist those who have difficulty finding a place in the workforce, then we will continue to see long-term unemployed numbers rise with all the associated social problems that brings,” Dr Newman said.