Cuts to classes 'a disgrace'

Labour leader Phil Goff's focus was on race relations and the Emissions Trading Scheme, but Grey Power Manawatu members wanted to talk about issues of concern to them: unemployment, night-class cuts and the economy.

Mr Goff said night-class cuts resulting from slashed government funding were "a disgrace".

Adult and community education promoted learning for life, he said.

"When we drive past our local schools, the lights will be off."

Mr Goff's address to Grey Power yesterday was part of a visit to Manawatu that also included visiting a Tongan childcare centre.

He told Grey Power that Labour would repeal the National-led Government's law change allowing employers to sack new staff without any right of redress.

He said using interest rates to control inflation was no longer effective monetary policy, though did not offer a solution.

Economic recovery should be export-led, he said.

Asked by an audience member about unemployment, ACC, rates and "achieving things for people on the ground", Mr Goff addressed the first two subjects.

Australia had done a better job than New Zealand of stimulating the economy, he said.

New Zealand's tax cuts, much of which benefited rich people, were not an effective stimulus, he said.

Mr Goff said people were paying more for ACC and getting less back.

He was among motorbike riders who would be stung by ACC fee hikes.

His 850cc Triumph Bonneville would cost him $735 to register, instead of $252.

He had been riding motorbikes since he was 15, initially out of economic necessity, but now for pleasure.

- © Fairfax NZ News