News (Media Awareness Project) - New Zealand: Government Denies Loosening Of Welfare |
| Title: | New Zealand: Government Denies Loosening Of Welfare |
| Published On: | 2003-09-11 |
| Source: | New Zealand Herald (New Zealand) |
| Fetched On: | 2008-01-19 13:59:34 |
GOVERNMENT DENIES LOOSENING OF WELFARE
The Government yesterday rejected claims by Act MP Muriel Newman that its
policies were to blame for 940 substance abusers receiving the invalids
benefit.
Social Services Minister Steve Maharey on Tuesday released the figures in
response to written questions from Dr Newman.
The taxpayer should not have to fork out to support drug addicts or alcoholics,
she said.
"This is a clear result of Labour's loosening welfare restrictions and
eligibility."
A spokesman for Mr Maharey said that was not the case.
"The eligibility criteria for the invalids benefit remain unchanged."
In order to qualify for the benefit, applicants must satisfy a Work and Income
designated medical practitioner they have an impairment preventing them from
working for more than 15 hours a week.
The Government yesterday rejected claims by Act MP Muriel Newman that its
policies were to blame for 940 substance abusers receiving the invalids
benefit.
Social Services Minister Steve Maharey on Tuesday released the figures in
response to written questions from Dr Newman.
The taxpayer should not have to fork out to support drug addicts or alcoholics,
she said.
"This is a clear result of Labour's loosening welfare restrictions and
eligibility."
A spokesman for Mr Maharey said that was not the case.
"The eligibility criteria for the invalids benefit remain unchanged."
In order to qualify for the benefit, applicants must satisfy a Work and Income
designated medical practitioner they have an impairment preventing them from
working for more than 15 hours a week.
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