JONATHAN COLEMAN MP for Northcote - Newsletter

Coleman's Call May 28 2013

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Tue, 28 May 2013 12:35:51 +1200

There has been some talk by political commentators that one of the primary issues for voters in next year’s general election will be economic management. I hope so, because the Budget has demonstrated that our approach to the economy has been the right one.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister John Key, and Finance Minister Bill English, I had the opportunity to work on the Budget 2013 in my role as Associate Minister of Finance. As a budget I think it’s a watershed moment in our country’s economic recovery.

It wasn’t that long ago that New Zealand was reeling from the impact of the global financial crisis, but now the health of the government books is very good in comparison with many other nations. We are on track for a budget surplus by 2014-15. It is a remarkable turnaround after five years of zero budgets. We are also on track to reduce government debt to 20 per cent of GDP by 2020. What’s more, we are achieving this while still delivering five billion dollars in new spending over the next four years.

Not only are we putting the books in order, but we are fundamentally re-engineering the economy. Our economy grew at three per cent last year, almost the same as Australia, and higher than almost every other developed country. Wages are growing in real terms, cost of living increases have been modest, food inflation has been negative in the past year, and inflation and interest rates are at 50 year lows.

That is our present situation, and the Budget forecasts are promising. The New Zealand economy is expected to grow more strongly than the US, Canada, the UK, Japan, and much of Europe. Our outlook for job and wage growth is good. Household disposable income is forecast to rise by 20 per cent over the next four years, against a backdrop of low inflation. That means a rise in incomes in real terms.

While the government has been prudent, that has not been at the expense of health, education, or welfare. Over the next four years there’s $1.6 billion for new health initiatives, $900 million for education initiatives, and $189 million for social welfare.

Our drive for building a productive and competitive economy is a feature of this year’s Budget. Many businesses and households will be pleased the government has signalled substantial cuts in ACC levies, which will eventually be cut by 40 per cent. There is also more money invested in science, innovation and research, and more invested in promoting tourism.

We are also conscious about the cost of housing. In the Budget we announced new legislation to allow Councils to simplify the consenting process for new houses. We also have a number of initiatives to help low-income families including extending income-related rents to non-government housing priorities.

The government also agreed to a memorandum of understanding which allows the Reserve Bank Governor to put pressure on banks to crack down on excessive lending in the housing market. This may include restrictions on the loan-to-value ratios banks can offer.

This Budget is a demonstration New Zealand is on the right economic track. Our economy is growing and our households and communities will ultimately benefit. As a country we have coped with genuine economic adversity, and now we are beginning to enjoy the benefits of the government’s well managed economic programme. We are definitely on the right track.

Bamyan: An Imprint on Kiwi Hearts

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Fri, 03 May 2013 09:34:42 +1200

The departure of the last Kiwi soldier last week from Bamyan, Afghanistan marked the end of a decade of remarkable Kiwi effort in the province. Much has been written on the legacy that we leave behind, and the tragic losses that New Zealand suffered in the province. Kiwis can be justifiably proud of the gains we have made in security, education, health, agriculture and basic infrastructure. We can also be extremely proud of the efforts of our people in Defence, Police, and the civil service. They have represented the country extremely well.

Less has been written about the bonds that have grown between the Kiwis who served there and the people of Bamyan. A key theme running through the discussions held around the recent flag lowering ceremony at Kiwibase was the high esteem in which the New Zealanders were held by the local people. Provincial Governor Habiba Sarabi talked about it extensively: the fact that for a decade Kiwis had engaged with local people and respected their culture was identified as crucial to our success in the province. The New Zealanders were seen as friends by the overwhelming majority of the Bamyan population.
Consequently the partnership between locals and the PRT ensured a generally secure environment that nutured successful development projects.

This classic "hearts and minds" approach is something that is essential to any successful counterinsurgency. Yet for Kiwis it's not something contrived but rather it comes naturally (even if we say so ourselves). I witnessed multiple everyday examples of this on my recent visit: a soldier chatting to farmers in Dari, the local tongue; the easy interchange between Kiwis and local kids, and the strong bond between our troops and the Afghan interpreters.

Our people in Afghanistan couldn't have done their work without the efforts of those local interpreters and they were an integral and loyal part of our efforts. When I first went to Bamyan a year ago I met with the PRT interpreters at their request. They feared for their safety as they had been in meetings between the PRT and Taleban and been photographed and threatened by insurgents. They requested resettlement in New Zealand when the PRT left.

Bamyan is safe by Afghan standards and the local insurgent networks have been smashed. Governor Sarabi and her security chiefs all stated that they were happy with the state of security and the capacity of local forces to maintain it. However it is impossible to prove a negative ie that there isn't some level of justification for the stated fears of the interpreters. There was also the issue of fairness and acknowledging that our work would have been impossible without their efforts. On balance I believe that resettlement for the 30 interpreters and their 65 immediate dependents is the right thing to do.

Bamyan is a beautiful province with a terrible history. From Kiwibase you can clearly see The City of Screams, a mountain citadel where Genghis Khan slaughtered a whole city. Looming large over the town are the remains of the Buddhas that the Taliban destroyed only just over a decade ago. It's the mix of spectacular landscape, bloody history and the resilience of the people that makes a lasting impact on any visitor.

It's one of those places that puts first world problems into perspective. The sight of a group of Afghan kids dressed in rags, laughing and happy to see the Kiwi soldiers; the joy on a child's face as he was given a simple black NZDF baseball cap. Bamyan, Afghanistan is a place no visitor could ever forget.

Coleman's Call February 22 2013

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Fri, 22 Feb 2013 11:18:00 +1300

Government is about having a clear plan and delivering an agenda. We've been very clear about our priorities - returning to surplus, growing the economy, rebuilding Christchurch and delivering better public services.

It's important for New Zealand's long term future that we don't deviate from those priorities. Some of the choices are tough and won't be popular with everyone (Christchurch Schools) but I believe we are taking the right decisions to build the long term resilience of our economy and to deliver the services that the public needs. In the wider international context New Zealand is doing well - growth this year is forecast to be greater than in the Eurozone, the U.S., Canada and Japan.

If you've got time it's worth looking at the Business Growth Agenda documents on the Ministry of Business Innovation and Employment website. In the back of each document is a list of the measures we've taken across six areas critical to growing the economy. It's a great list to show anyone who claims there hasn't been action by the Government on the economy.

Around and About

On a personal note I was very pleased to get a call from John Key to tell me I was being promoted to the front bench at number 10 in our line up. I genuinely hadn't been expecting it as I didn't think the cabinet reshuffle would be as extensive as it was.

My political year started with my annual "State of the Nation" address at Birkenhead Rotary. A couple of weeks later I attended the opening of the new Beach Haven wharf and ferry service with the Prime Minister. Big crowds turned out and there was a throng of kids wanting photos with the PM - maybe a better indicator than any political poll of how we're going!

We had a National Party stall at Chinese New Year at Northcote Town Centre and I spoke during the official proceedings. As usual a hugely successful community celebration.

The electorate office has been busy with constituent cases and there are plenty of local issues to attend to.

I'm currently in Brussels for the Afghanistan Coalition (International Security Assistance Force) Defence Ministers’ meeting where I will be discussing New Zealand's on-going contribution as part of the international community’s collective security efforts in Afghanistan.

On my return I'm booked to visit secondary schools in the electorate, encouraging students to apply for this year’s Youth Parliament.

So there's plenty on between parliament, the local electorate and Ministerial business!

Coleman's Call December 12 2012

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Tue, 11 Dec 2012 15:59:27 +1300

The festive season is here and no doubt everyone is scrambling to tie off the obligations of the working year before heading off for a well-earned break with family and friends.

Firstly I’d like to thank everyone who has supported me in 2012, and wish you all the best for a Happy Christmas. I’ve found the year especially busy with new portfolios in Defence, State Services and Associate Finance, but it’s also been incredibly stimulating. There have been major policy developments in all three, as well as a number of overseas engagements in Defence.

As a Government I believe we’re finishing our fourth year in office with New Zealand in a strong position for the future. It’s no secret that we’ve focussed on responsible management of the economy. Although times are tough globally, New Zealand’s books are in good shape and the economy is growing at a faster rate than most western nations. There are many countries who would look enviously at our overall national financial position.

That’s not to say that we’re not aware of the challenges we must meet over the next two years. Tackling unemployment is right at the top of our priority list, and we know that it’s not easy for people.

Personally I’ve found the year exceptionally memorable professionally. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed contact on a regular basis with our armed forces personnel and enjoyed spending time with our people in Afghanistan, the Sinai, as well as here in New Zealand. Another highlight was accompanying veterans to the commemorations for the 70th anniversary of the Battle of El Alamein. Signing the Washington Declaration with U.S. Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta and then hosting him in Auckland will live long in the memory.

The toughest time was the loss of 5 New Zealand Defence Force personnel in Afghanistan over a two week period, and visiting the families in the immediate aftermath. I cannot speak highly enough of defence force personnel, the risks they face and the sacrifices that they have made in our name.

The core work of a Member of Parliament though is back in the electorate and I gain an enormous amount of satisfaction from representing the Northcote electorate (which of course includes Northcote, Birkenhead, Beach Haven, Birkdale, Hillcrest and most of Glenfield) in our parliament. You would not find a better place to live in New Zealand and I’m incredibly proud of our local community. It’s certainly a great tonic getting that first view of the electorate as you drive on to the Harbour Bridge after a week in Wellington, and getting back into local life for a few days.

We’ve got a great local vibe and that was exemplified on Sunday at the annual Birkenhead Santa parade. It was perfect weather and I reckon we had the biggest crowd ever. Hats off to Birkenhead Rotary for a sterling effort; the whole event reinforced for everyone there what a great community we live in.

So, as the year draws to a close, I thank you for your support in 2012, and wish you a very Happy Christmas, a great break, and all the best for the New Year.

Coleman's Call September 20 2012

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Thu, 20 Sep 2012 15:24:10 +1200

I wrote earlier this year of some of the more positive opportunities I have experienced as Minister of Defence, notably meeting the dedicated young men and women who serve in the New Zealand Defence Force. Having encountered so many NZDF personnel who exhibit such a strong sense of duty and commitment, I was deeply saddened by the recent deaths of five members of our Defence Force. These courageous and professional New Zealanders were committed to New Zealand’s values and advancing the freedoms that we all enjoy. It is a terrible blow to lose so many young people in a short space of time, however I want to stress that without the efforts of our Provincial Reconstruction Team, and that of our international partners working in Afghanistan over the last ten years, the people of Afghanistan would be in a far more precarious position than they are today. For the first time in decades the people of Bamyan are able to experience some of the most basic freedoms and services that you and I might sometimes take for granted. Today in Bamyan almost half of all school children are female, infant mortality has more than halved in the last five years and the people of the province have access to a hospital, health clinics, a university, clean water and other basic infrastructure.

I remain very proud of the NZDF’s record of service in Afghanistan and around the globe.

On a more local level, I recently spent the night on the ANZAC frigate HMNZS Te Mana which was a great way to get a first-hand view of Navy life.

I have been listening to your concerns about the increase in local rates under the new amalgamated Auckland Council, not least the separation of water rates (which will also increase in the immediate future). Central government does not have responsibility for the policy decisions of the Auckland Council. These decisions will continue to be made by locally elected councillors.

With the Better Local Government reform programme, however, we are looking to improve how local governments deliver for their communities. Part of this process will be to legislate to create financial prudence benchmarks in relation to local government income, expenditure and debt. It is my view that local government needs to become more transparent, accessible and accountable. In short, I want councils to recognise that times are tough enough already for many families without the added burden of rapidly increasing rates bills. I want councils to focus my rates money on services not frills.

I have visited a number of schools in the electorate in the last few months, and was pleased that Hon Hekia Parata was able to attend a meeting of Principals and Board of Trustee Chairs with me at Birkenhead Primary. Education as ever is a hot topic with methodologies and philosophical stances being highlighted currently in the media. My view is that our education system is world class, but we have to continue to strive for improvements, particularly for those one in five children being let down by the current system. As with Local and Central Government, I believe schools perform at their best when they are transparent and open with the communities they serve.

I visited Willow Park Primary recently where the Year 6 students presented their environmental project on conservation and living sustainability. In light of this year’s Conservation Week theme of “Love Your Parks”, this was particularly interesting. Further I was particularly impressed with the newly established French immersion unit at Birkdale North Primary.

Though no longer Minister of Broadcasting I was honoured to be able to launch Huela Koula Radio last Saturday. This is a Tongan Christian radio service which is to be broadcast from the North Shore. Last Saturday I went to the High Tea fundraiser at St Aidan’s on Onewa Road and dropped in to Chefs for Compassion at the Rawene Centre. Chefs for Compassion is a great initiative driven by Marty Smith in partnership with Birkenhead Rotary and St Mary’s School. The idea is that a needy family is nominated and a meal cooked for them by a team of kids and parents, to give them a break from the ups and downs of everyday life. It is a lovely gesture, and teaches great values.

I’ve got some big events on my calendar over the next few weeks. First up I’m hosting Leon Panetta – the first U.S Secretary of Defence to visit New Zealand for 30 years, and then it’s off to the Birkenhead Bowling Club for the opening, so I am hoping Spring will bring some much needed sunshine. Last Saturday I was at the openings of the Northcote and Sunnybrae Bowling Clubs.

Coleman's Call May 25 2012

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Fri, 25 May 2012 10:28:00 +1200

Well, it’s the day after the Budget - the first I’ve been involved in as an Associate Finance Minister.

The focus of the Budget is building a more competitive and productive economy, responsibly managing the Government’s finances, delivering better public services and rebuilding Christchurch. The Government also remains on track to return the country’s books to surplus by 2014/15.

The Government is very conscious of the lessons to be learned from Europe. The disaster which is unfolding in Greece is a stark example of what can happen to a small economy when its Government pursues the endless borrow and spend policies advocated by Labour and the Greens.

In contrast, this Budget is focused on sensible policies to reduce debt while improving service delivery. The Budget:

• Returns the country to surplus in 2014/15, lifting national savings and reducing the need for Government borrowing.

• Forecasts economic growth to average about 3 per cent a year over the next four years, with 154,000 net new jobs being created – adding to the 60,000 net new jobs in the past two years.

• Increases spending on science and innovation to help build a more productive and competitive economy.

• Sets up the Future Investment Fund to spend the proceeds of the Government’s partial share sales on infrastructure, such as modern schools, transport projects, and hospital redevelopments.

• Provides total extra new Government spending of just $26.5 million over the next four years. However, we’ve found savings of $3 billion in lower-priority existing spending, and raised almost $1.4 billion in new revenue by increasing tobacco excise tax, greater targeting of tax avoidance, closing tax loopholes, and ending outdated tax credits. That means there’s $4.42 billion in new spending initiatives over the next 4 years, focused on improving frontline public services and getting better results in areas like health, education, law and order, and welfare reform.

• Allocates almost $1.5 billion of extra funding for health, pushing total health spending to $14.1 billion in 2012/13.

• Increases science and innovation funding across government to more than $1.3 billion a year by 2015/16.

• Adds $511.9 million of operating funding for new initiatives in education, pushing total funding for early childhood education and schooling to $9.6 billion in 2012/13.

Budget 2012 focuses spending on areas where it will get better results for New Zealanders. It also sets measurable targets for two more of the 10 areas in which the Government has committed to public targets. The three measurable targets set so far are:

• 85 per cent of 18-year-olds having NCEA Level 2 or equivalent by 2017– up from 68 per cent.

• Reducing prisoner reoffending by 25 per cent by 2017. Reaching this target would mean 18,500 fewer victims of crime every year.

• Increasing the rate of participation in early childhood education to 98 per cent, from 94.7 per cent currently, by 2016.

All in all it’s the right Budget for the times and as a Government we’re very pleased with it.

Coleman's Call March 22 2012

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 09:26:32 +1300

It’s been a busy start to the year with lots going on in both Wellington and Northcote.

As Minister of Defence, I have been fortunate to travel to London and Belgium where I met with international colleagues and participated in the re-burial of a NZ Brigade Unknown Soldier. I have had the opportunity to visit various Defence bases around the country and it’s been great to see the front line in action.

It is great to be able to come back to the electorate at the end of each week. I recently visited Northcote College to talk to a senior class about type 2 diabetes and the risks associated with obesity, attended the Northcote College Art Auction, attended the Glenfield community expo and visited Windy Ridge Primary School during the “Helping hands” working bee.

I am looking forward to the St Mary's School fair on the 31st of March – it’s always a lot of fun.

Please see below my last column from the North Shore Times for those who may have missed it.

Rate Rises Unsustainable

My campaign on the overgrowth of weeds across the North Shore generated a lot of positive feedback from people across the region. Raising the issue in the media also provoked an immediate response. Within a couple of days of the North Shore Times article highlighting the issue, there were teams of council staff out dealing to the weeds. It shouldn't have taken media coverage to get action but it's certainly much more effective than wading through layers of council bureaucracy.

While I'm concerned that we get our fair share of rates spend north of the bridge, I'm even more concerned that Auckland Council doesn't seem to acknowledge that every entity in the country from the individual household to the largest government department has spent the last three years figuring out how it can live within its means and has cut its cloth accordingly. When wages are growing at less than 2 per cent and for many people incomes are static, how on earth can the council expect 45,000 North Shore ratepayers to absorb proposed rate rises of 10 per cent year on year for the next three years?

On top of that the council is now suggesting a long list of ways to pay for Auckland's transport infrastructure over the coming decades. You will have seen it all on the front page of the Herald – bed taxes, a special GST for Auckland etc. As the Prime Minister indicated, it's central government that sets taxes, not councils. I don't think Aucklanders will have any appetite for increased costs at a time when household budgets are already extremely tight.

My suggestion is for Auckland Council to take a long hard look at its spending with a series of Value for Money reviews across all areas of council spending. It should be local government bureaucracy 101. Similar exercises across central government over the past three years have yielded savings of more than $1 billion out of a total Government spend of $73 billion a year. Those savings have been reinvested back into the country’s key priorities – health, education and infrastructure.

At a more local level, the council also needs to get a real feel for what ratepayers want to see their money being spent on. Too much money gets spent on too many projects that don't have real local buy-in or demand. While any given decision will never please everyone, presenting ratepayers with the financial reality of council spending choices in terms of impact on rates bills would get people thinking. All the little areas of council spend add up – and ultimately you pay for it through your rates bill.

My guess is that the people who are actually shouldering the burden of increasing rates bills will have a very different view on council spending to those who are not. The increases in rates across the North Shore are frankly not sustainable, and the council needs to have a major rethink on this one.

Coleman's Call November 30 2011

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Wed, 30 Nov 2011 14:52:05 +1300

Firstly, a huge thanks to everyone in Northcote who contributed to Saturday night’s resounding election victory. We can take real pride in an excellent result, both locally and nationally.

Our win here in Northcote is the result of a huge amount of hard work from a large and dedicated team of volunteers. To the people who campaigned out on the streets, folded letters, provided hoarding sites, made lunches for E-day workers, scrutineered or donated, your support and commitment is greatly appreciated.

In the Northcote electorate we secured 58% of the candidate vote to Labour’s 29% - that’s two votes to every one Labour received. We won the electorate vote in 20 out of 21 booths, and in the one booth we didn’t win, the losing margin was only three votes. On election night we polled 8535 votes – only 42 votes fewer than the 2008 election night majority of 8577. Considering the low overall voter turnout on Saturday night, this is actually a better result; 3305 special votes are still to be counted which means our final majority could exceed the 2008 final majority of 9360.

What’s more, we won the party vote at all 21 polling places in the electorate, something we had never achieved in previous elections. National achieved 52% of the party vote across the electorate.

Nationally the result was also a huge triumph for the Government. National won 48% of the vote which betters National's share of the vote in its landslide wins of 1990 and 1975; it’s our best result since 1951. For Labour, it’s their worst result since 1928.

I’ve been in Wellington for the past two days attending Cabinet and Caucus, but this morning I’ve been down on Onewa Road fulfilling a post-election tradition of thanking the electorate.

Once again, thank you to everyone who contributed to a very successful campaign. It’s a great result which you should take real pride in.

Coleman's Call September 29 2011

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Fri, 30 Sep 2011 09:32:08 +1300

Like many Kiwis, I love my rugby, and the World Cup is a very special time - even more so when it’s all happening on your home patch. You could tell there was something extraordinary happening in the week of the opening ceremony as flags started appearing on cars, and All Black banners were draped from house windows and decks all over the North Shore.

We’re on track to host an incredibly successful tournament; it’s a big opportunity for the country on so many levels. New Zealand is being showcased to an estimated overseas audience of 4 billion people- to achieve equivalent publicity through paid advertising would be simply beyond what we could ever afford.

Three key factors are combining to make this showpiece a great spectacle which is presenting New Zealand in a fantastic light – the exciting rugby, the special character and exuberance of the touring fans, and the participation of Kiwis as hosts.

The New Zealand public is living up to the promise of a stadium of 4 million people as ticket sales have gone through the roof. North Harbour stadium was chocka for the Japan vs France game on the opening weekend, and not far off capacity the next day for Australia vs Italy. South Africa vs Namibia sold out, and the final pool game at the stadium, South Africa vs Samoa, is a sellout as well.

Overseas fans are a vital ingredient to the colour of the spectacle, as they fill the grounds and party on afterwards. Kiwis have made them very welcome, and there has been a huge amount of goodwill going round.

Birkenhead has adopted Argentina as its second team and locally we are getting right into the spirit. There are Argentinian themed events happening in the town centre right through the Cup period, and Kae Condon, the Birkenhead Town Centre Manager, has done a great job putting together a festival programme. Similarly Takapuna has adopted France, and Browns Bay South Africa.

Financially the RWC is a huge success. Since the opening match $5.5 million of tickets have been sold, taking total sales to within $14 million of the $268 million target. Research recently released by credit-card company MasterCard estimates the 95,000 overseas visitors could generate $780 million for the economy.

The Auckland waterfront has come alive and the opening up of Queen’s Wharf has finally given Auckland the central, outdoor venue it’s needed for so long. Get along to The Cloud- it really is a great addition to the waterfront, and an excellent place to get a bit of the World Cup atmosphere.

This World Cup has given New Zealanders something to really enjoy and has engendered a huge sense of pride as our city and country is on display to the world. But can the All Blacks break our 24 year drought? I have faith they will triumph on October 23 at Eden Park. Whatever happens, just enjoy the Rugby World Cup ride. It’s going to be great!

Out and About

There is a lot happening in the electorate at the moment.

This Saturday I will be out with the team putting up the first of our election signs. I will also be calling into Verran School Town and Country Day, the Chelsea Kindergarten Annual Market Day and I will be at Three Kings Restaurant for the Chords of Love Society’s launching ceremony of their officers.

Sunday I’m supporting Northcote Rotary’s Cuppa for a Cause event, raising money for Alzheimer’s Auckland at the Senior Citizens House at 119 Queen St – come along and support a great cause.

Sunday afternoon I will be down at Birkenhead Tennis club for the Cat Gut Scream and Scones with Cream Auckland Heritage event at 1 Verran Rd.

I will also be up at our local rugby ground, North Harbour Stadium on Friday night to take in Samoa vs South Africa – should be a cracker.

Go the All Blacks and Go the Mighty Warriors!

Coleman's Call September 09 2011

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Fri, 09 Sep 2011 10:57:12 +1200

Rugby World Cup – It’s Finally Here!

It’s been a huge build up, six years in the waiting, but it’s finally here. Tonight Rugby World Cup 2011 kicks off when the All Blacks take on Tonga at Eden Park.

I will be there with Sandra – we bought two Eden Park packs a year ago and are thoroughly looking forward to it. We will be crossing the harbour then walking the fan trail to Eden Park.

Rugby and Eden Park have been a big part of my life for nearly forty years, and seeing the World Cup come to life in my home town is a massive thrill. I was lucky enough to go to the final in 1987, and really believe this time it’s our turn again to win.

However, the key to the tournament is putting on the best possible welcome for our guests, and showing the rest of the world the best of what New Zealand has to offer. It’s not about providing a parochial platform for an All Black win at all costs; it’s about hosting and enjoying a marvellous international festival.

Auckland is looking fantastic – a whole lot of elements have come together around this tournament, and we should be justifiably proud of our city as we host the opening ceremony tonight.

The buzz around town is incredible – The Cloud looks fantastic, and the waterfront and Eden Park are ready for a spectacular show. Flags are draped from houses and cars across town.

It’s going to be a fantastic night, and whatever happens on the field, we’ve got a wonderful six weeks ahead of us. Get out and enjoy it!

Coleman's Call August 11 2011

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 09:17:00 +1200

NZ well placed to weather global economic shocks
Battered sharemarkets, falling stock prices and economic downgrades are back in the headlines at the moment.

The economic situation in the United States and the downgrade of its government credit rating by Standard and Poors has global knock-on effects. Combined with the European sovereign debt crisis, we’re seeing intense volatility and uncertainty in the markets.

New Zealand’s sharemarket has not been immune to all this with falls this week, but analysts are confident New Zealand is well positioned to withstand these continued shocks.

What this highlights is the real problem that many Western economies face – they are laden with debt and their governments are struggling to reduce the amount they owe. It’s also vindication of the decisions the Government has taken over the past three years.

We’ve had a very clear view of the required steps and have placed significant importance on reducing government debt and increasing savings and investment. We’re also focussed on an export-led recovery. Last week I visited China to promote New Zealand tourism, meet with Chinese government ministers and to open a new Immigration New Zealand and Tourism New Zealand office in Shanghai.
Since the Free Trade Agreement between our countries came into effect in 2008, exports to China have increased by 166 per cent. China is now New Zealand’s second largest trading partner after Australia and our second largest export market. It’s also a growing tourism market with a 25 per cent increase in Chinese visitors to New Zealand over the past year.
Concentrating on exports and increasing savings and investment is paying dividends. Along with Australia and Korea, New Zealand will be one of three OECD countries who will be back in surplus within the next three years. That means we’re reducing our debt faster and we’re borrowing less to maintain public services.
Generally the public understand and agree with this approach. Like the government, New Zealand businesses, households and individuals are focussing on reducing debt and increasing savings. One factor we have little control over is the high Kiwi dollar and the subsequent headwind exporters face, but that reflects the economic landscape we operate in.

The measures the Government has taken mean we’re on top of debt by keeping it below 30 per cent of GDP - even after increasing spending in the past few years to help New Zealanders through the recession and investing $5.5 billion to help rebuild Canterbury.

By comparison, in the United States, net government debt is running at more than 70 per cent of GDP and rising. Average net government debt among developed countries – this includes the likes of Portugal and Spain - will be approaching 80 per cent of GDP by 2016.

Looking ahead, the Government has a very clear economic plan for the next three years if we’re re-elected. The economy will be the defining argument of the election and we are in pretty good shape considering the circumstances.

The commitments Labour is making will see them borrowing more than the Government and they have not laid out a clear plan.

If their vision for growing New Zealand’s economy is by slapping a tax on it, it shows a dearth of ideas. It will be many years before the Capital Gains Tax would raise funds and all it allows them to do is justify their spending promises going into the election. I don’t believe a CGT would make housing any more affordable.

There is a clear choice before voters come November – the path out of deficit and debt or higher taxes, more borrowing and higher debt levels that Labour is committing to.

The Prime Minister in Northcote
On another note, John Key will be in the electorate for an entertaining and informative cocktail evening on Friday 2 September at The Wharf. Tickets are available from my electorate office at 15 Rawene Rd, ph 419 8021.

Coleman's Call May 20 2011

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Mon, 23 May 2011 13:45:59 +1200

Budget 2011

I’m down in Parliament today as we debate the budget. I reckon we’ve put together an excellent package, appropriate for the times. It strikes a balance between fiscal responsibility and continuing to target money where it’s needed most.

Tomorrow I’m back to Northcote early in the morning and will be helping paint Windy Ridge Primary School in Glenfield before heading into Auckland University Medical School to address the New Zealand Medical Students’ Association.

Here is a concise summary of the Budget which I thought you’d find helpful.

Have a good weekend,

Regards

Jonathan

Budget 2011: Building our future

Building a stronger economy

Budget 2011 builds a strong platform for growth, sets a credible path to surplus, and helps lift national savings. It also protects vulnerable families, boosts investment in health and education, and helps rebuild Canterbury.

Back to surplus faster

Surplus in 2014/15. Thanks to Budget 2011, the government is forecast to be in surplus a year earlier than forecast last year. This will reduce net borrowing from $380 million a week to $100 million a week, before we start repaying debt from 2014/15.

Building savings and investment

We’re encouraging individual and national savings with the following changes, which will take effect after the election:
•        Mixed ownership – more savings opportunities
Mixed ownership of 4 state-owned energy companies, and reducing our stake in Air NZ, while keeping majority control.

• KiwiSaver – increasing private savings
Greater individual and employer contributions, with less call on government debt.
KiwiSaver funds will reach $60b by 2022.

• Working for Families – targeting families in need
Focusing on lower income families to keep costs sustainable. WFF costs have gone from $1.5b in 2005/6 to $2.8b this year.

• Student Loans – keeping loans interest free
Encouraging personal responsibility and better value for taxpayers, by reducing lending to those less likely to repay.

A strong platform for growth
•        4% economic growth forecast in 2012.
•        170,000 new jobs forecast by 2015, with wages growing faster than inflation.

Building better public services
•        $5.2 billion freed up over 4 years for frontline public services and paying off debt.
•        Health – $2.2b more over 4 years. $14b total in 2011/12 – the most ever.
•        Education – $1.4b more over 4 years. $12.2b total in 2011/12 – the most ever.
•        Law and Order – $157m more over 2 years to help make communities safer.
•        Infrastructure – $1.6b more. Broadband, schools, and the KiwiRail turnaround plan.
•        Youth Employment Package – $55.2m to support young people into jobs.

Rebuilding Canterbury
•        $5.5b Earthquake Recovery Fund over six years to provide certainty for rebuilding Canterbury.
•        4500 extra places for construction-related training, including 1500 new places worth $42 million.
•        $10m social support to rebuild lives and communities.
•        $25m over 2 years for the Canterbury Earthquake Recovery Authority.

Coleman's Call May 13 2011

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Mon, 16 May 2011 12:50:31 +1200

Less than a week to go and the Government is foreshadowing the Budget with a number of announcements. Bill English has pointed to a record deficit of about $16 billion and the country is now borrowing $380 million per week (up from $250 million at the start of the year), as it meets the immediate costs of rebuilding Christchurch.

What’s clear is that New Zealand's growing debt has to be brought under control. The last government blew record surpluses on a massive spend up that assumed those surpluses would last forever. That left us with a large structural deficit. Now it’s up to us to look at what NZ can reasonably afford, and control our spending accordingly.

The Budget on 19 May will set out our next steps. It will be responsible and measured and contain significant savings. It will set a credible path back to surplus, but will not be a slash-and-burn exercise. Like our previous Budgets, it will protect vulnerable New Zealanders, and boost frontline services in areas such as health, education, and law and order.

To get back to surplus, we have reviewed our spending priorities. We’ll make changes to KiwiSaver, Working For Families, and the Student Loan Scheme, which together cost almost $5 billion a year. These programmes were introduced during a debt and consumption-driven economic bubble. They are unaffordable in their current state.

In the Electorate

The 3 May Tornado tore through the electorate and left many people seriously shaken. The following day I visited the most affected areas on behalf of the Prime Minister and saw first hand the damage that was left behind. Yesterday I attended the funeral for Benedict Dacayan who was tragically killed by the Tornado. It was a very sad occasion.

I accompanied the Prime Minister to the launch of the ‘Positive Behaviour for Learning Programme’ at Birkdale Primary School on the 5th of May. This programme has been proven to result in positive behaviour and learning outcomes and it was exciting to launch this programme with such a great bunch of kids. Last Saturday I attended the Birkenhead and Beach Haven Bowling Club Official Closing prizegivings.

Business Breakfast - Friday 17 June at 7.30 am

We are having a Business Breakfast at Hum Café, Birkenhead. Our guest speaker will be Hon Tim Groser. This looks to be an interesting event, particularly if you are a local business looking to further your markets. Tickets are $25 per person to cover the breakfast. Get in quick as numbers are limited.

On a side note, I have been approached by Arthritis New Zealand to pass on to my network the following invitation. Arthritis New Zealand is holding on May 25th an evening of art & theatre at the exquisite Pah Homestead, Hillsborough. If you would like to support this worthy cause then please see the attached invitation.

For more information visit
http://www.arthritis.org.nz/index.php/component/content/718?task=view

Coleman's Call April 1 2011

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 09:23:02 +1200

It’s been a busy few weeks all round. I’ve been in India opening the New Zealand Consulate General in Mumbai and promoting New Zealand as a trade partner, returned to Parliament for a week, was in the electorate office on Friday, then earlier this week attended the Bali Process talks on people smuggling (in, unsurprisingly, Bali). I’m not usually overseas a lot, but recently has been an exception.

New Zealand has huge opportunities in India. It’s a population of 1.2 billion that achieved a staggering 8.6% growth in its economy last year. India represents a vast potential market for dairy exports, international education and tourism. It’s up to us though to get on the radar with them, rather than vice versa. Other nations are queuing up to engage with India, and they have plenty of trade options. The lack of a Free Trade Agreement is the biggest hurdle for New Zealand to clear, but we have commenced negotiations towards an FTA with India, so we’re making progress in tapping into this lucrative market. Better air links are also going to be important to increase the exchange of commerce and people.

The Bali process talks were chaired by Australian Foreign Minister Kevin Rudd and the Indonesian Foreign Minister. The “Boat People” issue is headline news in Australia. With 43 million displaced persons globally and new trouble spots erupting globally on a continuous basis, it’s an issue that New Zealand cannot afford to ignore, and it’s something that we keep a close eye on.

Wellington

I attend cabinet each Monday, and the focus continues to be the economy and earthquake recovery; there’s a strong link between the two. It’s important that we get Christchurch back on its feet as our second largest city. As far as the national economy goes, there’s no doubt that the earthquake is going to have significant impact as we’re faced with the task and costs of rebuilding. What it means for government is that we need to get the decision making right (and I think it’s been going really well on that front). It also means there is now a sharper focus than ever on Government spending. While there was going to be $800-900 million of new spending in the upcoming budget, Ministers are now working on keeping new operational spending to a minimum while improving frontline services. (Compare this to the $2.5 billion of new spend that Labour had in their budgets, and you can see the challenges we have). It’s vital that we get the country’s debt under control, and a lot of the “nice to haves” just may not be affordable anymore. Yes, our political opponents will complain, but look at the financial reality. Unless steps are taken, debt will get to the point where people stop lending us money, and on that day we become the next Ireland or Greece.

Locally
Last week the Herald ran a front page story on an NZTA report into the merits of a tunnel or a bridge as the next major harbour crossing. The bridge is estimated to cost $3.9 billion, and the tunnel $5.3 billion. I support the tunnel option. I believe another bridge would wreck the harbour and be unlikely to gain consent on those grounds alone. The issue will be working out how we pay for a new structure.

On another matter, a teacher was knocked down on Wednesday morning on the pedestrian crossing outside Northcote Primary at the top of Lake Rd by a car turning right from Onewa Rd into Lake Rd. I was up at the intersection this morning talking to the principal, Deborah Heasman. We are lucky that there wasn’t a fatality and I’m happy to report that the teacher is back at home and predicted to make a full recovery. I’ve previously written to both Auckland Council and the police about the dangers of this intersection, and will be meeting with them at the school next Friday with a view to enhancing safety at that intersection.

Finally, club rugby starts this weekend - Northcote v Marist, North Harbour Domain, 2.45 pm. I’ll be there. Go the ‘Cote!

Coleman's Call March 4 2011

nospam@example.com (Jonathan) — Fri, 04 Mar 2011 11:46:18 +1300

What a start to the year. The petty considerations of politics have gone out the window with the cataclysmic events in Christchurch. There is one overriding focus that is dominating the affairs of the country and the business of government.

On Wednesday I was in Christchurch with the Health Minister Tony Ryall to get a picture of what we are dealing with in terms of the demand on health services. It’s one thing for us to direct things from the Beehive, but quite another to get a picture on the ground of what’s really happening.

It was certainly an eye opener. We visited Christchurch Hospital, the Australian Field Hospital, Princess Margaret Hospital, an Aranui general practice and a mental health provider. What was amazing was the resilience of Cantabrians. I spoke to many people who were turning up to work to help others despite losing their own homes.

We drove through the streets in East Christchurch, a poorer part of the city, and one that has been hit hard. The residents had cleared the liquefaction themselves, but the hot norwester (blowing at up to 90 km/h) was whipping up a dust storm. House after house lay abandoned. The whole scene felt quite apocalyptic. The people out there are having a tough time, and the Government priority is getting them the immediate support they need. We are keeping a very close eye on public health issues- a major outbreak of a communicable infectious disease is a real risk.

Another looming problem is an inevitable increase in psychological trauma as people in Christchurch struggle to come to terms with the experience. Mental health issues, anxiety, domestic violence and alcohol abuse are set to take off (and in fact have already since the quake). We are putting major effort into ensuring there is the support and available resource to tackle this.

It’s an absolutely unique event in our lifetime, and requires an extraordinary response from the whole nation.

IN THE ELECTORATE

Some of you may have seen the campaign I have been running in the North Shore Times calling for a review of the T3 lanes on Onewa Rd and Lake Rds. To cut a long story short, they don’t seem to be working optimally. There’s also the fact that all other transit lanes on the Shore are T2, yet these are T3- that’s inequitable.

I’m in the electorate every week, holding clinics, speaking at various events and just getting round the area. Chinese New Year in Northcote was marked with a great turnout of local party members to man our stall and talk to constituents. I spoke at Birkenhead Rotary in January, and earlier this week addressed the Northcote Rotary Club. In addition, we held the Northcote National Party AGM on Tuesday night and had an excellent attendance.