WELLINGTON, April 2 (Xinhua) -- New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon on Tuesday launched the government action plan for the second quarter of this year which includes easing the cost of living.
These steps in the action plan will be taken by June 30 to rebuild the economy, restore law and order and improve public services, Luxon said.
The action plan includes delivering a budget that reduces wasteful spending while investing in frontline services, delivering tax relief to hardworking New Zealanders, and improving public services in education and health.
It also includes launching an attendance action plan to get kids back to school, holding serious, repeat offenders to account, establishing a Regional Infrastructure Fund to boost economic growth in regions, and improving the rental market.
"Having a clear plan with specific actions and timeframes for delivery creates momentum and drives focus," Luxon said.
Speaking of the effect of the previous 100-day-action plan, the prime minister said kids are more focused on learning after phones are banned in New Zealand schools; farmers and tradies finally have tax relief after the Ute Tax has been removed; and hospital emergency departments saw a reduction in violence after more security has been added.
However, the opposition Labor Party said the government's refusal to commit to ongoing funding for social housing impacts families in desperate need of housing as well as local tradies and apprentices who are losing work as a result.
The opposition Green Party said the government's "36 point" plan for the next three months is "as pointless as it is hollow." ■
