- By Parmjeet Parmar, Pakuranga-based ACT List MP
Just like many readers of this column, my colleagues and I have been very busy wrapping up the year’s work ahead of the break.
We passed legislation to give Kiwis greater confidence to offer their homes to others on the rental market.
The Residential Tenancies Amendment Bill will help owners of pets find a place to call home by allowing for pet bonds.
The Bill also makes it easier to end a tenancy without providing a specific reason, so long as fair notice is given.
Nicole McKee passed the law to restore Three Strikes so serious repeat violent and sexual offenders are locked away for longer.
Parliament also introduced legislation answering calls from victims to recognise stalking as a crime, helping New Zealanders to live free from intimidation and harassment.
I’m particularly pleased with the introduction of the Social Security Amendment Bill.
This bill introduces sanctions for beneficiaries who are capable of work but choose not to engage in agreed-upon job-seeking activities.
Sanctions prevent the exploitation of benefits. They’re also a statement of respect towards those who diligently contribute through their taxes to fund our welfare system.
This system should be a safety net, not a lifestyle choice.
Electronic money management, an ACT initiative, is a new type of benefit sanction.
It means some of a benefit can be provided via a card that restricts spending on non-essentials like alcohol, gambling, and tobacco.
Encouraging long-term beneficiaries back into work is how we break a cycle of long-term welfare dependency, which has profound effects on the morale and well-being of families.
Having steady employment also makes the time we have with loved ones during holidays more meaningful.
That brings me to a final thought: Not everyone gets a break for Christmas.
In the coming weeks, most of us will visit shops, cafes, service stations, and dairies that remain open.
Workers at those businesses sacrifice sunny days to earn the wages they need, and they make our holidays more enjoyable.
I hope readers will take a moment this summer to thank those workers. And if you’re one of those workers, please remember to make time at some point for yourself and your family.
You keep New Zealand running, and you deserve to have good health and good spirits!
Have a great summer.
