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Prime Minister Helen Clark and Economic Development Minister Jim Anderton are heading a string of visits across the country today, all tied to growth and innovation.
The Smart Growth Day visits celebrate growth through new ideas in the lead up to Budget 2003. Ministers and Government MPs are visiting more than 50 businesses, schools and skills training organisations to see growth and innovation at work. Wairarapa MP Georgina Beyer is visiting Masterton companies Computer Concepts and Systems, Woodnet Works and Silicon Blue.
Ms Beyer said there have already been a number of Budget 2003 announcements which will foster further growth and innovation, such as the $85m package for industry training. The 15 May Budget will contain additional measures to support smart growth and sustainable development, promote the commercialisation of good ideas and initiatives to upskill New Zealanders.
Since 1999, Wairarapa has received $333,643 from Industry New Zealand programmes, which support businesses and regional growth. This has included $80,000 for a strategic regional development plan and awards to the three businesses Ms Beyer is visiting today. The Tararua region had received $118,338.
"This funding from the Labour Progressive Government reflects its commitment to creating opportunities for New Zealanders," said Ms Beyer.
She said the Labour/Progressive Government wants to ensure New Zealand continues as one of the healthiest economies in the OECD, with growth of 4.4 percent in 2002 and unemployment at its lowest in 15 years.
"This government is committed to encouraging innovation to maintain sustainable economic development in Wairarapa and throughout New Zealand," said Ms Beyer.
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