The Government is roadworthy but is failing in several key areas according to the MTA Chief Executive, Lee Marshall. He says those key areas need urgent attention.
The Motor Trade Association (MTA) has given the Government a friendly Warrant of Fitness (WoF) inspection after six months in office.
And while it’s a pass overall Mr Marshall says the Government is failing in three key areas affecting thousands of Kiwis: Industry Training, Crime and Immigration.
“Te Pῡkenga [New Zealand Institute of Skills and Technology] appears to have stalled at the lights” according to Mr Marshall.
“Industry training for the automotive sector is in limbo – and with it, thousands of learners.
“Automotive industry training must return to the Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO).
“MITO was a proven success, equipping thousands of people for careers in the automotive industry, and performing strongly financially. Learners need to know this will continue.
“But since this Government took over – crickets.”
Mr Lee also says MTA’s service station members are particularly worried about crime, and MTA is urging the Government to take action.
“There have been more than 60 violent attacks on service stations this year. Each one leaves hard-working Kiwis injured, traumatised and out of pocket.
“It’s a frightening industry to work in and the Government must move swiftly to reduce crime and protect people from offenders.
“We’re ready to work with them on this extremely important issue.”
In April, the Government repealed the planned addition of two key automotive roles (Panel Beater and Vehicle Painter) to the immigration Green List. This was a shock to the industry.
“We know the labour shortage is still the number one concern for many of our members,” Mr Lee says.
“Having the ability to hire skilled overseas workers while Te Pῡkenga is being sorted out is absolutely essential. We urge the Minister to revisit that decision.”
On the plus side, the Government gets ticks for its action on the Clean Car Discount and Standard, Road User Charges, EV Infrastructure and the Warrant of Fitness.
“Credit where it’s due. The Government has made good calls around big roading projects and how we pay for them,” Lee says.
“But we’ll be keeping a close eye on how they address the areas we’ve highlighted.”
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