Pardon me if I get a bit excited!
AUTHOR: Judy Turner
On Tuesday the 1st of April two of the big-ticket items that were part of the Supply and Confidence Agreement UnitedFuture has with the current Labour-led government became a reality.
Firstly the new Company Tax rate kicks in and it has been nearly 20 years since anyone gave consideration to those who in our business community.
UnitedFuture while advocating for a strong social-justice agenda, understands that neglecting wealth creation discredits claims to being credibly commited to the poor. Think about it!
The second initiative that kick-started on Tuesday was the removal of the cap on tax rebates for those individuals and businesses who give to registered NZ charities.
THIS IS MY FAVOURITE POLICY GAIN OF ALL!
I now believe that in the future it is possible that the Community and Voluntary sector could operate without having to rely on the proceeds of gambling because of the culture of generosity that could now develop and characterise our nation.
In celebrating this policy gain it is important that I acknowledge the hard work and negotiation skills of Hon Peter Dunne as Minister of Revenue. It is for this very cause that Peter accepted the governments offer of a ministerial posting outside of cabinet after the 05 election.
If anyone doubts the contribution an MMP party can make even with only two current M.P.'s then this week we clearly demonstrated was is possible and our relevance within the political landscape.