MTA issues Beehive WOF
A warrant of fitness (WOF) issued by the Motor Trade Association (MTA) for the government judges the coalition to be “roadworthy”, but it’s “failing” in several key areas that need “urgent attention”.
While it’s an overall “pass” for the powers-that-be after six months in office, the MTA’s chief executive Lee Marshall believes they are failing in three key areas affecting thousands of New Zealanders – industry training, crime and immigration.
Marshall, pictured, says: “Te Pukenga appears to have stalled at the lights. Industry training for the automotive sector is in limbo and, with it, thousands of learners.
“Automotive industry training must be returned to the Motor Industry Training Organisation.
“MITO was a proven success, equipping thousands of people for careers and performing strongly financially. Learners need to know this will continue. But since this government took over – crickets.”
The MTA’s service station members are particularly worried about crime and the association is urging the government to act.
“There’s 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. The government must move swiftly to reduce crime and protect people from offenders. We’re ready to work with them on this important issue.”
In April, the government repealed the planned addition of two key automotive roles, panel beater and vehicle painter, to immigration’s green list – a shock and blow to the industry.
“We know the labour shortage is still the number-one concern for many of our members,” says Marshall. “Having the ability to hire skilled overseas workers while Te Pukenga is being sorted out is essential. We urge the minister to revisit that.”
On the plus side, the government gets MTA ticks for its action on the clean car discount and standard, road-user charges, EV infrastructure and the WOF.
“Credit where it’s due,” adds Marshall. “The government has made good calls around big roading projects and how we pay for them. But we’ll be keeping a close eye on how they address the areas we’ve highlighted.”
The MTA’s full WOF on the government is pictured below.
