MTA lobbies new PM
Incoming Prime Minister Chris Hipkins and his team must prioritise the automotive sector in the run-up to October’s general election, says the Motor Trade Association (MTA).
“Our industry is the lifeblood of our communities and literally keeps the country moving,” says Brian Anderton, advocacy and stakeholder manager.
“There are a number of issues affecting our industry that can’t wait until a new government is sworn in at the end of the year.
“In signalling a reprioritisation of policies, the prime minister has already stated his government will be focused on small businesses that are finding it tough going – that includes many in our sector.”
For instance, more roles must be added to the immigration system’s green list to alleviate the labour shortage affecting many businesses in the automotive sector.
In December, on the advice of MTA and other agencies, the government added skilled motor mechanics to the list, but there is still a severe shortage of panel beaters and vehicle painters.
“We know that coupled with the high cost of living, many businesses are doing it tough,” says Anderton, pictured.
“If repairers and panel-beaters are short-staffed or forced to close, it can mean more unsafe vehicles on the road as much-needed repairs and maintenance are deferred. It also means crucial government targets in emissions reduction and road safety are affected.”
While changing immigration settings will provide a short-term fix to the labour shortage, the MTA also urges Hipkins and his ministers to help encourage and support young people in the automotive sector as a long-term solution.
One way to do so is to extend Apprenticeship Boost, which pays businesses $500 a month for each apprentice for two years.
Last year as Education Minister, Chris Hipkins sang the praises of the scheme. The 50,000th apprentice passed through the programme in 2022.
“A locally trained workforce provides for greater economic security,” Hipkins said. “It delivers a highly skilled workforce to build infrastructure or design the technology needed to future-proof the economy while ensuring good jobs for New Zealanders.”
Now the MTA is calling on Hipkins to back that up by extending Apprenticeship Boost past its December expiry date.
Like many New Zealanders, MTA members are concerned by violent crime, which puts service stations at risk of ram-raids and aggravated robbery.
As Police Minister, Hipkins described the number of ram-raids as “unacceptable” and pledged to help businesses stay safe. “Now he’s in the top job, we urge the prime minister not to lose this focus,” says Anderton.
The MTA will be engaging with all political parties in the run-up to the election to ensure the transport sector, and every New Zealander who depends on it, are supported.
