Michael Woodhouse MP - Newsletter

Blue&Gold: July

nospam@example.com (admin) — Tue, 13 Jul 2010 14:05:48 +1200

OTAGO RESCUE HELICOPTER TRUST
Last Monday I had the pleasure of visiting the Otago Rescue Helicopter base at Taieri Airfield with Waitaki MP Jacqui Dean.

Jacqui and I were there to present the Trust with a cheque for $78,159 of Government funding.

It was a great privilege to be able to present this money to a Trust to further support the work they do in the southern South Island. The Trust is one of 16 centres across New Zealand that provides life-saving service transport for critically ill or injured people to medical facilities.

It was a great afternoon where we got to meet the staff, be shown the air ambulance and helicopter base and I, along with two of my daughters, even had the opportunity to be winched up into the training helicopter.

DUNEDIN HOSPITAL
Health Minister Tony Ryall brought great news with him when he visited Dunedin last month.

The Minister confirmed funding for Dunedin Hospital’s new NICU as part of a $24.4 million development of the Southern DHB's Dunedin facilities.

The current unit is dilapidated and over-worked which is why I am so pleased that this funding has been confirmed.

I have been advocating to the Health Minister over the past few months the need for these upgrades so was very pleased to be with him when he made this announcement at the Hospital.

The total funding package is being invested in:

- NICU plus enabling project - $5.3 million
- Wakari developments - $15.2 million
- Infrastructure projects at Dunedin - $3.9 million

YOUTH PARLIAMENT
On 6 & 7 July Parliament was overtaken by 122 Youth MPs.

I was in Wellington for the annual event which sees the Youth MPs from all around the country attend caucus meetings, select committee meetings, debate in the House and ask oral questions of Ministers.

My representative was Katya Curran from St Hilda’s Collegiate School. I was extremely proud of Katya who represented Dunedin and me extremely well.

Katya was on the Foreign Affairs, Defence and Trade select committee and took a call in the general debate in which she delivered a great speech.

It was a fantastic couple of days and it was great to see the potential future leaders of this country debating current issues and learning how parliament works.

PARLIAMENTARY SPORTS
The parliamentary netball and rugby teams were hosted by National MP Hekia Parata in Porirua last weekend.

The parliamentary netball team consisting of MPs, staff and spouses played the Porirua Invitational Team at Te Rauparaha Arena. The locals proved too good, winning 25-19 at the end of what was a great game.

The parliamentary rugby team then took on the North’s Presidential team at Porirua Park. I had a great time refereeing the game, where once again the locals proved too good – with the score 46-28 at the final whistle.

A fantastic weekend all round and a great way to raise funds for the Porirua Youth Grants Fund.

FRIDAY FORUMS
Last month I hosted the inaugural Friday Forum at Mornington Presbyterian Hall. The forum was attended by MPs Chester Borrows, Tim Macindoe, Eric Roy and Jo Goodhew.

There was a great public turnout for the morning tea and discussion.

I will be hosting forums throughout the year, with the next one scheduled for:

Friday 23 July
10.00 – 11.30am
Mornington Presbyterian Community Centre, Maryhill Terrace

Guest MPs will be Melissa Lee and Jacqui Dean.
It would be great to see you there for a catch up or if you have any issues you would like to discuss with me and my colleagues.

Please RSVP to my office on 477 7330 or email blueandgold@parliament.govt.nz

Morning tea will be provided.

I hope to see you there.

ETS MEETING
The Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) came into effect on 1 July.

There has been a lot of misinformation around the ETS and so I have invited the Minister for Climate Change Issues Nick Smith to a public meeting to discuss the scheme and what it means for you.

This is your chance to get all the facts and ask any questions you may have.

The meeting is on:

Monday 26 July
7.30pm
Coronation Hall, Gordon Road, Mosgiel

I look forward to seeing you there.

Blue&Gold: May - Budget Special

nospam@example.com (admin) — Fri, 21 May 2010 15:28:57 +1200

BUDGET 2010: BUILDING THE RECOVERY
On Thursday 20 May Finance Minister Bill English delivered the 2010 Budget.

This year’s Budget focuses squarely on getting the economy growing faster. It helps Kiwi families get ahead. And it sets New Zealand on a path to turn back debt and return to surplus.

It delivers the biggest reform of our tax system for nearly 25 years.

Across the board, personal tax cuts and a package of tax changes will boost economic growth, make the tax rules fairer, and help hard-working Kiwis get ahead.

The tax reforms will leave someone on the average wage almost $15 a week better off. A family on the average household income with two children will be about $25 a week better off.

Budget 2010 builds on our economic recovery and tilts the economy so that faster growth comes in the right places.

For too long New Zealand has relied on investment in property speculation, rising debt, and unsustainable increases in government spending. The Budget takes action to encourage investment in the productive parts of the economy such as exporting. It gives the vast bulk of Kiwis extra cash in their pockets so they have more choices.

It also continues this Government’s multi-billion dollar investment in infrastructure such as high-speed broadband, roads, rail, and schools. It makes a substantial investment in research, science, and technology.

Despite the tight fiscal environment, we are helping families and the most vulnerable by investing hundreds of millions of dollars more in priority social services such as hospitals, schools, and safer communities.

We are tackling rising debt, and Kiwis will see a return to surplus in the government accounts three years sooner than forecast last year.

From 1 October this year, personal taxes will be cut. GST will increase a small amount to 15 per cent. Superannuation, Working for Families, and benefit rates will all increase to compensate for the GST rise. As National promised, most Kiwi households will be better off.

Next year the company tax rate will fall to 28 per cent, ensuring New Zealand is competitive internationally.

We’re investing $321 million over four years in new initiatives in science, research, and technology – a key driver for a faster growing economy.

We’re putting an extra $2.1 billion into frontline healthcare over the next four years, and an extra $1.4 billion for better schools and early childhood education services.

Across government, we have identified $1.8 billion of low-priority spending to be freed up for priority areas such as healthcare, education, and keeping New Zealand communities safe.

We owe it to hard-working Kiwi families to provide them with the financial security, opportunities, and higher incomes that allow them to get ahead in this country.

Budget 2010 does those things and sets out a path to build on our economic recovery.

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS
RESEARCH, SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Boosting science to help faster economic growth

- $321 million for new initiatives, including $234m for supporting business research and development, including technology development grants for firms doing R&D

HEALTH
Improving frontline health services for patients

- $2.1 billion extra for health priorities, including $512m extra for 2010/11
- $1.4b extra for District Health Boards
- $59.5b for extra Elective Surgeries
- $93m extra for Disability Services
- $24m for a national Bowel Cancer screening pilot programme
- 20 new Doctor Training Places
- $80m extra for Medicines

EDUCATION
Ensuring young New Zealanders have the opportunity to reach their potential and succeed

- $1.4 billion extra for better schooling and early childhood education, including $417m extra for 2010/11
- $107m extra for Early Childhood Education and continued funding for 20 hours ECE – to a total of $1.3b in 2010/11
- $155.9m new Operational Funding for Schools
- $349.3m in new operating and capital funding for School Property
- $48.1m for the Youth Guarantee Scheme
- $48.3m to build Ultra-fast Broadband Support for schools
- 765 extra places at Universities
- 455 extra places at Technology Institutes and Polytechnics

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
Better frontline support for those in need

- $90.5 into a fund for Non-Government Organisations to deliver extra high-quality services
- $134.3m for Whanau Ora to help families in need
- $14.9m invested in services for Teenage Parents
- $26.7m in 2010/11 to expand Job Opportunities programme

HOUSING
Growing the supply of affordable housing for families

- 20m to extend the Housing Innovation Fund, including $16m for grants and loans to support Social and Affordable Housing
- $350,000 new Welcome Home Loan limit raised from $280,000 for first home buyers in higher priced areas

INFRASTRUCTURE
Unclogging the arteries of growth, creating jobs, and getting our economy moving

- $1.45 billion for projects in 2010/11 – the second year of a 5-year $7.5b infrastructure programme
- 200m for the roll-out of Ultra-Fast Broadband, plus $48m more for broadband in schools
- $500m for upgrade of Auckland Rail, and $250m for the wider rail network and rolling stock
- $337.4m to lift Prison Capacity and manage justice sector pressures
- $177.4m for New Schools and School Property
- $10.7b over 10 years for State Highways. $3.3b over 5 years to upgrade the National Grid

OTHER KEY INITIATIVES
- $75.9m for a new Joint Border Management System to replace ageing border clearance systems run by MAF and Customs.
- 40,000 Kiwi households have joined Warm Up New Zealand: Heat Smart. We are investing $347.3m to retrofit more than 180,000 homes with insulation and clean heating.
- 350 extra Police already on the street towards 600 new frontline police by the end of 2011.

FRIDAY FORUM
Come along to my Friday Forum to discuss current issues with myself and caucus colleagues Jo Goodhew MP,
Tim Macindoe MP and Jackie Blue MP.

Friday 18 June
10.00 – 11.30am
Mornington Presbyterian Community Centre, Maryhill Terrace

Morning tea provided.

I look forward to seeing you there.

Blue&Gold: April

nospam@example.com (admin) — Mon, 03 May 2010 13:20:40 +1200

JEWELLED GECKOS RELEASED
Last month I had the privilege of helping release the 16 jewelled geckos that were stolen by a German tourist from the Otago Peninsula in February.

The geckos, which are considered to be in gradual decline, were released back to their original homes with the help of University of Otago student Carey Knox.

I was impressed by the work the Otago Peninsula community and the Department of Conservation are doing to make sure our wildlife is protected and that the theft of our wildlife is prevented.

YOUTH MP SELECTED
I am delighted to have found a fantastic young leader to be my representative at this year’s Youth Parliament. Katya Curran from St Hilda’s Collegiate School was chosen after writing an essay and being interviewed.

I was extremely impressed all of the applicants from a number of secondary schools in Dunedin and it just goes to show the calibre of our young leaders in this city.

The 122 Youth MPs will take over Parliament for two days in July and will get to debate legislation, ask ministers oral questions, attend caucus meetings and sit on a select committee.

BACK BENCHES
The TVNZ7 political show Back Benches came to Dunedin this month. I was part of the panel alongside fellow MPs Clare Curran, Heather Roy and Metiria Turei. We debated issues such as the value of education, the Dunedin student culture and accommodation and employment.

A great crowd turned up to the Robbie Burns pub for what was a fantastic night.

You can watch the full episode at:
http://tvnz.co.nz/back-benches

CANBERRA VISIT
Last month I visited Canberra as a member of the Health Select Committee as part of the annual joint exchange with the Australian Parliament.

The trip was an opportunity to meet with our Health Committee counterparts in both the House of Representatives and the Senate. Our Committee is conducting inquiries into the early detection and treatment of prostate cancer, improving childhood rates of immunisation and into how we can create an environment to support more clinical trials. The Australian Government has also addressed these issues and it was helpful to compare approaches.

We were also interested in funding structures and Prime Minister Kevin Rudd made some major announcements about future changes to their system that caused quite a stir in the health sector.

ASPAC CONFERENCE
Last month I was privileged to speak on behalf of Finance Minister Bill English at The Asia Pacific Network of Science & Technology Centres (ASPAC) conference opening dinner.

The conference, held at the Otago Museum, emphasised the importance of growing the science and technology industry in the Asia Pacific region. It is an industry that is also very important to New Zealand’s economic development.

It was a great night where I met world leaders in the field and even met Japan’s first astronaut Professor Mamoru Mohri.

ANZAC DAY – PROUD AND TRAGIC
It was an early start to ANZAC Day with the dawn service at the Cenotaph in the Queen’s Gardens in Dunedin, followed by the parade and service in Mosgiel and the service in Outram where I was the guest speaker. There were excellent turnouts at all events.

The day was marred by the tragic news of the Iroquois crash at Pukerua Bay north of Wellington. Many members of my extended family have served in the Air Force including a brother who flew Iroquois. The Defence Force will be badly affected by the tragedy but the courage, resilience and comradeship that was first forged at Gallipoli will no doubt sustain them in this difficult period. RIP.

WEBSITE VIDEOS
You can now see videos of speeches I make in the House as well as regular video blogs detailing what I’ve been up to.

Blue&Gold: February

nospam@example.com (admin) — Fri, 05 Mar 2010 09:40:34 +1300

Click here to open a pdf version of this newsletter

WELCOME BACK
I trust you are all relaxed and energised after the holiday break. 2010 will be a busy one for the Government and I’m really looking forward to it.

PRIME MINISTER’S SPEECH
The Prime Minister opened this year’s Parliament with his statement outlining the Government’s priorities for 2010.

The Government is focused on a number of issues including improving education and skills for young people, making communities safer by addressing the drivers of crime and providing better and faster healthcare and social services for New Zealanders.

The Prime Minister also outlined the Government’s focus on growing the economy through boosting infrastructure, reforming regulations, encouraging innovation and tax reform.

More details will be revealed in the Budget on May 20th. The Government is considering an increase in G.S.T. and the Prime Minister has committed that any rise will have commensurate adjustments to tax and benefit levels to ensure spending power is maintained.

Click here to view the Prime Minister's full speech.

NATIONAL STANDARDS
Ensuring our children deserve the best possible start in life is one of the Government’s priorities. One way we are doing this is through National Standards.

National Standards were introduced at the start of term one and will be rolled out over the year for Year 1 to 8 students. The Standards are going to help student achievement and help the one in five children who currently leave school without adequate reading and writing skills.

There has been some confusion over National Standards and I am pleased to be holding a public meeting to which the Minister of Education Hon Anne Tolley will attend. This is a chance for parents to come and listen to the Minister on her goals for National Standards and also have the opportunity to ask questions.

I encourage you to let anyone that may be interested in attending know of the details:

NATIONAL STANDARDS MEETING

DATE: Monday 29 March
TIME: 7.30pm
PLACE: Port Otago Lounge,
Edgar Centre
116 Portsmouth Drive
Dunedin

If you would like to attend please RSVP to blueandgold@parliament.govt.nz

I look forward to seeing you there.

MASTERS GAMES
Earlier this month Dunedin hosted the 2010 New Zealand Masters Games.

I was fortunate enough to go along to some of the events and see what a tremendous success the Games were. Congratulations to the organisers, volunteers and especially to all competitors who I hope were not too sore following their exertions.

On a personal note, the highlight of my weekend was getting to meet a boyhood hero and Commonwealth Games gold medalist Dick Taylor who is one of the Games Ambassadors.

HOSPITAL DEVELOPMENT
Having come from a strong health background, I am always keen to see development in the sector to ensure Dunedin has the best healthcare facilities.

That is why I recently had a meeting with Health Minister Hon Tony Ryall to ask for capital funding to be made available for Dunedin Hospital’s paediatric inpatient capital development project.

The Minister was very receptive and I am optimistic about funding being made available. I will continue to work towards making sure the funding is made available for this important project.

In other health news, I was pleased to hear that the Minister of Health approved the decision of the Otago and Southland District Health Boards to merge. The new Southern DHB will consist of four representatives from Otago, three from Southland and three Government appointees.

The merger will enhance services and operations across the two regions and help reduce administrative costs.

DCC DIGITAL STRATEGY
I recently met with members of the DCC Digital Strategy project team. The team is charged with providing a long-term vision for Dunedin and its digital communications. The strategy will address more than just broadband or fibre in the ground, covering components such as relevant content, capability and confidence. If you have an interest in how the city plans to position itself for a digital future I encourage you to participate at:

http://www.dunedin.govt.nz/services/business-development/digital-strategy/digital-strategy-consultation-questionaires

FRIDAY CLINICS
I have restarted my Friday clinics in Waikouaiti and also at the University.

Upcoming clinics at Waikouaiti are on:
19 March and 23 April
10am – 12pm
East Otago Events Centre

University of Otago clinics are on:
26 March and 30 April
10 – 11am
Clubs and Societies Building

If you or anyone you know would like to come and discuss anything with me at the clinics, please contact my office for an appointment.

Blue&Gold: November

nospam@example.com (admin) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 08:40:58 +1300

STADIUM VISIT A BIG SUCCESS
Last Friday I accompanied the Prime Minister on a tour of the construction site of the Forsyth Barr Stadium at the University Plaza. The stands are growing virtually before our eyes and the pace of progress is both pleasing and exciting.

Project managers are confident that the stadium will be completed in time for the 2011 Rugby World Cup

I’ve been a huge stadium supporter from the start, not just because of the great asset the city will be left with, but also because of the significant fiscal stimulus it is providing the city during these recessionary times. It was hugely exciting for me to observe first-hand the project unfolding and I look forward to watching its progress.

ONE YEAR ON – STRONG LEADERSHIP, STEADY PROGRESS
National was voted into office a year ago. So much has happened in that time, space doesn’t permit a full rundown of the achievements, but here are a few:
• the 27 actions of the 100-day plan were all implemented
• National Standards in numeracy and literacy have been implemented.
• Bureaucracy in health has been tackled.
• 12 month course of Herceptin funded.
• Repeal of the Electoral Finance Act.
• Launch of the Voluntary Bonding Scheme to encourage graduate doctors, nurses and midwives to remain in New Zealand.
• Implementing of an infrastructure plan.
• Legislation to tighten bail laws, parole conditions, clamping down on criminal gangs and the drug trade and levying criminals to fund the Victim Compensation Scheme.

The Jobs and Growth strategy of the Government is starting to have an impact on economic growth and employment statistics but next year will no doubt be as challenging. You can be sure that the caucus remains energetic and determined to lead New Zealand through this recessionary period.

ETS MODIFIED
Last week saw the passage of the Climate Change Response (Moderated Emissions Trading) Amendment Bill. Despite the emotive debate and often polarising views on both sides of the argument around anthropogenic climate change, I believe the Government has successfully balanced the need to fulfill its environmental responsibilities set out in the Kyoto Protocol with the imperative to improve our economic performance.

Maintaining the ETS introduced by the previous Labour government would have imposed significant taxes on households and the National-led Government’s amended scheme is designed to be fiscally neutral while encouraging carbon emitters to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions.

SCHOOL VISITS
It has been great to get out visiting local schools and seeing first-hand the great things that are happening for our kids. Recently I have visited Waikouaiti School, Balaclava School, Tomahawk School, North East Valley Normal School, Macandrew Intermediate School, Sarah Cohen School and Taieri College. I also had the opportunity to visit the University of Otago with the Minister of Research, Science and Technology, Hon Wayne Mapp.

On another education note, I am pleased that the Government has recently introduced National Standards for Years 1 to 8. These numeracy and literacy standards will make it easier for parents to understand how their children are performing at school and will enable them to work with teachers to get kids on the right track early and reaching their full potential.

PARLIAMENTARY RUGBY TEAM
Last week I refereed a game the Parliamentary rugby team played against the Diplomats. It was a fantastic event which saw the Parliamentary team win 27-0 and also saw a few members of the team displaying limps and bruises the next day. It was a great game and one the Spanish Ambassador, Marcos Gomez, is keen to make an annual event.

NEW WEBSITE
The National Party has launched a new website profiling its MPs. It can be found at www.nationalmps.co.nz. Here you can access the latest National MP news, video updates, an MPs blog and it also provides the opportunity for you to give us feedback on how the Government is doing and I would encourage you to use this facility.

MERRY CHRISTMAS
As this is my last newsletter for 2009 I would like to take this opportunity to thank you for your support during the year and to wish you all a very merry Christmas, a restful break, and a happy and prosperous 2010.

My office will be closed from 23 December to 11 January. I look forward to being able to catch up with you in the New Year.

Blue&Gold: November

nospam@example.com (admin) — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 08:40:58 +1300

Project managers are confident that the stadium will be completed in time for the 2011 Rugby World Cup

My office will be closed from 23 December to 11 January. I look forward to being able to catch up with you in the New Year.

Blue&Gold: September

nospam@example.com (admin) — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 12:49:04 +1200

PRIME MINISTER’S VISIT
Earlier this month I was delighted to accompany the Prime Minister on a day of official visits in Dunedin. The visits included Hillside Engineering workshop, the Dunedin Community College and the new Fisher & Paykel R&D centre in the Wall Street shopping centre, where the Prime Minister officially opened this centre.

The highlight of his visit was the Otago Daily Times Class Act 2009 awards at the Dunedin Art Gallery. The Prime Minister gave certificates to around 50 recipients of the award given for general excellence in secondary schools in Otago. The Prime Minister spoke openly about his background and the need for vision and determination as ingredients for success. He then spent a long period signing autographs and having photos taken with the recipients.

INVESTITURE CEREMONY
I was also privileged to be the Government’s representative at the Investiture Ceremony recently held at Larnach Castle in Dunedin. As Government House in Wellington is being renovated, the ceremonies have been taken on tour so to speak and the Castle provided a superb backdrop for the conferring of Honours on citizens from Canterbury, Otago and Southland. It was
made even more special by the fact that I knew a few of the recipients personally.

Although the ceremonies being taken out to the regions was designed as a temporary measure, maybe we have stumbled on a formula for the future…

UNDIE 500 FALLOUT
I visited Castle Street on the Saturday night of the Undie 500 and watched in frustration and anger as the behaviour of students descended to the point where trouble was inevitable. I’m proud of Dunedin and particularly proud of the reputation of the University of Otago and do not want to see either suffer. Sadly it’s time for the city leaders to take more drastic action and I will be participating in the reflection on what those measures should be. What is clear – and what constituents have told me – is that this behaviour can not continue.

RUGBY WORLD CUP – GIVE IT 100%
Last week I attended a parliamentary function to record the fact that it is now just two years until kick-off in the first fixture of the 2011 Rugby World Cup. That function brought it home to me how soon the tournament will be upon us.

There will be 48 matches at 13 venues across the length and breadth of the New Zealand – "the stadium of four million people". We will host more than 60,000 visitors expected to flood into our country for the tournament that billions of people across the globe will watch on television or online.
It will raise our international profile, boost our economy and give us lasting gains in trade and tourism. And, of course, we will have a great celebration along the way.

Come 2011, we will not only be showcasing our national game but we also have an unprecedented chance to show off our beautiful country and what we do well – from our food and wine, our fashion design and film-making, our science, to our tourism. We need to turn 2011 into a year of showing our very best to the world.

We want to encourage all New Zealanders to think of ourselves as a nation of four million hosts. We want to ensure that every visitor has a warm and uniquely New Zealand experience wherever they go – from Cape Reinga to Stewart Island.
For some Kiwis, that will mean being part of a team of volunteers who will make the RWC an outstanding event. There will be many roles to fill – from making sure things run smoothly at grounds on game days to supporting festival and business showcase events. You can register your interest in becoming a volunteer now by visiting http://www.nz2011.govt.nz/

Let’s give it 100% over the next two years and make 2011 New Zealand’s year!

TIWAI POINT VISIT
I recently spent a total of five days visiting the New Zealand Aluminium Smelter Ltd at Tiwai Point as part of a study programme I am doing through the Parliament and Business Trust.

It was a great experience where I learnt a lot about the security and cost of electricity supply as well as aspects of running and maintaining quality in a company of that size and complexity. I also got to don the highly attractive safety gear and see the ins and outs of this very impressive facility, with the great hospitality of the fine people of the South.

CONSTITUENT CLINICS
My once a month Waikouaiti Clinic is going very well and I am meeting some very positive local residents who are actively working towards enhancing what the area has to offer as well as maintaining services already in place. The new East Otago Events Centre which I was given a tour of is a wonderful asset to the area and I am told a booking system has been put in place due to the popularity. I have Waikouaiti and Karitane school visits on my itinerary in the next two months which I am also looking forward to.

I have also started a campus clinic at Clubs and Socs at the University. I will be holding these once a month and look forward to meeting and talking with students and being able to discuss what’s important to them.

If you know anyone who would like to come and see me on campus they can contact my office for an appointment.

Blue&Gold: July

nospam@example.com (admin) — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 14:49:32 +1200

OFFICE OPENING: A NOISY SUCCESS
On Friday, 19 June my new out of Parliament office was officially opened by Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Bill English. A large crowd of local business people, community leaders and supporters were in attendance, as were a number of protesters who took the opportunity of the official opening to complain about the National-led Government’s decision to dispense with the Pay and Employment Equity Unit.

National is absolutely committed to pay equity, but in the last eight years of the Labour government, the gender pay gap remained 12% despite the existence of the Pay Equity Unit. Task forces and talk fests won’t close the gender pay gap; meaningful policies will.

In the last six months I have been lucky enough to have three protests outside my office – a clear sign that National is making its mark in Dunedin!

The official opening was preceded by an open day which was extremely popular with constituents who called in with their issues or simply to wish me and my staff all the best in the new office.

To see photos of the event, click on the Photos tab above.

CPA TRIP TO LONDON
Last month I was lucky enough to be selected, along with five other new MPs, to travel to Westminster on a Commonwealth Parliamentary Association delegation. The one-week trip to explore the workings of the UK Parliament was interesting to say the very least and a greatly valuable experience.

The MP expenses scandal has completely consumed the Palace of Westminster, with almost all MPs implicated to some degree, and the papers full of new revelations each day. This has made the House of Commons a very insular place. Commentators are speculating on up to a third of MPs retiring at the next election, due to be held by next June. Combined with a higher than usual proportion of incumbents likely to lose their seats, there will be a huge change in the makeup of the Commons. On our first day we watched the election of new speaker John Bercow, a maverick Conservative MP not supported by his own Caucus!

The recession is biting very deep and the Treasury Committee briefing where the Governor of the Bank of England spoke revealed tensions between the B of E and Government policy. Hardly surprising given a budgeted debt to GDP ratio exceeding 75%, and most commentators now certain the growth projections upon which it was based were far too optimistic.

Significant fiscal stimulus is being provided by preparations for the 2012 Olympics in London, with billions of pounds being invested in stadia and associated facilities. London is also making sure the legacy from the games can invigorate an otherwise deprived part of East London. Planning for the Games is comfortably ahead of schedule.

Climate change policy is one area where the UK Government appears to be taking a leadership role,
and necessarily so given high fossil fuel electricity generation and the tens of millions vehicles on the road.

Security remains a constant issue in the UK. The briefing from the Home Office on threat levels (presently Severe, basically meaning imminent danger of attack) and the very visible security presence in London was a sobering reminder of the need for security services to be extremely vigilant.

The last day was a relaxing of the gruelling schedule with a trip to South Oxfordshire to visit the constituency of Henley, one of the most beautiful parts of the UK and the inspiration for The Wind in the Willows. A visit to a local farm afforded the opportunity to discuss issues of mutual interest with a group of local farmers. Subsidies, farming methods, climate change, “Buy British”, irrigation and the EU were all robustly discussed. We left with the distinct impression that the intensity and science behind NZ farming was well above the UK, notwithstanding their beautiful surroundings.

One overwhelming impression was of the sheer volume of people in the city. London was at the height of its tourist season but even so the numbers of visitors was staggering. A very high proportion of service workers were European, reflecting the UK’s entry into the EU.

A great and valuable trip, but it’s so nice to be home!

WARM UP NEW ZEALAND
More than 180,000 New Zealand homes will have access to grants for insulation and clean heating over the next four years as part of a major investment by the government into household energy efficiency. The scheme is designed to reduce health risks from living in cold, damp homes and provide energy efficiency gains.

In homes built before 2000 the government is offering to pay a third of the cost of installing ceiling and under floor insulation up to $1300. For Community Service Card holders 60% of the total cost may be funded. Homes with sufficient ceiling and under floor insulation may also access $500 for clean heating devices like approved log burners, pellet burners, heat pumps, or flued gas heaters. Other energy efficiency measures that may receive funding are a hot water cylinder wrap, pipe lagging, draught stopping and a ground moisture barrier.

Please feel free to contact my office if you require the name of a local ENERGYWISE™ insulation and heating provider.

EMAIL ADDRESSES
In order to make communication much easier and more cost efficient, we are setting up an email database. If you would like to receive Blue&Gold by email please contact us at the address below so you can be added to the database.

Blue&Gold: May - Budget Special

nospam@example.com (admin) — Fri, 29 May 2009 12:28:30 +1200

Welcome
Welcome to the May edition of Blue&Gold, my monthly newsletter designed to keep you up to date with the activities of your Government. If you are receiving this for the first time it is because I think you are interested in those activities and in issues affecting Dunedin. If you do not wish to continue to receive this newsletter simply email blueandgold@parliament.govt.nz with the word Unsubscribe in the subject line.

Budget 2009: New Zealand’s Road to Recovery
Many household budgets are stretched these days and it’s even harder to make ends meet when a household suffers a loss in income. When that happens, you have to reprioritise what you spend your money on, what needs are most importantto the family, and what has to be put off for another day.

The Government was in exactly this position when it put together Budget 2009. Due to the deepest recession since the 1930s, the Government is faced with falling revenues and increasing demands on our important social services.

That’s why this Budget has focused on initiatives that continue to support jobs, maintain entitlements for those on low incomes, and take the necessary steps to get the country’s finances back in good shape.

This Budget also creates new frontline jobs including 600 more police, 246 more probation workers and hundreds of extra training places for doctors and nurses.

Increased unemployment is one of the harshest effects of the global recession. We cannot reverse that, but we are taking steps to cushion New Zealanders from its sharpest edges.

In this Budget we have also outlined our commitment to maintaining entitlements such as Working for Families, Superannuation and other benefits and allowances. Families and households have already experienced difficulty in making ends meet and we believe it’s important that the Government provides continuity of these entitlements.

This Budget was also about getting the Government’s finances in better shape. Large spending increases simply cannot continue while revenue is dropping. We aren’t prepared to load our children’s generation with debt. Households are taking stock of the things they spend money on - the Government has to do the same.

In the midst of an economic downturn we’ve pursued a Budget that is balanced and sensible.

Budget Highlights:

Keeps the economy going amid global turmoil
• Budget 2009 takes steps to ensure New Zealanders are cushioned from the sharpest edges of the worst global recession since the 1930s.
• New core Crown spending of $2.9 billion in Budget 2009 – combined with recent tax cuts – will support the economy.
• Budget 2009 directly supports jobs through a $323.3 million home insulation and clean heating campaign, $50 million for a national cycleway network and a multi-billion dollar infrastructure boost.

Safeguards entitlements
• Budget 2009 locks in National Superannuation at 66 per cent of the average wage.
• Benefits, student support and Working for Families are maintained at current levels.

Improves public services
• A $3 billion boost for health over four years, focused on frontline services.
• $1.68 billion on education to raise student achievement.
• 600 more police and 246 more probation workers to improve public safety.

Builds more productive infrastructure
• $290 million for the first tranche of the Government's broadband plan.
• $523 million to build new schools and upgrade existing ones.
• An extra $1 billion over three years for the state highway network.

Controls government debt
• The Government is ensuring debt does not skyrocket out of control. We have taken considered choices now to avoid harsher ones later. They include deferring planned tax cuts, suspending automatic contributions to the New Zealand Super Fund and slowing the pace of new government spending.

Strengthens the economy for the future
• Removes unnecessary regulation so businesses can thrive.
• Invests more to lift the literacy and numeracy of young people.
• Creates a more productive public sector.

Credit Rating News Welcomed
Encouraging news emerged from two credit ratings agencies following the Budget. Standard and Poor’s has removed the negative outlook from New Zealand’s AA+ foreign currency rating, while Moody’s Investors Service said New Zealand’s AAA rating, which is on stable outlook, was not immediately affected by the projected debt path. Treasury estimates that a downgrade could have cost New Zealanders around $600 million in higher loan rates, principally for home lending. The positive effects of a sound and sensible budget that takes New Zealand on the road to recovery are already evident.

Blue&Gold: April

nospam@example.com (admin) — Wed, 29 Apr 2009 11:08:34 +1200

MAINLAND CONFERENCE REMINDER

A reminder that the Mainland Conference will be held in Timaru on Saturday 9th and Sunday 10th May. If you plan to attend please let your Electorate Chair (Sandra Christie for Dunedin North, Conway Powell for Dunedin South) know.

THE FIRST 100 DAYS

February saw the milestone of the first 100 days in office for the National Government. During the campaign we pledged to put in place a post election action plan. All the actions listed in this plan have been delivered as promised within our first 100 days in office.

Our next steps in government will be to deliver the rest of our election promises, starting with our Jobs and Growth Plan which will help soften the sharpest edges of the global recession, and build a bright future for all New Zealanders.

Parts of the plan came into effect on April 1, including personal tax cuts, an increase in the minimum wage, changes to KiwiSaver to encourage saving, and implementing initiatives from the Government's Small Business Relief Package.

ANZAC DAY COMMEMORATIONS

This Saturday I will be representing the Government at Dunedin’s commemorations of this important day in our history.

Especially in our thoughts this year are the members of our armed forces who serve overseas. New Zealand personnel are deployed on 14 peacekeeping operations and United Nations missions around the world. They are involved in everything from security and stability operations to truce supervision and border observation - in countries as diverse as Afghanistan, Timor-Leste, Sudan, Iraq, the Solomon Islands, Egypt, and South Korea.

I hope you are able to take part in one of the many events being held in recognition of Anzac Day, our veterans, and the young men and women who are serving our country today.

MINISTERS’ VISITS

I recently accompanied three Ministers who visited the city:

Hon Judith Collins was here in her dual capacity of Minister of Police and Minister of Veterans’ Affairs. We visited the Montecillo Veterans Home in South Dunedin and also called in to see Area Commander Dave Campbell of the Dunedin Police. It happened to coincide with the recent negative press around the students’ Toga Parade and there were plenty of questions from media and the like about Judith’s views on the issue. Suffice to say she would not be drawn on the debate but very much supported the Police’s low key response to the larrikin behaviour.

Hon Paula Bennett, Minister for Social Development and Employment, Youth Affairs and Disability Issues, had a very full day visiting her department and social service providers in the city.

Finance Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Hon Bill English was in Dunedin last week visiting local businesses and speaking to members of the Chamber of Commerce. According to media reports, his visit to the Hillside Engineering workshop was the first by a National Party minister in 27 years!

FACEBOOK FRIENDS

Are you on Facebook? So am I and looking for more friends. Please look me up and send a friend request.

WELCOME TO THE YOUNG NATS

During Orientation Week I attended Clubs Day to support the Young Nats’ recruitment drive. It was a fantastic success with nearly 100 students registering to either join Young Nats or to find out more about it. This reflects the favourable feedback on Government’s performance since the election. It is also a unique opportunity for us to establish a more significant presence on campus and I will be working closely with Young Nats to ensure this happens.

The first meeting of that group was in March and we were fortunate to have Paula Bennett speak. She talked about her journey to a ministerial post and the issues faced in her portfolios. I’m advised that this was the largest turnout for a Young Nats meeting in Dunedin since Michael Laws was president; no mean feat given the meeting was on St Patrick’s Day and many students had other plans.

DUNEDIN ACHIEVEMENTS

In the House this month I lodged two Notices of Motion which formally recognise a couple of great achievements by Dunedinites:

• Firstly, Research Animation Ltd, who won the contract to provide the graphics to the BBC for this year’s Formula One series.
• Secondly, Alison Shanks did the city proud in winning gold in the women’s 3000 metres individual pursuit at the 2009 Track Cycling World Championships in Poland.

These are outstanding achievements both for the individuals and for the city, and a great way to have Dunedin recognised in Parliament. If you think of other achievements worthy of mention through a Notice of Motion feel free to let my staff or me know.

GOING ONLINE!

My website is now up and running. This is an ideal vehicle for reviewing my activities both in Wellington and Dunedin.
Bookmark www.michaelwoodhouse.co.nz

CLINICS

As part of my constituent work, I plan to hold clinics in Waikouaiti and on the University of Otago campus. The Waikouaiti clinic dates have now been set and they are:

April 27
May 22
June 19

If you know of anyone that have issues or need help in the North Coast/Waikouaiti area please let them know of these dates, and to contact my Dunedin staff for an appointment.

Campus presence is important to me and clinics are one way to ensure that I am regularly down there. I will be holding regular clinics and advertising them in the university magazine.

Blue & Gold: February 2009

nospam@example.com (admin) — Sat, 18 Apr 2009 19:01:23 +1200

WELCOME

Welcome to the first edition of my periodic newsletter BLUE&Gold which is designed to keep party members of Dunedin North and Dunedin South up to date with what’s happening both locally and in Wellington.

I believe that regular communication is the vital ingredient to active party membership and I commit to keeping you in touch with what is going on. I also hope that you feel free to contact me with issues, observations and suggestions as the need arises.

My first three months as your member of parliament have been extremely exciting and a very steep learning curve. I have been appointed to the Health Select Committee and the Transport and Industrial Relations Select Committee and am also a member of the Finance and Commerce caucus committee. The Government has been committed, delivering its promises in accordance with the 100 day plan. The public have responded positively to a Government that does what it says it will do and the recent polls indicate strong support for that approach.

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRIME MINISTER

“I hope you had the chance to relax a little over the summer break and look back at the achievements over 2008. It was a brilliant year for National and I’d like to thank you very much for your support and hard work. We simply could not have succeeded without so much help from so many people around the country.

Our task now is to build on the success of last year and tackle the challenges of 2009. We face some pretty difficult economic conditions as well as the concerns we identified in the election campaign. But I am confident with a lot of hard work and your help, we can look through the global recession, deliver on our election promises and build a brighter future for all New Zealanders.

Thanks again and all my very best wishes for 2009.”

Hon John Key
Prime Minister

AGM REMINDER

A reminder that the Dunedin North electorate annual general meeting is to be held at 7.30pm, Monday 2 March at Café Rhubarb, Roslyn Village.
The Dunedin South electorate annual general meeting is to be held 7.00pm, Monday, 9 March in the Taieri Hotel, 6 Gordon Road, Mosgiel.

If you are unable to attend I’m happy to record your apologies.

MEMBERSHIP DRIVE

We have a small but very active membership in both Dunedin North and Dunedin South electorates. I believe the key to maintaining the momentum that was built throughout the 2008 campaign is to continue to grow the membership.

Last year more than 22,000 Dunedinites cast their party vote for the National Party. There are a great number of people who are supportive of the party and its aspirations for New Zealand. I believe that with a little prompting many of them would become party members. New membership brings new energy, ideas and rejuvenates the Party.

I would like to encourage each existing member to recruit just one other person to party membership. By doing so we would double our membership within 12 months and be in a very strong position in the lead up to the 2011 general election.

Membership is not an onerous process as you know but it is an excellent way to remain informed about issues that affect us all and also to associate with people with similar values and vision for our country.

Joining is easy. Those with internet access can sign up through the nationalparty.org.nz website otherwise I can arrange enrolment for anyone that contacts my office.

OFFICE OPEN FOR BUSINESS

I am delighted to introduce my new assistants, Cindi Ewart and Bernadette Frost. Cindi and Bernadette will be working at least 20 hours a week in the Dunedin office, the contact details for which are stated below.


The Office in Radio House, 116 Stuart Street.		Assistants Cindi Ewart,Gemma Dally and Bernadette Frost.

My Wellington-based assistant is Gemma Dally. Gemma has provided outstanding support since my election. I’m lucky to have such an effective team behind me.

Dunedin office:
116 Lower Stuart Street
PO Box 807
Dunedin
Ph: 477 7330
Fax: 477 4885
blueandgold@parliament.govt.nz

Wellington office:
Parliament Buildings
Wellington
Ph: 04 817 8224
Fax: 04 817 6441
michael.woodhouse@parliament.govt.nz

Keep in touch,