Mayors and ministers discuss jobs taskforce

By AUDREY YOUNG

Mayors from around New Zealand went into the inner sanctum of the Beehive cabinet room yesterday to discuss the "mayors taskforce for jobs" with ministers.

The taskforce of 50 mayors - 67 per cent of all mayors in New Zealand - signed a memorandum of understanding between them and the Government.

The aim is that "by 2007, all 15- to 19-year-olds will be engaged in appropriate education, training, work or other options which will lead to long-term economic independence and well-being".

The taskforce was formed in February 2000 by mayors who say they can provide leadership and support for employment initiatives in their communities.

The mayors and the Government agreed to:

* Share information on labour market trends and future need.

* Work together to develop "community entrepreneurs".

* Minimise duplication of services in economic development organisations.

* Recognise the need for co-ordination to address complex social problems.

The household labour force survey showed that 11.1 per cent of 15- to 24-year-olds were unemployed in the June quarter.

Ministers who signed the memorandum were the Minister of Social Services and Employment, Steve Maharey, the Minister for Economic Development, Jim Anderton, and the Minister of Local Government, Chris Carter.

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