The primary production region of Gisborne is "feeling the pain" of the recession with another employer slashing staff numbers by half.

Young New Zealanders have gone back to study in record numbers as unskilled jobs have disappeared in the recession.

The Govt appears to accept it cannot deny the benefit to young people who refuse work or training until there are enough training places available.

John Key has announced a $152 million plan to create work, education and training opportunities for unemployed youth after the number out of work rose from 4000 last June to 17,000 this June.

Readers debate whether Paula Bennett was right to release the income details of two solo mothers.