“This has been a trying time for many Wellington businesses and their staff as cordons have forced closures in the interests of public safety,” he says.
“The Government’s announcement of $500 per full-time employee and $300 per part-time employee will make a huge difference. This will assist businesses through this difficult time, and help them retain staff.”
He says the earthquake caused major disruptions but that this package would mean businesses have the support they need to get through and begin work on getting back on their feet.
“We have worked closely with the Government throughout the earthquake response and I want to thank them for listening and hearing the urgent need from local businesses.
“The job now is to make sure we are preparing for future earthquakes. We are urgently developing a list of resilience investments that can be brought forward to help us prepare, and we will be collaborating closely with the Government.
“It’s important we learn the lessons from this quake and that our capital city is well prepared for the future.”