The New Zealand youth union movement, Stand Up, is calling on the Government to consider young people, especially young workers, before increasing the cost of driver licences.

Stand Up Convener James Sleep says the Government's latest announcement is yet another move which will have a negative impact on the mobility of young people.

"With the Government's expressed interest in raising the driving age, along with a hike in ACC levies, this is yet another cost that young people will have to bear," said Sleep.

Sleep says the Government's proposed changes are simply unfair, and may in fact cause young people to opt out of paying for additional driver training such as defensive driving courses because they simply can't afford it.

"Many young people across the country rely on their licence and car to access work, education and community activity. The Government's proposed license price hikes will only make it harder for young people to do so," Sleep concluded.

ENDS

For further information contact:

Fraser Pettigrew, Communications and Campaigns Advisor

04 802 3817 / 027 243 7031 / fraserp@nzctu.org.nz

James Sleep, Convener - Stand Up

021 911 149 / james.sleep@gmail.com