I think there is a general lack of people to employ (i.e. a low unemployment rate), rather than it being specifically the fault of their pay. While paying them more would attract more people to the job, it would be nice if starting out teachers got paid more than bus drivers.
Absolutely, but the problem is that those people come from somewhere. Increase until teachers leave to drive busses?
I think the solution is coming, it’s just coming in a form we don’t want - economic downturn and redundancies, rising unemployment, creating a larger candidate pool.
@Dave I don’t believe the narrative that everyone wants lower taxes is true. Nobody consulted me about the tax deductions, and I’m squarely in the bracket that benefits most from them.
You know, I think you’re right. I don’t even think it’s a main concern for most people. But I think offering tax cuts may pull some Labour voters to National in the hope of more pay in their limited pay packet, when that’s really a poor solution to the problem of people struggling with the cost of living.
What amount would you suggest bus drivers should be paid?
Currently Wellington bus drivers are paid around $30 per hour.
I think there is a general lack of people to employ (i.e. a low unemployment rate), rather than it being specifically the fault of their pay. While paying them more would attract more people to the job, it would be nice if starting out teachers got paid more than bus drivers.
@Dave capitalism suggests that the answer is “increase until you have applicants”
Absolutely, but the problem is that those people come from somewhere. Increase until teachers leave to drive busses?
I think the solution is coming, it’s just coming in a form we don’t want - economic downturn and redundancies, rising unemployment, creating a larger candidate pool.
@Dave increase teachers, nurses, bus drivers salaries. Reduce untaxed real estate profits
Oh I forgot to mention the solution needs to be politically palatable too! Or did I just make the task impossible 😆
@Dave increase taxes. All the people making far more cash benefit from nursing and teaching and bus drivers. Taxes lead to better services.
I’m not sure that counts as politically palatable! Everyone wants more services, less taxes, and to pay down national debt. Think you can do that?
@Dave I don’t believe the narrative that everyone wants lower taxes is true. Nobody consulted me about the tax deductions, and I’m squarely in the bracket that benefits most from them.
You know, I think you’re right. I don’t even think it’s a main concern for most people. But I think offering tax cuts may pull some Labour voters to National in the hope of more pay in their limited pay packet, when that’s really a poor solution to the problem of people struggling with the cost of living.