MSD has officially been instructed to "actively" use all levers available to encourage people off the benefit and into work and that includes sanctions.
In a letter outlining her expectations Minister Louise Upston says " a consequence of not fully applying the existing sanctions regime is that remaining on the benefit has become the rational choice for too many people."
She expects the number of sanctions to be specifically tracked and reported to her. From June, MSD will begin check ins for work ready job seekers, who have been on a benefit for six months to make sure they are doing all they should to find work.
Minister for Social Development Louise Upston speaks to Lisa Owen.
