"The long awaited Youth Development Strategy discussion document, finally released today after seventeen months of hype, is full of platitudes without actually saying anything new," National's Youth Affairs spokesperson Simon Power said.

"The sentiment is there but it lacks solutions. It reads more like a script for a moralistic American sitcom than something that addresses the real issues for young New Zealanders.

"The goal of adults appreciating 'how young people see themselves' is a centuries old refrain. How exactly will a Government policy help parents understand and support young people better?

"There is no information about how much funding will be available or how the actions will be implemented.

"Statements like 'programmes need to be well run with good leaders so that they best meet young peoples' needs and they feel happy to be involved' are stating the obvious.

"This document is the basis of the $103,000 Youth Development Strategy but has more waffle than a French breakfast.

"I agree that young people need to be more involved in decision making in the community. After all, it is their future. But this document is condescending and offers no solutions that will make a real difference to young people.

"Lets hope young people will make submissions that reflect their views, not the platitudes presented by the Minister and the Ministry in the discussion document," Simon Power said.

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