Making New Zealand the best place to raise kids again

Making New Zealand the best country in the world to be a child again is the key goal for the new Government’s social services agenda, the Minister of Social Services and Employment, Steve Maharey, said today. Mr. Maharey today released a post-election briefing paper prepared by the Office of the Commissioner for Children.

“Happy children are a key indicator of a healthy society. The Government’s plans to build stronger communities stem from our desire to create an environment in this country where kiwi kids can thrive. Too many people tell me that New Zealand is no longer a good place to be a child. I am determined to change that.

“I welcome the ideas contained in the briefing papers written for me by the Commissioner for Children. The Government has a strong children’s agenda. A key initiative is our plan for a national children’s conference early this year. I want to use this opportunity to hear from children’s advocates and to outline our strategy to improve the position of children in New Zealand.

“Every child deserves a good start in life. This Government is committed to acting to make this a reality”, Steve Maharey said.

Copies of the Commissioner for Children post-election briefing papers are available from the Minister’s office. Contact Michael Gibbs, Press Secretary, (04) 471 9154 or (021) 368 100.

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