Media Release

24 January 2008

Prevention Better Than Cure

New Zealand First social services spokesperson Barbara Stewart has welcomed today’s announcement by the Government that it will institute early monitoring programmes to identify and address challenging behaviour in children aged three to seven.

“The early years of a child’s life are a critical window of opportunity, and this move by the Government to identify and resolve emerging issues is warmly welcomed,” said Mrs Stewart.

“Some may criticise this as the negative labelling of young children, but there is no point in pussy-footing around when many of the risk identifying factors such as anti-social behaviour and repeated truancy are well-known.

“Addressing any problems early on in a child’s life will benefit them, their families, and the whole of society, and will save the taxpayer money in the long run. That is why New Zealand First has long advocated for programmes to identify and support at risk families and children.

“Our children are our most precious resource and are worthy of our best efforts,” said Mrs Stewart.

ENDS

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