Call to Widen Nit-Busting Programme

New Zealand First is calling on the Government to be fair to all parents and schoolchildren and roll out the Nitbusters programme across all schools.

“While a government-funded programme to treat head-lice infestations in 117 low-decile schools is a great start, all schools should have a chance to take part,” says New Zealand First Spokesperson for Families Barbara Stewart.

“Let every school have the opportunity, they will know whether they need the programme or not.

“Head lice do not choose children by school decile, neither should the Government,” says Mrs Stewart.

The Government funding of about $900,000 will support KidsCan to run its NitBusters programme in the schools.

“Many families would appreciate help in dealing with nits. Paying for products to treat head lice can be costly and on a limited budget many will have other priorities.

“Prompt action is essential to reduce the incidence of this troublesome problem.

“The Government is pouring millions into its failed attempts to get school pay system Novopay working properly, while it relegates a health and social problem like nits to low priority,” says Mrs Stewart.

ENDS

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