Green Paper: Opportunity for public conversation on children

27 July 2011

Green Paper an opportunity for a public conversation on actions for children

Barnardos has welcomed the launch of the Green Paper on Vulnerable Children today as an opportunity to create a public conversation about the actions needed to improve the lives and outcomes of the nation’s most vulnerable children.

“The Green Paper is an opportunity for every New Zealander to get involved in identifying what government, communities, families and individuals can do to improve life for the nation’s most vulnerable children. Through the public discussion about the issues in the paper we have a chance to hugely increase awareness about the role we each play in securing the future of these children,” said Murray Edridge, Barnardos Chief Executive.

“We encourage every New Zealander to engage in the consultation on the Green Paper so that the resulting Children’s Action Plan has widespread support. Barnardos will be working to contribute the views, expertise and experience of its staff right around the country to the Green Paper process. Vulnerable children need all of us working together to create the communities, society and economy that will meet their needs and enable their success.

“In just twelve years, for the first time in New Zealand history, there will be more people over 65 than there will be children. If we want a secure, productive and prosperous nation we will need every child thriving, achieving and belonging.

“While some of the issues identified in the Green Paper will stimulate debate, this is an opportunity to build understanding about the policies and practices needed to ensure all children are healthy, educated and socially competent. We hope all New Zealanders – including political parties – will constructively engage in this process so that resulting policy changes can be supported and sustained in the long term,” said Mr Edridge.

ENDS

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