New Families Commission Flawed

As details emerge of the new Families Commission, it has become plain that this flawed body will not benefit families, ACT New Zealand Family Affairs Spokesman Heather Roy said today.

"The United Future and Labour plans make for sad reading. If these politicians truly believed in families, then they would have faith that New Zealand families could conduct their own affairs.

"But, instead of having any confidence in New Zealanders and the families we have formed, this Government would prefer to play the role of a controlling parent.

"The Government is trying to take the place of the family, at a cost of $10 million.

"It is patronising and arrogant to waste taxpayer money telling New Zealanders how to lead our own lives. And it is impossible to see what good can come from a new body that will compete with social services groups that are doing a very good job.

"With seven commissioners, serious question must be asked: How many Joris de Bres' can the Government find? What exactly will they do? What can they do that will prove more effective than services provided by existing mentoring groups within the community? And, if the Government must try its hand at family management, why not simply incorporate something smaller - and at less cost - into the Ministry of Social Development?

"The thought of Helen Clark and Peter Dunne as Mum and Dad of the nation just doesn't wash. ACT would rather see families left with their independence and dignity, able to ask for help when they require it, rather than having it forced upon them," Mrs Roy said.

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