21 July 2004

Shortfalls In North West Auckland’s Schooling Finally Addressed

New Zealand First list MP Dail Jones says the Education Minister’s response to the need for more secondary schools in North West Auckland has been slower than a drive on Auckland’s motorway on a wet Monday morning.

“Since August 2002 I have been asking Trevor Mallard how the Government is planning to respond to the growth in school rolls in West Auckland, Rodney and the North Shore,” said Mr Jones.

“Until now he has been less than forthcoming about how – or if – the Government would address the issue, despite requests from me to meet with ministry officials.

“For some time now there has been a very clear need for more secondary level provision to help existing schools meet soaring projected population numbers in North West Auckland.

“Mr Mallard expects to receive a report on the outcomes of consultation being undertaken with stakeholders by the end of the year. Had he been more responsive to my requests for information on the matter almost two years ago, decisions and planning could have been carried out much sooner.

“Information about the projected population growth has been available to him for some time now, and I am relieved to see that he has decided to do something about it. Let’s hope the outcome of the review makes up for the Minister’s tardiness over the issue,” concluded Mr Jones.

ENDS

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