31 October 2008 Media Statement

Youth Ministry achievements to be applauded: Mahuta

”The Ministry of Youth Development has accomplished a great deal and their achievements should be applauded,” Youth Affairs Minister Nanaia Mahuta said today.

Nanaia Mahuta welcomed a survey released by New Zealand Aotearoa Adolescent Health and Development (NZAAHD) calling for a strong Ministry of Youth Development.

“The survey highlights the importance of the Ministry’s work, and re-affirms the commitment Labour has made to ensure that our young people receive the best possible opportunities,” Nanaia Mahuta said.

She said the Ministry of Youth Development made a valuable contribution through its investment in the youth sector, the Youth Development Partnership Fund and mentoring and worked collaboratively with other agencies to maximise the support it provides for young people.

“The Youth Development Partnership Fund provides support for community based services through partnerships with local authorities, and the projects we’ve seen include a youth café, youth centre, mentoring programmes and leadership and employment skill forums,” Nanaia Mahuta said.

“The New Zealand Conservation Corps, Youth Services Corps and mentoring programmes are among those who will benefit from $7.6 million in Ministry of Youth Development funding allocated to nearly 60 providers to deliver 124 programmes and services for young people.

“We have also seen collaboration with other agencies, in the areas of education and health and social development, where young people will see benefits through Pathways to Partnership, Schools Plus, youth transition services, apprenticeships training and health initiatives.”

“There are also a range of forums available to young people to give them a link to the government regarding issues they are interested in,” Nanaia Mahuta said.

“Youth Parliament, Young People’s Question Time, Ministerial and regional forums and collaboration with local authorities are just some of the paths being used to encourage young people to get involved in their communities.

“We have worked hard to ensure the Ministry continues to be effective and Labour is committed to ensuring there is a voice for young people on the issues that matter to them,” Nanaia Mahuta said.

ENDS

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