15 June 2009
Media Statement

Fruit in schools needs to stay

The National Government’s threat to remove Fruit in Schools is a backward step that fails to recognise the importance of child health, Labour Health spokesperson Ruth Dyson says.

“Child health should be a priority for any government and threatening to remove fruit from low decile schools will impact negatively on children’s health,” Ruth Dyson said.

“Schools are reporting that the Fruit in Schools programme is a success. But it seems the Minister of Health, without any consultation with schools or parents, is looking at cutting the programme.

“Last year Tony Ryall sat on the Health Select Committee that recommended extending the Fruit in Schools programme, I note at no time did he say if elected his Government would scrap it.

“This is a valuable programme that is paying dividends in improved health for our children.

“The National Government continues to make claims about wanting to prioritise frontline services, but yet it is considering cutting a programme that directly influences the health of the young people involved.

“It’s important to use taxpayer funds on programmes that work and the Fruit in Schools programme is making a real difference.

“Tony Ryall needs to listen to those at the frontline on this issue, rather than purchase advisors or accountants.

“This is a Minister who said he would listen to the frontline workers on health issues, so where is his consultation with public health nurses and teachers and on Fruit in Schools.

“Health promotion, screening programmes and public health initiatives are important in helping to improve the long-term health of the population.

“John Key said just last year that he supported food programmes in schools, he now needs to ensure that his Minister of Health isn’t putting budget cuts ahead of the wellbeing of children,” Ruth Dyson said.

ENDS

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