27 January 2014

Greens welcome Labour’s commitment to kids

The Green Party welcomes the policy announcements in David Cunliffe’s State of the Nation speech, Green Party Co-leader Metiria Turei said today.

Mr Cunliffe announced that Labour would create a $60 a week payment for most 1-3 year olds, boost free Early Childhood Education to 25 hours a week, extend paid parental leave to 26 weeks, and increase support for expectant parents.

“Mr Cunliffe’s policies show a real commitment to children and the Greens are fully behind them,” said Mrs Turei.

“If we give our kids the best start in life, they will grow up happier and healthier, they will learn more, and contribute more to our communities and our economy.

“Our “Schools at the Heart” policy and Labour’s “Best Start” policy both draw upon the findings of the Expert Advisory Group on Solutions to Child Poverty. John Key’s Government has ignored the evidence and failed to address the issues that are holding our kids back.

“New Zealanders have a real choice this election between a Green-Labour Government that will deliver for children and families or National and a rag-tag bunch of misfits that have turned a blind eye to the needs of kids,” said Mrs Turei.

ENDS

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