Minister of Social Services and Employment

Associate Minister of Education
(Tertiary Education)

22 December, 1999

Government delivering for students

The new Government is delivering on its promises to students, the Associate Minister of Education (Tertiary Education), Steve Maharey, said today.

"After only ten days in office this Government can proudly assert that it is delivering on its core promises to students. This week we have abolished interest on student loans for full-time and low-income students, reinstated the full value of the Training Incentive Allowance (TIA) and we have undertaken to continue working on associated matters early in the New Year.

"Labour promised in Government to be the party of continual progress. Our decisions this week are a very creditable beginning. In addition I have asked my officials for urgent reports on establishing a job subsidy scheme which will assist students to find meaningful employment over their summer holidays.

"Our work programme next year will be equally full. I want to move quickly to establish the Tertiary Education Advisory Commission which will provide me with advice on the long term strategic direction of the tertiary sector.

"The Government will undertake a thorough review of the student loans scheme. We want to know what impact the crippling level of student debt is having on participation. Coupled with this review we have also signalled our intention to introduce a more favourable student loan repayment system.

"It's a great feeling to be an Associate Minister of Education who can finally start delivering to students", Steve Maharey said.

ENDS

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