Maori Teenage Birthrate Is A Problem

Maori Party leader, Tariana Turia, believes the Maori teenage fertility rate isn't a problem but not everyone agrees with her.

Petitioner for a Parliamentary review of the DPB, Lindsay Mitchell, explained why Ms Turia's statement failed to convince.

"By the time they are 18 or 19, one in ten Maori female already depend on the DPB. This dependency rate rises steadily to reach almost one in three in the 25 - 39 year age group.

"Life on a benefit produces more risks for children than life in a working family. Health, education and social outcomes are all reduced."

"The younger a sole parent starts on the DPB the less likely they are to leave the benefit. The lack of a father or male role model is one of the greatest predictors for children coming to the attention of CYPF, ending up in the Youth Court, or ultimately in prison."

"The state and non-governmental organisations are looking after young Maori mothers, more often than their whanau and iwi. The DPB has devastated the extended whanau. By refusing to acknowledge this Tariana Turia does her people no favours at all."

Lindsay Mitchell petitioner for a Parliamentary review of the DPB forms available from www.liberalvalues.org.nz contact dandl.mitchell@clear.net.nz

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