Policy will encourage workers to up-skill

The Labour Party’s promise to reduce student debt will encourage working people to get involved in tertiary training, says the country’s largest union.

Engineering, Printing and Manufacturing Union national secretary Andrew Little said that student debt was of huge concern to families across the country.

“It’s a major issue for our members, who are concerned about their children being saddled with huge levels of debt,” he said.

“It also discourages workers from undergoing further training which could enhance their skills.”

Mr Little said that the Labour Party’s policy, announced today, of not charging interest on student loans while the borrower lived in New Zealand would go a long way towards reducing the level of debt working people were carrying.

“That’s good for working people, and good for the country,” he said.

ENDS

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