The Aotearoa Post-compulsory Student Union today welcomed the Alliance Party's policy of Universal Living Allowances for
all full-time students describing it as an important step towards removing discrimination in the tertiary sector.
"Since 1992 people under the age of twenty-five have been disadvantaged by a government that is prepared to pay people
to sit at home but offers no support for those attempting to expand New Zealand's intellectual capital and skill base,"
said president John Barkess.
"Today the Alliance have signalled an intention to remedy that situation. They have said all New Zealanders regardless
of age and parental income should be entitled to support if they are unwaged. The Alliance has indicated a willingness
to assist school leavers to attend tertiary education rather than sit at home on the Community Wage."
"This can only benefit the country in the long run," said Mr. Barkess, "students that do not have to worry about where
their next meal is coming from are students that can focus on getting a good quality education."
APSU Student Union is hopeful that an incoming government will see the sense in this policy and will move swiftly to
implement it.
ENDS