Tracey Martin MP
Spokesperson for Education
9 May 2013
Consult the Education Sector First Says NZ First
New Zealand First says the Government is a slow learner when it comes to consulting the education sector.
Education spokesperson Tracey Martin says that with the Budget next week, schools are waiting to see what ‘bright ideas’
the Minister will come up with next.
“Last year’s Budget saw the announcement on class sizes. Schools and parents weren’t consulted on this move and National
ended up dumping the idea.
“Think of all the stress that could have been avoided if the Government had consulted thoroughly before implementing the
debacle that is Novopay.
“This Government has refused to listen to the education sector’s concerns about National Standards and has turned off
its hearing aid completely when it comes to Charter Schools.
“For its fifth Budget, the Government needs to make more of an effort to consult the education sector and the community,
rather than always thinking that it knows best”, says Ms Martin.
ENDS