27 January 2014
Greens welcome Labour’s commitment to kids
The Green Party welcomes the policy announcements in David Cunliffe’s State of the Nation speech, Green Party Co-leader
Metiria Turei said today.
Mr Cunliffe announced that Labour would create a $60 a week payment for most 1-3 year olds, boost free Early Childhood
Education to 25 hours a week, extend paid parental leave to 26 weeks, and increase support for expectant parents.
“Mr Cunliffe’s policies show a real commitment to children and the Greens are fully behind them,” said Mrs Turei.
“If we give our kids the best start in life, they will grow up happier and healthier, they will learn more, and
contribute more to our communities and our economy.
“Our “Schools at the Heart” policy and Labour’s “Best Start” policy both draw upon the findings of the Expert Advisory
Group on Solutions to Child Poverty. John Key’s Government has ignored the evidence and failed to address the issues
that are holding our kids back.
“New Zealanders have a real choice this election between a Green-Labour Government that will deliver for children and
families or National and a rag-tag bunch of misfits that have turned a blind eye to the needs of kids,” said Mrs Turei.
ENDS