Colin Craig Predicts
In light of National’s Food in Schools announcement Colin Craig predicts the following three outcomes.
1. Many parents will opt out of providing breakfasts for their children, knowing they’ll get a free one at school.
2. If given the opportunity, virtually all schools will adopt the Food in Schools programme.
3. As a result of the above, the cost of the programme will increase over time to be tens of millions.
“If this policy is pursued, I'm confident my predictions will prove accurate. It’s often quoted that ‘what you
encourage, you’ll get more of.’ In this case, more parents depending on the government to give their kids a meal.”
“There is no question that this policy opens a new door for dependency. The culture of dependency is already too
prevalent. This is yet another cost we cannot afford.”
“This programme is politically motivated, and a step in the wrong direction. The real solution is not another hand-out,
but ensuring parents take responsibility for their own children.”
“Following up parents not only ensures a child is fed, but enables broader issues of neglect to be identified and
addressed. It’s about finding real solutions, not putting on a band aid.”
“Political point scoring is one thing, doing the best for New Zealanders is another.”
ENDS