Labour, the Green Party, and Te Pāti Māori have joined forces to oppose the Government’s proposed changes to the Early Childhood Education (ECE) sector, which they deem risky.
The Government’s Regulatory Review of ECE, scheduled to introduce a Bill in October, has raised concerns about its potential negative impact on young children.
Together, the opposition parties, along with NZEI, will conduct public hearings nationwide to gather feedback from those affected.
Labour’s education spokesperson Jan Tinetti emphasized, “Early Childhood Education lays the groundwork for a child’s future. Unfortunately, the Government’s approach seems focused on business interests rather than children’s needs.”
“There’s widespread worry that the Coalition Government’s review could set back our children’s education,” Tinetti added.
Tākuta Ferris, education spokesperson for Te Pāti Māori, criticized the Government’s rushed consultation process: “By allowing only six weeks for public input on such a crucial issue affecting our children’s future, the Government shows little interest in genuine consultation.”
Green Party’s Teanau Tuiono highlighted the importance of supporting ECE teachers: “Quality early childhood education depends on well-supported and content teachers. This review, however, appears to prioritize cost-cutting for businesses over improving teacher conditions.”
Labour, Green, and Te Pāti Māori MPs plan to host public hearings and round table discussions nationwide to seek input from teachers, parents, and families across New Zealand.
