Local MP encourages public to have their say on Green Paper
Simon Bridges
National Party MP for Tauranga
Media statement 27 July 2011
Local MP encourages public to have their say on Green Paper
Local MP Simon Bridges welcomes the release of the Government’s Green Paper for Vulnerable Children, and is encouraging people in the Bay of Plenty to have their say on its proposals.
“Too many of our children are being abused and neglected in the Bay of Plenty and throughout New Zealand,” says Mr Bridges. “It is time to take serious action to make sure our children are better protected.
“While New Zealand has a strong foundation of services and support for children and families, more needs to be done to help our children grow, develop and achieve.”
The Green Paper is a discussion document which outlines ideas the Government wants to test with the public before forming a Children’s Action Plan.
“This document is about New Zealand’s children; how we care for and protect them, the trade-offs and sacrifices we’re prepared to make, and the opportunities we want them to have,” says Mr Bridges.”I want to see every child in the Bay of Plenty nurtured, valued and protected, and the Green Paper is a step towards making this happen.”
The paper poses solutions to complex issues facing children and asks the public to consider the questions raised by those issues.
“We're encouraging everyone to get involved,” says Mr Bridges “Anyone who wants to contribute can read the Green Paper at www.childrensactionplan.govt.nz and make a submission. We should unite as a community and get behind this process, to help make a real difference in the lives of children.”
Submissions are open until 28 February 2012, and can be made on Facebook at www.facebook.com/greenpaperonchildren, in person at one of the public meetings, by email to yourresponse@childrensactionplan.govt.nz, or posting to Green Paper for Vulnerable Children, PO Box 1556, Wellington.
ENDS
