Trevor 'School Bully' Mallard

Thursday 18 Mar 2004 Ken Shirley Press Releases -- Education

ACT New Zealand Deputy Leader and Tauranga-based MP Ken Shirley was today appalled that Education Minister Trevor Mallard, and his officials, had stripped Bellevue School of its authority to enrol pupils.

"Bellevue's Board of Trustees has told me that they have not refused to enrol Lucy Wright. Rather, they are seeking legitimate answers from the Education Ministry," Mr Shirley said.

"The Board wants to know why it is being directed to enrol Lucy when she has already attended two other primary schools in the same locality. And what additional funding will be available for the school - to ensure that Lucy's special needs can be met, and that other pupils won't suffer as a result of the resources required to meet her needs.

"Education Secretary Howard Fancy and the Minister have steadfastly refused to answer those questions. This is yet another example of the arrogance that stems from our centrally-controlled education system.

"The Tomorrow's Schools reforms were all about community control and community solutions. It is clear that Mr Mallard is not listening to local people," Mr Shirley said.

ENDS

For more information visit ACT online at http://www.act.org.nz or contact the ACT Parliamentary Office at act@parliament.govt.nz.

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