Media Release

18 May 2006

NZ First Fixing It In The Eldercare Sector

The announcement today of an additional $126 million for the eldercare sector on top of the $39.5 million for the sector for the 2006/07 year highlights the value of New Zealand First's supply and confidence to this sector, says New Zealand First health spokesperson Barbara Stewart.

"With $58 million in additional funding set aside for home-based support and $68 million for age related residential care, this sector of our community which was suffering under a funding crisis can begin to plan for a brighter future.

"This significant increase must now flow through to the sector for which it was intended, particularly into higher wages for the providers of services for the elderly.

"New Zealand First made addressing the funding crisis in the eldercare sector a key part of its supply and confidence agreement because older New Zealanders deserved better and are entitled to live with dignity in their golden years.

"This increased funding goes some way to achieving this and we look forward to working with the government to ensure that the funding will result in better outcomes for our valued seniors," said Mrs Stewart.

ENDS

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