Local MP welcomes $4.2m to boost early childhood education places

Maungakiekie MP Peseta Sam Lotu-Iiga is pleased that the National-led Government is investing $4.2 million to boost five early childhood education centres, which will benefit almost 300 children.

“From 2005 early childhood education attendance in Auckland dropped under Labour. National is focused on raising participation rates in early childhood education,” Mr Lotu-Iiga says.

“This is great news for families who want their children to enjoy high quality early childhood education.

“This funding will be targeted at Maori and Pasifika children and children from lower socio-economic backgrounds, who are currently less likely to participate in early childhood education.

“$4.2 million has been allocated to five groups to build new centres, or to retain and extend existing services.

“The funding is being allocated from the Early Childhood Discretionary Grants Scheme. This funding directly supports the work of community organisations providing quality early childhood education.

“It includes over $1.6 million for a Fijian service and a kohanga reo in Counties Manukau, an area traditionally short of early childhood places.

“Making these places available will increase opportunities for education, advancement and increased choices for parents, families, and whänau.”

ENDS

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