24 October 2014

Greens urge Govt to help eradicate polio

On World Polio Day, the Green Party is urging the National Government to resume funding for polio eradication.

The New Zealand Government stopped contributing to the Global Polio Eradication Initiative in 2010. The initiative aims to eradicate polio by 2018. By contrast, the Australian Government recently promised $100 million over five years.

“Since 2010, the international community has rallied together to rid the world of polio. Other countries continue to play their part but New Zealand, under the National Government, is doing nothing,” said Green Party overseas development aid spokesperson Catherine Delahunty.

“As a good global citizen, New Zealand should help rid the world of polio and stop children needlessly contracting this crippling disease.

“Earlier this year Australia committed $100 million over five years to help eradicate polio, while the National Government is sitting on its hands contributing nothing.

“On World Polio Day, the Green Party is calling on the National Government to take the opportunity to do New Zealand proud and contribute to global efforts to eradicate polio.”

ENDS

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