Media Release; Students' hopeful of United

United Future today claimed they "will work to fulfil the Confidence and Supply Agreement with the Labour-led government to see lowering of the age of eligibility to a student allowance." After over a decade of 25 year olds being treated like children students are hopeful of such comments.

"What does this mean? asks Richard Mitchell, OPSA president, “Are United going to step up and demand lowering of allowance eligibility as a requirement for United's vote for Confidence and Supply?"

"We welcome any party to persuade the government to increase access to allowances, but students are sick of being a political football and hope this is a concrete demand." said Mr Mitchell.

Students agree with United's Judy Turner’s comment that “It defies logic that once again, there is no reduction in the age of eligibility for student allowances".

United Future's policy of lowering the eligibility age for a student allowance is well-matched with the position advocated by students since National introduced means-tested allowances in the early 1990s for "children" of up to 25 years old.

"It is appalling this farce of 25 year old 'children' has continued. Sure the Labour led government has slightly opened criteria, but not nearly enough." said Mr Mitchell.

"Universal student allowances are of course the best option, they are not only fairer but solve all such eligibility criteria problems." said Mr Mitchell.

For further information contact:

Richard Mitchell
President
Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association

Tel/Fax: (03) 477-6974
Mobile: 021-182-6274
Email: president@opsa.org.nz