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

Big Dick's Column

Welcome to term 2. I trust you are all well and truly rested and ready for the busy end of semester one. There are a couple of things I would like to bring to your attention:

International Workers’ Day: Also known as May Day, this takes place on the first of May and is a day where we celebrate all the workers around the world. It’s a day where we can celebrate all the work done by unions and other worker organizations around the world. So, to celebrate, drop everything you are doing, take off all your clothes and run naked down George Street. Actually, on second thought — please don’t.

Just remember, ask not only what you can do for your union, but what your union will do for you. University Sport New Zealand (USNZ): USNZ are currently discussing whether or not to expand their membership criteria to include polytechnic members. Membership would allow Otago Polytechnic students to take advantage of the services offered by USNZ and also would allow you to attend the various sports events run by them. I am currently seeking advice and direction on what you think of this idea. E-mail your comments to president@opsa.org.nz.

OPSA Events: I am currently in the process of planning events for the remainder of semester one and for the beginning of semester two. If you have any ideas or suggestions, please email these to president@opsa.org.nz.

OP Print-Charging: I know this is frustrating many of you and, rest assured, it’s fucking me off also. I have been told three or four different things regarding the (poorly) introduced polytechnic print-charging system. I am currently discussing this with Polytechnic management and will get back to you all ASAP.

Well, by now you’re probably sick of reading what I have to say. Go well in your studies and remember OPSA are here for YOU.

Te manu e kai ana i te miro, nona te ngahere

Te manu e kai ana i te matauranga, nona te Ao

The bird who feasts from the miro owns the forest

The bird who feasts from knowledge owns the World

Thank you,

Richard Mitchell

President

Otago Polytechnic Students’ Association