Education ‘erosion’ feared

Press, 5 March 1988, Page 6

Education ‘erosion’ feared

Primary schoolteachers at 13 schools in the Avon electorate yesterday decided to try to influence their member df Parliament, Mr Larry Sutherland, to vote against the State Sector Bill; Mr Sutherland had earlier said he -was concerned about the “detrimental effects I the bill may have on workers employed in the State sector if it becomes law."

Mr Sutherland also said he hoped that discussions between the ! Combined State Unions and the Government would! mean the withdrawal of the bill or at least put unions in a position they could tolerate. ;

Much work (was being done by the select com--mittee hearing the bill, said Mr Sutherland.

“I am hopeful that wt will get something that i acceptable to both sides but it is necessary tha talks take place as soon a possible. You cannot jus stand back and thro bricks for ever.”

Avon teachers at yeste :• day’s meeting feared tie bill could lead to a further erosion of childrer's education in New Zealand, said the deputy prin-: cipal of South New Brighton School, Mr Ken Larkin. A former Public Strvice Association delegate, Mr Gary Buckley, warded teachers to "beware lof hidden agendas, Clayton’s consultations and deliberate lies from a! Government that is not interested in any form of excellence but just saving the dollar.”