Race-based funds for early childhood education scrapped

Education Minister Trevor Mallard has announced a revamp of some early childhood education funding, including the scrapping of funding pools for specific races.

The Early Childhood Discretionary Grants Scheme has $8.8 million to help create or expand early childhood education centres in areas with low participation rates.

In 2005/2006 the Government had allocated $12.8 million for the scheme to be allocated through three pools -- General, Maori and Pasifika.

Mr Mallard said the grants would now be allocated from one pool but priority would be given to areas where there are fewer children receiving quality early childhood education such as Maori, Pasifika, low income and those in isolated communities.

"At the same time, areas of high population growth such as Auckland will be included as an additional priority," Mr Mallard said.

As Race Relations Minister Mr Mallard is expected to shortly announce the results of his review to ensure that government funding to help people is based on need, not race.

Today Mr Mallard hailed the changes as showing the Government was against race-based policies.

"The Labour-led Government is committed to making sure all Kiwi kids -- regardless of their background -- are given the right start to life by participating in quality early childhood education," Mr Mallard said.

"Under the changes announced today, community groups wanting to establish early childhood centres in areas of low participation and those in isolated communities will continue to have first priority for funding."

- NZPA