Opposition and Govt MPs favour printing allowances over workers programs

[Mithra Cox]

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MEDIA RELEASE
4th May 2004

Opposition and Govt MPs favour printing allowances over workers programs 


The NSW Opposition and Government should give up their addiction to self promotional newsletter allowances, and use the money to fund mature workers and skilled migrant programs, Greens MP and Community Services spokesperson Sylvia Hale said today.

"At less than $6.5m, the combined cost of the Skilled Migrant Placement Program and the Mature Workers Program is equivalent to the Lower House MPs Printing Allowance," Ms Hale said. 

"The Government announced that it would discontinue the Mature Workers and Skilled Migrant Workers programs in last month's mini budget.

"The Greens welcome the Opposition's decision to go into bat for the mature workers program, but we are very disappointed that they have not shown similar concern for migrant workers.

"Today's announcement by Jillian Skinner, Shadow Minister for Education and Training sends a message that they are willing to discriminate against migrant workers.

"The Skilled Migrant Workers program provides assistance to non-English speaking migrants who are highly skilled and often have overseas qualifications, but need help adjusting to working in Australia.

"For the cost of self-promotional newsletters, the Opposition and Government could fully fund these critical programs," Ms Hale said.





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