27 Jul 2009

Polytech plans a government takeover - Labour

9:40 pm on 27 July 2009

The Labour Party says plans to cut the size of polytechnics' governing councils represent a government takeover.

It is reported that the number of councillors will be reduced to eight from a current maximum of 20.

Half would be appointed by the Government and there would no longer be a requirement for employer, union or Maori representatives.

The office of Education Minister Anne Tolley has confirmed that the Government is looking to streamline the councils.

Labour's tertiary education spokesperson, Maryan Street, says the proposal would take power away from the community, and make it harder for polytechnics to understand the needs of the community they are servicing.