LABOR TO AXE SCHOOL CHAPLAINCY PROGRAM

27-October-2009

The Rudd Government looks set to discontinue the extremely popular National School Chaplaincy program beyond mid 2010, explained Sophie Mirabella MP, Federal Member for Indi.

 The Rudd Government has refused to rule out cancelling funding for this program despite figures showing 97% of school principals who have engaged a chaplain strongly support the program and they recognise the benefits for their school communities.

 The National School Chaplaincy Program was an initiative of the former Coalition Government and we continue to recognise the valuable role chaplains play supporting students and school communities by offering pastoral care and guidance across religious denominations and beliefs.

“I know many local schools and students have benefited from the Chaplaincy program,” Mrs Mirabella said.

 “I will keep the schools, students and families of students in Indi informed of any decisions made and will keep fighting for a well rounded education system for all our students in the North East,” concluded Mrs Mirabella.