Greetings

The Budget announcement on 20 May did not come as a complete surprise because Minister Hipkins had indicated his intention to find a way to settle our claim. We remain very grateful for his advocacy and his support of state integrated schools with this settlement. In terms of quantum the allocation is one of the largest ever received for the sector and will provide a welcome boost for schools trying to keep pace with capital maintenance alongside their state counterparts.

During the process of negotiation there were a number of sectors who offered and gave support to our claim. NZEI were quick to read the background material and share it with their executive who agreed to support us. We appreciated this support. Teachers and principals in our schools will be pleased to note the support of their union and the demonstration of unity that it gave. I am especially grateful to Liam Rutherford the President of NZEI for his willingness to listen and engage.

I want to also note the support of Lorraine Kerr, President of NZSTA. She also saw the strength of our claim and worked quietly to advocate for us.

Throughout this process we have been guided by a brilliant legal team - David Laurenson QC and Lucilla Van Dam in Wellington along with our APIS legal team at Parryfield in Christchurch and in particular Kris Morrison. Thank you to all involved for your wisdom and patience.

Many of you will be anxious to know more details about the roll out. Thank you for understanding that we have some steps to get through first. We understand your enthusiasm but we need to have a process in place before we proceed.  APIS will meet with Ministry of Education staff early in June and many of the questions you have can be answered. Kevin Shore will share that information as soon as it is agreed with the Ministry of Education.

This work will bring my involvement with the office to an end. I am looking forward to enjoying a little more time with my family and as a “grey nomad” around this magnificent country. I know you are good hands with Kevin and the team at the office.

Ngā mihi nui

Paul Ferris