Rimutaka MP Chris Hipkins will visit Adult and Community Education (ACE) classes at Heretaunga College tomorrow evening to see first hand the immense value of night classes for our local community.

“I am looking forward to visiting a range of courses at Heretaunga tomorrow, including Spreadsheets for Computers and Computer Awareness.

“ACE courses are an incredibly valuable social service. Over many decades they have provided a way back into formal education for thousands of New Zealanders. They help people to improve their skills and also provide real enjoyment for thousands of kiwis,” said Chris Hipkins.

“As a result of the National/ACT/Maori Party government’s decision to cut around 80 per cent of ACE funding to high schools, there will be no night classes offered in the entire Hutt Valley from next year.

“I have been approached by many constituents who are very concerned about this situation. Strong opposition to the funding cuts was also demonstrated at the ACE public meeting I hosted in September.

“Over 53000 people nationwide have signed petitions calling on the Government to reverse night class cuts, and thousands more have protested on the streets.

“New Zealanders are sending Education Minister Anne Tolley a clear message but the Minister is missing the point. She has snubbed an invitation from a Heretaunga College tutor to visit his class and experience community education first hand, not even bothering to respond.

“I look forward to meeting some learners and tutors tomorrow evening and hearing their experiences. Maybe if the Education Minister took the time to meet with ACE participants she would realise the funding cuts are the wrong decision,” Chris Hipkins said.

Chris Hipkins will visit night classes at Heretaunga College, Ward Street, Upper Hutt at 7.00pm on Tuesday 3 November. Media are invited to attend.