The Government's decision on child poverty reduction.
A top spokesperson for the Green Party has sharply criticized the Government's new approach to addressing child poverty and mental wellbeing, stating that it is "blatant cruelty." According to Ricardo Menéndez March, the weakening of targets and removal of mental wellbeing as a priority focus will exacerbate issues such as food insecurity and poor housing conditions.
The changes are set to take effect in the Child and Youth Wellbeing Strategy. The Green Party's concerns were echoed by Minister Louise Upston's justification for the removal of child mental wellbeing as a priority focus, with critics arguing it is contradictory to address material hardship while downplaying its impact on children's lives.
Under the new strategy, indicators related to housing conditions such as mould and damp have also been removed from child poverty-related measures. This decision has led many to question whether the Government genuinely cares about eradicating child poverty, or if they are simply shifting priorities to suit their own agenda.
In response, the Green Party is advocating for a guaranteed liveable income for families in need, along with increased support networks to help communities meet children's rights during tough times.