“The only way to be sure of keeping your school chaplain is to elect a Coalition government,” said The Nationals’ Senator Ron Boswell today.  “Tony Abbott is committed to keeping the program going at present funding levels of $165m over three years.”

“Labor on the other hand has reduced funding which is designed to finish in 2011. There are no promises beyond a departmental review.”

“Chaplains play a valuable role in schools, supporting students and school communities by offering pastoral care and guidance.”

“The National School Chaplaincy Program was introduced by the former Coalition Government and enabled schools to employ a part-time school chaplain, with the purpose of providing pastoral care and non-denominational spiritual guidance in schools.”

Senator Boswell said that the program operates in 1,915 schools where the local community has sought to be involved with the program, and enjoys strong support among principals, schools and in the community generally.

“The chaplaincy program has been particularly successful in helping students with behaviour management issues and those that may have difficulties in their social relationships.  If the program were to cease, this decision would most disadvantage those students that battle with loneliness or bullying at schools and students who have difficulties in their families.”

“The Coalition has already announced our commitment to continuing support for the great work chaplains are doing in our schools through the National School Chaplaincy Program.”

“A Coalition Government will make it an ongoing program and will continue funding at its present levels - $165 million over 3 years.”

“Labor has responded with only a temporary one year extension to the program until the end of 2011, at a reduced funding rate, with a review of the program being conducted by the Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations.”

“The Government's announcement does not go far enough.  It does not allow for any new Chaplains to be engaged and it does not provide certainty into the future for Chaplains.”

“The only candidate for Prime Minister who has pledged ongoing support for school chaplains is Tony Abbott.”

ENDS