Shearer unimpressed with Families Commissioner

Labour leader David Shearer is unimpressed with what he says is a u-turn on paid parental leave by the Families Commissioner.

Sue Moroney's bill to extend leave has enough support from minor parties, but the Government's planning to veto it, saying it's too expensive.

Mr Shearer says only months ago Commissioner Carl Davidson was advocating for more paid parental leave.

But he's suddenly changed his mind.

"Whether the country can or can't, that's not his business. He is in the business of supporting families and mothers and children, and he should not be straying into this area."

David Shearer says it makes him question the value of the Families Commission.

"I think quite frankly that we could close the Families Commission down, save the eight or nine million dollars it's costing New Zealand and maybe put that towards paid parental leave."

David Shearer says it's not the role of the Families Commissioner to tell New Zealanders what the country can afford.

Image: NZ Herald