49925 (2024). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister for Children

49925 (2024). Hon Willow-Jean Prime to the Minister for Children: Does the Minister consider it acceptable that community providers received less than five working days' notice that their contract would not be renewed with Oranga Tamariki?

Hon Karen Chhour: Corrected reply: It is my expectation that Oranga Tamariki complies with the terms and conditions of contracts it has entered into, including in relation to notice periods regarding contract renewals. I am advised by Oranga Tamariki that all community providers were updated in March 2024 regarding the annual contracting process. I am further advised that where services have been discontinued, provision has been made to support providers to wind down the service and safely transition children and families to another service where necessary. These provisions allow for either a three- or six-month wind down depending on the terms of their contract. Contracting decisions are an operational matter and are the responsibility of the Chief Executive of Oranga Tamariki.