Mander must distance himself from extremists

Education Minister Kate Jones has called on Tim Mander to stand up for Queensland principals, teachers and school communities and reject the extremist views of his LNP colleague George Christensen.

Ms Jones said George Christensen’s comments linking the Safe Schools Coalition to paedophilia were disturbing and shameful.

“The Safe Schools Coalition work with schools to promote safe and inclusive environments for all students,” Ms Jones said.

“George Christensen’s comments are hurtful to the principals, teachers, parents and school communities who have been crying out for the kind of support the Safe Schools Coalition offers.

“His comments are alarmist, deliberately divisive and outright offensive.

“George Christensen’s comments have the potential to put already vulnerable children at risk of depression, suicide and self-harm.

“He is putting his ideology ahead of the interests of Queensland schools and Tim Mander has been silent.

“Queensland principals, teachers and school communities deserve to know where Tim Mander stands – does he support George Christensen’s views or does he reject them?”

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