Parliament held a snap debate on Tuesday in response to last week's announcement about a significant reduction in schools in Christchurch.
The Ministry of Education announced proposals to close 13 schools in Canterbury and merge another 18.
Affected schools have begun protesting against the proposed changes, questioning the necessity of such widespread closures.
The Labour MP for Christchurch East, Lianne Dalziel, told Parliament the announcement was a slap in the face for those who are already coping with so much adversity.
