Greens look forward to working with Maori Party

The Green Party has congratulated Tariana Turia on her historic victory in the Te Tai Hauauru by-election and has signalled its willingness to work with the Maori Party.

Co-leader Rod Donald conveyed his party's congratulations to Ms Turia today, along with the message that it looked forward to co-operating with her in the House on areas where they shared common cause.

"We hope the new Maori Party will clearly condemn the divisive policies being peddled at the National Party conference this weekend," said Mr Donald.

Green Maori Affairs spokesperson, Metiria Turei said the Government's contentious Foreshore and Seabed legislation was one area where the two parties could co-operate and she welcomed Ms Turia's return to Parliament.

"I'm absolutely delighted, though not at all surprised, at Tariana's win," said Metiria. "She is one of Maoridom's best parliamentarians and her continued presence in Parliament is certainly needed, as an independent Maori voice, representing a Maori electorate.

"Tariana was forced into this by-election because her previous political colleagues chose a road of political expediency over principle. Her return is a clear indication to the Government that Maori voters will hold Labour to account for its failure to listen to Maori.

Metiria said she was eager to see the new Maori Party's principles and policy platforms, to identify areas where the Greens could work with them in Parliament.

"Certainly we are agreed that the foreshore and seabed legislation is a travesty of justice," said Metiria, who has been travelling the country, encouraging people to make submissions on the legislation.

She said it was still not too late for people to have their say.

"The foreshore and seabed legislation fails the environment, public rights of access and above all Maori customary rights and rights to justice," Metiria said. "Submissions on the bill close Monday but late submissions are acceptable if the public phone the select committee office in Parliament tomorrow."

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