Peeni Henare
MP for Tāmaki Makaurau
Māori Broadcasting
MEDIA STATEMENT
27 May 2016
Parekura would be proud – MTS gets boost
The Labour Party is ecstatic that the Māori Party have shown support for one of Labour’s proudest policies, says
Labour’s Māori Broadcasting Spokesperson Peeni Henare.
“The Māori Television Service was launched in 2004 by the late Hon Parekura Horomia.
“Times have changed and technology has developed, it would be a very bad look for the Māori Party to allow MTS to become
outdated.
“Māori Television must always be financially supported in order to stay abreast of digital media platforms that will
increase exposure for all New Zealanders to Te Reo Māori.
“To not do so would be a disservice to Parekura’s legacy.
“It would be a sad day for the Māori channels if it was unable to evolve because of budget constraints.
“The channel will receive just over $2 million a year to expand into digital media platforms, however, it is
disappointing to see that the already under funded broadcaster’s operational budget is to essentially remain static.
“Māori TV bosses have said that closer to $40 million is what’s really needed for them to achieve all their Māori
broadcasting ambitions,” says Peeni Henare.
ends