MEDIA RELEASE
8 September 2002
Strong Support For Allocation Plans
The Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission said today that strong support was developing around the country for its
proposals for allocation and benefit distribution of the Fisheries Settlement.
The chief executive of the Fisheries Commission, Robin Hapi, said: “It’s extremely encouraging that in less than three
weeks since launching proposals for allocation of the Fisheries Settlement, more than half of the Maori population
affiliated to the various Iwi are indicating support for most if not all aspects of our model.”
Of the 38 Iwi the Commission had met with since Ahu Whakamua allocation proposals were launched on 14 August, 23 Iwi
representing more than 50 percent of the total Maori/Iwi affiliate population had already indicated support to the
model.
This figure includes those Iwi organisations that said they supported the model, but needed to consult their members
further before giving a final determination. “Some Iwi have indicated they don’t agree with every aspect of the model.
They have, however, said these aspects are not fatal, that enough time has been spent on this and they want allocation
resolved so that everyone can move forward,” Mr Hapi said. The Commission has yet to meet with another 20 Iwi.
Indications of support are required by 27 September.
The proposals released by the Commission allow for all quota returned to Maori through the Fisheries Settlement to be
allocated to Iwi either by a coastline formula or a formula that mixes coastline and population. The proposals also seek
to create Aotearoa Fisheries Limited, under which the Commission’s five subsidiary fishing companies would be
consolidated.
The proposals strengthen Iwi through the allocation of substantial fisheries resources, such as inshore and deepwater
quota and cash, but also provide for increased Maori strength with the creation of Aotearoa Fisheries Limited. AFL will
be New Zealand’s largest fishing company making it able to successfully compete in the global seafood industry, retain
the significant influence Maori have secured in the local industry and provide ongoing dividends for the benefit of all
Maori.
Mr Hapi said that while not all Iwi had yet signed up to the model, there were still another three weeks before they
needed to signal support. “We’re encouraged by the support we’ve received so far. Iwi still have time to take it back to
their people before signalling to the Commission. Some Iwi executives have sought more meetings with the Commission to
further clarify issues. We would hope that all Iwi and Maori see that this is the best chance there is to resolve
allocation once and for all
ENDS