Fisheries Commission Response To Ngai Tahu

"It is disappointing the Iwi that is to receive the greatest proportion of the Maori Fisheries Settlement is choosing to air its concerns through the media, and not constructively through direct dialogue with the Commission," the Chief Executive Officer of the Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission Robin Hapi said.

"Having received, from a source other than Ngai Tahu, a copy of their issues, we note that it is merely a schedule of differences, many of which are very minor between Ahu Whakamua, released in August last year, and our latest document for allocation, released to litigant parties in April.

"Describing these differences as 'anomalies' reflects an obvious lack of understanding on their part. We made it quite clear in our April report that we had made some modifications to enhance our model and increase the level of agreement among Maori. In fact, several of these modifications were consistent with issues raised by some Iwi, including Ngai Tahu."

"As stated previously, our door is always open. But given that the final report is scheduled for delivery to the Minister, opportunities with us are becoming very limited. Ngai Tahu will have their opportunity to raise issues with the Select Committee, like every other interested party," Mr Hapi said.

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