Statement from Treaty Conference 2003

Tamaki Makaurau, October 2-4.

The 15th Annual National Gathering of Pakeha and Tauiwi (non-Maori) Treaty Workers urges the Government not to introduce legislation based on its current proposals for the foreshore and seabed.

As Treaty educators we cannot support any law that breaches rights re-affirmed and guaranteed in the Treaty of Waitangi.

We support the Government's decision to wait for the recommendation of the Waitangi Tribunal.

We believe the Treaty relationship requires all New Zealanders to listen carefully to Tangata Whenua on this issue, as they have put forward alternative proposals that need to be fully considered by everyone.

We also urge the Government to explore enduring constitutional arrangements to enable just and fair negotiation with Tangata Whenua as equal parties to the Treaty.

Contacts: Joan Macdonald 09 360 8001; David James 0274 863 784.

This statement carries the endorsement of the following groups represented at the conference:

Women's International League for Peace and Freedom

Waikato Anti-Racism Coalition

Manukau Institute of Technology Treaty Unit

Auckland Workers Education Authority

Tamaki Treaty Workers

Corso Dunedin

Network Waitangi Whangarei

aotearoa reality check

Peace Movement Aotearoa

Network Waitangi Otepoti

Rowan Partnership

Pax Christi Aotearoa NZ

Auckland Catholic Justice and Peace Office

Freedom Roadworks

Network Waitangi Otautahi

Just US Associates Ltd

PISPP Inc

Bicultural Desk, Auckland Catholic Diocese

Oho Ake Network - Gisborne

Just Housing (Auckland) Trust

Network Waitangi Whanganui a Tara

Participants in the conference included community workers, educators, policy analysts, journalists, social and resource management planners, academics, doctorate students, researchers, film makers, theatre producers, social workers, health workers, business advisors, Pasifika liaison workers, and lecturers.

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