07 April 2006
CTU Vice President Maori on UN Special Rapporteur
The New Zealand Council of Trade Unions Te Kauae Kaimahi Vice President Maori hopes that the initial defensive response
from many Parliamentarians to the report of the UN Special Rapporteur shifts to a more inclusive and constructive
approach to building a country that takes pride in Te Tiriti o Waitangi.
"I believe the report of the UN Special Rapporteur would have filled the hearts and minds of many Maori workers with
joy, hope and a sense of relief," said Sharon Clair, CTU Vice President Maori. "It was heartening to have Maori hopes
and aspirations affirmed through a respected institution like the United Nations."
"We are disappointed that the report has been negatively received by both the government and the National Party," said
Sharon Clair. "Our view is that the report provides pertinent advice for all peoples in this country. To espouse the
United Nations when they praise us and to condemn them when they provide us with useful recommendations is not helpful,"
said Clair.
"The CTU Te Kauae Kaimahi recognises the Treaty of Waitangi within our constitution and supports public discussion on
the recommendations in the UN report," said Clair.
ENDS