Entrenchment of Maori Seats a positive move
Press Release | For Immediate Release
Entrenchment of Maori Seats a positive move: Young Labour
Thursday, 30 April 2009
Young Labour supports the announcement today of Labour MP Mita Ririnui's private member’s bill to entrench the Maori seats in parliament and ensure that Maori representation can not be removed by a simple majority of the House.
Young Labour Maori Vice President, Anaru Warren said:
“We believe that a truly mana enhancing parliament is one that recognises that Maori have a unique role in Aotearoa as tangata whenua.”
“Young Labour believes that the entrenchment of Maori representation will ensure that the voices of Maori will always be heard.”
“Entrenchment is a positive step in strengthening Maori representation in decision making. If the Government is to live up to its treaty obligations, and truly have a mana enhancing relationship with Maori, they will support this bill.”
“This is a signal that Labour is committed to moving beyond divisive issues, and moving towards a more constructive relationship with Maori. Labour lost touch with many Maori in recent years, and it is vital that we work now to rebuild our once strong relationship.”
ENDS