Mayor's Treaty Interpretation "Dangerous" - Democracy Action

Responding to the Fairfax article that New Plymouth mayor Andrew Judd wants the law to be changed to make all local councils have 50% Maori representation, Democracy Action founder, Lee Short, says:

“The Mayor’s interpretation of the Treaty of Waitangi, that Maori should comprise 50% of all representatives is dangerous for New Zealand and all people who call this country home.”

“If 50% of all representatives are required to be Maori, then based on Mr Judd’s interpretation of the Treaty, surely it must follow that he wants the remainder to be made up exclusively of descendants of the other signatory, namely the British Crown.”

“New Zealand prides itself as a nation where merit, dedication and hard work allows people to reach their potential – not someone’s ancestry.”

“Mr Judd is seeking is a very dangerous path for New Zealand. Race-based representation leads to mistrust and damages democracy in the most fundamental way. Dividing New Zealanders according to race fosters a “them versus us” attitude, creating ill-will and disharmony.”

ENDS

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