Wananga Staff Relieved at Resolution

TUIA Union
16 December 2005

Wânanga Staff Relieved at Resolution

Staff at Te Wânanga o Aotearoa say they are glad the council and CEO Rongo Wetere have reached a resolution and the problems of the last year have been settled.

TUIA Union Chairperson, Tank Gordon, says the tension people have felt over the last twelve months has dissipated now that they know the Wânanga’s future is secure.

“It was pleasing for the staff to see Dr Wetere achieve the outcomes they wanted. The bottom line was that the council build up its numbers and gain strong staff representation on it. This has been accomplished and staff are thrilled they can once again have their voices heard.

“Now that the council is reconstituted and legal, staff will take part in key decision-making that affects their jobs, which is what they have been waiting for.

“Staff fully recognise and honour the work and passion that Dr Wetere has put into creating the Wânanga. What has happened over the last year will be lost in the memory of history, but Dr Wetere will always be remembered for his enormous contribution to education.

“The Wânanga has succeeded where mainstream teaching failed and has offered the average New Zealander a chance to further their education. Dr Wetere’s vision has significantly changed education for over 250,000 New Zealanders who have passed through the Wânanga’s doors.

“There is sadness around the departure of the Tumuaki, but everyone knows this is a new beginning and that the Wânanga is headed in a positive direction.

“Staff and the TUIA union are very happy with the contribution of Matt McCarten who the union organised to act on their behalf and are pleased with the results he helped to achieve.

“They eagerly await the Waitangi Tribunal hearing report which will further consolidate the future direction of the Wânanga.”

ENDS

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