17 May 2007

Maori Wardens Funding Breakthrough

New Zealand First spokesperson on Maori Affairs Pita Paraone is delighted at Budget 2007's availability of $2.5 million for capacity building for Maori Wardens.

New Zealand First’s Confidence and Supply agreement with the Government required enhanced funding for the Wardens and Mr Paraone is pleased to have been part of the process that has achieved this outcome.

"Maori Wardens have been involved in ground level work since their inception. They have long worked to ensure that things such as drinking-related laws are being followed by bars and pubs, and have been a welcome presence in our cities and towns looking out for our young people. Their importance cannot be underestimated, especially at a time when gangs are working overtime in an attempt to recruit disillusioned youth into their ranks.

“I would like to congratulate all involved in this process thus far and look forward to working with these agencies further throughout the implementation process,” said Mr Paraone.

ENDS

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