24 May 2009 Media Statement

Davis: Government must change its mind on Auckland Maori seats

The Government must listen to Maori and change its mind on Maori seats on the Auckland super city council, says Labour Associate Maori Affairs spokesperson Kelvin Davis.

Kelvin Davis said Labour MPs would be out in strength during tomorrow’s hïkoi in Auckland, and he urged the Government to recognise that “it had misjudged the mood of our people.

"The Government will, in fact, have probably realised this already, and I won’t be surprised to see a U-turn on its policy on Maori representation.

“I am sure, however, that any U-turn will be done through gritted teeth because this Government is genetically wired to resist Maori needs. Any concession that the Government makes will be twisted to give the appearance that it is listening and to give the illusion that the Maori Party has influence,” Kelvin Davis said.

"The reality is that the Government has headed down a cul-de-sac, and the only way out is through a smart u-turn."

ENDS

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