Maori Party supports ACC Bill to first reading
Tariana Turia and Dr Pita Sharples, Co-leaders 20 October 2009

The Maori Party caucus has decided to support the introduction of the Injury Prevention, Rehabilitation and Compensation Amendment Bill, to be referred to a Select Committee.

“At our caucus meeting today, we discussed the widespread concerns that have been voiced against this Bill and the changes it could make,” said Mrs Turia and Dr Sharples.

“We know that Maori have consistently had less access to ACC entitlements than other groups, under existing legislation. While this Bill would further restrict entitlements, we are particularly interested in hearing how the scheme may be altered to address the underlying bias to Maori,” they said.

“We see that ACC is one of those issues in which every New Zealander has an interest – directly, or potentially. On this important basis, we think that the people should be given the opportunity to have a say on the proposed legislation.”

“We strongly urge the people to tell the Parliament what they think, by making submissions to the Select Committee.

"When the people have had their say, we will consider our position,” said Mrs Turia and Dr Sharples.

ENDS

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