Dr Pita Sharples
Maori Party Co-Leader
Tuesday 25 January 2011

Maori Party co-leader Dr Pita Sharples says it was neglectful of Phil Goff not to mention the Treaty of Waitangi in his 'kiwi dream' speech today.

"Goff mentioned the Treaty at Ratana yesterday but today, in his biggest speech of the year, it is a no show," Dr Sharples said.

"This tells me that what he said yesterday was lip-service and I find that insulting not only to the people of Ratana but all Maori.

"If Goff wants to get serious about progress for Maori, then he must acknowledge the significance of the Treaty for all New Zealanders.

"Where was the mention of the enormous contribution that Maori make to the New Zealand economy, or the progress of the Treaty settlements process, and to iwi, hapu and whanau?

"We want to face our past with courage, so we can build our future together.

"This really goes to show that Labour will always put Maori second and reflects the impotence of the Maori voice in the Labour Party.

"This just highlights that the Maori Party is the only true voice for Maori in parliament," Dr Sharples said.

ENDS

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