Maori Party relieved for Teina Pora

The Maori Party is relieved that after twelve hearings, Teina Pora has finally been granted parole.

Te Ururoa Flavell, Maori Party Co-Leader says “we are very pleased for Teina Pora and his whanau. It’s not the end of his journey to seek justice, but it is positive news and a small step in the right direction.”

“We have spoken out strongly in support of Teina Pora since we found out about the circumstances regarding his conviction last year. Those circumstances were unjust. Releasing Teina on parole is the right thing to do and we now hope that the Privy Council will be able to overturn the original conviction.”

Tariana Turia, Maori Party Co-Leader says “we congratulate Teina, and we wish him and his whanau well. We are so pleased at the amount of support that has come from all corners of the country backing this young man to seek justice.”

Pita Sharples, MP for Tamaki Makaurau says “Teina’s case also highlights the prejudice faced by many Maori in our justice system, and the Maori Party will continue to fight against injustice, institutionalised discrimination, and bias where it is present in that system.”

“We reiterate our call for a review of the entire justice system including the police, the Courts and Corrections. We must ensure that our system promotes equity and fairness regardless of age, race or social status so that people like Teina no longer fall through the cracks and are no longer treated unjustly in Aotearoa.”

ENDS

© Scoop Media