Reform the Only Response to Latest Kohanga Reo Scandal

TUESDAY, 16 JUNE 2015

Reports that Te Kohanga Reo National Trust Board’s wholly owned subsidiary, Te Pataka Ohanga Limited, is again embroiled in serious allegations, described by Internal Affairs as “gross mismanagement”, shows the need for more transparency and accountability from taxpayer-funded NGOs. Taxpayers’ Union Executive Director, Jordan Williams says:

“A directorship payment to the Maori King, for $111,000, despite him not being a director of Te Pataka Ohanga, is shameful. If the allegation is true, the King has no option but to pay the money back.”

“Te Kohanga Reo National Trust is meant to be about kids, not lining the pockets of Maori elite. A well governed organisation doesn’t allow its own staff to set their own bonuses.”

“The Government should extend the Official Information Act to taxpayer funded not-for-profits rather than continue to allow groups like Te Kohanga Reo National Trust to shun transparency. If a group relies on taxpayer money it should be required to be transparent and accountable under freedom of information laws."

"The Government should ensure reform or stop funding this troubled group."

ENDS

© Scoop Media