20 September 2005

No decision on Maori Representation

Manukau City Council’s Strategic Directions Committee on Tuesday night deferred the decision on Maori Representation in Manukau to the Council meeting on 27 October.

Manukau City Council is required to make a decision in response to the 2002 Local Government Act’s stipulation that opportunities for meaningful Maori participation in decision-making be explored.

The Committee was presented with 5 options:
- Maintain the status quo – the current Treaty of Waitangi working party and Mana Whenua Forum
- Establish a Maori Ward for 2007 elections
- Establish a Te Tiriti o Waitangi Standing Committee from Feb 2006
- Establish a combination of a Maori Ward for the 2007 election and a Standing Committee from February 2006
- Modify the status quo, by expanding the current working party to include Taura Here (urban Maori) representation.

Maori consultation hui held throughout the city earlier this year recommended the Maori Ward and the Standing Committee option.

“Currently the Council enjoys a very positive relationship with the Mana Whenua Forum, which assists Councillors in their decision-making especially with regard to our obligations under the Treaty of Waitangi”, said Strategic Directions Committee Chairman Councillor Colleen Brown.

“Council has a legal obligation to come to a decision under the Local Government Act 2002 “said Councillor Brown. “Last night there was robust discussion and I feel some headway has been gained on this issue which will be followed up at the next Council meeting.”

The Council meeting on 27 October will be held in the Manukau City Council chambers starting at 5pm.

ENDS

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