19 December 2001 Media Statement

Government agencies forge new relationship with iwi to promote capacity building

Nearly thirty government agencies plus the district and regional councils have entered into a memorandum of understanding with Te Rarawa, a far north iwi that will enable the iwi to better deliver services to its own people, Te Tai Tokerau MP Dover Samuels said today.

“The Whole of Government initiative is based on a strategic framework drawn up by Te Rarawa which identifies the partnerships it requires with the agencies to deliver results in the areas of iwi economic development (including land use, fisheries, tourism and employment), housing, health, education, social service and justice.

“The notable features of the initiative are that:
- it is iwi led
- it is comprehensive in its involvement of Government agencies and territorial authorities
- it is creating stronger partnerships between the iwi and the Crown.

“Another feature of the initiative which has yet to be completed, is an umbrella contract currently being created, which would cover, with one document, all the service contract arrangements the iwi might have with Government Departments. This umbrella contract would be managed by a lead funder, acting on behalf of all funders.

“This Whole of Government initiative offers an exciting model for iwi which want to build their capacity to deliver services to whanau and provides an excellent illustration of the Governments’ determination to make a difference for Maori,” Dover Samuels said.

ENDS

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