Media Release
12 November 2003

NZ First Questions Value Of TPK

New Zealand First has questioned the value of the work carried out by Te Puni Kokiri and the quality of advice it gives the Minister of Maori Affairs.

Maori Affairs spokesperson Bill Gudgeon said today the results of an audit of TPK make sorry reading and raise the issue of whether it is capable of carrying out its basic responsibilities.

“There is a large gap that needs closing between the Minister and officials within his own ministry..

“They appear to be continually dysfunctional and in a state of chaos. Remember, they provided the Minister with late and inaccurate answers to serious questions raised about Te Mangai Paaho.

“This cannot be tolerated when people are demanding accountability from the Government and its officials.

“The Ministry of Maori Development is also using short term contractors to address staffing needs because of its 33 percent turnover of employees.

“Maori should be able to depend on TPK to act in their interests. It is failing on all fronts at huge expense to the taxpayers,” said Mr Gudgeon.

ENDS

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