25 May 2004

Hon Matt Robson MP, Progressive Deputy Leader

Sending Turia a message from her campaign manager's president

Progressive MP Matt Robson says he is sending to Tariana Turia a copy of the official position of the Alliance on the importance of public domain in the foreshore and seabed debate.

"The media release from the Alliance President dated February 25 demanded that the government not tolerate any threat to public domain.

“Apparently due to technical difficulties it can no longer be accessed from the front page of Alliance web site. However, those who know where the secret URL can go directly to the statement at: www.alliance.org.nz/info.php3?Type=Media&ID=1734

The statement accessible on the site from February 25 until about midday today but technical problems at that time have seen it disappear from the front page.

"For the benefit of the Mrs Turia, Alliance President Jill Ovens demands that 'Labour stick to its guns and place the foreshore and seabed in public domain'.

"The statement says that the Alliance Party supports Labour's December proposals on the seabed – the proposals that Mrs Turia sadly resigned over.

“The President of the Alliance said that the 'Alliance supports public ownership of all natural resources . They support placing the foreshore and seabed in public domain so it can't be sold.

"The President of the Alliance correctly pointed out that the Government's proposal preserves Maori rights and that placing the foreshore and seabed in public domain means that the partnership with Maori will continue to the benefit of all our peoples and the natural environment," Matt Robson said.

“The Progressive Party on this issue consistently supports protecting our shared rights and responsibilities as New Zealanders," the Progressive MP said.

ENDS

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