20 December 2013

Media statement

Māori Affairs Committee Inquiry into the determinants of wellbeing for tamariki Māori

The Māori Affairs Committee has presented its report on the inquiry into the determinants of wellbeing for tamariki Māori.

This report is dedicated to the late Hon Parekura Horomia. He was a strong contributor to the discussions, ideas, and solutions contained in this report. It is a measure of his stature that we recall how he sought to rally people of all backgrounds to resolve the challenges facing the welfare of Māori children. We hold him in great honour for a lifetime of service to our tamariki and their families.

The committee has worked hard to create a report that has cross-party support and that will make a real impact to the lives of tamariki Māori. The report makes key statements and 48 recommendations to the Government regarding research, practice, health, housing, education and income and employment.

The committee was encouraged by the positive stories we heard of efforts throughout New Zealand to improve the well-being of tamariki Māori. We acknowledge that there is still much work to be done but we believe that the challenge is not insurmountable. We support a holistic approach that acknowledges tamariki as important members of their wider whānau, and empowers the adults in their lives to take a leading role in improving tamariki wellbeing.

Improving the wellbeing of tamariki Māori is in the interests of all New Zealanders. We call on all New Zealanders to support this important work, to ensure a brighter future for our tamariki and New Zealand as a whole.

Inquiry%20into%20the%20determinants%20of%20wellbeing%20for%20tamariki%20M%C4%81ori.pdf

ENDS

© Scoop Media