7 OCTOBER 2015

Crown Setting Worrying Trend for Treaty Obligations

Māori communities and interest groups are repeatedly being ignored by the government in decisions that affect them, says New Zealand First.

“The government sidestepped interests held by Te Ohu Kaimoana, the Māori Fisheries Trust, by going ahead with the Kermadec Ocean Sanctuary announcement despite a substandard consultation process,” says Spokesperson for Māori Affairs Pita Paraone.

“This, just like the failure to honour Ngāti Whātua’s right of first refusal for land sold by the government in Auckland, demonstrates the government’s failure to consult all relevant Treaty partners during policy planning. This is a worrying trend.

“Under the Fisheries Settlement all Iwi have the right to be heard on proposals affecting fisheries rights, yet only Ngati Kuri and Te Aupouri were spoken to.

“Te Ohu Kaimoana was only given 10 hours notice before the announcement, and has had no indication of compensation for financial losses as a result of marine reserve restrictions.

“It’s no wonder that some Māori remain suspicious of Crown decision makers, when they demonstrate such a lack of respect for the principles of the Treaty.”

ENDS

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