Aotearoa Educators [AE!]
http://aotearoa.wellington.net.nz

PRESS STATEMENT 30 January, 2002

PMs ATTENDANCE DISMISSED

This Government is dismissing Treaty rights through long term free trade agreements, Genetic Modification, and horrific treaty settlements. Unless this ceases we will not honour Helen Clark on Waitangi Day or any other day says Maori education group Aotearoa Educators [AE!].

In response to suggestions that the Prime Minister may also appear at Te Tii Marae during her travels to Waitangi [AE!] spokesperson, Maria Bargh said "To genuinely honour the Treaty the Prime Minister must announce constitutional change in accordance with the Treaty of Waitangi granting Maori the right to determine our own economic, social, cultural and spiritual direction. Until such time this country will never be able to celebrate this day as it was intended."

While the government manoeuvres for media attention, approximately 100 youth both Maori and non Maori will attend forums in Waitangi to discuss genuine Treaty resolutions. This is a continuation of forums held in 2001 where Maori youth constructed a document called the 2040 plan outlining a direction for Maori and New Zealand by the year 2040.

The 2040 plan was accepted by the Taumata Kaumatua o Nga Puhi as a positive and courageous move forward. We intend on continuing that momentum in 2002.

ENDS

AOTEAROA EDUCATORS
Spokesperson Maria Bargh
For further comment (025) 321 123

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