IWI FORUM AGREES WITH COMMISSION REPORTING

Iwi Forum members support Te Ohu Kai Moana (Treaty of Waitangi Fisheries Commission) reporting Ahu Whakamua, the model for allocation of Mäori Fisheries assets, to the Minister of Fisheries.

“Our decision to support the Commission reporting to the Minister is as a result of Te Ohu Kai Moana agreeing to refinements to the model, combined with a desire by the Iwi Forum to move this issue forward. The refinements include a full review of the structure in 12 years time, a change to the Right of First Refusal and Iwi Forum involvement in the drafting of legislation,” said Api Mahuika, Ngati Porou.

However, Forum members said they still have concerns regarding three key issues which deviate from the Forum’s model Te Amorangi Hei Mua. These are:

Iwi Forum’s position regarding direct ownership and control of the ‘corporate’ assets; Iwi Forum’s views on the Electoral College process, and Iwi Forum’s views regarding allocation of deepwater quota.

“The Iwi Forum will continue to lobby support for our model and will continue to seek recognition for our Treaty rights and tikanga in any model for allocation of these assets,” Mr Mahuika said.

“We emphasise that while the Iwi Forum has fundamental concerns over the model, it is time for compromise and statesmanship to bring about resolution to this long-running debate.”

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