Draft Principles On Foreshore And Seabed Released

Te Ope Mana a Tai, a Steering Group led by Te Tau Ihu Iwi are releasing draft principles on how to resolve the foreshore and seabed issues. The draft principles are an attempt to establish a basis from which the range of issues can be worked through with the Crown.

Chairperson of Te Ope Mana a Tai, Matiu Rei says it is important for Iwi to set some parameters around the foreshore and seabed issues.

“It is easy for Iwi to get distracted by all the political agendas that have just about buried the real issues rather than focus on the job at hand. We need to determine for ourselves the nature and extent of our customary rights and the best way to give effect to them.”

The Court of Appeal decision that was brought by Te Tau Ihu iwi reinforced the view that customary rights of Iwi to the foreshore and seabed have never been extinguished.

Matiu says Te Ope Mana a Tai believe customary rights should be recognised, protected and provided for in all legislation and policy that applies to the coastal marine environment.

Te Ope Mana a Tai encourages Iwi to use the draft principles as a starting point for debate. A broader discussion document including the draft principles will be released to all Iwi organisations next week.

Iwi can view the draft principles on the Te Ohu Kai Moana website from midday Sunday (10 August 2003) at www.tokm.co.nz .

“We want Iwi to discuss this draft document, give us feedback and come prepared to work on the next steps at a hui at Omaka marae in Blenheim later this month (29-30 August 2003)”, says Matiu.

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