29 April 2004

Mapp to address Hikoi

Equality before the law and equal participation in Government is the only way to advance not just Maori but New Zealand as a whole, says National's Treaty and Constitutional Issues spokesman, Dr Wayne Mapp.

"This is the message that I will give to the Foreshore and Seabed Hikoi in Rotorua tomorrow."

Dr Mapp has been invited to address the Hikoi. The group is marching from the far north to Parliament to protest at the proposed foreshore and seabed legislation, which is due to come before Parliament next week.

"The foreshore and seabed should be owned by the Crown on behalf of all New Zealanders, as has always been understood to be the case," says Dr Mapp.

"National recognises customary use of the foreshore and seabed through maataitai and taiapure, both established by the last National Government.

"Our aspiration is for one rule of law and one standard of citizenship for all New Zealanders. Only when this is realised will we reach our full potential as a country".

Dr Mapp will address the Hikoi at a political forum at City Focus, on the corner of Tutanekai and Hinemoa streets, from 11.30am.

Ends

© Scoop Media