All Maori MPs Must Declare

Maori activists today challenged all Maori Members of Parliament of all parties to declare their position on Maori customary ownership rights to the foreshore and seabeds. Speaking after a National Maori hui in Paeroa activist Ken Mair said.

"The Hui clearly stated that all Maori MPs oppose any legislation which proposes to extinguish or redefines customary title or rights. This statement is deliberately directed at all Maori MPs, and not just members of government”.

"All Maori Members of Parliament must re-evaluate their position within parties that are clearly on a collision course with Maori. It is untenable for Maori MPs to expect Maori support when their party's actions clearly oppose the wishes of their people."

Lawyer Annette Sykes endorsed Mair's comments

"All Maori MPs need to evaluate carefully whether their leaders positions are reflective of their personal and more importantly their people's position. Maori have declared this as a defining issue and any attempt to allow an opposing position will be at their own peril".

A fellow up hui is planned for Te Tau Ihu in the South Island. Te Tau Ihu (a group of 8 South Island iwi) won a ground breaking legal case allowing the Maori land court to examine the nature and extent of customary foreshore and seabed rights. Maori responded in unprecedented opposition over the Government’s attempts to wipe out the ruling thru new legislation.

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