Opening of Parliament a Significant Day for Maori Party

“Today was a very significant day in the life of this Parliament” stated Tariana Turia, Co-leader of the Maori Party.

“Our first thoughts were with the late Rod Donald, and the huge legacy he has left behind” stated Mrs Turia. “He was a man who devoted every moment of his life for the principles and values he believed in - for a better life for all. The loss to the House today was profoundly felt”.

“Today we also mark one hundred years since Sir Apirana Ngata first entered Parliament. We are determined to honour the contribution he, and all other Maori Members of Parliament, have made”.

“We were proud today, to demonstrate our firm commitment to Te Tiriti o Waitangi, and the opportunity to declare its importance, without which there would be no Parliament” stated Tariana Turia.

“This is not the first time that we have expressed our belief that the affirmation or the oath expressed by Members of Parliament should include respect for Te Tiriti o Waitangi as creating the constitutional framework for this land.

“We also acknowledged, with great respect, the descendants of the signatories of the Treaty -all peoples of Aotearoa”.

“This day, as with all other, we are proud to have the opportunity to bring a strong and independent Maori presence in Parliament”.

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