Hon Parekura Horomia
Minister of Māori Affairs

Investing in our stories and our people

Budget 2007 delivers significant new investment into Māori broadcasting as part of the government's on-going drive to build and share knowledge about our people, language and lives, Māori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia said today.

The government recognises the need to sustain our unique Māori culture and values as part of its goal to retain and enrich our national identity. Māori broadcasting plays a vital role in this process, Mr Horomia said.

As vehicles for transmitting our ideas, initiatives and success stories the government believes Māori Television and iwi radio will also play an active role in building a sustainable economy and strengthening our whānau.

"I'm pleased to announce that Budget 2007 includes $27.1 million in new operating and capital funding for Vote Māori Affairs over the next four years to specifically strengthen the government's commitment to Māori broadcasting.

"Included in this total is an additional $20.1 million in operating funding for Māori Television and $3 million in capital funding. The extra funding recognises the increasing success of Māori Television and provides a platform to support its plan to move to digital television. It will also be used to add new programming content and to establish infrastructure for expanded broadcasts," he said.

An additional $4 million over the next four years will be invested in the iwi radio network to enable it to continue to provide a high quality service.

"The Māori broadcasting funding completes a four year programme of strengthening the industry and positions it well for the digital era," Mr Horomia said.

ENDS

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