Declaration good for Maori, good for the nation

The Maori Party has welcomed the Government’s decision to adopt the United Nations’ Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.

“This is a proud moment for this Government and Aotearoa,” co-leader Tariana Turia said in response to this morning’s announcement in New York that the declaration, which sets a standard for the treatment of indigenous peoples, has been accepted without any caveats.

“This document has been 22 years in the making and many of our own Maori people, including, Nganeko Minhinnick, Aroha Mead and Moana Jackson, have played a vital role in advocating it, so we must honour them for today’s achievement.”

September 13, 2007 was a day of great sadness for Maori as the then Government denied a place for the declaration in Aotearoa while some 143 nations signed up to it, Mrs Turia said.

“It takes courage to move us forward as indigenous peoples and the National-led Government is to be commended, and today’s announcement rectifies the blot on this country’s international reputation.

“Dr Sharples has been a constant advocate as have the Maori Party caucus.”

Mrs Turia said while the declaration was non-binding, it would keep the Government accountable on matters concerning indigenous peoples and their human rights.

“The declaration reinforces this Government’s international reputation on human rights and its accountability back to the United Nations.”

Mrs Turia said those people who worked tirelessly and passionately on the declaration, who had since died, must be remembered including Alec Whiti-te-Ra Kaihau, Dr Erihapeti Rehu-Murchie and Dame Miraka Szaszy.

“We will always remember their unrelenting leadership that has brought us to today.”

It is estimated that indigenous peoples make up six per cent or 370 million of the planet’s population – a population that the United Nations says is more vulnerable to having their culture and language, land rights, natural resources and health damaged.

ENDS

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