Iwi Radio recognised in Budget 2014.

16 May 2014

Iwi Radio gets a well -deserved $12million over four years to enable them to continue broadcasting Māori language programming.

National List MP Claudette Hauiti says it’s an investment in our language, ensuring te reo is heard every day everywhere by everyone.

Finance Minister Bill English announced the new funding in Budget 2014.

"The investment recognises the contribution Irirangi Maori makes to the ongoing development and revitalisation of Te Reo Maori." Ms Hauiti said.

There are 21 Iwi Radio around the country broadcasting on frequencies specifically reserved for the promotion of Māori language and culture.

"As a former broadcaster who worked in Maori Radio I know the passion the stations have for the language but more so their collective ability to access every home and influence very whanau means the potential to develop Iwi dialect in respective rohe is extraordinary." Ms Hauiti said.

The $12 million goes towards operational costs, allowing Iwi Stations to get on with engaging communities increasing awareness and support for language revitalisation within their respective rohe.

Budget 2014 is investing over $200million in Maori programmes and initiatives in total. Investments include Whānau Ora $15 million, Housing $16 million, Innovation $8million, Water Quality Programmes $5million.

"This Government is paying more than just lip service to honouring our responsibility as Treaty Partners. These investments are about rangatiratanga allowing Whanau, Hapu and Iwi to get on and do what needs to be done for them and their wider community." Ms Hauiti said.

ENDS

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