Maori TV In Maori And English, Now Catalyst For Maori Broadcasting Strategy

Mana Motuhake leader and Alliance MP, Willie Jackson congratulates his colleagues today for the launch of the Maori Television plan.

"Mana Motuhake and the Alliance are very pleased that our policy for Maori TV to include English language programs has been taken on board in this legislation.

"My main goal for Maori TV was to make sure it wouldn't exclude the 92% of the Maori population who don't speak Te Reo fluently.

"Having Maori programmes in English is just as important as producing programs in Te Reo.

"This policy shift now has to be taken on board by all organisations working on Maori broadcasting. Te Mangai Paho in particular must urgently address its current policy of funding programs only in Te Reo Maori.

"Under the new structure the government will retain its obligations to Maori TV in a Crown Owned Company, but the government will remain at arms length allowing Maori their independence over the business of running Maori TV.

"The aim of Maori broadcasting must provide an avenue for Maori to tell our stories, take pride in our heroes and provide role models for our children. It also must give all New Zealanders the opportunity to become familiar with things Maori.

"The release of the Maori TV plan should be seen as a new beginning for Maori broadcasting and must be the catalyst for an overall Maori broadcasting strategy," said Willie Jackson today.

Ends

© Scoop Media