Independent Maori voice the focus of MANA-Maori Party meeting

Annette Sykes, MANA President

Wednesday 30th October 2013

“We had a really positive and productive meeting tonight.  The focus was on building and enhancing an independent Maori voice in Parliament – which was fitting given it coincided with the anniversary of He Wakaputanga o te Rangatiratanga o Nu Tirene signed by rangatira in 1835 to assert Maori independence,” said MANA President, Annette Sykes.

“We have both committed to developing a flagship policy framework as the basis of a working relationship – with the clear goal of improving the wellbeing of Maori.  We share grave concerns about rising Maori unemployment, ever-reducing incomes, poor housing and increasing homelessness, growing child poverty and tamariki going to school hungry. "

“Maori clearly want us to work together to provide an independent voice in Parliament, and we’ll continue to meet to develop the policy framework and aim to launch it early in the new year.” A meeting between both party leaders is also planned for the coming weeks.

"As well as policy, we will also continue to meet to discuss strategic and co-operation matters."

"MANA has always been very clear that we won't work with National, nor enter into any arrangements with parties that do, because they are so harmful. This is a significant point of difference with the Maori party that we'll be working through. The plan is to make a further announcement on this before christmas."

"The most important thing, at this early stage, is that we've been face to face with old friends to discuss how to best serve the interests of Maori and a kaupapa Maori approach."

ENDS

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