Raukawa acknowledge final reading of settlement legislation

Raukawa kaumatua were among those from the iwi who gathered in parliament today to take in the final reading of the tribe’s settlement legislation.

Raukawa Chairperson Vanessa Eparaima said the final reading marked a profound milestone in a process that had spanned many generations for the iwi.

“The final reading marks the conclusion of our historic Treaty of Waitangi claims process. It signifies the end of a long and often fraught process to bring justice for the wrongs inflicted against the Raukawa people.”

Mrs Eparaima said it was a day to acknowledge the effort and sacrifice of many who committed their lives to seek justice for the losses and suffering endured by Raukawa – a process that left Raukawa virtually landless within its own tribal rohe.

“It is an important day for Raukawa, the region and the country, in bringing some closure to the wrongs committed against our people,” she said.

“We are grateful to have reached this point, where we can now turn our considerable energy and talents towards rebuilding, and providing support to help our people achieve their social, cultural and economic aspirations."

Raukawa Charitable Trust Deputy chair Katariana Hodge said, while the final reading of the Raukawa settlement legislation was a time of joy for the iwi, there was also sadness for those who had not survived the journey to find justice.

“It has been a day of acknowledgement, a day that Raukawa have waited many years for,” she said.

Mrs Hodge acknowledged the strong backing from many MPs across the political spectrum who supported the legislation today in their speeches.

“Our journey is in the final stages of becoming law, and the efforts of so many can be acknowledged and confirmed in legislation,” she said.

Mrs Eparaima said the reading process began on “June 2, 2012 at Aotearoa Marae, where the Crown acknowledged the wrongs inflicted against our people, at our deed of settlement signing ceremony.”

“Today Raukawa resumes its journey to return as a major economic force in our rohe, and the country.”

“It is a day of great importance to our people, and one which will bring benefit not just to the people of Raukawa but also to the many people within the communities we share.”

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