August 28, 2012
Taura Whiri easy target for critics
Taura Whiri easy target for critics
Former Maori language commission Chief Executive Haami Piripi says Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori seems to be seen as an easy target by the media.
Recent stories have focused on the use of credit cards for personal items, which was reimbursed by chief executives Huhana Roxx and Glenis Philip Barbara when the monthly account came due, and on overpayments made to commission chairs and executive members when extra duties meant they had to work more days than envisaged by the legislation.
Haami Piripi says small mistakes can become amplified in a small organisation.
"It is the public sector and you have really got to keep to the same standards as the public sector, otherwise your credibility suffers and once your credibility suffers you begins to lose supporters and investors in your kaupapa," Mr Piripi says.
He says the Maori language commission is easier to pick on than major agencies like Accident Compensation Commission.