September 04, 2012
Waikato-Tainui revives shares on tick plea
Waikato-Tainui has revived a push for smaller tribes affected by the Mighty River sale to buy shares on credit.
The idea was first raised during consultation on the bill allowing the transfer of shares in state owned enterprises to the government’s new mixed ownership model.
At the time the Government ruled out setting aside shares for iwi who have yet to settle their treaty claims, saying they could buy them on the open market once the settlements come through.
Now Prime Minister John Key says the float would be delayed until next year, and there will be consultation with iwi about the shares plus plan suggested by the Waitangi Tribunal.
Waikato Tainui chair Tom Roa says iwi along the Waikato River were in a strong negotiating position to talk about Mighty River shares, but they were also concerned about iwi who have not settled their claims.