More iwi are closer to completing their treaty claim with the first reading of three composite settlement bills.
They include the Maungaharuru-Tangitu Hapū Claims Settlement Bill, which covers Ngāti Kahungunu hapū northwest of Napier, the Ngā Punawai ō Te Tokotoru Claims Settlement Bill giving effect to settlements reached with Te Arawa iwi Ngāti Rangiwewehi, Ngāti Rangiteaorere, and Tapuika, and the Ngā Mana Whenua ō Tāmaki Collective Settlement Bill.
Treaty Negotiations Minister Chris Finlayson says the Government’s accelerated progress for resolving historical Treaty of Waitangi claims means that there is more Treaty legislation coming before the house each year.
Labour leader David Shearer says it’s an area where there is broad cross party support.
"I get a bit annoyed when Chris Finlayson says ‘we’ve done so many settlements and Labour did only this number.’ These are settlements that have been going on for a very long time and the great thing about them is that no matter what Government is in power, they do go through unanimously and we all accept them and it’s kind of inspiring times in parliament when you see a lot of these iwi coming through and getting a settlement and then having a chance to get back on the front foot and get moving and it really is uplifting," Mr Shearer says.
The bills have been sent through to the Māori affairs select committee for consideration.
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