February 25, 2015
Kohanga reo to consult on changes
Education Minister Hekia Parata says the Government wants to see more transparent and representative governance of the kohanga reo movement before it resumes talks about the kohanga reo treaty claim.
Relations between the minister and Te Kohanga Reo National Trust Board became frosty last year over the board’s response to allegations of misspending at the trust’s commercial subsidiary.
Ms Parata and Maori Development Minister Te Ururoa Flavell met the board this week to discuss progress since then.
A working party convened by King Tuheitia has proposed a number of changes, including getting rid of life appointment to the board.
Ms Parata says that’s a good start, but only the Trust Board can change how it governs.
She says the Government is committed to a strong and vibrant kohanga reo movement, to the promotion of te reo, and raising Maori achievement.
The board plans to start consulting with kohanga whanau next month about a new governance structure.
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