September 24, 2015
Maori language bill delayed
A bill overhauling the crown's Maori language agencies appears to have been put on hold.
The bill, which will put the Maori Language Commision Te Taura Whiri and broadcast funding agency Te Mangai Paho under the control of a new iwi-driven board called Te Maataawai, is a major plan of the Maori Party reform agenda.
Maori Development Minister Te Ururoa Flavell says its return to parliament has been delayed because of issues with its translation into Maori.
But Labour's Maori spokesperson Nanaia Mahuta says it's held up because Mr Flavell can't get cabinet approval for changes he wants to make to the bill.
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