Maori Party wants to hold RNZ to account

The Maori Party is seeking a change in Radio New Zealand’s statement of intent requiring it to report on Maori programmes, Maori content and the way it portrays Maori issues.

Co-leader Marama Fox says it is concerned about the state broadcaster dropping its regular daily Manu Korihi bulletins.

RNZ head of content Carol Hirschfeld says that allows resources to be better used, and there is in fact a commitment to deeper coverage of Maori issues within all news formats.

Marama Fox told Paakiwaha host and Whakaruruhau chair Willie Jackson that needs to be tested.

"So we are expecting to hold them to account when they stand up in front of the committee at their annual review and demand to know what is the reason behind reduced content, reduced Maori language content, and Maori programming in general. It's not good enough and you're right, we do need to be on a national stage," she says.

Marama Fox says the Maori Party has also secured more money for Maori broadcasting.

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