July 07, 2016
Maori relationship still vital as Labour turns 100


The Labour Party turns 100 today, and leader Andrew Little says its foundational values are as relevant today as they were in 1916.
Jobs and housing continue to be pressing needs, as without stable housing people find it hard to build decent lives for themselves.
He says the support of Maori has always been important to Labour, even before its pact with the Ratana movement, and even if it has let Maori down at times.
"We've always got to be alert to that relationship, the treaty relationship, what that entails, what the obligations are, but also making sure that in the conduct of government it is about genuine opportunity and lifting people and where extra help is needed. You put in the extra time and effort to make sure people are looked after and have the opportunity to get ahead," Mr Little says.
He says part of the treaty relationship means putting right what was done in the past.
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