June 03, 2020
Whakatōhea keeps eye on settlement
The Whakatōhea Pre-Settlement Trust is trying to complete ratification of its $100 million settlement this year, despite COVID-19 restrictions.
After challenges from some hapū groups threatened to again derail a settlement, Ōpōtiki-based iwi was granted a parallel process, where it continues to negotiate while the Waitangi Tribunal holds an inquiry into the area’s historic claims.
Trust chair Graeme Riesterer says what’s on the table is already one of the highest per capita settlements offered.
If it’s not accepted, it could be another 10 to 15 years before the process can start again.
He says after a well-attended round of hui during February, social media became the connecting medium in lockdown.
A survey was conducted during Level 3 to identify any concerns about the proposed settlement and identify core values and visions for how the settlement governance entity should be structured.
The trust now plans monthly Zoom meetings where whānau can tune in and hear experts within the tribe discussing topics relevant to Settlement.
Other ways to connect include social media pages, pānui, or jumping on the website
https://whakatoheapresettlement.org.nz/
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