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November 10, 2021
Health Ministry data plan cultural bondage
Adam Gifford
Posted On November 10, 2021
Download AudioA former New Zealand First MP is outraged iwi may be blocking the release of Health Ministry data needed to identify unvaccinated Māori.
Director-General of Health Dr Ashley Bloomfield has told the Whānau Ora Commissioning Agency it can’t give it all the data it wants because the crown must recognise and uphold the mana and rangatiratanga of distinct groups across the motu.
He offered a process where the agency work with the ministry, relevant iwi, and local service delivery providers in rohe where vaccination outreach to Māori is most needed to identify what data could be shared.
Shane Jones says it’s a ludicrous excuse from both the ministry and iwi.
“I would say to the iwi leaders, members of your tribe are not chattels. They’re not under some sort of cultural bondage. Before they are a member of any Māori tribe they are a citizen of New Zealand and the nation-state of New Zealand is endeavouring to overcome a pandemic,” he says.
Mr Jones says the mana munching relationship with the crown isn’t as important as reaching those Māori whose failure to get vaccinated will put themselves and the broader community at risk.
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