September 29, 2014
Maori want regions boosted
The Federation of Maori Authorities wants to see the Government put more emphasis on regional development.
Chairperson Traci Houpapa says its member trusts and incorporations heard a clear message from speakers at their annual conference over the weekend that New Zealand's success depended on iwi success.
She says the re-election of a National Government supported by the Maori Party bodes well for FOMA and iwi Maori.
"We can continue to press on with our election manifesto which aims to improve regional economic development which recognised Maori and, increasingly, iwi authorities around the contribution we make to regional GDP and therefore the growth of the country. So we are confident the election manifesto that our members have agreed to, that we have presented to this prime minister and government, out us in a good position to engage," she says.
Traci Houpapa says esatablished Maori authorities have a long term commercial track record, and their experience will help post-settlement iwi to thrive.
FOR THE FULL INTERVIEW WITH TRACI HOUPAPA CLICK ON THE LINK
https://secure.zeald.com/uma/play_podcast?podlink=MjI2MTA=
Copyright © 2014, UMA Broadcasting Ltd: www.waateanews.com