Statement from Treaty Conference 2003

5 October 2003

The 15th Annual National Gathering of Pakeha and Tauiwi (non-Maori) Treaty Workers urges the Government not to introduce legislation based on its current proposals for the foreshore and seabed.

As Treaty educators we cannot support any law that breaches rights re-affirmed and guaranteed in the Treaty of Waitangi.

We support the Government's decision to wait for the recommendation of the Waitangi Tribunal.

We believe the Treaty relationship requires all New Zealanders to listen carefully to Tangata Whenua on this issue, as they have put forward alternative proposals that need to be fully considered by everyone.

We also urge the Government to explore enduring constitutional arrangements to enable just and fair negotiation with Tangata Whenua as equal parties to the Treaty.

This statement carries the endorsement of the following groups represented at the conference: Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, Waikato Anti-Racism Coalition, Manukau Institute of Technology Treaty Unit, Auckland Workers Education Authority, Tamaki Treaty Workers, Corso Dunedin, Network Waitangi Whangarei, aotearoa reality check, Peace Movement Aotearoa, Network Waitangi Otepoti, Rowan Partnership, Pax Christi Aotearoa NZ, Auckland Catholic Justice and Peace Office, Freedom Roadworks, Network Waitangi Otautahi, Just US Associates Ltd, PISPP Inc, Bicultural Desk (Auckland Catholic Diocese), Oho Ake Network - Gisborne, Just Housing (Auckland) Trust, Network Waitangi Whanganui a Tara.

Participants in the conference included community workers, educators, policy analysts, journalists, social and resource management planners, academics, doctorate students, researchers, film makers, theatre producers, social workers, health workers, business advisors, Pasifika liaison workers, and lecturers.

Press release
Treaty Conference 2003
Tamaki Makaurau, 2 to 4 October 2003.

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