$30.00
This report explores whether separate parliamentary representation for Māori is effective, and if not, what mechanisms could be implemented to improve the quality of representation in the future. We evaluate the various aspects of our current parliamentary representation system in the context of achieving effective Māori representation.
The discussion is broken up into three parts: the past, present and possible futures of Māori representation in Parliament. It concludes by proposing both a new parliamentary representation system for New Zealand and a work programme to explore this and other alternatives in more detail, before considering the implications for a National Sustainable Development Strategy.
Importantly we acknowledge that te Tiriti is not well embedded into New Zealand’s constitution, and that the Māori electorate seats are arguably one of the few mechanisms that represent te Tiriti today. Therefore, any changes need to be developed slowly, following thorough and informed public debate and consultation. Given the current government’s proposed timeline for the establishment of ‘a group to consider constitutional issues including Māori representation’ and the forthcoming referendum on the future of MMP in 2011, it is timely for all New Zealanders to address these issues.
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