Ngāi Tahu congratulates the iwi of Te Tau Ihu
Wednesday Feb 11, 2009
Ngāi Tahu congratulates the iwi of Te Tau Ihu and the government for reaching an historical point in the resolution of South Island treaty claims.
"We congratulate all those who have invested in the Treaty settlement process in order for both sides to reach this historical point," says Mark Solomon, Kaiwhakahaere of Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Tahu. "The pre-settlement phase is difficult and an enormous weight of responsibility must be carried by iwi leaders. Ngāi Tahu applauds the respective Te Tau Ihu iwi for their vision and tenacity.
"I am very pleased with the Crown's commitment to the Treaty resolution process that has occurred in the South Island. I am looking forward to a new post-settlement era for the iwi of Te Waipounamu, one that is based on collaboration and working together for our people and our communities."
Solomon commends the Minister for Treaty of Waitangi Negotiations, Chris Finlayson, for the ongoing momentum on Treaty settlements.
Today leaders from Te Tau Ihu (top of the south island iwi) signed Agreements in Principle with the government, ahead of a formal Deed of Settlement, expected later this year.
ENDS
If you have any further enquiries please contact:
Leanne Scott
Te Runanga o Ngāi Tahu
Ph: (03) 3638962
Cell: 021 2721170