Treaty Principles Bill sparks controversy, public submissions invited.
The Justice Select Committee has launched a public consultation on the contentious Treaty Principles Bill, with submissions open until January 7. Green Party MP for Wellington Central, Tamatha Paul, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the process, stating that it's "time for our communities to translate the energy harnessed over the course of the hīkoi into action." The MP expressed concerns that the Bill challenges the foundations of New Zealand's nation-building and undermines progress made under Te Tiriti, a founding agreement aimed at addressing injustices and building a fairer society.
According to Tamatha Paul, the Government's approach has caused harm to its Treaty partners, deepening mistrust and division. The MP urged the public to seize this opportunity as a chance for unity between tangata whenua (indigenous people) and tangata tiriti (signatories of Te Tiriti), reaffirming their commitment to the agreement and its vision.