6 Jul 2010

Sober alternative urged by Dame June

6:50 am on 6 July 2010

Dame June Jackson has challenged marae in Manukau to provide a safe and sober environment for rangatahi.

Dame June was part of a delegation of high-profile New Zealanders who lobbied Parliament last month to toughen the liquor laws.

She says many Maori families are affected by alcohol abuse, so it's important the Maori community as a whole takes responsibility for showing young people some alternatives.

She told Waatea News that being Maori is not about being drunks.

Dame June says organisations like the Maori Women's Welfare League and the Maori Wardens had a historical role in tackling the booze culture, and still have a role to play today.