The chair of a team to review the strategy and infrastructure of the Maori language sector, Tamati Reedy, says a sea change is needed to reinvigorate revival of the language.
Maori Affairs Minister Pita Sharples says more than $200 million is spent each year by Government agencies or though community projects and a more co-ordinated approach is necessary to maximise its effectiveness.
Dr Reedy, who with wife Tilly wrote the original curriculum for immersion schools, told Waatea News the Government is right to question whether its getting value for money.
"We are going to have a fresh look at it and if some drastic measures have to be suggested to Government, I hope we will come back, make suggestions that might help to accelerate and improve the statistical data that is currently there," he said.
Dr Reedy is joined on the review panel by Toni Waho, Hana O'Regan, Cathy Dewes, Pem Bird, Pania Papa and Rahera Shortland.
