24 Feb 2015

Call to widen scope of Te Reo law

8:05 am on 24 February 2015

The country's guardians of Te Reo Maori say all government departments should abide by a proposed new Maori language law - not just Maori agencies.

They say as the bill stands, only three Maori departments are covered.

The kaiwhakahaere or organiser of a hui held for Maori language advocates, Rahui Papa, said for Te Reo Rangatira to survive the planned legislation needed to go further.

He said all agencies with a Crown budget to spend to support, develop and sustain the language should be included in the bill.

The guardians plan to deliver their recommendations to the Maori Affairs select committee as well as a group, appointed by Minister of Maori Development Te Ururoa Flavell, which is reviewing the bill.

Te Pire Reo Maori (the bill), proposes to set up a new body, Te Matawai, which will lead and direct Te Taura Whiri I Te Reo Maori, Te Mangai Paho and absorb the role of Te Putahi Paoho [Maori Television's Electoral College].

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