Submission: Principles of Treaty of Waitangi Bill
This submission by the Child Poverty Action Group (CPAG) strongly opposes the Principles of the Treaty of Waitangi Bill, emphasising its detrimental effects on the Crown-Māori relationship, equity, and social cohesion. CPAG highlights the disproportionate poverty and hardship faced by tamariki and rangatahi Māori due to systemic inequalities and colonisation, which the Bill fails to address. Instead of fostering substantive equity, the Bill prioritises formal equality, distorting Treaty principles like tino rangatiratanga and kāwanatanga.
Key concerns include the Bill's flawed development process, marked by inadequate Māori consultation, misrepresentation of Treaty principles, and potential exacerbation of socioeconomic inequities. CPAG warns of the Bill’s divisive implications, which undermine tino rangatiratanga and perpetuate racial inequities.
Recommendations include abandoning the Bill, committing to genuine Māori-Crown partnership, focusing on equity-driven frameworks, and enhancing public understanding of Te Tiriti principles. CPAG advocates for policies rooted in equity and partnership to address structural disadvantages and honour Te Tiriti's spirit, fostering a fairer, more cohesive society.