Pita Sharples

The strategy and infrastructure of the Maori Language sector is to be completely reviewed, to ensure the programmes and expenditure across the whole of government are responsive to Iwi/Maori aspirations, Maori Affairs Minister Dr Pita Sharples has announced.

"Government spends around $226 million every year to revitalise Maori language, in schools, through broadcasting, in programmes supported by Te Taura Whiri i te Reo Maori and so on," said the Minister.

"Most of the funding is managed by Government departments to fulfil their policies and plans. Other funding is allocated to Iwi, hapu, whanau and communities to support their projects and priorities.

"However, we need a more coordinated approach. We also need a strategy that will empower Iwi/Maori to take control of the Maori Language. I am asking the review group to consider whether responsibilities, programmes, services and expenditure are coordinated and whether or not they located with the right agencies or Māori stakeholders. By restructuring and consolidating the sector we can only achieve better results.

"A revised Maori Language Strategy will bring together all our efforts to promote and revitalise our language - a strategy that will be based on partnership between the Crown and Iwi/Maori " said Dr Sharples.

A Ministerial review group of seven language experts will carry out this review. Professor Tamati Reedy will chair the group, with Toni Waho, Hana O'Regan, Cathy Dewes, Pem Bird, Pania Papa and Rahera Shortland as members.

A secretariat from the government agencies involved will be hosted by Te Puni Kokiri. The review report is due to be presented early next year.