The Treaty Principles Bill Submission
Executive Summary
The Trust opposes the proposed Treaty Principles Bill on the following grounds:
Undermining Te Tiriti o Waitangi: The Bill risks diluting Te Tiriti o Waitangi's foundational principles by reducing its influence in legislative and policy frameworks. This change could erode Māori health rights and exacerbate existing inequities.
Negative Impacts on Health Equity: The proposed Bill may limit the ability of the health sector to implement Te Tiriti principles effectively, undermining initiatives that address disparities in Māori health outcomes.
Contradiction of International Human Rights Standards: The Bill conflicts with international agreements, such as the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP), which New Zealand has endorsed.
Missed Opportunity for Partnership: Instead of fostering a genuine partnership between the Crown and Māori, the Bill creates a perception of retreating from commitments to co-governance and equity.
We respectfully urge Parliament to reconsider the proposed Bill and engage in meaningful consultation with Māori, health organisations, and community stakeholders.
You can read our full submission here. [2024] Submission Treaty Principles Bill