The main concern raised by iwi and environmental groups is that the bill does not give effect to the principles of Te Tiriti, particularly the principle of partnership. They argue that the bill should be amended to include a specific clause that requires the government to consult with iwi on all matters that affect their cultural and environmental interests. This would ensure that iwi have a meaningful say in the decisions that are made about the natural and built environments of their rohe (tribal area).
Another concern is that the bill does not adequately protect wahi tapu (sacred sites). Iwi argue that the bill should be amended to include a specific clause that protects wahi tapu from desecration and destruction, and that gives iwi the right to manage and control access to these sites.
The government has defended the bill, arguing that it does give effect to the principles of Te Tiriti, and that it adequately protects wahi tapu. However, the government has indicated that it is willing to consider amendments to the bill if they can be shown to be consistent with the principles of Te Tiriti.
The deadline for submissions on the bill is 8th June 2023. It is unclear how the government will respond to the concerns that have been raised, as only a few dozen submissions have been published at present. It is possible that the government will make some minor amendments to the bill in response to the submissions, but it is also possible that the government will not make any changes at all.
The outcome of this debate will have implications for the future of Te Tiriti settlements in New Zealand. If the government is willing to make significant changes to the bill in response to the concerns that have been raised, this will be seen as a positive step forward in the relationship between the government and iwi. However, if the government is not willing to make any changes, this will be seen as a major setback for iwi and could damage the relationship between the government and iwi.
The Natural and Built Environments Bill is a complex piece of legislation that has the potential to have a significant impact on Te Tiriti settlements in New Zealand. It is important that all parties involved in the debate engage in a constructive dialogue in order to find a solution that is fair and equitable for all.
0 Comments: