Emotions run high in Parliament
Parliament's public gallery is packed for the first reading of the foreshore and seabed bill
6 May 2004
Emotions are running high in Parliament as the foreshore and seabed bill gets its first reading in front of a packed public gallery.
Michael Cullen opened the speeches for the Government, arguing the bill will provide a way forward for the country.
Dr Culllen says the bill delivers on the Government's promise to protect access and clarify ownership.
He says he hopes the debate generated by the legislation, will be used to bring New Zealanders closer together as a nation rather than further apart.
He says it protects public access and clarifies ownership, ancestral and customary rights.
National leader Don Brash however, says it creates two separate laws.
He says in addition, the question of compensation for Maori has yet to be clarified, creating further division between Maori and the rest of the country.
He says National opposes the bill because it creates confusion and uncertainty; increases, not decreases racial tension; and it compromises the effective management of the coastline and the seabed.
Meanwhile, Nanaia Mahuta has used her speech to announce she has decided not to quit the Labour party.
However, Mrs Mahuta told Parliament never again will the Tainui vote be taken for granted.
She says the foreshore and seabed legislation is reminiscent of colonial days.
However she says she is staying with Labour because she believes it is the most effective way of representing her people.
Mrs Mahuta's decision ends speculation that she would follow her colleague Tariana Turia and quit.
© 2010 NZCity, IRN
