[POST] MEDIA RELEASE | 29 Pepuere 2024
As a result of the rushed disestablishment of Te Aka Whai Ora and pausing of Localities by the Minister of Health, these actions are now at odds with the government’s call for ‘more locally informed and led health solutions’ leading to 'quality health in a timely fashion'.
Despite the somber acknowledgment of the premature end to Te Aka Whai Ora, Te Taumata Hauora o Te Kahu o Taonui Iwi-Māori Partnership Board (IMPB) add their voice to the already significant leaders who have called for a continued commitment from the Government to equitable health outcomes for whānau and Iwi Māori.
Te Taumata Hauora remains resolute and “along with te Ao Māori and communities we stand united in holding this government accountable, just as we did the previous government, for ensuring equity for whānau Māori.”
Chair, Tereki Stewart, states that Te Taumata Hauora remains resolute and “along with te Ao Māori and communities we stand united in holding this government accountable, just as we did the previous government, for ensuring equity for whānau Māori.”
“Post disestablishment of Te Aka Whai Ora, the IMPB will be advocating for the establishment of a strengthened and legislated Iwi Māori voice free from systemic and structurally racist influence as experienced in the current health system that has under-served and under-delivered inter-generationally for Māori” says Stewart.
Te Taumata Hauora IMPB acknowledges the generations of hard work and the relentless actions of our hauora champions in establishing Te Aka Whai Ora, a Māori Health Authority, as we come to terms with it’s early and premature demise, much like Māori life expectancy in NZ.
CEO Boyd Broughton says, "Me manawa Kuaka tātou, we must be like the Godwit”, a reference to their perseverance to achieve a long migration between Aotearoa and Siberia. “Yesterday was not a good day, with the disestablishment of Te Aka Whai Ora and the repeal of Smokefree Legislation, however, Māori will remain determined in our quest for greater health outcomes. Governments come, and governments go, our marae will be here caring and nurturing our people and communities long after those who pass these hurtful legislations.”
"Ka whawhai tonu mātou, ake, ake, ake.”
Te Taumata Hauora tautoko and echo the words of the late Professor Ranginui Walker, who declares, "Ka whawhai tonu mātou, ake, ake, ake.” A reassurance from the Chair that the “IMPB will continue the never-ending fight for equitable health access, investment, and outcomes for Māori, whānau, hapū, iwi, and communities in Te Tai Tokerau and Tāmaki Mākaurau.”
Waatea News interview with our CEO, Boyd Broughton. 2024 03 01
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