Maoris advised to claim fishing rights

Press, 21 October 1987, Page 58

Maoris advised to claim fishing rights

PA Wellington The Maori Council has sent letters to Maori authorities throughout New Zealand, telling them to Immediately lodge claims with the Waitangi Tribunal on fishing rights In their areas, The Walarikl District Maori Council chairman, Mr Maanu Paul, said he sent out the letters. Each letter contained a format for Maori authorities to follow and then send to the tribunal. The council's move is the first part of its plan to get concerted action among Maori tribes on Maori fishing rights, The council wants to secure protection of Maori claims to fisheries In the same way that It ■■■■ """-

did with land claims in Its Court of Appeal action, Mr Paul said the council was concerned that the Government was continuing to Implement fisheries policies which might run counter to Maori fishing claims and previous Waitangi Tribunal recommendations on fisheries. Already, the council and the Muriwhenua Incorporation have taken court action which aed the Government imenting Its quota system for squid and lack mackerel In Northland waters, It is believed that court action on behalf of all tribes over fishing rights could be a possibility In the future, the “Dominion" reported.