MAORI PEOPLE

Grey River Argus, 12 October 1944, Page 8

MAORI PEOPLE

REPRESENTATIVES CONFER WELLINGTON, October 10.

■Pratical and beneficial results are expected from a conference of representatives of Maori people throughout the dominion convened by Maori Members of Parliament. It will probably. last three days. The meeting will be non-party, non-.sectarian and representative of all the tribes and schools of thought. , In addition to such subjects as land claims, health, housing, rehabilitation and Maori Councils, the future of the Maori war effort organisation will undoubtedly receive attention. At a recent meeting at Hawera of the Taranaki tribes the feeling was expressed that the organisation should be continued on a peace-time basis to enable the Maori to take a full part in post-war reconstruction in New Zealand. The Maori lias a growing consciousness of the value of carrying the maximum responsibility for his own affairs.

Mr. E. T. Tirikatene, Minister representing the Maoris on the Executive Council, has expressed profound appreciation to the Maori people for their magnificent response to his appeal in connection with the Victory Loan. Although the total is not to hand, the combined effort is known to be large. Mr. Tirikatene has received the following message from General Freyberg: “I was deeply touched to receive your message, sent on behalf of the Maori people, and I send my most grateful thanks. As you will know, the division is again in action. Reports corning to me show the Maori Battalion has been living up to its great tradition. Some members wounded in the recent fighting are in the ward next to me in this hospital, where we are all receiving most excellent treatment. They join me in sending greetings to you in New Zealand. Kind regards.”