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Celebrated as a cornerstone of democracy here in New Zealand, has the Treaty of Waitangi now become a millstone for society's neck? Politicians of the right have recently been making capital over the so called 'treaty industry'. Decrying those whose business it has been to represent parties in the settlement process, strong voice has been raised against the length and cost of settling claims made under the settlement act. But whilst it is easy to rally around the laudable intention of concluding this difficult process rapidly, less attention is seemingly being paid to ensuring its original objectives are properly satisfied. All too often 'fast track' = 'rough justice', and does this generation wish to be remembered for riding rough-shod over delicate and finely-balanced historic issues? The incumbent powers that be think not. Reaffirming their wish to continue the settlement process 'as is', all portents indicate that it is likely to continue for some time yet. In many respects this is understandable, as historic records are patchy, often inconsistent, and frequently hard to obtain, and indeed time and money are required to properly prepare and process the information forthcoming in a fair and just manner. However it should not be overlooked that this process has now become a bone of contention between peoples. Time is only likely to exacerbate the problem. It would indeed be a sorry outcome if a process intended to bring just settlement and conclusion to historic matters of injustice became a totem for strengthening and deepening divisions in society. The record shows the treaty became part of the bedrock upon which New Zealand was able to build a peaceable and prosperous society. So what will be the treaty's epitaph to the future? Whilst characterised as an essential part of the New Zealand constitution, its principles are nebulous and very difficult to define. Might the conclusion of the settlement process be an apt time for New Zealand to formulate a explicit, holistic constitution for all our peoples?
Comment from tikitourer Insightful comments. If only the government would listen! Comment from sharermary I wonder if any messin with this now would be any good. Comment from ngatilate I agree. People should move on. Comment from percyknight I think too much has been spent on the process. Get over it already! |
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