Wellington, May 12 NZPA - The Government needs to better protect Maori rights, a United Nations report says.
Justice Member Simon Power last week presented New Zealand's report to the UN Human Rights Council, which was holding its first annual review of all member states.
The council has responded to Mr Power's report with several recommendations, including that the Government:
* find appropriate ways to adequately compensate Maori for the loss of their land;
* continue to address all forms of political, economic and social discrimination against Maori; and
* progress talks with Maori on the 2004 Foreshore and Seabed Act.
Maori Party co-leader Tariana Turia welcomed the report and said many key issues in it were under action, including a review of the Foreshore and Seabed Act.
As well, the appointment of herself and co-leader Pita Sharples as ministers would help progress on reducing disparities between Maori and non-Maori in the key portfolios of education, health, Maori Affairs and social development, the Associate Social Development and Employment Minister said.
The Government will respond formally to the findings and recommendations of the council by September.
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