Originally published by Māori Television
Today Willie Jackson was formally welcomed to Te Puni Kokiri, the organisation tasked with helping him in his new portfolio as Māori Development Minister.
Delivering an impassioned speech, he highlighted the need for more support for language learners who aren't fluent. "We've got to get that strategy right. I want a strategy for everyone, not just our ones who e mohio ana ki te kōrero Māori [speak fluently]. We've got to bring them on," he said.
Te Reo Māori pioneer Te Waihoroi Shortland said the "great thing" about the speech was Jackson's aim to help those "with no reo and no real connection to the language".
Te Puni Kokiri chief executive Dave Samuels highlighted the tasks ahead: "Economic strategy with regards to Covid-19 - that's about lifting Māori business, lifting our housing portfolio across government to deliver for Māori and, of course, Te Puni Kokiri, has the responsibility to monitor all across those agencies."
