McCarten called in over TV row

Maori Television staff have called in union leader Matt McCarten for a meeting today over the dismissal of top presenter Julian Wilcox.

Mr Wilcox was sacked on Friday after what chief executive Jim Mather is reported to have called "compelling evidence" that he was involved in - but had not himself leaked - the sending of an internal email to other news outlets.

The email was sent from management to staff members and asked staff to declare whether they were involved in the Maori Party.

It is understood two numbers traced to Mr Wilcox's cellphone were those of reporters with the Herald and TV3.

Mr Wilcox's dismissal follows an employment case taken against management by fellow newsreader Ngarimu Daniels, who has yet to return to an on-air role.

Ms Daniels gave evidence that she was banned from wearing a red, white and black necklace because the colours were linked with those of the Maori Party.

Tension also arose over Ms Daniels' decision to take part in a foreshore and seabed protest.

Mr Wilcox, who did not return calls yesterday, is believed to have been concerned about the way Ms Daniels was treated, which contributed to a deterioration in his own relationship with the channel's management.

Maori Television staff are believed to be shocked by the latest development and considered taking protest action today.

But it was decided over the weekend that Mr McCarten, whose Unite union represents some staff, should be consulted first.

It is understood staff have been warned that any communication with the media on the issue could have dire consequences.

There is believed to be a consensus among workers that Mr Wilcox's dismissal was an over-reaction.

However, some feel the two news presenters have failed to appreciate management concerns about the "faces of Maori TV" being overtly involved in political issues.

Labour MPs in particular voiced concerns about what they alleged was the channel's Maori Party bias.

Mr McCarten yesterday confirmed he would visit the station today.

He believed the issues at stake went beyond Mr Wilcox's job, but said it was too soon to elaborate.