Minister happy with Fox selection process

Maori Affairs Minister Parekura Horomia says he is satisfied with the process the Maori Television Service took in appointing chairman Derek Fox as transitional chief executive.

Mr Horomia was again under pressure in Parliament yesterday from opposition MPs wanting answers about the appointment process.

Mr Fox fills the gap left after Canadian John Davy was sacked for doctoring his credentials and jailed for fraud.



National Party broadcasting spokeswoman Katherine Rich asked Mr Horomia if he was satisfied the appointment process was "appropriate and thorough".





She questioned why Mr Davy, a non-Maori speaker, ever got the job if the ability to speak te reo was a factor in Mr Fox's appointment.

Mr Horomia said Mr Davy was a bad choice, "Mr Fox is a good choice".

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters and National deputy leader Roger Sowry pulled up Mr Horomia for failing to answer questions on the appointment process.

"The minister yesterday didn't say whether he was satisfied or not," said Mr Sowry. "Today he's done exactly the same."

Mr Horomia replied he was "very clear and satisfied at this stage about the due process".

- NZPA

Herald feature: Maori TV