Te Pāti Māori has called on the Government to immediately extend the submission deadline for the Treaty Principles Bill, citing widespread technical failures on the parliamentary submissions platform.
After raising concerns with the Office of the Clerk yesterday, co-leader Debbie Ngarewa-Packer contacted Justice Committee Chair James Meager today to request an extension.
“Despite raising it yesterday with the Office of the Clerk, we are continuing to see whānau experiencing issues with the submission portal, potentially denying them their right to have their voice heard,” said Ngarewa-Packer.
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“These technical failures risk undermining the democratic process and shutting out those who wish to express their whakaaro. With submissions closing tonight, there is not enough time to rectify these technical issues and ensure all voices are heard.”
Te Ao Māori News attempted to test the submissions portal this evening, and received an error message that wiped all content written into the portal.
Te Pāti Māori has issued three urgent demands:
- Extend the submission deadline by at least two weeks.
- Address the technical issues affecting submissions as a priority.
- Provide clear communication on the resolution process and updated deadlines.
Co-leader Rawiri Waititi warned that unresolved issues could harm public trust.
“This kaupapa is far too important to be rushed or compromised by avoidable errors,” said Waititi.
“Aotearoa has worked hard to encourage engagement with the system. These technical issues are significant barriers, discouraging whānau from making their voices heard and threatening to heighten mistrust.”
Te Pāti Māori says swift action is necessary to ensure a fair process, giving all New Zealanders the opportunity to have their say on the Bill.
