Call for a reassessment of disability funding cuts to safeguard tāngata whaikaha and whānau hauā

Pou Tangata of the NICF and Chairs of Iwi Māori Partnership Boards (IMPBs) collectively express profound concern regarding recent and immediate disability funding restrictions announced by Whaikaha, the Ministry of Disabled People. The changes to essential funding undermines efforts to address the disparate health needs of whānau Māori living with disabilities” says Dame Naida Glavish, Chair of the Hauora Iwi Leader’s Group and Co-Chair of Pou Tangata of the NICF.

She further adds, “Changing the rules for this funding will mean that many tāngata whaikaha and whānau hauā will be prevented from attending and participating in our customary practices such as tangihanga that often occur outside the towns and cities where tangata whaikaha live”.

IMPBs, as representatives of local Māori perspectives and voices on health and disability outcomes emphasize the critical importance of equitable access to services for tāngata whaikaha and whānau hauā.

"The recent funding restrictions to disability services directly impact the health and dignity of tāngata whaikaha and whānau hauā" states Oriana Paewai, Chairperson of Te Pae Oranga o Ruahine o Tararua Iwi Māori Partnership Board. "Such actions not only exacerbate existing barriers but also impede efforts to address the specific health and disability needs of Māori communities. Tāngata whaikaha and whānau hauā have been clear that they must be included in decisions about their care supports and have their voices heard. Any move to reduce their ability for choice and control in the name of budget cuts without consultation is extremely disrespectful."

The Chairs of Iwi Māori Partnership Boards stress the urgent need for the government, decision makers and Whaikaha senior leadership to reconsider these cuts through a collaborative and inclusive process. By amplifying the voices and concerns of Māori communities, the NICF and IMPBs call upon policymakers to engage directly with affected communities and seek solutions that uphold the dignity and rights of tāngata whaikaha and whānau hauā.

"Our role as Iwi Māori Partnership Boards is to advocate for policies and services that promote the well-being of all Māori," says Tereki Stewart, Chairperson of Te Taumata Hauora o Te Kahu o Taonui IMPB and Lead Advisor, Hauora, National Iwi Leaders Group "We urge decision-makers to prioritize the needs of Māori with disabilities and work towards a more equitable and inclusive system that enables them to live their best lives."