Marine farmers want talks not Privy Council appeal

By AUDREY YOUNG

One of the key litigant parties in the foreshore and seabed case, the Marine Farming Association, has decided not to appeal to the Privy Council against the decision of the Court of Appeal.

But its president, Rob Pooley, said the industry expected to be included in any meetings between the Crown and iwi where the status of existing farms was being discussed.

The Court of Appeal opened the way for eight Marlborough iwi to make claims for customary title to the foreshore and seabed in the Maori Land Court - and other iwi and hapu.

The Government indicated it would override the decision by asserting the Crown's ownership in law.

But following outrage in Maoridom, ministers are now negotiating with Maori MPs to try to reach a compromise.

The Marlborough District Council has reserved its position by applying for leave to appeal to the Privy Council.

Mr Pooley said the association had decided against that course after talks with iwi indicated they had no interest in creating a new grievance.

"The association does not seek to become a protagonist in the seabed case. Rather, it would prefer to work with the Crown and Maori to find a solution that provides enduring rights for all marine farmers."

The association saw important links between the resolution of the seabed claims and pending aquaculture law reforms.

Mr Pooley was concerned about a report in the Herald yesterdaythat discussions relating to marine farming were being held behind closed doors.

The report said an option for Maori to give up claims to exclusive ownership of the foreshore and seabed in exchange for potentially lucrative marine farming rights was under consideration at the secret meetings.

"It is imperative that the association be included in any meetings between the Crown and iwi where the status of existing farms is being discussed," Mr Pooley said.

Politicians also expressed concern about the on-going confidential talks.

National leader Bill English said "secret chats" between Labour and its Maori MPs were hardly open and transparent Government.

"The Government has built up Maori and public expectations, so it's going to be difficult to find a compromise that can satisfy both sides."

New Zealand First leader Winston Peters said all New Zealanders had a right to know the details and to have their say on such an important issue.

The Labour Party did not own the foreshore and seabed and had no right to negotiate away any part of it or any rights of access, he said. The subject was too important to be left to a handful of Cabinet ministers and a few MPs.