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Series 2, Episode 15 The Queen Is Dead 23 May 13 00:41:02

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Corin Dann: Don't expect the Maori Party to walk

Corin Dann opinion

Published: 2:37PM Wednesday July 18, 2012 Source: Corin Dann

  • Prime Minister John Key (Source: ONE News)
    Prime Minister John Key - Source: ONE News

John Key's been playing down his coalition relationship meeting with the Maori Party tonight, dismissing suggestions that it is in any way an "emergency meeting".

As far as he's concerned it doesn't make sense that the Maori Party would walk away from the coalition agreement over him simply expressing the truth - which is that the Government can ignore the Waitangi Tribunal's findings on water.

So don't expect to see any grand statements from him after the meeting, in fact I doubt he will do any media at all afterwards.

He's probably right to be confident about the Maori Party not walking yet.

While it's possible they could if something goes horribly wrong this evening, it is likely the party will stick it out in the belief they can help secure Maori the best deal possible over water rights in the long term.

And remember there is still a long way to go in this saga. The Tribunal has not even reported back yet, while court action remains highly likely.

However, while the Prime Minister may not be acting as though he thinks this meeting is hugely important, I can tell you that the Maori Party most certainly does.

And they are right to be taking it very seriously.

There is plenty on the line for the party at this meeting. 

Many Maori are furious with Key over his Tribunal comments and equally furious that the Maori Party is continuing to support his government.

Political adversaries and the Maori Council have climbed into them this week over the issue, calling them useless and suggesting they are only staying in the coalition for the perks.

These sorts of barbs will hurt the Maori Party leaders. They need to hit back with something tonight.

They need some kind of nugget or victory come away with, which can show their supporters that it is worth sticking it out inside the tent.

Read more Corin Dann opinion

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