No clearer

It was good to have a look at the new ‘local paper’. I like it and thought you’ve been very fair to our candidates.

Since the results of this election will impact on us well beyond the next three years, I wanted to be better informed before I make those ticks on the ballot paper.

And of course, I was curious about proposed policies to deal with the Pandemic(s), the looming Global Financial

Crisis and Environmental issues, so I attended the ‘Meet the Candidates’ session in Waihi. What I came away with was not what I expected.

Given ‘Winnie’ and NZ First’s recent performance and the fact that they do not have a candidate for this electorate, the vocal support for them surprised me. Although it probably should not have, given the winning presentation by Tauranga’s Erika Harvey and the age demographic of the audience. Certainly a lot more than the 2 to 3 per cent they are polling at.

And that while there was plenty of finger pointing regarding Environmental, Pandemic and Financial crisis related issues, there was little said about policies and proposed solutions.

From the nine representatives on stage, I was left me wondering if the proliferation of minor right-wing parties is a sign of the times. Right wing voters are spoilt for choice this election.

There are less options for Left and Green supporters.

But whatever your inclination, particularly if it involves a minor party, read those manifestos very carefully.

You may get more than you bargained on. Am I any clearer about how I’m going to vote? Only in that I know who I definitely won’t be voting for.

Therese Humphries