Humbled and honoured
Despite being nearly at the end of 2020, we are just starting a brand new Parliamentary term. I am humbled and honoured to have been reelected as the Member of Parliament for Bay of Plenty in New Zealand’s 53rd Parliament and I am grateful for the support given to me locally.
While the election result did not go the way many of us hoped, one thing that will not change is my determination to be the best advocate for my constituents that I can be. Ōmokoroa, Pahoia and Whakamārama are no longer in the Bay of Plenty electorate, having been absorbed into Scott Simpson’s electorate of Coromandel. However, I will still be closely following the issues that affect people in this area and I will continue to hold monthly constituent clinics, which will be held at the Te Puna Hall.
It’s been a year of challenges for many of us. Covid19 continues to affect New Zealanders in their jobs, businesses and relationships. Tourism and hospitality operators will continue to struggle while our borders remain closed and importers and exporters will continue to experience difficulties with international freight limitations. Families are still separated while the Government continues to keep work visa holders out and businesses are struggling to employ experienced staff.
My own personal issues this year have highlighted the degree of stress and anxiety in our community. Numerous constituents, and people from throughout New Zealand, have shared their own experiences around mental health. It’s been remarkable to hear from such a large number of people who are comfortable sharing their sad stories and, while it’s awful to hear these stories, the fact that New Zealanders are talking about their struggles publicly is heartening and I believe will help us as a community to find the help so many people need.
I look forward to seeing you out and about and, as always, my team and I remain available to assist constituents with their queries and concerns.