Damien O’Connor, Labour

(Incumbent electorate MP)

Economic development and decent jobs are the single biggest challenge for the West CoastTasman electorate. While we have a range of industries, the wages are not always sufficient to provide a decent income for West Coast-Tasman residents. The recent National Government growth study does little to develop new ideas for new jobs in a world of constant disruption. The traditional industries of dairy, tourism, fishing and horticulture will continue to underpin our regional economy but must provide better career paths and wage rates to support thriving local communities. The development of regional brands that add value and better identify our products must be a key component of future economic development. More money from central government is needed to upgrade and maintain core infrastructure such as road and rail.

Access to affordable, local health services is the single biggest social challenge for the electorate. Without the security of good health services, people will move from the region and not invest in the necessary business and job opportunities that will drive our future. Too many people are having to wait to get access to healthcare and travel long distances for that care. Affordability of healthcare is becoming a challenge for too many West Coast-Tasman constituents. Mental health services must be better funded to provide the support for individuals and families who need them. Only in this way will young and old feel confident they can get healthcare when and where they need it. Incentives will be needed to maintain health practitioners and services in rural areas to support the industries that drive our local and New Zealand economy.