21 June, 2013

Wellington: Speak Up!

Wellington faces some big challenges so it’s essential eligible Wellingtonians vote in the council elections in September, says Onslow-Western Ward Labour council candidate, Malcolm Aitken.

“Wellington City Council is at a crossroads this election with, for example, amalgamation as a possibility; high unemployment, especially among youth; fundamental public transport changes; and plans to internationalise the airport on a new level and create more jobs through the airport runway extension,” Mr Aitken says.

“It’s vital people participate in the postal vote. Papers are scheduled to be sent out on 20 September and voting will close on 12 October. I urge people to exercise their legal right rather than just being bystanders to the process.

“I have a certain amount of empathy for people’s cynicism about local body politics, but I believe, among other factors, we need some fresh faces and new ideas. That’s not going to happen if people don’t vote. If you want a voice on the future composition of council, make sure you are enrolled and that you vote.
“A higher voter turnout for the elections would also put a big bold line under the fact that Wellington is alive and kicking, we’re far from dying.”

· If you’re not enrolled or want to check whether you are, free text your name and address to “3676,” call 0800 36 76 56 or pick up an enrolment form from any PostShop.

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