Greens Returned - With Interest

Sun, 28 Jul 2002

The Green Party is delighted at having increased its vote and representation in Parliament, Co-leaders Jeanette Fitzsimons and Rod Donald said today.

"New Zealand has given the mandate for a centre-left government to be formed and we are looking forward to playing a pivotal role in that government," Rod Donald said.

Bright young Maori lawyer Metiria Turei will join the Green team in Parliament as an eighth MP, while special votes could yet see Mike Ward join her.

"Support amongst Maori has skyrocketed over the last three years and so Metiria's advent is particularly appropriate," said Rod Donald. "We now look forward to working constructively with Labour to lay the groundwork for a new three-year administration."

"It is important for the country to have stability during the transition," commented Jeanette Fitzsimons. "It is also important for the country to know what kind of government to expect over the next three years, rather than changing horses in midstream."

"We have expressed our preference for the formation of a centre-left, Labour-led government but now we must sit down with Labour and begin the important task of determining what that government will achieve. Obviously, we are committed to the extension of the moratorium on commercial GE release, but we have a wide range of policies that we expect to see progress on.

"We have high hopes for a constructive relationship but it is important to make clear that our support beyond the formation of the Government is dependent on the result of negotiations with Labour."

The returning seven Green MPs and supporters will gather on the steps of Parliament on Monday at 4pm to welcome Metiria Turei to their ranks. Media are invited to come and meet Metiria and talk to the Green team.

Ends

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