19 April 2015

James Shaw launches Green Party Co-leader campaign

Green Party MP James Shaw today outlined what his approach would be as next male Co-leader of the Green party.

“I am looking forward to this campaign because now is the right time for the party to decide what it wants for its future,” Mr Shaw said.

“The reality is that Green issues have never been more important, yet we face being less relevant.

“If we want action on climate change or to see child poverty eradicated then the Green Party needs to achieve at least 15 percent of the vote.

“Politics is a numbers game and to be relevant we need to be a bigger force.

“The future of our political movement is in the hands of our members. Our party has a proud record of innovation and change and I hope it makes that choice again.

“By the time of the 2017 election I will have been in Parliament for three years, and we have an experienced caucus and strong Co-leader in Metiria Turei.

“Last election I delivered 30 percent in Wellington Central for the Greens, I started the London Greens, I've run successful local council campaigns. Campaigning is in my bones.

“I also understand the incredible value of the work Russel did on economic credibility and with 20 years of working in sustainable business I am the strongest candidate to continue that vital work.

“I am the candidate who can take New Zealanders with us on climate change and my skills and experience complement those Metiria brings to her leadership.

“Leadership contests don’t come round that often in the Greens, so when they do they are crucial. This decision isn’t about one electoral cycle. It’s about setting a direction for the future.

“This decision by our members is real democracy and it can put the Greens in a position of real influence in 2017.

“I am ready, willing and eager to lead. Vote James Shaw for a strong Green future.”

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