ACT becomes increasingly irrelevant and the Maori Party is riven with dissension over its Faustian bargain in government. The Green Party continues to define itself as separate from Labour, genuinely independent and offering an alternative political-economic philosophy that is qualitatively different and right for the times.
On 8 April the Memorandum of Understanding between National and the Greens was publicly announced. As the Prime Minister said, about one-third of National supporters want to see cooperation with the Greens since they harbour deep concern for the future of the planet and their families. We should welcome that while showing the challenge is not simply to
‘balance economic opportunity with environmental responsibilities’ (National’s catch-phrase) but make the economy respect the environment for survival’s sake. Once they make that transition in thinking, we’ll lead them towards proper notions of social responsibility and justice. Then, National will have embraced our philosophy.
Personally it’s been a busy time with questions and statements in the House plus media interviews on overseas investment, aid, climate change, war crimes and nuclear disarmament. I’m now beginning to get a feel for the place and figuring out how it works. Just as well since I am now Musterer for the Party.
Aoraki Greens are clearly growing in strength which is exciting. I have met with Port Hills (and Ilam of course) and am meeting soon with East, Central and Waimakariri. I’m looking forward to catching up with other electorates before long. And at the national level we’re preparing for a series of public meetings on the Green New Deal, one of which will be in Christchurch. Kia kaha, everyone, and let’s work on expanding our membership even more.
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