Thursday 27th September 2007

Ellis Endorsed - Left, Right and Centre

In what’s believed to be a first in New Zealand politics three Parliamentarians from three different political parties today announced their support for an Independent local government candidate.

Roger Ellis, who is standing as an Independent candidate for the Northern Ward of Wellington City Council has worked with all three MPs on several local community issues and in his professional capacity as a Government Relations manager.

Mr Ellis said “Naturally I am delighted that three Wellington Mps from three different parties have been prepared to endorse my candidacy for Council. It demonstrates that I am able to work with a variety of viewpoints, bring people together and deliver results”.

“I’m hoping that Northern Ward voters will give me the opportunity to represent them at the local government level. We all know that the Council needs improved communication – both with the public and between the various factions around the Council table. Over the next couple of weeks voters have the power to make the change”.

Labour MP, Hon. Paul Swain, said:

“As both a Member of Parliament and former Minister of Communications, I have worked with Roger over a number of years. I have found him to be a thoughtful, focused and constructive person and a very effective advocate for the people he represents. I am certain that he will make an important contribution to Wellington City”.

National MP, Mark Blumsky, said

'I've known Roger for many years going back to when he was President of the Churton Park Community Association in 2000 and I was Mayor of Wellington. Subsequently, as an MP, I have worked with Roger in his professional capacity as an advocate to Central government.

He has always performed this role with aplomb. His ability to listen, to develop workable solutions and to communicate effectively are outstanding. Indeed it is these skills that would help him to be an excellent city councillor were he to be elected to that position in October. He has my full support.' Meanwhile Ohariu Belmont MP and United Future leader, Hon Peter Dunne said:

'I have had the pleasure of working with Roger Ellis over the last ten years. Most recently this has been in conjunction with the Campaign For Local Schooling, the Churton Park Community Association and the North Wellington Voluntary Service Awards Organising Committee. I have no doubt that Roger will make an intelligent, positive and very capable City Councillor for the Northern Ward'.

Mr Ellis, a former Ministerial Adviser and Policy Analyst, is one of a handful of candidates to publish policy papers in advance of the local body election day on October 13th. His website is www.rogerellis.co.nz

ENDS

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