8 APRIL 2002
Alliance Party Goes To First Candidate Selection Since Last Weeks Defections
It is business as usual for the Alliance Party today as it goes to its first candidate selection meeting following the
defection of Jim Anderton and some other M.P.s last week.
Tonight selection takes place for the high profile Wellington Central seat.
“One very strong nomination has been received for the candidature,” said Alliance President, Matt McCarten. “The
nomination is that of senior trade unionist and political activist, Robert Reid.”
“Robert is co-convener of Workers Alliance and a member of the Alliance Council,” said Matt McCarten. “In addition to
his trade union work he has a long history of involvement in peace and international issues on one side and local
employment and economic development issues on the other. Although a founding member of NewLabour and the Alliance, this
is the first time the Robert has offered himself for candidate selection for the Party.”
“Robert Reid is the first of a number of high calibre people who are now offering themselves as candidates for the
Alliance. Over the last few days I have sensed a positive feeling of renewal in the party. There is more optimism and
enthusiasm out there for the Alliance than there has been for many months,” Matt McCarten said.
The selection meeting will take place at Crossways, Elizabeth Street, Wellington at 7.30 pm tonight, Monday 8 April
Ends