Friday 16 September 2005
Russell Caldwell - Te Tai Tonga candidate for Progressive Party
Party Vote Progressive for insurance against Maori Party stance
Electors in the Maori electorates should consider giving their Party Voteto Progressive in the wake of the shock
announcement today by the Maori Party that it is open to propping up a Don Brash-led government after Saturday, says
Progressive Te Tai Tonga candidate Russell Caldwell.
"The Progressive Party is the small party that actually has the strongest track record in promoting industry training
and industry and regional development which are so absolutely vital to uplifting all New Zealanders out of unemployment
and low-paid jobs," Russell Caldwell said today.
"I think we are known for our proactive no-nonsense approach to development, training and the campaign against alcohol
and other drug abuse and I think many people also know how Jim Anderton and Matt Robson have strongly led the coalition
government's work in these fields over the past six years.
"The strong economic development progress, and the efforts to reduce the >harm caused by alcohol and other drugs
hangs in the balance tomorrow.
"New Zealanders, and that of course includes Maori, can't afford a National-led government. The reality is that
National's track record, and its threat to dis-enfranchise electors in the Maori seats, is unforgiveable to most of us"
"Today both Whatarangi Winiata, the president of the Maori Party, and Dr Pita Sharples, the Maori Party's co-leader
confirmed on radio that the Maori Party is open to propping up a National-led government and it is absolutely vital that
any person in the seven Maori electorates that is against a National-led government should please carefully consider
giving your Party Vote to Progressive," he said.
Russell Caldwell's iwi affiliations are Ngai Tahu and Te Arawa. His Ngai Tahu connections stem from Tuturau near Mataura
in Southland. His Te Arawa
side is Ngati Whakaue of Maketu.
ENDS