End of year summary
Thank you to voters who have re-elected me as the MP for Otaki. It’s a huge privilege to represent the people of Kapiti and Horowhenua in Parliament and I will continue to work hard over the next three years.
My majority increased to over 5000 votes, which I’m very proud of. I’ve also been promoted into John Key’s Cabinet as the Minister of Immigration, Racing, Veterans Affairs and the Associate Minister for Primary Production.
It will mean a busier workload, but my offices in Paraparaumu and Levin will continue to do a great job supporting local constituents.
With my rural background I have a good understanding of primary production, and I’m looking forward to taking the lead on immigration policy.
Racing and Veteran Affairs are also important portfolios. As the local MP I visit race meetings in Otaki and Foxton, and I regularly attend ANZAC Day and Armistice Day celebrations with local veterans.
I’ve found that being a Minister in the Government makes me a more effective MP, better able to get things done locally.
My big local priority is to get the Kapiti expressway started, and firm up the route from Otaki to around Levin. This will mean safer roads, less congestion and a real boost to the local economy.
Once finished, Levin will be just an hour’s drive away from the Wellington CBD.
I also want to see through the upgrade of Shannon’s drinking water supply, Foxton’s home insulation scheme and look forward to seeing more police on the streets of Levin.
Right now though, I’m looking forward to the Christmas break. My family and I are going camping and out to Waitarere beach to recharge the batteries.
Thank you again for all your support. I wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and all the best for 2012. No doubt it will be another big year.