One of the sackings I am proud of was when I was sacked by Stephen Joyce from NZTA board. The Minister had interfered with a decision we had to make as a board on a particular road which assisted a local National Party MP. The Chair, Brian Roche, gave into Ministerial bullying, as did most of the rest of the Board. 2 of us followed the recommendation of the staff, the local council, the local community, and the local Iwi about a solution which the Minister didn’t agree with and we were both sacked for having a contradictory opinion to him.
This new Minister seems to be cut from the same dogmatic rock as Joyce with his Roads of National Significence. I really question somebody making such doctrinaire comments as he has, as he appears to have had limited life experiences to date. He entered parliament at the age of 25. His focus on roads, roads, roads, and the removal of alternative transportation methods is, quite frankly, dangerous. What is worse he is also Minister of Local Government. At a time when LG is really struggling, LG couldn’t have got a worse Minister. He’s young, inexperienced, and dogmatic. His appointment really does show how Central Government totally dishes LG.
This guy is dangerous. He is an example of an unskilled, young, person addicted to tribal politics who will use this narrow view to judge all issues. My advice to LG. Send your Tories in to speak with this guy. Otherwise, he won’t listen.
In the next Tuesday Club notes I will start to analyse the implications of some of his bad decisions.
Good to see you back in harness and voice Garry ! Keep up the good work and we will make this National govt a one term one !
I really do hope so! Everyday a new horror!