MEET THE CANDIDATE - Mary Lynette Le Myre, independent Whangarei electorate

 

This is the first in a series of interviews with local candidates standing in the forthcoming general election.

Mary Le Myre, independent candidate, Whangarei electorate

 Q: Why are you standing?

 A:  I am standing because I believe that I have a calling to do this now. 

Q: Why have you decided to stand for Parliament as an independent?

A: Perhaps it’s because I’ve always been an independent thinker and doer. I believe that I have a lot more to offer by being free from the ties, expectations and party policy. 

   
Q: Have you ever been a member of a political party?

A: Yes. I stood as a Social Credit candidate in the early 80s.

 

Q: What was the moment that convinced you to run?

A: It kept coming to mind, not one moment but many times over the years. I do believe that I have a calling to do this, however impossible it may seem.

 

Q: Which political parties did you consider joining, and why did you reject them?

A: Labour, but still tied to beliefs I do not share.

 

Q: Why should voters choose you over a candidate from a major party?

A: Choosing me gives them a totally committed representative to fight for the constituents' rights and needs. I would not be tied to any party’s agenda.

Q: If elected, how would you be more effective than an MP backed by a major party?

 A: I could back any party that is promoting something that my constituency wants or needs.

Q: Would you support a National-led government, a Labour-led government, or sit on the cross benches and decide on a case-by-case basis?

A:   I would decide on a case-by-case basis.

Q: Are there any parties you would refuse to work with?

 A: Not at this stage.

 Q: What is the single biggest challenge facing Whangarei?

A: The single biggest challenge facing WHANGĀREI is the deterioration of the living standard for many. Example: unemployment, homelessness, crime and apathy.

Q: What experience do you have that prepares you for Parliament?

A: I have a QBL degree  (qualified by living). I have a common-sense approach to life and see Northland as a whole as the Cinderella of the North Island.

 

Q: Why do you think previous independent candidates have generally struggled to win seats?

A:   I don’t know but would guess that lack of monetary backing and going against the norm would be reasons.

 Q: Do you think you will win the electorate?

 A: I wouldn’t be running if I didn’t think I could win.