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

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