The pre-selected Liberal candidate for the seat of Bega will be struggling at the polls as the electorate looks at the continuing deterioration of health, housing and education in the region.
Adding to the woes that currently beset the NSW Liberal government will be the spotlight that the Greens will place on the sub-optimal performance of government, especially in the last year that has seen a veritable absence of the local member as he announced his resignation to instead focus on gaining a Federal seat as a Liberal Party candidate in Gilmore.
The Bega Valley and Eurobodalla Greens are pleased to announce that Peter Haggar will be standing, as their candidate in the upcoming by-election for the NSW State electorate of Bega.
“These are tumultuous times and I am committed to policy solutions based on the best available knowledge on behalf of local communities. Now is not the time for wishful thinking, faith based, or ideological decision making,” Mr Haggar says.
“I am determined to start conversations and implement proven solutions to vital issues affecting our region.
“Foremost among these is the role that native forest logging played in the ‘Black Summer’ bushfires and the urgent need to change our relationship to our native forests if we are to safeguard both our environment and our communities.
“A strong, well resourced, health system is essential, particularly during this pandemic. The recent bushfires and current pandemic has highlighted too many weaknesses in our health system, including mental health services and these must be addressed as a priority.
“The South Coast is also experiencing an existential housing crisis created by the special interest economic rationalism of the major parties.
“Another high priority for me and the Greens is the role that a strong TAFE system plays in integrating our young people, local workplaces and communities.
“Fundamental to my approach across all policy areas is improving our relationship with peoples of the Yuin nation and recognising not only that their rights were never ceded and also that they have leadership roles to play in the years ahead.
He says that all of these conversations need to take place in the knowledge of the urgency of real action to reduce climate emissions and build climate resilience.
Mr Haggar has lived in the Bega Valley for 15 years raising a family and operating Café Evolve, a thriving café in the heart of Bega known for its focus on waste reduction, use of compostable packaging and support for local suppliers.
“A thriving future filled with joy is still possible but we must act now,” he says.
Also contesting the seat will be Dr Michael Holland, standing as a Labor candidate.
Dr Michael Holland to stand in Bega by-election
