MRS ANN HERCUS Six crucial issues seen

Press, 16 November 1981, Page 29

MRS ANN HERCUS Six crucial issues seen

Jobs, homes, a decent living income, a fair taxation system, a growing and balanced economy, and Government and leadership which is open, decent, and wise—those are the crucial isaues in the 1981 election campaign, says the Labour member of Parliament for Lyttelton, Mrs Ann Hercus. Mrs Hercus, aged 39, has a bachelor of arts degree and a law degree. She is married to Mr John Hercus, director of the Christchurch Polytechnic and a member of the Labour Party’s Dominion Council. They have two sons, aged 20 and 19. “Our community cannot flourish and grow while we have high levels of unemployment. Our efficient port

needs more work,” Mrs Hercus says.

Higher taxation and the high cost of living make it hard for families and senior citizens, especially those on lower incomes. High interest rates kill the hopes of many home owners and small and medium businesses.

Mrs Hercus says that Lyttelton also faces many important local issues. The community must have the right to be heard on how liquid petroleum gas comes to Canterbury. Serious flooding problems should be eased.

There is a strong demand for a community-based secondary school in the south-east, and an even stronger demand to get the Lyttelton-Wellingtton ferry back, she says.

The Chatham Islands have at least got a new sealed airstrip, which was approved by the Labour Government in 1975. However, no decision has been made on What air service will be run.

Ir re-elected, Mrs Hercus pledges that she would keep

her electorate office open. It is in Ferry Road and is open six days a week. She would also continue to hold referenda on community issues and to send regular community newsletters to constituents. f

“I will continue to fight for the needs of the Lyttelton electorate and its people, and to promote the strengths of Canterbury and the Chatham Islands,” she says. She says she would continue to promote policies which would mean jobs for everyone, a fair taxation system, and an enterprising public and private sector. “Above all, I stand for open Government and wise, responsible, and sensitive leadership," she says.