10 August 2007

Mayoral front-runner Bob Parker will not be bullied into signing his 2021 rival Megan Woods' pledge to keep public assets - even though he agrees with it.

The mayoralty contest heated up yesterday with Cr Parker saying he "most definitely would not" sign the pledge of any political group.

Cr Parker said he would not be put on the spot over the issue.

Last week 2021 launched a policy stating it would not sell off any of Christchurch's public assets like the Lyttelton Port Company, Christchurch Airport and Red Bus.

Cr Parker also agreed selling public assets was not in the city's best interests. As a result of that there has been some pressure for Cr Parker to sign a pledge similar to 2021.

"It s quite clear why I will not be signing a lobby group's pledge," he said.

"My pledge is to the citizens of Christchurch, not some lobby group."

Cr Parker said he would "enthusiastically" make a written public declaration to act faithfully and impartially and to the best of his skill and judgment to execute the duties and responsibilities vested in him on behalf of his city.

"On election to the mayor's office I will sign this document and copies will be available to all who want it," he said.

"All councillors and community board members will be asked to sign the same pledge."

The 2021 public asset policy was followed yesterday by their democracy policy, which was launched in City Mall.

Dr Woods promised to make city council decision-making and elected members more accessible, transparent and accountable under 2021's leadership.

"The 2021 team is committed to providing a strong voice for the people of Christchurch in decision-making," she said.

"In order to get value for our rates dollar it is important council gets its consultation right. As Mayor I would work to fundamentally change the way council engages with the people of Christchurch to prevent mistakes."

The "mistakes" included councillors deciding to reintroduce traffic into City Mall, demolishing the Edgeware Pool and the planned $100m civic offices.

Cr Parker criticised 2021's policy launches and said creating policies without full consultation with councillors, community boards and the public went against democracy.

For further comment contact:
Megan Woods - 2021 Candidate for Mayor
Mobile: 027 669 0457
Email: megan@megan4mayor.com