Rail group chairwoman standing for council

Mary Liza Manuel

GISBORNE Rail Action Group chairwoman Mary Manuel has announced her candidacy for Gisborne District Council.

The Gisborne-Napier rail line, as part of an integrated transport system, is a key part of her campaign platform.

“I have governance experience from campaigning on local issues and leading the local campaign to save the rail,’’ she said.

“I will commit to an integrated transport system and believe that local economic development requires the rail, port and road working well together.

“I’m committed to seeing our regional economy as the centre focus of a 15-year long-term plan, with a focus on growth and development.

“We need collaboration with local businesses and better relationships with central government, iwi and local communities to help us thrive together for a truly sustainable future. I’m passionate about sustainable business expansion to ensure job creation.

“We want to see the market thriving but I see it equally as important to ensure that even the field workers share in the delight of satisfying basic needs for every local family.”

Ms Manuel said she would stand in the city ward where she would continue to be “a strong voice advocating for the community’’.

“I bring the skills and attributes to lead and ensure that public participation will have real influence on council decision-making.”

Nominations for Gisborne District Council, the Gisborne mayoralty and Hauora Tairatwhiti close on Friday.