I am not interested in being drawn into political games.
That is how Member for Mackillop Nick McBride has retorted to allegations against him by Opposition and Liberal Party leader David Speirs of failing to stand up and deliver for the community.
In an interview with this newspaper, Mr Speirs said costs of living, housing, workforce shortages, and healthcare were getting worse under the Labor government, and they are concerned that Mr McBride seemed to have become Labor’s voice in the South East instead of standing up for what’s best for the region.
Mr McBride said this was not true, and he was not interested in this “political game”.
“That is exactly why I left the Liberal Party. My focus is on delivering for my community, and I always put the people in MacKillop first. That is my number one priority,” he said.
Mr McBride said he was “always here” for MacKillop” and was a proud elected member.
“As a fiercely local and now independent member with decades of experience in politics, business, and farming, I am in the best position to deliver.
“I am free to work with all sides of politics for the best outcomes for the community in which I live.
“I am always listening to the people who live in MacKillop. I am continuously engaging with local, state, and federal decision-makers to develop solutions that benefit our community.”
He claimed his research showed that the community was more than happy with his commitment to them and trusted him to address the challenges they faced together.
“I always welcome feedback from all my constituents.
“My advocation has helped deliver on a key concern of communications, with 27 mobile phone towers being rolled out to address mobile blackspots.
“I am working with the government and the health networks on vital healthcare improvements.
“I am working to address the regional housing shortage, and I am working on improving our road network. My focus is on delivering outcomes for the MacKillop electorate.”
Mr McBride said that as an independent member, it was his aim to work with whoever was in government to get the best results for my electorate.
“I am always here for MacKillop, meeting constituents and understanding the challenges that are faced by individuals, communities, and businesses.
“I won’t stop fighting to get the best outcomes, including ensuring that community health in Lucindale, Coonalpyn, and Tintinara is restored, keeping the government accountable on its pledge to review the Naracoorte Hospital, and continuing to fight to get the best outcomes, including ensuring the 27 mobile phone towers are placed.”
Related story: Leader “Speirs” McBride
This article appeared in the Naracoorte Community News.
