Falklands : The Election Manifesto of John Birmingham (28/10/09)
Submitted by Falkland Islands News Network (Juanita Brock) 27.10.2009 (Article Archived on 10.11.2009)
John Birmingham explains why he wants to be elected to Falklands' Assembly.
John Birmingham Manifesto
The Economy
Our economy has not been immune from the World-wide downturn. Therefore, the new Government will have to take positive but realistic steps to make sure that spending is maintained at a sustainable level. The capital priorities have to be the maintenance of basic infrastructure – roads, transport and housing. These are also large employers.
If elected, I would support and encourage the involvement of local companies in the growing service sector, whether within the fishing, tourism or potential oil industries. There are opportunities and it is the duty of the Government to help to grow the private sector. The economy has to grow to give opportunities to our younger people coming through the system, be they graduates or the still unrecognised, in my mind, trades-people.
After 20 years of investment, parts of the agricultural economy are showing signs of entering profit. The next Government will have to make sure that this trend is replicated across the entire sector with whole income being taken into account.
I am very concerned with the lack of progress of the new port project. It has not been properly managed. If elected, I will work hard to make sure that the Islands get the port facilities that fit the requirements of a country and economy of the size that we are, but with room for gradual expansion. I would not agree with a large amount of money being spent just to satisfy somebody’s dream – we have to be realistic.
Housing
We need between 20 and 25 serviced plots each year. I support the development of new plots, outside central Stanley.
I would press for serious and practical ways of helping genuine first-time buyers e.g. with a discount scheme to assist them in taking the first step on the housing ladder. Surely housing has to be seen as a real investment in the future? I also believe it is time to reconsider the sale of older Government properties to sitting tenants – this was done some years ago and was very successful. Clearly the monies raised from the sale of these properties should be re-invested into new Government homes.
Medical
I consider the medical service to be one of the two main pillars of our society. I fully support the delivery of high quality primary health care, free of charge to all residents and, where possible, improving on what we already have in place.
We have to make sure we continue to take care of the vulnerable members of our society, including the young and the elderly with special needs. But, with ever increasing costs, I believe it is time to re-visit the introduction of a medical levy. There would have to be a contribution from every income earner.
Education
Education is the second pillar of our society. Every Islander deserves and should expect a quality all-round education. A full careers structure is needed that not only encompasses the Community School but extends beyond into further and higher education of both an academic and vocational nature. We must make sure that young Islanders can be optimistic about future prospects in the Islands.
The Constitution
The new constitution was a major step forward in the development of the Falkland Islands internal self government. There are two areas that need further attention. One of these is the unintentional consequence that some people, who happened to be outside of the Islands, lost their status at the beginning of this year. This was not by design and needs correcting.
The second is the constituency question. The camp has 262 voters returning 3 members. The Stanley constituency has over 1300 voters returning 5 members. It is unbalanced, unfair and in my opinion it has to change. If elected, I shall put forward that there should be a referendum to be organised before the mid-term of the next Assembly. A two thirds majority in favour is required for any change. The camp has nothing to fear from one constituency, in fact, I believe the camp would have a lot to gain from such a change.
Argentina &
Foreign Affairs
The importance of maintaining good relations with those who are supportive of our right to self determination should not be under estimated.
I believe that the attendance of Assembly Members at worthwhile International gatherings such as the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association, the United Nations, the United Kingdom party conferences or other appropriate venues should be continued to further our cause.
There is still a lot of mis-understanding in the World regarding our situation. We always have to be aware that our neighbours have large resources and are continually putting out mis-information about the Islands. Representation overseas by our sports teams is also of great value, as well as bringing individual benefits for those concerned; I am in favour of continued support for these events.
Previous Councils have shown firmness and been consistent in not being intimidated by pressures brought to bear by the Government of the Argentine Republic. The priority of any elected representative in the Falklands is to do what they consider to be in the best interests of the Islands. The firm stance towards Argentina must be upheld.
Having served on previous Councils I am proud of my record in following through with constituents’ problems.
I may not always be able to bring good news but I always respond.
Individuals are entitled to raise concerns, ask questions and should be listened to.
I believe in fairness, openness and service.
Remember, the 5th November
YOUR VOTE COUNTS
Any Questions?
Contact me:-
Telephone 21443
|
