Two interesting developments yesterday by the UBP:
The first was the announcement that former Warwick North East (#25) candidate and former Senator Mark Pettingill will be moving to Warwick West (28) - the district I am about to move out of.
Current UBP candidate and Shadow Education Minister Neville Darrell will be stepping down after one term in the House and one in the Senate. I understand Mr. Darrell is stepping down for personal reasons, he'll be missed. While some criticize him for keeping a relatively low media profile he works hard behing the scenes and is a thoughtful person. My hope is that he resurfaces in the Senate.
Mr. Pettingill adds some legal expertise which is sorely needed in the legislature, as well as tenacious debating skills and a high profile.
He's a solid candidate, but he needs to get out and hit the pavement.
Secondly was the story on ZBM news (and maybe others) that the UBP's Pembroke team has been very active assisting the residents in collecting school supplies for needy families and will be holding a community back to school event.
This is such a positive move on a number of levels, not the least of which is that Pembroke has been a PLP stronghold but has been neglected by their PLP representatives.
For the UBP to make a strong push in Pembroke shows that they are willing to work in all constituencies, and helping people who are struggling to get their children school supplies is a great way to have a meaningful and measurable impact.
Keep it simple. This initiative isn't just good for the community, it's by extension good politics.
