Another Dunne deal for Ohariu?s Perennial MP
With another term as Ohariu MP secured, Tim O?Connell spoke to United Future leader Peter Dunne as he prepares to climb aboard the new John Key-led government.? ?The 2008 election result was somewhat bittersweet for Peter Dunne and the United Future party. ?Despite his party gaining only 0.9 per cent of the overall party vote,? Dunne captured an eighth term as an electorate MP on November 8. He defeated his nearest rival Labour list MP Charles Chauvel by a margin of 1152 votes. The dust had barely settled after the election before Mr Dunne was asked by Prime Minister John Key to discuss the composition of the new government. At the time of press it was anticipated that Peter Dunne would be given a ministerial position outside of cabinet and other sources have tipped that he may be offered the role of Parliament?s speaker. While no new light could be shed on his involvement either in or out of caucus, the Petone Herald found Mr Dunne still motivated to serve his constituents. ?I have always worked on the basis of serving my constituents interests first, with my other responsibilities coming second to that. ??That remains the case now and meeting my constituents needs will continue to be my top priority.? Mr Dunne believes his experience and knowledge of how to run an effective coalition has won him favour with John Key enabling him to be a part of the new National administration. When asked if his decision to side with National in post-election negotiations had contributed to his win in Ohariu, Mr Dunne hinted that his decision showed a bit of political foresight. ?Given the strong mood for change across the country it was probably a positive influence on my retaining the seat. ??I am aware that for some people it was a reason to change their vote to Labour.? Mr Dunne paid tribute to the legacy of outgoing Prime Minister and Labour leader, Helen Clark. He acknowledged that she had served the country well and set a high standard for her successors to follow. ?She is one of the most straightforward people I have ever worked with and I have always got on well with her.? As for his wider political future, it seems Mr Dunne?s eyes are constantly on the petrol gauge, although there is plenty of juice in the tank. ?Ever since my first term in Parliament, I have reassessed my position during the term before deciding to stand again. ??I will do precisely the same before the next election.? ?
