Editorial: Local MP earns our respect

I am not about to divulge my political leanings but I think credit should be given to our local MP Todd McClay.

Unlike some politicians - including local body ones - he's not just the type to only be seen in the lead-up to an election.

Us media are a canny lot and we certainly notice those who only start flicking out regular press releases or suddenly want to comment on everything when voting time draws near.

Mr McClay has proven himself to be different.

Only months after the last election, he gave up part of his Christmas Day to help serve lunch for Rotorua's homeless and lonely.

He could have easily ticked the "I'm clearly popular" box and not bothered. That shows his interest and eagerness to help is genuine.

He's proven himself to care about his constituents again.

A regular in helping us with the The Daily Post Christmas Appeal for the Salvation Army, Mr McClay was among the first to donate, giving us $250.

Disappointed he couldn't attend a can drive in Springfield and Glenholme last month, he compensated by holding his own mini can drive and collected more than 400 items of food from local dairies and some of the city's smaller supermarkets.

The Daily Post then decided to hold another can drive this week in Ngongotaha, so Mr McClay and his son, Sam, came along to knock on doors.

Again, he could have ticked the "I've done my bit for The Daily Post Christmas Appeal" box. But he didn't.

It's refreshing to see a politician like this.

What do you think?

Email editor@dailypost.co.nz, text DP then your message to 021 241 4568, or write to editor, PO Box 1442, Rotorua.

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