Merepeka Raukawa-Tait: Contrasting attributes of two MPs

My stepdaughter used to tell me about a boy in her class at college who wanted to be an MP. She said he was bright and seemed certain his future would see him as an MP one day. She was rather bemused by this career choice, especially from someone still at college with probably no idea of the realities of political life.

I remember Kate asking me "what makes a good MP?". Back then I'm sure I would have given a very reasoned response along the lines of good character, honest and willing to do your best for the people you represent. Recently, I have revisited this question.

I would answer differently today because while good character is essential I believe more emphasis should be on MPs developing and having a sense of purpose beyond their own success. Two recent examples, both different, reveal what I mean.

Parekura Horomia was the MP for Ikaroa-Rawhiti for 17 years. He died two weeks ago.

I believe he was an outstanding MP, not because of what he did necessarily but because of who he was. His tenure was one of service.

Service to the people of his electorate in the first instance then to iwi Maori throughout the country. Parekura brought a wealth of life experience to the job of a MP. He could relate to those who had little in material terms but were blessed by being culturally strong and well connected to whanau, hapu and iwi. His pride in being Ngati Porou was evident to all.

He started his life as a labourer and worked in a variety of jobs that gave him insight to families who struggle to make ends meet in low-paid jobs. His work experience set him up to relate well to people from all walks of life; those in the workforce and those trying to get work. Parekura had "the people touch". I can't imagine him ever asking "don't you know who I am?" This statement would demonstrate a complete lack of humility, something to be avoided at all costs. He was in Parliament to serve, it was never about Parekura.

The trappings of office, he was Minister of Maori Affairs for six years, held no lasting attraction.

Like all trappings, their importance fades overtime.

Parekura's sole focus was to be the voice and advocate for those who had been overlooked for decades. He maintained remarkable personal humility.

He did well. The flip side has to be National List MP Aaron Gilmore. The complete opposite. Since appearing on TV we have seen little to suggest he has even a smidgeon of the desirable credentials suitable to be in our house of representatives.

It's true we can all stuff up from time to time. We let ourselves down and others too.

But a sincere apology, quickly delivered will normally allow us to make amends and sit upright again. You have to take your medicine. When an MP has difficulty accepting responsibility for his actions, is prepared to implicate others, has a history of alleged unprofessional and bullying behaviour you know that he is the wrong person to be in Parliament. Aaron Gilmore does not have the personal values and practices that include genuine contribution, respect for the individual, accountability to the public and a deeply held belief that to serve in their best interests is what he was in Parliament to do. He will not be missed. And the boy from Kate's class? He became an elected National MP many years ago. He is a current serving Minister of the Crown.