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Steven Wilkinson - West Coast/Tasman campaign |
Steven Wilkinson
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Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party has accepted Steven Wilkinson as their representative to contest the West Coast/Tasman electorate. This will be Steven Wilkinson's third election and second time representing Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party.
"I've learnt a few things from the last elections. Using the last three years to talk to people in the area, I feel that I have a better understanding of the importance's of the constituent's needs" says Steven Wilkinson.
Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party acknowledges Steven's Dedication, understanding of the issue, and his loyalty to the West Coast/Tasman area.
When asked what he thought his biggest campaigning challenge would be? "Limited funds for travelling down one of the longest electorate in the country. I just travel 822 kilometres return to campaign at wild foods in Hokitika. For me travelling will be the biggest hurdle".
Steven Wilkinson said "I think its important that the individual has a voice. I feel that cannabis users have no voice out there to speak for them. Prohibition places cannabis users into a stigmatising category, which forces them to keep their use secret, in fear of loosing their jobs or worse. While cannabis users do not come from one side of the political spectrum but across the whole swing, from doctors to unemployed, alternatives to farmers. They all know the true harms of prohibition, and that regulation is the only responsible way to handle cannabis in our society".
Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party has become more active, in response to a fast spreading, grass-roots movement that's wanting change in the cannabis laws, feeling its time. ALCP is placing itself to represent this move. "There is a large feeling of dissent towards both major parties, who are becoming indistinguishable. As well as disillusioned Green party supporters. For these voters we represent a protest vote, as the major parties have drifted away from core values and common sense" claims Steven Wilkinson.
Steven Wilkinson was asked, that since he was representing Aotearoa Legalise Cannabis Party, who's only goal is seeing cannabis removed from the Misuse of Drugs Act (1975) and regulated along side alcohol and tobacco. Was he suited to represent West Coast/Tasman? "Cannabis regulation is a very important issue for me. I see regulation as a less harmful strategy than prohibition, plus I see many important offshoots from regulation, which I feel are probably the reason for prohibition in the first place. Things like non-toxic medicinal research and development, diesel-oil, paper, textiles, and many more other applications.
No other plant on this planet is as multi-versatile as cannabis. It has a short growing season, ideal for the Coast's conditions, where farmers can supplement their annual income with a crop of cannabis grown for the paper, textile, or medicinal industry. With the cost of importing going up, it makes sense to produce onshore, good for the economy and employment".
He continued by saying, "Besides the cannabis issue, I'm putting myself up as "honest" representation for West Coast/Tasman. I found from my travels and talking to people, that everyone on the Coast, are very individualistic, and with a independent spirit, differing from the rest of the country. I see that they don't need a party hack to represent them, but someone who'll listen, and speak-up for them. Someone will to walk down the hall and knock on doors. I'm that person."
Steven is a solo father with two boys, and has lived in Golden Bay for 10 years, growing up in the area. While his father was born and bred in Motueka.
"I'm looking forward to this campaign and am confident that I will be the best representative for West Coast/Tasman."
Steven Wilkinson
mobile: 027 7513986
e-mail: steven (at) alcp.org.nz
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