Monday 6 December 1999

It was interesting to read recently, where local MP for East Hills, Mr Allan Ashton is passionately supporting the teachers, in the current Education dispute.

"I think it's great that Allan, is fiercely loyal to the class and chalkboard, from which he worked before his election to state parliament. In this day and age of pragmatism, it is refreshing to see a politician standing for his beliefs and not what will get him elected. Top marks Allan."

"I do however, caution Allan, that local Mums and Dads who find their local MP supporting one of the most militant unions we have seen in the 1990s, they will be disappointed. Principles are fine, but for say a Mum, who works casual/ part-time, who takes time off work because of the strike, it's costing that family a lot of money. This is all they care about."

"Even if this principle is a right cause, Mr Ashton better start explaining to those Mums and Dads, why he supports this action, or risk a backlashing at the next poll."

Contact Max to discuss these or any other issues