What our candidates say... Democrats

I've asked all candidates standing for the Federal seat of Leichhardt four questions.

Here's the first in, from the Democrats candidate, Bridgette Lennox:

• 1. What are your top 3 priorities for Leichhardt?
  
  Climate change action; health care access, affordability and quality; restoration of a balanced Senate that is independent of the government
  
  2. Are workers adequately protected under current law?
  
  No - we want to see the restoration of awards with minimum conditions and pay rates to underpin both individual and collective agreements; we support the role of unions in protecting and fighting for workers' rights and conditions; we support the right to collectively bargain; we want an independent and well-resourced regulatory body restored.
  
  3. Is the balance of environment and development issues in the electorate of concern to your party?
  
  The Democrats have always been an "environment party" - but we also recognise that a sensible approach is needed. There is always tension between environmental protection and development - but with all parties working together I believe good outcomes can be achieved - developers recognise more and more that it is in their interests to maintain a healthy, diverse environment.
  
  4. Would you work the relationship with Cairns City Council differently?
  
  I believe there needs to be greater dialogue between all levels of government - and federal government has to play a lead role in this, by avoiding playing the blame game and buck passing, by involving all stakeholders in issues to work out best results for all.