'I inherited my father's belief in public service and community involvement. This has always underpinned my political thinking.'

'There's a lot of rough and tumble in politics. That just comes with the territory. There are real clashes of values being argued over. Differences are not just unavoidable - they are essential to democracy. Our society is better for it.'

'I look for the common good - that's what excites me.'

'Governments and politicians must take responsibility for protecting and promoting people's best interests in a more substantial and sophisticated way. This includes recognising that economic, social and environmental interests are complementary - rather than competing - policy goals.'