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Pete McAskie is deeply concerned by the unequal nature of society but has always felt that the greatest problems we face are environmental. Global warming is now acknowledged as a reality. We must seriously address it. Caring for our life support systems is paramount. Addiction to increasing consumption and constant growth are leading to rapid environmental deterioration. We need to rethink our values.
After graduating in Psychology Pete worked with addicts for two years, travelled in Asia then ran his own antique toy business for 30 years, becoming internationally known as a leading specialist. In the 70's he was involved in the anti-nuclear power movement, helping to organise 1980s "Fright Train" demonstrations questioning the safety of nuclear waste transport. In the 80's he had 2 sons and was a parent school governor.
Pete then joined Friends of the Earth and the Green Party. Initially more active in FOE, he became more involved with the Green Party, attracted by its in-depth analysis of the causes of and solutions to problems, looking at political, social and economic considerations. He worked at the party's national office as an administrator and did research for Jenny Jones, then London's Green Deputy Mayor. For two years he was on the Green Party National Executive and has performed many other roles within the party.
In 36 years in Haringey his involvement has included the health cuts campaign, Sustainable Haringey, his local residents association and the concrete plant. Over some years he has engaged with the issues of Stroud Green ward, currently he is on the management committee of Hornsey Vale Community Centre.
Green councillors will make a difference. Planning, more effective consultation, more weight given to environmental impact assessments, higher environmental standards in building; defending public services against privatisation; traffic reduction; a living wage for all Londoners; more facilities for early to mid teens; recycling, we are far behind western Europe.
Exacerbating Middle Eastern problems by our foreign policy must cease. Opposition to oppressive government should not be decided solely by economic or strategic interests, it should be automatic. Too often we support oppressive regimes.
source: www.haringey.greenparty.org.uk
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