Waimakariri MP Matt Doocey is excited to be launching a new platform of engagement with residents across the electorate, with a monthly series of Facebook Live sessions.

“I enjoy being an accessible and hands-on local MP, so I’m really excited to be launching a new way of keeping connected to residents,” Doocey said.

“Engaging with residents online will build on my more traditional methods of meeting residents, such as at my offices in Kaiapoi and Rangiora or my monthly community clinics in Oxford and Belfast.

 “Unfortunately with restrictions over the past two years many events have not been possible, and many meetings have been moved to virtual platforms.”

Doocey said with the new Facebook Live set-up he was looking forward to hearing from constituents about local issues, from the comfort of their own home, whether they are isolating or not.

“It’s vital now more than ever that we keep connected. As local MP I want to be accessible to all constituents, and this is just another way for me to do that.”

The sessions, called Around the Electorate Live!, will kick off on Tuesday April 19 and cover local topics like Waimakariri’s after-hours progress, the Woodend Bypass, and the recent closure of Oxford Hospital, plus whatever questions and issues residents bring to the table.

Doocey will be inviting questions and discussion from residents about their local concerns during each monthly half hour session, which will focus on the top issues that month.