Paul Rowen MP: Letter from Parliament - Happy New Year

Paul Rowen MP

Paul Rowen MP would like to wish all Rochdale Online readers a 'Happy New Year.' Mr Rowen said, "I know that many people across Rochdale have struggled at Christmas because of the bleak economic environment. I only hope that this New Year will see an upturn in fortunes for local people.

"2009 brings a new set of challenges for Rochdale and I am determined to ensure that I do my level best to use my position in Parliament to deliver results for the town I was brought up in. I would like to wish the people of our Town a happy and peaceful New Year and a prosperous 2009.

"I would like to wish Rochdale Online the best of luck for their move to new premises in Castleton. I am sure that Councillors Pat and Ted Flynn with Councillor Peter Davison will keep a keen eye on them.

This Christmas was tarnished with Israel launching huge attacks on the people of Gaza. Hundreds of people have already been injured including many innocent children and women as well many more being injured and losing their homes. I hope that these disproportionate attacks will be met by severe pressure from both the British and American Governments.

2008 was the year that the people of Rochdale overwhelmingly turned down the TIF (Transport Innovation Fund Bid). I have officially written to Transport Secretary Geoff Hoon, asking for a slice of the £1.5 Billion that has been sent back to Government. This money would fund the Metrolink spur for our Railway Station to our Town Centre. This money is vital, not in terms of an integrated transport system but also in terms of economic regeneration.

"I will be working with my colleagues Councillors Zulfiqar Ali and Peter Davison to bring new shuttle buses to our town in the interim.

"I am delighted that 2009 sees the launch of my new website for 2009."

The bespoke website is already receiving thousands of views and is designed to give Rochdale residents an insight into Mr Rowen's busy schedule in Rochdale and London. Mr Rowen said: "On this non-political website you can find out my latest speech in Parliament, my questions to Government Ministers and their answers as well as Paul's next surgery dates and news from Rochdale. I would like to thank the developers of Rochdale Online for their professionalism; I am delighted with the results."

My office reopens on Monday 5 January from 9am - 5pm. The normal office hours then apply. The next surgery is:

Location: 142a, Drake Street, Rochdale, OL16 1PS 
Call for an appointment for this one ONLY - 712186
Date: 08 January 2009
Time: 3.00pm-5.00pm