The Gloves are on

AS Marianne Saliba MP hangs up her gloves, she is throwing her support for the new seat of Shellharbour behind Lylea McMahon as she enters the political arena.

Ms Saliba made her Valedictory speech in Parliament last month, marking her retirement after eight years as Member for Illawarra.

In many ways I have been my own boss, she told the Lake Times.

At times my task has been difficult, but I have achieved some results on behalf of the community.

I only regret that I couldnt reach every person who needs help.

By coming to me, it has helped open doors for people and to allow them to help themselves.

I have gained the greatest satisfaction in looking after individuals.

Ive never been one to sit and do nothing and I cant imagine that will happen after I retire.

I have a lot of projects in mind and many friends who have been neglected by me to date.

Ive much catching up to do.

Ms Saliba said life could get like a merry-go round at times.

Sometimes you have to stop and get off for a while, gather your strength and thoughts, and then hop back on, she said.

For the first time in eight years, Im putting my children first.

My decision to retire is based on their needs.

Ive never felt too overwhelmed and always managed to keep all the balls in the air as I juggled politics and life.

And Ill always be a doer.

Ms Saliba said she fell into her political role and had never set out for a life of politics.

Contender for the Seat of Shellharbour, Lylea McMahon has been doing her homework, she said.

She avoided taking a stand on any particular issue until she had gathered information and feedback from the community on their concerns.

One of my main focuses will be public education, she said.

Public education is wonderful and is the best gift we can give our future generations.

The quality of education in our public schools is excellent with opportunities and choices open to young people.

Ms McMahon has been visiting schools over the last few months and said she was impressed with the passion of teachers and principals and by the standard of facilities.

Another area that concerns me is mental health, she said.