Editor,

THE EQUITY has done needed public service by interviewing the Pontiac candidates running in the upcoming election. Learning about policies and the people who want to be our representatives in the National Assembly takes time and effort. Too much voting is done by rote. Too many people cannot be bothered to learn about the issues and take the time to vote. The Oct. 5 election will be a very important one for Quebecers.

In the interview with Quebec solidaire candidate Bianca Baldo, the text says that Bianca is in favour of free “fairs” for youths and seniors. While that is good news for those demographic groups, I am not sure the Shawville Fair would be in favour. Or, wait a minute, did she mean free “fares” as in rides on a public transportation system, one sorely lacking in the Pontiac? The context of Baldo’s answer was about climate change, trying to reduce the number of cars on the road. A good goal indeed. 

The Quebec Conservative Party wants to add immensely to the province’s deficit and will cut services like access to much needed daycare. The PQ candidate will work to make health services more accessible, but the emphasis on immigration, on the anti-English language protection of the French and a referendum on Quebec secession threatens to throw Quebec into a decade of uncertainty and confusion. If the PQ wins a majority with only 30 per cent of the vote, does that give it the mandate to cause the total upheaval of Quebec society? Considering that 70 per cent of the people did not vote for them?

Too much discussion has occurred once again on the nationalist question. Quebec separatists claim Canada takes too much money away from Quebec. Alberta separatists claim Albertans give too much money to Quebec. What people really need is timely health care, affordable housing, affordable food, and social peace. We know how to get along with each other. We just need our politicians to do their jobs and work for their constituents, for what they need, to make their lives better.

Carl Hager, Gatineau

Editor’s note: THE EQUITY thanks Mr. Hager for his keen attention to detail. We apologize for any confusion our misuse use of “fair” may have caused.