Dear Editor,
Calling an election in the midst of a pandemic when there is no obvious legislative need to do that, years before the usual four year interval between elections, clearly shows the opportunistic side of this Liberal Government. It is obvious that Mr. Trudeau has read the polls and he aims to take advantage of his lead to secure a majority government. Cynical efforts such as this must be discredited by the voters. Elections cost a lot of money ($500 million or more) and the question is, why now?
There has been no attempt to block the government’s work. In fact the NDP has said it supports legislative action that helps people during this on-going health crisis. One example being asking for more financial help for people who have lost their jobs. Better protection of seniors so that our elders can live with dignity, without fearing for their health safety.
Our outgoing MP has been replaced by a candidate acclaimed by the Liberal Party, not chosen by the local Liberal Riding Association. The issues he has left on the table include a facile reaction for the health and safety of Pontiac residents in regards to the plan for dumping nuclear waste materials in a pit at Chalk River. Pontiac citizens living barely an hour from the country’s capital have poor, intermittent, slow internet, even though Mr. Amos promised in 2015 that that would be fixed by his government. Electoral reform was a quickly broken promise. And little has been done via government investment to rejuvenate the economy of the Pontiac. Canada is the only G-7 country that has not met its emissions targets, instead pipelines are bought while climate change action is required.
Pontiac citizens must choose an MP who shows decisive leadership on matters that affect Canadians. The NDP will bring good ideas and discussion to the election. Our candidate will be offering solutions, concrete measures to improve the lives of Pontiac citizens. Are we ready for better?
We deserve to have an MP that will represent our concerns to Parliament and deliver real solutions in improving the lives of Pontiac citizens. Denise Giroux has the vision, commitment and energy to be that MP, if we are ready for better.
Carl Hager
Pontiac NDP Riding Association
