I am running for office to create sustainable jobs while protecting the environment, for which I have significant experience both as a past municipal councillor and as former Executive Director of the Chamber of Commerce. There is compelling evidence of climate change in the Comox Valley requiring real and immediate action. I intend to fight for sustainable job creation and environmental protection as a Member of Parliament.
Making ends meet is what I hear most on the doorstep. I meet seniors on their doorstep, struggling to eat a balanced diet and pay for their prescription drugs, and worrying about the prospect of two-tier health care. I hear strong support for the NDP’s pharmacare plan and restoring Conservative cuts to health care.
Families are paying more than ever for day care—on average, $1,000 a month, if they can find a space. Many parents can’t participate in the labour force because they can’t afford child-care. I hear strong support throughout the Comox Valley for the NDP plan for quality child-care at no more than $15 a day. The benefits of this plan will be significant both to the quality of life of families and the stimulation of our local economies.
There is a growing inequality between the ‘haves’ and ‘have-nots’ in our riding. The number of children living in poverty isn’t acceptable to me and I will work hard on initiatives that give children the best start in life
I believe in grass roots democracy, this has always been my approach to public life. I intend to be a Member of Parliament who gets people involved--from all age groups and socio-economic circumstance. I believe in democracy through public discourse and community participation. The people of the Comox Valley should be heard between elections and I intend to listen to them.