Manitoba Election 2016

Amanda Lathlin - The Pas

1. Why did you decide to run in the 2016 Manitoba election?

I am seeking re-election because the North needs a MLA who is committed to the North and a party that works with and for the North. We have solid plans in place for the North with the goal to improve quality of life for all Northern families.

There is so much more that needs to be done and it is my goal to be re-elected to ensure our plans are followed through, for health care, roads, education and jobs.

2. What experience will you bring to complement your role as MLA?

With my experience, strong community connections across the North and understanding of the issues facing Indigenous and northern communities I know I have much more I can do to help our Northern communities. It is important that the voices of Indigenous women are heard in this important election.

3. Is there anything in particular you would like to change in our province? In your electoral division?

Our NDP government is investing in infrastructure like highways, bridges and flood mitigation. There is still more to do, and every dollar we invest in these projects brings many more into our provincial and local economies. I worry when I hear the Conservatives talk about cutting infrastructure budgets. I will work to ensure we build, not cut.

4. What key issue(s) / topic(s) would like to stand for in your role as MLA, and why is it important to you?

The issue I hear about most is health care. We need to invest in quality health care close to home to attract the best doctors, nurses and front-line staff.

I also hear people talk a lot about jobs. It’s important that we keep investing in infrastructure including – but definitely not limited to – roads and highways, so we can grow the economy and create good jobs for people in our communities.

The third big issue is affordable housing and lack of housing in communities outside The Pas. We need to keep working to build more social and affordable housing, and to renovate and repair existing housing in the North. That also means working with local partners and with the new Federal government on First Nations’ housing.

 

5. What is one thing in particular that you value about the electoral division that you wish to represent?

The natural environment and the wonderful people who live here. I will work to ensure that I represent all the diversity and hard working people who live in the North. The North needs a strong voice. I will be that voice.

6. Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

The NDP has been part of my family through my late father, our former MLA for The Pas, Oscar Lathlin. I grew up watching my father fight for the North to ensure we had the same opportunities in education and employment as they have in southern Manitoba. The NDP represents my values and beliefs and is a true reflection of my family and my community. They’re the only party that has prioritized our people in the North with community engagement.