Manitoba Election 2016

Armand Belanger - Gimli

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

I’ve lived and worked in the Gimli constituency most my life. I have seen the steady progress the NDP have made on all fronts, including building infrastructure, investing in health care, creating jobs and the area of my personal interest, protecting the environment.

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

I’ve had the opportunity to work with some truly incredible community members and leaders in our area. I’ve helped develop ideas at a grassroots level and built partnerships with all levels of government to get great things accomplished for our area. With my deep understanding of the social, economic and environmental factors affecting our community, I will bring this knowledge forward to help represent local families in government.

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

The world is becoming increasingly aware of the causes and effects of climate change. Manitoba, thanks to the investments made by the NDP government, is perfectly positioned to help deliver clean energy to ourselves and our neighbors. In the years ahead of us we will see a lot of innovation in energy production and use, I would like to see our province become the leader in developing and delivering clean energy so we can fight climate change.

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

This constituency has seen steady growth with new hospitals, schools, highways and investments in tourism and the environment. Continued work will be needed to build on these solid foundations. The threat of cuts by other parties puts the progress we’ve made at risk.

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

The one thing that ties this electoral division together is Lake Winnipeg, from Gimli to Hecla, Sandy Hook to St. Andrews. Everybody in this division has personal memories of Lake Winnipeg and its tributaries, and I’m no different. We need to preserve our lake and its fisheries for future generation, while sustainably promoting greater tourism opportunities. I have committed my personal and professional life to this great resource, mainly because of all my fond memories of it as a child.

 

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

I believe that now is the time for to invest in Manitoba’s future. I worry when I hear the Conservatives talking about cuts and privatization, because I know that this will put the services families rely on at risk. Only the NDP’s commitment to strategic investments will continue to ensure Manitoba is a great place to raise a family by creating good jobs, growing the economy and supporting our communities.