Manitoba Election 2016

Barb Burkowski - Transcona

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

I’m running in the election because I care about our community and about Manitoba. I feel I have the ability to listen to people’s concerns and be a strong voice in the Legislature representing Transcona. I am running because I believe everyone matters and I want to stand up for the services that families depend on. We cannot go back to a regime of reckless cuts.

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

My experience in engineering technology and as a construction safety officer allowed me to help implement important workplace health and safety legislation to improve the lives of workers and show my commitment to the well-being of Manitobans both at home and in the workplace. I will fight to create good, safe jobs in Transcona.

My experience as Chair of Pride Winnipeg included building a pinnacle event to advocate for human rights, provide a platform for self-expression and promote an inclusive society. I am proud to live in a tolerant and welcoming province and I will fight against extreme Conservative values to keep it that way.

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

I would like to see more health care options in Transcona and in all of Manitoba. That’s why I am running for the NDP, a party committed to doubling the number of Quick Care clinics. Most in Transcona have deep roots and ties to the community. As our population ages, I want to ensure that they can access care nearby. This can only happen with smart, strategic investments, not cuts and two-tier health care.

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 people of Transcona need access to healthcare in a timely manner, and I will dedicate myself to ensuring this. The NDP’s commitment to expanded hours at Access Transcona along with the new Quick Care clinic will take pressure off ERs in the Northwest corner of the city. Our commitment to maintain training spaces for doctors, nurses, midwives and other health professionals will keep members of our community working and protect the healthcare jobs we rely on. The reduction of parking and ambulance fees will put money back in to the pockets of community members that need it the most.

The people of Transcona also know that we can’t risk cuts in valuable infrastructure investments, putting thousands of Manitobans out of a job. Investments such as rebuilding the intersection of Lagimodiere and the Perimeter Highway into a modern interchange with no traffic lights will be a great asset to our community and I will ensure that this happens and benefits the community.

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

I value the sense of community and inclusion in Transcona. Our geographical uniqueness in Winnipeg creates a special bond and promotes a fierce sense of community and loyalty towards our unique community. This is further amplified in Transcona, which is a unique, multi-generational community where neighbours look out for one another.

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

I’m honored to be able to run to be the MLA for Transcona and look forward to representing our great riding.