Manitoba Election 2016

Martha Jo Willard - Minto

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

I felt it was important that the Green Party have a candidate running.  I am familiar with the issues that occur in Minto and the adjacent ridings.  As this is Treaty 1 territory, I wanted to be sure that someone running would express the need for a renewed relationship with Metis and Indigenous peoples. This also has to be integrated successfully with newcomers to this country, so that all have an equal chance to have the “middle class” dream. I believe that someone needs to express the  complete commitment to becoming a carbon neutral community. I agree with the policy of a guaranteed minimum income.   I feel strongly that mental health services need to be more readily available and longer term. I feel we must address the damage being done to children by the current CFS policies. We need to focus on family dynamics, instead of just taking children away from their communities.  I wanted to be sure these points were made clear during the election.

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

I feel I have the insight needed to stay grounded in this job.  I have followed politics in this province since I immigrated in 1982.  I ran for MLA in Brandon in 2007.  I understand that this is a service job, to serve the citizens of the riding.  I want to make certain, that as the MLA, I remain accessible to those constituents, taking their views forward to the Legislature, and helping the constituents solve a myriad of individual and community issues.  This, I feel, is the primary role as an MLA.  The laws have to serve the people and crafting laws to this end is my goal.

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

I want to ensure that we work to provide those who do not have a good footing in life, who deal with poverty and discrimination, get access to the necessary good housing and education to provide self pride and a good set of tools to make the achievement of their goals a reality.

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

My key issues are:  equal opportunity for good housing; eradication of poverty by a minimum guaranteed income that is rational and provides the opportunity to advance in life; equal opportunity at education; and the greening of all aspects of the community to make sure this small area of the planet contributes to slowing climate change on this planet.

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

The people are the most valuable aspect of this electoral division and many need additional opportunities and supports to make sure their life is improved.  This community needs a strong advocate working to achieve this access.

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

As a person who already serves this community, I see this as an opportunity to expand my ability to help the community members.  As a person who understands the issues that many face, I will work hard to make sure that roadblocks to success are removed for the citizens of this riding.  Everyone deserves the opportunity and support to succeed.  I feel I understand what is needed to get the supports set up to improve the housing, education, and employment opportunities for the citizens, so life for the children is improved, so that younger generations can succeed and seniors get the services needed to be comfortable in the last phase of life.