Manitoba Election 2016

Matt Austman - Lakeside

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

I’m a proud New Democrat. As a young person, I want to ensure there are opportunities for students to get good jobs in our community. This election is a good opportunity for me to put my values into action.

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

My experience in the community economic development sector and educational background has prepared me to be an effective MLA. I know what it takes to build bridges in a community and get results. I’m very open-minded to new ideas and perspectives to get things done. I value taking the time to hear from people and ensuring I’m responding effectively to their concerns and priorities.

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

One of the top things that come to mind is the NDP’s plan to create 12,000 new public child care spaces. Experts agree that building universally accessible child care is an important piece of reducing poverty and growing the middle-class, and will help working families save money, The NDP is the only party with a clear commitment and plan to do that. I’m determined to ensure the constituents of Lakeside have access to quality public child 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?

Health care is one. The NDP has helped improve rural health care with record investments that have helped retain doctors and medical professionals. But there’s more to do. Our plan to add 100 new personal care home beds to the Interlake region, and keep investing in rural health care services, is the right plan and one that we can build off of.

I also want to see through our commitment to convert student loans into grants, which will make post-secondary education more affordable and help students as they enter the work force after they graduate.

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

The people. Everyone I’ve met has been respectful and friendly, and I can tell there is a very strong sense of community throughout the constituency. People that live here really care about the area, and have really valuable insight and perspectives of the issues affecting the region.

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

The people of Lakeside face a clear choice this election between the PCs and NDP. As a young progressive, I promise to be a strong voice for the constituents, and bring a new energy towards getting things done.