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Video & questionnaire: John Kidder - Green Party candidate in Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon

John Kidder is the Green Party candidate in Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon
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John Kidder, the Green Party candidate in Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon, sat down with The News for an interview Wednesday.

We asked him about how realistic his party’s climate change proposals were and what effect new taxes could have on Canadians.

He also responded to a written questionnaire about his priorities and suitability for office. Find both below. For information on the boundary of the major local ridings, and information on other local candidates, click here.

1. Why are you personally running to be a member of Parliament?

When the traditional parties have a majority, they act for their party, not for the good of the country. Greens do it better. Transforming our economy from fossil fuels to renewables is essential for the future for our children and grandchildren. It is an enormous economic opportunity. The other parties don’t see it as an ethical duty, and they think it’s risk, not benefit. We think they’re wrong.

A minority government with a Green caucus will mean better government, an economically-beneficial transition, and a better world for our descendants. I want to help lead that government.

2. What skills and attributes do you have that would make you a good elected representative for your constituents?

I have a base of successful experience in labour, industry, business, non-profits, economics and politics. I am not easily deterred. I am married to Elizabeth May, consistently voted the most effective and ethical parliamentarian. We are an excellent team. I will be a forceful and effective representative for our constituency.

3. What are the two biggest issues for your constituents in Abbotsford and how will you and/or your party address them?

Transportation and a sustainable local economy.

Abbotsford is experiencing a crisis in local and regional transportation. The Green Party would prioritize investments in public transportation initiatives, reducing dependency on car traffic and reducing CO2 emmissions at the same time.

Abbotsford’s economic strengths are an agricultural base and small businesses. The Green Party would support innovative technologies encouraging the agricultural sector to adapt to climate change, and adopt more sustainable practices. The Green Party would help small businesses transition to a cleaner future while creating more local jobs.

Video interviews/questionnaire answers

Abbotsford

Madeleine Sauve - NDP

Seamus Heffernan - Liberal

Stephen Fowler - Green Party

Ed Fast - Conservative

Locke Duncan - People’s Party

Aeriol Alderking - Christian Heritage Party

• • •

Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon

Brad Vis - Conservative

Jati Sidhu - Liberal (Sidhu did not sit for an interview)

Michael Nenn - NDP

John Kidder - Green Party

Julius (Nick) Csaszar - People’s Party