Nicholas Simons and Dawn Miller each had their moments in the second all-candidates meeting for the May 12 election.
The meeting, held last Thursday night (April 23) at the Heritage Playhouse in Gibsons, saw the incumbent NDP MLA and the Liberal challenger respond to a variety of questions that were posed to the two candidates by moderator Bob Morris.
The questions were submitted by the Gibsons and Sechelt Chambers of Commerce, who co-sponsored the evening, as well as from the public who submitted questions in advance, before and during the two-hour session that was broadcast live on Coast Cable 11.
Questions about the economy and the current financial strain on small business, health care, homelessness and affordable housing, independent power producers (IPPs), and the environment were all hot topics up for debate between the two candidates.
Simons said small businesses are the engine of the economy and they are being left to fend for themselves by the Liberal government.
"There is a very strong disconnect between government and small business not only in this riding but in the province," said Simons.
Miller said the Liberals are addressing the concerns of small business by lowering the business tax, and encouraging more job training.
"By lowering business taxes and getting better trained employees into the work force, you will continue to see small business flourish," Miller said.
Both candidates agreed that any amount of homelessness was unacceptable, but both had different plans to address it.
"It's just not up to one level of government - homelessness needs to be addressed by all levels," said Miller. "We have examples of other groups in this community that are helping that need. Habitat for Humanity is one, also the District of Sechelt and Town of Gibsons are looking at their secondary suites policies."
Simons said there are many at risk people in this community and it all happened under the Liberal watch.
"We need a government that won't cut programs and vital services," said Simons. "It's astounding to me that we've seen a 300 per cent increase in homelessness in this province during the Campbell government."
As for the environment, Simons said the Liberals have not done enough.
"Just look at the record of this government," said Simons. "We would argue for protection of rivers, for forests for biodiversity. These things sustain us and they should not be put at risk at the expense of financial gain. Some IPPs are good in some places, but we need a much stronger review process before any of these projects are considered."Miller countered that the Liberals are seen as a leader when it comes to the environment.
"There are a lot of wild accusations about IPPs. The truth is many of these projects were developed by the NDP," she said. "Rivers are well protected and we will continue to protect them. This government has come up with plans to protect the environment and still have a strong economy."
In their closing remarks Simons said he has provided a strong voice for this riding and would continue to be an important advocate for all residents if re-elected.
"We need to look after health care, childcare, the environment and the economy," said Simons. "I do value consultation and I think it's the best way to make decisions in the best interest of the whole community. Parliament requires diversity and the strength and ability to lead in this province and that's what I and the NDP stand for."
Miller said a strong voice is needed to represent everyone's interests and needs.
"Even as a candidate I've spoken to Minister Abbott on health, Minister Coleman on housing and I'll continue to speak to them to ensure your voice is heard when you elect me," said Miller. "We have strong, stable leadership under Premier Campbell and I want to be your voice in Victoria."
Green Party candidate Jeff Chilton or B.C. Refederation candidate Allen McIntyre did not take part in the meeting.
