Another candidate has stepped forward seeking the NDP nod in the next federal election.
Nicholas Simons announced his intention to seek the NDP nomination for the West Vancouver-Sunshine Coast riding.
Simons has worked as the director of health and social services for the Sechelt Indian Band for the past six years. Prior to that, he was a child protection social worker in North Vancouver and Sechelt and has been active in social justice for several years. He is also editor of the Lower Langdale Tattler.
Coming from a musical family, Simons is a self-described "somewhat accomplished" cellist and has taught on the Sunshine Coast since arriving in 1989 from Ottawa and Yellowknife.
He said he strongly believes in the promotion of arts and culture, which improves quality of life and enriches communities.
"I'm new to the party, but I'm excited and looking forward to the challenge," Simons said. "We seem to have some good candidates for the NDP members to chose from."
Simons was raised in Montreal and is bilingual. He completed his undergraduate degree in Arts at the University of Ottawa and received his Master's degree in Criminology from Simon Fraser University.
He said his decision to enter the political arena was prompted by his frustration with the divisive nature of political dialogue and his belief that most people want progressive long-term solutions to the economic and social problems that face ordinary Canadians.
"I want to learn about all the issues, but certainly I feel I can be a strong voice for social issues given my background," he said. "Under the leadership of Jack Layton, I believe the NDP appeals to a broad section of Canadians who are concerned about the undemocratic globalization of trade, social justice for First Nations and the on-going erosion of Canada's valued social programs."
Simons joins CUPE 801 president Alice Lutes and former B.C. Marijuana Party leader Dana Larsen as declared NDP candidates.
On March 6, residents of this riding who have been NDP members for 90 days will be eligible to vote for one of the candidates. The vote is scheduled to take place at the Seniors' Centre in Sechelt.
Last week, Town of Gibsons councillor Andrea Goldsmith said she will seek the Green Party nomination, while three candidates have declared they are seeking the Liberal nomination.
West Vancouver community activist and senior federal Liberal John Moonen threw his hat into the political ring in November. Since then, Moonen has been joined by fellow West Vancouver residents Phil Boname and Blair Wilson.
A date for the Liberal nomination vote has not been announced.
