Climate change and the environment will be only some of the topics covered at an all-candidates meeting hosted by Maple Ridge Climate Hub and other local environmental agencies.
All five candidates have confirmed their participation in the upcoming debate which will include: incumbent Marc Dalton with the Conservative Party of Canada; New Democrat Party candidate Daniel Heydenrych; Angeline Rowell with the Liberal Party of Canada; Laura Anderson with the Green Party of Canada; and Chris Lehner with the People's Party of Canada – although Lehner is still waiting for confirmation of his candidacy before he can participate.
"Our topics will cover the range of issues that are top of mind for local residents," explained Kirk Grayson with the climate group.
Environmental questions will be about how the candidates’ plans and policies will achieve Canada’s emissions targets, and how each candidate and their party will protect people, jobs and communities from the extremes of changing climate.
However, Grayson also expects debate topics to include tariffs and threats of annexation by American President Donald Trump; the high cost of living and housing affordability and availability; improving Canada’s healthcare system; and reconciliation.
"Rather than having an open mic style of event, we have invited the public to submit their questions for candidates in an online form," explained Grayson, noting the form is only open until April 1, as they want to give the candidates a full week to prepare their responses.
During the debate, candidates will be seated on the stage and they will have a chance to introduce themselves and answer questions put to them by the moderator.
"We are looking into a format that also allows the candidates to elaborate on their answers, or respond to the answers of other candidates," noted Grayson.
Several organizations are collaborating with the Climate Hub to host the event including: HUB Cycling, Cinema Politica, and the CEED Centre, and possibly the Alouette River Management Society.
The all-candidates debate takes place at 7 p.m. on Thursday, April 10 – doors open at 6:30 p.m. – at the Maple Ridge Seniors Activity Centre, 12150 224 St., Maple Ridge.
To submit a question go to: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdIRqn7UDdhVO89XbE006wED1yJqhBh6sPESC_U5ER-OLM6OQ/viewform.
