Trevor Miller
It seems easy to make promises you have little or no chance of having to deliver on. It makes things especially easy when there are no specifics in the strategy, just happy thoughts of more jobs and other things we’ll define when you vote for us.
The NDP has spent or committed more than $75 million on infrastructure projects in this region since the last election. That’s a real number that will do things like build our new ER and improve our highway.
Not to say the NDP is perfect, but promises from a party that hasn’t held this riding in 45 years ought to be taken with a big grain of salt.
Trevor Miller is a local writer and essayist.
Doreen Murray
I do not think it is a matter of trust so much as a matter of change.
Our present government has been in for a long time and there is now a sense that things are starting to stagnate. Their lack of support for northern road transportation, among other things, was the last straw for me.
The Tories are looking for voter support from the North and their Northern Strategy might just get it for them.
They have long appreciated the importance the North has played in the economy of this province and seem prepared to give us the recognition we deserve.
Doreen Murray is a semi-retired businesswoman.
Ken Mansell
Northern voters may consider the PCs in the next election, but I think they will stay with the NDP, just like the farmers will vote for the Conservatives. Trust vs tradition – it would take a lot to change that.
In regard to mining, under the NDP the Mineral Exploration Assistance Program that aids companies carrying out mineral exploration in Manitoba will invest $3 million in 2014-15 to support 22 new projects. That will help mining.
However, the relentless, disputable native land claims (i.e. Lalor mine) are making mining companies nervous about spending mega dollars here.
Our stable investment climate regarding resources has changed. The recent Supreme Court ruling in BC ensures that.
Ken Mansell is a retired Flin Flonner.
