Meet Your Candidates: Red Deer-Mountain View

Olumide Adewumi (Liberal Party of Canada)

Which skills and experience do you have that make you fit for the role of MP?

I worked for more than 20 years for a major multinational Oil and Gas company, I am also a small business owner and an entrepreneur. I believe that the Albertan energy sector can still be a world leading industry while protecting the environment. If elected as MP, I will use my decades of experience in the oil and gas sector to advocate for the revival of the Oil and Gas /Energy industry in Alberta and Red Deer-Mountain View. As a small business owner, I understand the challenges small businesses face and the role the government must take for a strong economic recovery. Supporting small businesses and the Canadians that are employed by them is crucial to the stability of Alberta economy. I will advocate for issues that are important to Red Deer-Mountain View including better healthcare, job security, social equality, workplace safety, and childcare.

From your perspective, what are the key election issues, both locally and nationally?

We must finish the fight against COVID-19 Pandemic. Building back our economy is mostly critical. We need to keep people on their job and make life affordable for everyone. If elected, I will support the extension of the Canada Recovery Hiring Program so businesses can hire more workers and Canadians can get back on their jobs, Provide Canada’s hard-hit tourism industry with temporary wage and rent support of up to 75% of their expenses, help small businesses afford costs of new technology with microgrants and zero-interest loans for larger projects, advocate for $10 a day child care to make life affordable for families and take a bold action on the plan to invest in Central Alberta energy Industry.

Secondly, Health Care is a pressing issue. Before the pandemic, waitlists were growing for vital surgeries and services. Nearly 5 million Canadians reported not having access to a family doctor and 3.2% of Canadians were waiting for treatment in 2020. If elected, I will advocate eliminating the Backlog of Surgeries and Procedures, I will advocate for every Canadian to have access to a family doctor or primary health team, support to hire 7,500 doctors and nurses, re-introduce a Disability Benefit Act which will create direct monthly payments for low-income Canadians with disabilities ages 18-64 and Take Action for individuals living with MS.

Thirdly, Clean environment is another pressing issue. The mining operations in the slopes continue to be a threat to fresh water and our environment. I will advocate a strong policy on exploration that degrade our land and pollute our fresh waters. Our sources of emissions must be controlled. I will fight to protect our land, freshwater, trees, and ocean. I will support the creation of new parks and marine conservation areas. I will advocate to strengthen legislation to protect our environment.

What is your number one promise to constituents?

The safety and health of every Canadian living in my constituents is my number one priority. Many of our seniors did not have access to appropriate healthcare during the pandemic, our medical professionals were stretched beyond measure, many surgeries were put on hold and medications were not readily available. I will fight to ensure a better healthcare for every Canadian in my constituents.

Earl Dreeshen (Conservative Party of Canada – Incumbent)

Which skills and experience do you have that make you fit for the role of MP?

My previous experience in Ottawa as well as a vast skill set developed through educating, coaching and community minded volunteering is an advantage in my role as an MP. I understand that I am elected to represent the people of my constituency and therefore refuse to conduct myself in a rude and aggressive way, something that would undermine the cause I am championing. My problem solving skills and well-spoken demeanour are the reasons our leaders have chosen me to serve on many committees and lead the charge on numerous key issues. As a fourth generation farmer from Pine Lake my family is part of the community and experiences many of the issues I advocate for, first hand. As a high school mathematics teacher in Innisfail for 34 years, I know generations of local families and have a personal connection to many, personalizing the issues and always inspiring me to fight harder.

From your perspective, what are the key election issues, both locally and nationally?

This election is about making serious choices for the future of Canada. It’s about getting our country back on its feet through rebuilding our economy, our jobs, our reputation and our way of life. Canadians need a government that responsibly manages public finances, creates jobs, restores investor confidence, ensures that the less fortunate are cared for, and roots out corruption in Ottawa.

Erin O’Toole believes strongly in the spirit of a welcoming Nation. He believes a Prime Minister must represent all Canadians and that Canada must be a place where we can live a fulfilling and prosperous life. It is time for Canadians to have a government concerned about substance, not image!

I believe in a united Canada that is managed with respect and honesty by the rule of law. There is no place for divisiveness, incompetence nor scandal. I assure that we will focus on issues that unite Canadians, not divide them. Our actions will build back the trust Canadians have lost in their government.

What is your number one promise to constituents?

I promise my constituents that I will continue to work hard on their behalf and stand up for their concerns. I promise to continue to stand up for Alberta and our needs. I will continue to support Canada’s food safety and food security system and work to make Canadian energy foremost on the world stage. I won’t stop advocating for rural and remote broadband, mental health and justice issues that are important to our community.

I am fortunate to serve on committees such as Agriculture, International Trade, Industry Science and Innovation which gives me the opportunity to champion these important issues for Central Albertans. I also hear my constituents in their approval of my strong actions on crime that emphasizes the protection of innocent victims through my work as the Co-chair of the Alberta Rural Crime Task Force. I also promise to continue to fight to invigorate our economy by reducing red tape and eliminating anti-business legislation particularly for our Natural Resource Industry.

Marie Grabowski (New Democratic Party)

Which skills and experience do you have that make you fit for the role of MP?

Occupation: Licensed Medical Laboratory Technologist (NAIT 2010) at the Red Deer Regional Hospital in Microbiology.

Education:

· 2010 Diploma for Medical Laboratory Technologist – Northern Alberta Institute of Technology – Edmonton, AB.

· 2015 Parliamentary Procedures & Public Speaking Certificate – Jasper School of Labour – Jasper, AB.

· 2020 Indigenous Canada Certificate – University of Alberta – Edmonton, AB.

· 2021 – 2023 Degree for Bachelor of Technology – Northern Alberta Institute of Technology – Edmonton, AB.

Community & Leadership History:

· 2013 – 2015 Union Local Secretary/Treasurer Red Deer Hospital For Health Sciences Association of Alberta

· 2015 – Current Union Co-Chair Red Deer Hospital for Health Sciences Association of Alberta

· 2015 – 2019 Curling Draw Master Hospital & Friends Social League Board

· 2018 – 2020 Red Deer County Division 3 Recreation Board Member

· 2016 – Current Condo Association Board Member (Springbrook Villas)

· 2017 – Current Red Deer & District Labour Council Vice President

· 2020 – Current Treasurer Alberta NDP Innisfail – Sylvan Lake Constituency Association

· 2021 – Current College of Medical Laboratory Technologists of Alberta Ex-officio Member

· 2021 – Current Health Sciences Association of Alberta – Constitutions, Resolutions, Bylaws & Policy Committee Member

From your perspective, what are the key election issues, both locally and nationally?

Healthcare, Community and Economy.

Declining Rural access and the overwhelming of our Urban centers is due to lack of investment and lack of accounting for growth. First, we need to implement a National Drug Plan to save on medication by buying in bulk. Canada is the only country with our level of healthcare but lacks the plan to save on pharmaceuticals. Currently, multiple contracts are negotiated, and the extra cost is passed on to individuals and employer benefits plans. The use of federal law to strengthen public not for profit healthcare will help restore healthcare transfers previously cut by the last Conservative Prime Minister to the tune of $36 billion.

To make life more affordable through regulation and price caps including Internet and Cellular. Investing in child-care so working parents know their child is safe in regulated child-care at a reasonable cost. Parents who continue to work contribute greatly to our economy. Supporting post-secondary education by eliminating Federal student loan interest and capping tuition. Expanding EI services to include re-training and job placement as we transition into our next stage of resource revenue. Support small business by capping credit card merchant fees at 1%. Closing identified corporate tax loopholes estimated to bring in 10 billion dollars in just 4 years.

What is your number one promise to constituents?

To dedicate myself to the community as an educated professional during my elected period without controversy. If elected, my current position will be held as a temporary leave as per my union negotiated employment contract so I can focus on doing the job of a Member of Parliament.

Kelly Lorencz (People’s Party of Canada)

Which skills and experience do you have that make you fit for the role of MP?

As a former crisis negotiator and federal corrections officer, I know how to get things done. I’ve been in this riding for 3 decades and understand the challenges people here are facing. I’m a veteran and served with the Canadian Airborne Regiment and the Princess Patricia’s Canadian Light Infantry.

I’m also a family man! That’s a skill in and of itself. I’ve got a beautiful wife and children and a new grandson who brings me so much joy.

I’ve been on the Board of Directors of the Wildrose Independence Party and I talk to Albertans of all walks of life every day. I know that Albertans feel left behind by Ottawa and I know how important it is to have western representation.

From your perspective, what are the key election issues, both locally and nationally?

At both the local and national level we’re dealing with the issue of vaccine passports. Canadians are being asked to relinquish medical choice and have been subjected to lockdown policies that caused incredible harm. Addiction issues and mental health issues were exacerbated by pandemic policies. We’re losing our connection to family and community and we need to get that back.

Alberta faces unique challenges in our resource sector. We need pipelines because our oil and gas industry is a major source of employment for our people. We need to grow our resource sector, not shut it down. We should be limiting our dependence on foreign energy produced in dictatorships with horrific human rights records. Alberta energy brings prosperity to the entire country.

We’re losing small businesses due to lockdown policies, we’re losing health care capacity by forcing front line workers to take vaccines, and our freedom of expression is being eroded at every turn.

There are a multitude of problems facing the riding, and the country as a whole, but we can fix them. I’m focused on family and community and bringing the PPC’s values of individual freedom, personal responsibility, fairness, and respect to work with me every day.

What is your number one promise to constituents?

My number one promise to my constituents is that I will be fully accountable to you and represent you with as much heart as I represented Canada in the military. I will fight for your freedoms and a fair deal for you and your family every single day.

Jared Pilon (Libertarian Party of Canada)

Which skills and experience do you have that make you fit for the role of MP?

My name is Jared Pilon. I am the Libertarian Party of Canada candidate for Red Deer-Mountain View in the 2021 Federal Election. I was born and raised in Red Deer and I have been living in Springbrook with my wife, son and dog for the past 8 years. As a Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA), I directly see the negative impacts of government policy on business owners and most notably, their families. Having worked in the Alberta oil & gas industry, I understand the hard work required to keep this country operating. I will use this professional and practical experience to provide a common sense approach to government.

From your perspective, what are the key election issues, both locally and nationally?

Cost of living: From speaking with residents throughout the riding, cost of living is one of the biggest concerns today. I would advocate for the federal government to stop printing money. Additionally, I will work with all levels of government in order to reduce the size and scope of their operations. Free markets deliver goods and services more efficiently.

Economy: The federal government has become too entrenched in the Canadian economy. I would advocate for a dramatic decentralization of the federal government which would enable provinces to become more competitive resulting in better outcomes for residents. I will continue to support our oil & gas sector and fight against the carbon tax. Canada should be selling LNG to foreign markets to reduce their dependence on coal and lower global emissions.

COVID-19: The pandemic has resulted in deep societal divisions on a number of issues. It is the responsibility of the government to disseminate information and allow Canadians to make decisions based on their own risk assessments. I would advocate for a holistic approach that addresses other issues that are impacting Canadians.

What is your number one promise to constituents?

I have committed to holding one in personal town hall meeting per month within the riding if elected. I believe politicians need to step out of their bubble and engage with the community on a regular basis to ensure they are learning from their constituents. This will enable me to advocate effectively for the riding of Red Deer-Mountain View on the national stage. Regardless of whether I’m elected on September 20^th, I promise to keep fighting for my community and to advocate for less government. I believe individuals are best equipped to make decisions about their future, their children and their businesses. This is best achieved when government gets out of the way.

Mark Wilcox (Maverick Party)

Which skills and experience do you have that make you fit for the role of MP?

In terms of skills, currently I am an airline pilot. My career takes me all over Canada and I have been fortunate to meet Canadians everywhere. Having this “all of Canada” window of experience has shown me the regional differences that contribute to the challenges we are facing as a nation. Prior to obtaining my full wings I started, operated and sold businesses in BC. I have been able to successfully negotiate by listening to all sides of the coins on the table. This is a critical skill and often not one possessed by our current federal representatives. I am a proud Western Canadian. I take great pride in the traits that make Westerners a unique people. Grit, hard work, perseverance and helping one another are but a few. It’s time that we take our place at the in Canada and demand that we are treated fairly in national matters. I am ready to make this a conversation in Ottawa. The time is now.

From your perspective, what are the key election issues, both locally and nationally?

For a Maverick Party candidate our focus is automatically and necessarily on the West. With that in mind, a key election issue for us is Western representation. Westerners are feeling increasingly left out in the cold by the national parties and the desire for federal representation that works for the West is increasing. This is what the Maverick Party will do, we will bring a voice to the West similar to how the Bloc Quebecois advocates for Quebec.

What is your number one promise to constituents?

I am accessible to the people of Red Deer Mountain View and I will continue, always, to be. A large part of the issue has been that our elected officials don’t listen or respond to our enquiries. We need a voice from the Western people and for the Western people and the only way to achieve that is to listen to the people. I pledge to the constituents of Red Deer Mountain View that I will be as accessible today as I will always be.

Clayten Willington (Independent)

*The original response from this candidate was more than 800 words, therefore was cut off at 500.

Which skills and experience do you have that make you fit for the role of MP?

I own and run the Red Stag Barbershops and Craft Beer Nation in Central Alberta. I am first and most passionate about being a good father and husband. I have six children, my oldest turning 15 and my youngest being 3. I was born and raised in Lacombe, Alberta and lived on the East Coast for 8 years. I have travelled coast to coast and have fallen in love with Canada’s land and people. I’ve grown Red Stag Barbershops to central albertas most successful barbershops and a brand recognized globally by putting people first over profits, sacrificing myself and laying my life down for others. I’m ready to take that philosophy and apply it to the red deer south mountain view riding. laying my life down and engaging with the hearts of the people to truly represent them in Ottawa.

From your perspective, what are the key election issues, both locally and nationally?

Lockdowns

Canada is under attack. We see our businesses shut down. We are seeing people almost forced to take vaccines across this country, and no one is standing up against it. The current member of parliament in Red Deer-South Mountain View had said nothing when businesses in the riding were shut down for long periods with scant to no scientific evidence during Covid-19. We must be vigilant and stand against the mandatory and arbitrary lockdowns that crippled and shut down tens of thousands of small businesses across Canada. As your member of parliament I will always stand against lockdowns and mandatory vaccines.

Equalization & Electoral Reform

Many people here in Alberta feel they are being mistreated in the electoral process and the equalization program. I believe that the equalization program is unfair and broken. Suppose you look at the amount of money that Alberta has contributed to the equalization program over the years. In that case, we are the main contributor by percentage, and we contribute more than any other province per capita and a dollar level. It’s unfair that one portion of the country is perpetually transferring money and propping up different parts of the country. The formula is broken. Alberta has run a deficit the last few years, and we still received nothing. Every province has received money from equalization except Alberta, and this needs to change. As your member of parliament for Red Deer-South Mountain view, I will advocate for that change. We need to ensure that one part of the country isn’t perpetually propping up other parts of Canada. Concerning electoral reform, Alberta is underrepresented with the number of MP’s that we have when it comes to population. We need to see more ridings here, and it’s fair based on the number of people, and we need to make sure that we have fair Representation. Fair Representation is something I will always fight for as your member of parliament.

Property Rights & Gun Control

Our property rights in this country are under attack whether we’re farmers, gun owners, or business owners. Our rights to own property, to operate a business to hunt or sport shoot is under attack. (Response cut off here)

More information on local candidates is at elections.ca. Polls are open Monday, Sept. 20 from 7:3o a.m. until 7:30 p.m.

*All photos were supplied by the individual candidate

by rdnewsNOW staff

Meet Your Candidates: Red Deer-Mountain View

Olumide Adewumi (Liberal Party of Canada)

Earl Dreeshen (Conservative Party of Canada – Incumbent)

Marie Grabowski (New Democratic Party)

Kelly Lorencz (People’s Party of Canada)

Jared Pilon (Libertarian Party of Canada)

Mark Wilcox (Maverick Party)

Clayten Willington (Independent)

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