In this federal election the future of Canada and its role on the world stage is at a crossroads. We are faced with problems and opportunities that are complex and far reaching in their scope.
For example, our role in ; a national economic strategy, climate change, energy dependency and new energy development, national sovereignty and related international trade agreements, international affairs,the refugee crises, food security, healthcare, education and unemployment (to name only a few).
The great and complex problems that we must deal with require input, discussion, negotiation and debate from a broad range of viewpoints.
We are a nation of many and varied backgrounds, viewpoints and ideologies. This is not a weakness, as Canadians this is our strength.
The ability to negotiate and draw upon new and innovative solutions to challenges is a principle of democracy.
Unfortunately our federal government under Stephen Harper has failed to draw upon this resource and is leading us dangerously towards a one man rule.
This cannot serve any interest fairly as it represents a narrow viewpoint and it betrays fair democratic representation.
As a nation we can and must do better than this. I call upon all Canadians to involve themselves in this vital election. Democracy is not a spectator sport.
Dave Carter
Castlegar