Four of the candidates running in the Nickel Belt riding faced off in a debate at Marcel Noel Hall last night. The debate was well attended by the community, and wrapped up 45 minutes early.
These are some of the issues that took centre stage:
Encouraging apprenticeship programs in Nickel Belt:Â Green Candidate Stuart McCall said he would encourage paid internships at farms, and get young people involved in the green energy sector. Liberal Candidate Marc Serre said his party would increase funding for skilled trade apprenticeships and invest 500-million dollars in the labor market. NDP Candidate Claude Gravelle said he would get rid of interest rates on student loans and look at non-profits for co-ops and paid internships. Finally, candidate Aino Laamanen said she would promote apprenticeship programs in schools and encourage students to enter industries that need workers. Marxist Leninist Candidate Dave Starbuck did not attend the debate.
Affordable child care:Â Conservative Candidate Aino Laamanen said her party would keep the Universal Child Care Benefit. NDP Candidate Claude Gravelle said his party would introduce $15.00 Â a day child care immediately. Green Candidate Stuart McCall said he would make sure dividends would be dispersed to Canadians for daycare. Finally, Liberal candidate Marc Serre said his party would take 1% of taxes and give them back to parents. Marxist Leninist Candidate Dave Starbuck did not attend the debate.
Distributing healthcare dollars: NDP Candidate Claude Gravelle said his party would invest 5.4-billion in healthcare, setting up health clinics across Canada. Green candidate Stuart McCall promised to introduce universal pharma care across Canada. Liberal Candidate Marc Serre says he would commit money to affordable housing for seniors. Finally, Conservative Candidate Aino Laamenan said she would promote community care and take the issues in Nickel Belt straight to Ottawa. Marxist Leninist Candidate Dave Starbuck did not attend the debate.