Why are you running for office? Why did you decide to get into politics?
I’m running because I have lived in Bedford for more than 30 years and have seen that this community is lacking in amenities while other communities within HRM are better served.
After more than a decade of Conservative government we have longer health care waits, chronic transportation problems and insufficient recreation facilities.
I believe Darrell Dexter is the best leader for Nova Scotia. He has a record of fighting for better deals for seniors, for students and for families. The NDP has the most practical plan to create secure jobs, keep ER’s open, ensure more young people stay in Nova Scotia, give seniors more care options, and balance the budget.
When did you decide you wanted to get into politics?
I have always been interested in politics. During the 2006 provincial election I worked on Percy Paris’ campaign. Percy is now the NDP MLA for Waverley-Fall River. Percy is a friend of mine from Windsor who introduced me to Darrell Dexter. I decided the NDP has the best leadership, and the best team, and I wanted to be part of it.
What plans and initiatives do you have for Bedford-Birch Cove?
Our area needs better access to health care. The NDP will add additional beds to the Cobequid Community Health Centre, and open it 24/7. The NDP will also add more nurse practitioners to improve access to basic health care.
The NDP platform also includes a Suburban Priorities Team that will address the challenges faced by rapidly-growing communities like ours. This Suburban team will develop better transportation solutions and better recreation opportunities. These are three of the local concerns I am hearing about on the doorsteps.
How do you plan on campaigning?
I have been going door to door to meet as many voters as I can. I start in the morning and go through to the evening, every day of the week. I believe in the practical solutions the NDP is putting forward, and I want to explain them to people face to face.
How do you plan on beating the other candidates?
I am not really focused on my opponents. I’m putting my time and energy into meeting people and explaining what the NDP will do for them.
Have you done any polling in the riding? If so do you have any data on current levels of support?
The only poll that counts is on election day. All I know is that I am being well received at the door and that people really like Darrell Dexter.
What is the most important issue(s) to the residents in your riding?
The number one issue in this campaign is leadership. People are telling me they feel Rodney MacDonald has had his chance, and he’s let them down. They are looking for a leader they can trust, and more and more people are telling me that’s the NDP leader.
What has Len Goucher failed to do adequately for the riding?
Voters tell me that there has been a failure of leadership locally and that the McDonald government is out of touch with the people and that the issues in the riding have not been addressed. Voters are also upset that this provincial government stalled in bringing down a budget during this recession.
If elected how do you plan on being involved with the people of Bedford on a day to day basis?
The NDP is committed to consulting with communities on issues that concern them. I will contact all of the volunteer groups, church and community groups in the riding to establish a relationship and regular communication.
I will meet with every constituent who wants to meet with me and I will work hard in the Legislature to represent the people of this riding. Under Rodney MacDonald, the government only appeared at Province House for a few weeks a year. The NDP has committed to getting the legislature back to work for Nova Scotians.
What is your favourite song/movie/holiday destination?
My favourite song is “Hotel California” by the Eagles and I loved the Godfather series of movies …real classics. I really enjoyed vacationing in Cancun, Mexico.
Who is your inspiration?
My inspiration was John Derrick, a former teacher. He gave me the opportunity and confidence to pursue my dream of attending university and I will always be grateful to him.