North Island-Powell River Conservative Riding Association has acclaimed Port McNeill town councillor Shelley Downey as its candidate for the 2019 federal election.
In a press release, the association congratulated Downey for securing the Conservative candidacy in what was described as a “rigorous” nomination process.
Downey, a Vancouver Island resident since 1991, was born in Fort St. John and spent her childhood in Prince George and Hudson’s Hope.
“Her life has been shaped by experiencing the unique challenges faced by small BC communities that rely greatly on natural resource development and the businesses that support them,” according to the press release.
Downey said she is hoping to translate her 10 years of experience in municipal government into a federal political career.
“My strength in local politics is digging into the issues in front of us, making decisions that are for the betterment of everyone, not for a particular interest group,” she added.
Downey also said she believes ridings are best served by MPs representing the government.
“It’s important for the people in our area to have representation by the government that is in power,” said Downey. “The Conservatives are the best choice to represent this region. We are a diverse region. There are many interests that are represented across here.”
Downey said she looks forward to visiting Powell River to meet voters and listen to their concerns. She said she will be “getting out there and meeting the people,” and “building relationships, finding voters and where they’re at.”
Asked if she was concerned about Maxime Bernier’s People’s Party of Canada splitting the conservative vote, Downey said she is not worried.
“I don’t have any concerns,” she said.
North Island-Powell River Conservative Riding Association president Vivian Martin said she is confident in her party’s candidate.
“She’s got all the right credentials; she’s very aware of her community; she is fiscally responsible; she has a background in accounting,” said Martin. “She’s aware of issues from a civil perspective all the way up to federal.”
In a riding won fairly comfortably by the NDP’s Rachel Blaney (North Island-Powell River MP) in 2015, Martin said she thinks Downey can flip the seat for Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer next year.
“I’m extremely optimistic,” said Martin. “I think Shelley is a breath of fresh air for the riding.”
Martin said voters in Powell River can expect visits from Downey in the new year.
“They’re going to be seeing Shelley out and about on a regular basis,” she added. “The only way we can represent our constituents is by going out and finding out what they want and need.”
The next federal election is scheduled for October 21, 2019.
