Another name has entered the ring to represent the New Democratic Party in the federal North Island - Powell River riding.
Rachel Blaney recently announced she is seeking the party’s nomination. “I am excited to have a chance to work for the people in this area,” she said in a press release. “I am honoured by the encouragement and support I have received and hope to build on it as I work toward the nomination. I am looking forward to the opportunity for ongoing discussions about our country, the beautiful region we live in and the ways those two connect.”
Blaney works as executive director of Multicultural and Immigrant Services Association (MISA) of North Vancouver Island. She feels now is the time to put her skills to work for the region on a federal level, given the federal government’s recent stripping of environmental protections, drastic changes to immigration policy, lack of meaningful dialogue and negotiation with First Nation communities and lack of accountability to Canadian families.
Since joining MISA, Blaney has helped expand services throughout the north island. In this role, she has brought federal attention to the region through her work on the Conference Board of Canada’s Leadership Roundtable on Immigration. “North Island - Powell River is a unique riding built of many diverse communities,” she said. “In my work and in my life, I have been an active participant in the region. I am proud that my family calls this riding home.”
Blaney is an active campaigner for healthy communities and believes in positive action to create economic opportunities, regional resource development, diversity and environmental stewardship. She also believes thriving small businesses are vital to regional prosperity.
It is anticipated the NDP will make a decision on its candidate in late November.
