Two critical issues in this election are the erosion of democracy and the undermining of environmental protections under the Harper Conservatives.
The Conservatives prorogued or shut down Parliament twice. I was shocked that this was possible!
They have limited debate in the House over 100 times in the last four years.
They have used huge omnibus bills, presented as budget bills, to change existing and pass new legislation without debate. Bill C-51, the spy bill, dangerously undermines our essential freedoms, particularly our freedom of speech. The Liberals say they will amend it. The NDP, rightfully, say they will repeal it. There are many other examples of the Harper Conservatives’ contempt for democracy. The Harper government has consistently undermined our environmental protections.
The Omnibus Bill of 2021 savaged legislation protecting rivers, species at risk, and all non-commercial fish species. When the government closed nine Fisheries libraries, years of scientific research were lost. Government scientists have been prevented from presenting their research. Some have lost their jobs by speaking out.
This government has consistently refused to deal with the urgent issue of climate change.
If you are thinking of voting Conservative, please consider these issues and vote NDP, Liberal or Green instead.
Madeline Whittington