Concordia
Manitoba Liberal Party (MLP) - Candidate: Trish Rawsthorne
The candidate did not respond by our September 20, 2023 deadline
New Democratic Party of Manitoba (NDP) - Candidate: Matt Wiebe
Q: How have disabilities played a role in your life and the lives of your loved ones?
Mobility challenges have been and continue to be an issue within my family. Whether it is with aging family members or a medical condition that has suddenly restricted someone's mobility, I have had to navigate not only the practical effect but also the emotional strain those individuals have had with losing their sense of freedom and independence. I have been happy to help fill the gaps where I can such as taking people to medical appointments, picking up groceries, and bringing people to church. However, I know that some people may not have the same level of support in their families and that is what creates inequalities.
Q: Which one of DMVote’s 5 priority issues is of the greatest interest to you and why?
Meeting people's basic needs is the most important issue to me. There still being large barriers for people with disabilities to live fulfilling and easier lives one decade since the passing of the Accessibility for Manitobans Act (AMA) is disappointing. People need accessible housing to live in and mobility devices to better their quality of life. If elected, a Manitoba NDP government will invest in and build affordable and social housing across the province, with a renewed focus on accessible housing for seniors and Manitobans with disabilities.
Q: Disability discrimination has made up the largest share by far of all the formal complaints lodged with the Manitoba Human Rights Commission over the last 20 years. What do you think accounts for this and what do you think needs to be done to address it?
Manitobans with disabilities have the basic human right to fully participate in all aspects of life – but unfortunately, stigma and systemic barriers often prevent that from happening. Government needs to take action to combat stigma, to come at it from every angle and provide solutions so people can live with dignity whether that’s at school, at work, or anywhere else. We need to work with the community to implement and enforce the Accessibility for Manitobans Act, supporting education and awareness campaigns, and properly funding disability supports – including raising wages for disability workers. People with disabilities need to be at decision-making tables. The Manitoba NDP will make sure the community is regularly consulted and included from the start – including as a part of our new Premier’s Business and Jobs Council.
The Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba (PC) - Candidate: Alex Rogers
The candidate did not respond by our September 20, 2023 deadline