Riding Mountain
Manitoba Liberal Party (MLP) - Candidate: Eileen Smerchanski
The candidate did not respond by our September 20, 2023 deadline
New Democratic Party of Manitoba (NDP) - Candidate: Wayne Chacun
The candidate did not respond by our September 20, 2023 deadline
The Progressive Conservative Party of Manitoba (PC) - Candidate: Greg Nesbitt
Q: How have disabilities played a role in your life and the lives of your loved ones?
As a rural business owner for 40 years I have seen first hand how a lack of proper access to businesses has had on physically disabled citizens. Businesses have made great strides in insuring that ALL Manitobans have the ability to access stores, etc. for their basic needs, but more needs to be done. Municipalities have a role to play as well in terms of infrastructure like sidewalks.
Q: Which one of DMVote’s 5 priority issues is of the greatest interest to you and why?
I believe that Manitobans living with a severe and prolonged disability deserve support in meeting their basic needs. I am proud that our government has delivered a new disability income support program. I know there is more to do and I also know a re-elected PC government will involve community members in discussions on how we can improve on the supports currently in place.
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?
I think a lack of awareness by businesses and the public on certain issues affecting disabled people may be behind this issue. Government can and should play a role in awareness - insuring that all Manitobans understand the positives of hiring persons with disabilities.