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Candidates gather for agriculture scrum

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January 10, 2006

Far from being a cockfight, the All Candidates Meeting at Hulmes Auction Centre yesterday evening, took on the form of a mild "meet and greet".

After an introduction by the evenings moderator, Mr. Andrews, of Andrews Scenic Acres, the candidates introduced themselves and were each given an opportunity to state their party’s platform in relation to farming issues.

Green Party member, Brent Bouteiller, started off complete with pamphlet in hand, stories of Ford tractors on his uncle's farm. All, but political newcomer and independent candidate Mike Wisniewski, claimed to have some connection to the farming community or at least being close to issues that affect the farming community.

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An audience of approximately 75 people sat complacently while the candidates explained their interest in solving the problems, such as forced market pricing, that is threatening the viability of the traditional family farm.

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Afterwards, the moderator allowed for open questions from the audience. While many had valid concerns, you got the feeling that the majority of the audience were nothing more than mere spectators, perhaps judging more the candidates personal qualities and integrity rather than the actual farming issues. Let’s hope the next All Candidates Meeting will offer a little political sparring on issues such as health care, programs for seniors and children and taxation.

Special thanks to Kurtis Andrews for organizing and hosting the event.

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