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All Candidates’ Forum at Ismaili Centre, Toronto
N Sacoor
Liberal Finance Minister Bill Morneau faced opposing political candidates in an All Candidates’ Forum hosted by the Ismaili Centre, Toronto. The debate allowed members from all political parties to engage in dialogue in advance of Canada’s federal election. Candidates discussed four key issues — climate change, economic security, international affairs, and diversity — moderated by Aleem Kanji, Vice President of Government Relations at the Sutherland Corporation, a public affairs and strategic communications firm.
Mourneau, who is seeking re-election in Toronto Centre explained that the Liberal party’s strategy on climate change is to “put a price on pollution” with a carbon tax that will create changes in behaviour and investment choices. The Green party’s Dan Turcotte, the candidate for Don Valley East, countered that Canadians need to “end our dependence on fossil fuels” by implementing a plan that would offer educational subsidies to encourage people to train for “green” jobs. Mae J. Nam, New Democratic Party candidate for Beaches East-York addressed the affordability challenges that affect middle-class Canadians. She said the NDP’s “New Deal for the People” would help those living paycheques to paycheque with a new pharma care plan and initiatives to provide more affordable housing. Conservative MP Erin O’Toole, who is seeking re-election in Durham, spoke about the importance of providing tax relief to small businesses. “Two-thirds of Canadians work for a small to the medium-sized employer,” said O’Toole. “We need that sector to flourish.”
Ameeraly Kassim-Lakha, President for the Aga Khan Council for Canada, said the All Candidates’ Forum at the Ismaili Centre, Toronto contributed to democratic engagement by giving everyone present an opportunity to “engage in dialogue, better understand public concerns, appreciate the candidates’ views and commitments, and engage in a respectful and even enjoyable banter that is the heart of a true community.”
