Here is Rosemary with me as we head into an event in the Tatamagouche area recently. With us is Jim LaFresne, County Councillor for Tatamagouche and owner of the Train Station Inn. Although Tatamagouche is small, the area's people always have a project on the go. The Farmer's Market is always busy and recently the town was part of a documentary that will air on CBC after Christmas. The town recently won the Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award.
Tuesday, September 30, 2008
Off to another event!
Here is Rosemary with me as we head into an event in the Tatamagouche area recently. With us is Jim LaFresne, County Councillor for Tatamagouche and owner of the Train Station Inn. Although Tatamagouche is small, the area's people always have a project on the go. The Farmer's Market is always busy and recently the town was part of a documentary that will air on CBC after Christmas. The town recently won the Lieutenant Governor's Community Spirit Award.
A great day for democracy education
Yesterday I had the opportunity, along with the other candidates in the riding, to attend a debate/question and answer session for Parrsboro High School students. The students have hosted events such as this in previous elections and I am always happy to visit to discuss the issues.
Some may ask why would you go to a high school where the majority of students can't vote? The answer is simple. Young people need encouragement to get involved in the issues and vote when they are old enough to do so. Education is the best way to beat voter apathy.
The event was part of the mock election that the school, along with many others in the riding and the country, run as part of the Student Vote program. The program is open to students from elementary right through to highschool. If you are curious about the program click on the title of the post and it will take you to the program's website.
The students raised a number of issues but the ones that dominated their questions and comments were the environment and jobs in rural Canada. Many wanted to know how they could get jobs in the area when they are finished school since rural areas such as theirs have a high unemployment rate. Some of the students tied this economic development issue in with the environment and questioned whether Parrsboro would be well placed to bring in trades and industries that support a greener environment. Many questioned what kind of jobs they could see from projects such as Tidal power.
It was a great session and I really enjoyed the input of the students. If we don't listen to what they want to see in terms of economic development in rural areas, we won't be able to keep them working at home.
Prior to the event at the high school I met with the Parrsboro and Area Board of Trade for their luncheon where I was very well received.
Some may ask why would you go to a high school where the majority of students can't vote? The answer is simple. Young people need encouragement to get involved in the issues and vote when they are old enough to do so. Education is the best way to beat voter apathy.
The event was part of the mock election that the school, along with many others in the riding and the country, run as part of the Student Vote program. The program is open to students from elementary right through to highschool. If you are curious about the program click on the title of the post and it will take you to the program's website.
The students raised a number of issues but the ones that dominated their questions and comments were the environment and jobs in rural Canada. Many wanted to know how they could get jobs in the area when they are finished school since rural areas such as theirs have a high unemployment rate. Some of the students tied this economic development issue in with the environment and questioned whether Parrsboro would be well placed to bring in trades and industries that support a greener environment. Many questioned what kind of jobs they could see from projects such as Tidal power.
It was a great session and I really enjoyed the input of the students. If we don't listen to what they want to see in terms of economic development in rural areas, we won't be able to keep them working at home.
Prior to the event at the high school I met with the Parrsboro and Area Board of Trade for their luncheon where I was very well received.
Monday, September 29, 2008
Friday, September 26, 2008
The real deal on being and Independent MP
The issue of my status as an Independent MP often comes up at the door when visiting constituents and often they ask how just one person manages to do the job.
To set their minds at ease I like to point out that no MP is a paid employee of their party, but each and every one is an employee of the House of Commons with the same salary, the same office budget for staff, the same access to research, the same office equipment and same access to government officials. This often surprises them as they have been led to believe that Independent MPs get nothing.
The truth of the matter is, I have three staffers in Ottawa and one in Cumberland County and one in Colchester, just as it has been for the past 20 years. They are full-time jobs and they did not disappear when I became an Independent in 2007.
As it has been all along, my office does much of its own research on the issues and makes full use of the services of the Library of Parliament, which offers research resources for every MP. I have never been fond of party speaking points on issues and have always preferred to have my own research on an issue to get a better understanding. My office probably does more research than many other MP's offices.
As with MPs belonging to a political party, I have an opportunity to stand up in Question Period and ask a question, more so than when I was a member a party. The Speaker of the House allots two spaces a week for Independent MPs to ask questions and since there are so few of us, I usually get to ask the government a question every other week. Back-bench MPs can't say the same since it is the party who decides who will ask the questions and it is usually the critic or the leader.
In addition to asking questions in the House, like every other MP I can and do often ask questions on the order paper on issues my constituents have raised with me. My office staff also use Access to Information to get answers when all other routes have thrown up road blocks. I have put forward Private Member's motions and Bills and will continue to do so.
As an Independent, I can and have, cast a vote that denied a motion unanimous consent.
I have got a busy weekend coming up. Be sure to check my calendar for the list of events and I hope to see you in my travels in Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley.
To set their minds at ease I like to point out that no MP is a paid employee of their party, but each and every one is an employee of the House of Commons with the same salary, the same office budget for staff, the same access to research, the same office equipment and same access to government officials. This often surprises them as they have been led to believe that Independent MPs get nothing.
The truth of the matter is, I have three staffers in Ottawa and one in Cumberland County and one in Colchester, just as it has been for the past 20 years. They are full-time jobs and they did not disappear when I became an Independent in 2007.
As it has been all along, my office does much of its own research on the issues and makes full use of the services of the Library of Parliament, which offers research resources for every MP. I have never been fond of party speaking points on issues and have always preferred to have my own research on an issue to get a better understanding. My office probably does more research than many other MP's offices.
As with MPs belonging to a political party, I have an opportunity to stand up in Question Period and ask a question, more so than when I was a member a party. The Speaker of the House allots two spaces a week for Independent MPs to ask questions and since there are so few of us, I usually get to ask the government a question every other week. Back-bench MPs can't say the same since it is the party who decides who will ask the questions and it is usually the critic or the leader.
In addition to asking questions in the House, like every other MP I can and do often ask questions on the order paper on issues my constituents have raised with me. My office staff also use Access to Information to get answers when all other routes have thrown up road blocks. I have put forward Private Member's motions and Bills and will continue to do so.
As an Independent, I can and have, cast a vote that denied a motion unanimous consent.
I have got a busy weekend coming up. Be sure to check my calendar for the list of events and I hope to see you in my travels in Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley.
Thursday, September 25, 2008
CPAC
I mentioned a few posts back about doing an interview and walk-around town with CPAC. Well, the editing is done and the show is on their website, which you can access by clicking on the title of this post. Or, if you want to watch it on the big screen in your living room, it will be on CPAC at 5 p.m. ATL on Friday, September 26th. As they say, check your local listings for the actual channel that CPAC is on.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Door knocking
It is another busy day of campaigning in the riding. I hope to meet as many people as I can before the October 14th election.
Today I door knocked in Bass River, Economy, Five Islands and Great Village area. It was great to speak to so many people about the great things that are happening in our riding and areas that residents feel need attention.
If you are on the roads in Cumberland Colchester Musquodboit Valley keep an eye out for the campaign car. If you see me give me a wave and a friendly honk!
Today I door knocked in Bass River, Economy, Five Islands and Great Village area. It was great to speak to so many people about the great things that are happening in our riding and areas that residents feel need attention.
If you are on the roads in Cumberland Colchester Musquodboit Valley keep an eye out for the campaign car. If you see me give me a wave and a friendly honk!
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Veterans Memorial Garden in Bass River
If you are in the Bass River area, stop and visit the Cobequid Veterans' Memorial Park. With it's reproduction of a World War I trench, flower beds and flags honouring Veterans of the current conflict in Afghanistan, it is a wonderful spot to stop and spend a few quiet moments. The garden is the handy work of the community of Bass River led by Dr. Karen Ewing of the West Colchester Community Health Centre.Monday, September 22, 2008
Community pride is alive and well in Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley
The Deuville's Rink in Salmon River celebrated its 50th anniversary on the Saturday with a great celebration of community spirit. You would expect nothing less from Hockeyville and the fantastic Deuville family that has made the rink such a pivotal part of the community for the past 50 years, and the party did not disappoint.
I had the chance to meet up with Mr. Deuville, who is 90 and still going strong. He has literally given the last 50 years of his life to the community so they would have a place to skate and play hockey.
In another show of community pride, the official flag raising for International Peace Day was held at the Veterans Memorial Park in Bass River on the weekend. The group of residents and veterans that have worked on this project have done an amazing job. The park features a re-creation of a trench from World War I and the memorial has 98 flags representing each of the Canadian Forces members killed overseas in the past few years. The ceremony was very moving and the community should be proud of themselves for putting together such a touching monument to veterans.
I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the great job the Honourable Karen Casey did in securing funding for the park.
Now that it is Monday it is back to another week of door-knocking and meeting as many people as I can. Today I was at a lunch at the Wesleyen Church in Springhill and then I did some visiting with patients and staff at the All Saints Hospital and several Seniors' residences.
I had the chance to meet up with Mr. Deuville, who is 90 and still going strong. He has literally given the last 50 years of his life to the community so they would have a place to skate and play hockey.
In another show of community pride, the official flag raising for International Peace Day was held at the Veterans Memorial Park in Bass River on the weekend. The group of residents and veterans that have worked on this project have done an amazing job. The park features a re-creation of a trench from World War I and the memorial has 98 flags representing each of the Canadian Forces members killed overseas in the past few years. The ceremony was very moving and the community should be proud of themselves for putting together such a touching monument to veterans.
I would be remiss if I didn't acknowledge the great job the Honourable Karen Casey did in securing funding for the park.
Now that it is Monday it is back to another week of door-knocking and meeting as many people as I can. Today I was at a lunch at the Wesleyen Church in Springhill and then I did some visiting with patients and staff at the All Saints Hospital and several Seniors' residences.
Thursday, September 18, 2008
The Good, the Bad and Thankful
Today's announcement that the Halifax International Airport Authority (HIAA) has signed a lease with Gateway Facilities Inc. to build a 40,000 square foot multi-tenant cargo facility at the airport is great news. In addition to the jobs created to build the facility, the extra cargo capacity will enhance the airport's abilty to service that sector and will create more jobs to handle the additional frieght in the future. The economic spin-offs will have a positive impact throughtout that end of the riding.
I learned today that it will be 2009 before the Province of Nova Scotia replaces the aboiteau on the Amherst Marsh that failed just one year after being built. The province spent weeks this summer doing an engineering assessment on the failed dyke and now that winter is approaching, it will be next year before they can replace it. It is a disappointment, but we are fortunate that the old one behind it that was built in 1957 has survived and is still keeping the water out.
On CBC Nova Scotia's website I notice an article that stated three of the four MLA/cabinet ministers in the riding are supporting my bid for re-election as an Independent. I want to thank them for their support. I know this puts them in a difficult position, so I am really grateful to Murray Scott, Karen Casey and Jamie Muir.
The AGM in North Colchester was last night and there was a great turnout.
I learned today that it will be 2009 before the Province of Nova Scotia replaces the aboiteau on the Amherst Marsh that failed just one year after being built. The province spent weeks this summer doing an engineering assessment on the failed dyke and now that winter is approaching, it will be next year before they can replace it. It is a disappointment, but we are fortunate that the old one behind it that was built in 1957 has survived and is still keeping the water out.
On CBC Nova Scotia's website I notice an article that stated three of the four MLA/cabinet ministers in the riding are supporting my bid for re-election as an Independent. I want to thank them for their support. I know this puts them in a difficult position, so I am really grateful to Murray Scott, Karen Casey and Jamie Muir.
The AGM in North Colchester was last night and there was a great turnout.
Wednesday, September 17, 2008
All eyes on Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley
This morning's official opening of the Truro office was a big success with a large turn-out of supporters. Thanks to everyone who came out to say hello! Your support means a lot to me and the election team.
As the campaign unfolds, the media attention on Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley has continued. CPAC was in town and I gave them a little tour of Truro. It was a fun opportunity to meet people on the street, many of whom showed their support for my re-election campaign.
Yesterday I did a radio interview with Tom Young on News 88.9 which airs all over the Maritimes. I also got a stint in front of the CPAC cameras for an interview which was aired nationally.
All this attention shows the focus that is on this riding because of the unique situation here. Although many candidates may run as an Independent, very few do it after being ejected from the caucus of a political party. I expect that the media attention will continue up to and even after the votes are counted.
Don't forget the grand opening of the campaign office in Amherst tomorrow night at 7 p.m. I hope to see you there!
As the campaign unfolds, the media attention on Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley has continued. CPAC was in town and I gave them a little tour of Truro. It was a fun opportunity to meet people on the street, many of whom showed their support for my re-election campaign.
Yesterday I did a radio interview with Tom Young on News 88.9 which airs all over the Maritimes. I also got a stint in front of the CPAC cameras for an interview which was aired nationally.
All this attention shows the focus that is on this riding because of the unique situation here. Although many candidates may run as an Independent, very few do it after being ejected from the caucus of a political party. I expect that the media attention will continue up to and even after the votes are counted.
Don't forget the grand opening of the campaign office in Amherst tomorrow night at 7 p.m. I hope to see you there!
Tuesday, September 16, 2008
Grand Openings of the campaign offices
This is shaping up to be a busy week. The Truro campaign office's grand opening is on September 17 (Wednesday) at 10:30 a.m. The office is located at 204 Robie Street, which is the old Vantage Motor's building. The office is already open, but this will be a chance to greet the team and I'll be there as well. If you need to contact the office before that, the phone number is 902-897-4259.
On September 18 (Thursday) the grand opening of the Amherst office will take place at 7 p.m. Again, a chance to meet my local team of volunteers and ask me any questions you might have. This office is at 23 LaPlanche Street, which is the former location of Hicks Lemoine Law Offices. It is also open now. If you need to call before the big night, the number there is 902-667-8607.
On September 18 (Thursday) the grand opening of the Amherst office will take place at 7 p.m. Again, a chance to meet my local team of volunteers and ask me any questions you might have. This office is at 23 LaPlanche Street, which is the former location of Hicks Lemoine Law Offices. It is also open now. If you need to call before the big night, the number there is 902-667-8607.
Monday, September 15, 2008
A busy weekend, but I saw so many great things in Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley
As predicted, I am already surprised by the great projects that I have encountered while travelling throughout the riding during the campaign.
I was in Tatamagouche over the weekend for another event at Creamery Square and it never fails to impress me. The buildings host the weekly Farmer's Market, which is very popular with area residents and vendors. The Creamery also houses the Creamery Square Museum and Archieves. The final phase of the project is slated for next year and will see the construction of a performing arts centre. The entire project is well done and has created a wonderful destination spot for tourists and historians alike.
Last week the women of Tatamagouche went on a vacation and the men and children were left holding down the fort as part of a documentary called "The Week the Women Went" which will air on CBC in January. The men didn't sit idle while the women were being pampered. I had the pleasure of checking out their handy work, a sturdy new wharf in a park-like setting. The men did a fantastic job and the wharf will be enjoyed for years to come. Thanks to Paperny Film, based in Vancouver for selecting Tatamagouche for this year's program and community project!
At the far end of the riding in Amherst I attended the official re-dedication of the Amherst Stadium on Saturday night. After its renovation it looks like a brand new building. It came in ahead of schedule and on budget. The upgraded facilities include an elevator and an enhanced community walking track. I am always amazed by the dedication of the hockey fans, who were at the stadium prior to the start of the Rambler's game. Many are at every game and are keen supporters of local Junior A hockey. Without the fans, there would be no team!
Last night in Springhill I took in the 1st annual church choir evening of song and fellowship that was held at All Saints Hospital. All the choirs in town got together to put on a great evening of music and fellowship. The song selection was great and I really enjoyed it!
Last, but definately not least, I attended the Community Spirit Awards in Tatamagouche. This is an award created by Lt. Governor Mayann E. Francis, who has made four trips to the riding in the past two months which is great to see. I have to congratulate her for creating the Community Spirit Award because it honours all the good things that small rural communities can and do do each day. She is a very hands on Lt. Governor and the award shows that she has an understanding rural Nova Scotia. Her visits give a great boost to the profile of the rural communities she visits.
I was in Tatamagouche over the weekend for another event at Creamery Square and it never fails to impress me. The buildings host the weekly Farmer's Market, which is very popular with area residents and vendors. The Creamery also houses the Creamery Square Museum and Archieves. The final phase of the project is slated for next year and will see the construction of a performing arts centre. The entire project is well done and has created a wonderful destination spot for tourists and historians alike.
Last week the women of Tatamagouche went on a vacation and the men and children were left holding down the fort as part of a documentary called "The Week the Women Went" which will air on CBC in January. The men didn't sit idle while the women were being pampered. I had the pleasure of checking out their handy work, a sturdy new wharf in a park-like setting. The men did a fantastic job and the wharf will be enjoyed for years to come. Thanks to Paperny Film, based in Vancouver for selecting Tatamagouche for this year's program and community project!
At the far end of the riding in Amherst I attended the official re-dedication of the Amherst Stadium on Saturday night. After its renovation it looks like a brand new building. It came in ahead of schedule and on budget. The upgraded facilities include an elevator and an enhanced community walking track. I am always amazed by the dedication of the hockey fans, who were at the stadium prior to the start of the Rambler's game. Many are at every game and are keen supporters of local Junior A hockey. Without the fans, there would be no team!
Last night in Springhill I took in the 1st annual church choir evening of song and fellowship that was held at All Saints Hospital. All the choirs in town got together to put on a great evening of music and fellowship. The song selection was great and I really enjoyed it!
Last, but definately not least, I attended the Community Spirit Awards in Tatamagouche. This is an award created by Lt. Governor Mayann E. Francis, who has made four trips to the riding in the past two months which is great to see. I have to congratulate her for creating the Community Spirit Award because it honours all the good things that small rural communities can and do do each day. She is a very hands on Lt. Governor and the award shows that she has an understanding rural Nova Scotia. Her visits give a great boost to the profile of the rural communities she visits.
Friday, September 12, 2008
Grassroots democracy
With just four full days of campaigning it is gratifying to see so many people that have never been part of the political process offering their assistance, either by volunteering, requesting a lawn sign or making a financial contribution. This is what grassroots politics is about; people getting involved.
This is kind of like the People’s Campaign and a return to democracy for the many who have never gotten involved before. It has been very interesting to watch unfold. I can see a need for political parties, but I do enjoy being able to speak for the riding without it being just the party’s opinion and not my own. There is a place for an Independent in this system.
I have been asked what can an Independent candidate do in Parliament? The answer is simple; I can express the wishes of the riding without having to go through a Whip’s office, a critic or worrying that my comments on an issue will be problematic for another caucus member elsewhere in the country.
I picked up the campaign vehicle yesterday and I’m in Musquodoboit today. (That is pronounced Musk-o-dob-it.) You can’t miss the campaign car! I’ll post a picture of it here in the next couple of days. When you see me, give me a friendly honk and a wave!
This is kind of like the People’s Campaign and a return to democracy for the many who have never gotten involved before. It has been very interesting to watch unfold. I can see a need for political parties, but I do enjoy being able to speak for the riding without it being just the party’s opinion and not my own. There is a place for an Independent in this system.
I have been asked what can an Independent candidate do in Parliament? The answer is simple; I can express the wishes of the riding without having to go through a Whip’s office, a critic or worrying that my comments on an issue will be problematic for another caucus member elsewhere in the country.
I picked up the campaign vehicle yesterday and I’m in Musquodoboit today. (That is pronounced Musk-o-dob-it.) You can’t miss the campaign car! I’ll post a picture of it here in the next couple of days. When you see me, give me a friendly honk and a wave!
Thursday, September 11, 2008
Let the debate begin
Yesterday’s surprise about-face by Prime Minister Stephen Harper and NDP leader Jack Layton on the debate issue was not surprising given the uproar that resulted from their refusal to debate the articulate and knowledgeable Green Party Leader, Elizabeth May.
From nasty facebook messages on NDP pages vowing not to vote for Mr. Layton because of his refusal, to endless questions for the PM and Liberal Leader Stephan Dion about the issue, I think it was a defining moment in the first week of the election.
Elizabeth May got more media coverage out of the Tories and NDP’s refusal to include her in the debate on the issues, than any press release or news conference she could have planned. The fact that as a legitimate national party leader with candidates running in 306 ridings, Ms. May had her honest bid to be part of the political dialogue rebuffed by what many voters see as the old boys club was seen as a slap in the face to democracy.
For my part, I supported Ms. May’s bid to take part in the debate and wrote a letter on Monday to the television consortium expressing those thoughts. I was at Creamery Square in Tatamagouche today and many expressed their support for Ms. May and their disgust at the the Prime Minister and the NDP for their initial stance on the televised debates. By the way, if you have a chance to visit Creamy Square do it. It is a wonderful place. http://www.centralnovascotia.com/members/creamerysquare/
As for the debate, yesterday’s about-face was good news for democracy.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
The environment not politics
I was so pleased when four former Prime Ministers, Joe Clark, Kim Campbell, John Turner and Paul Martin came forward and publicly demanded that the political parties in this campaign make a strong stand for cleaning up our environment and stop playing politics with the issue.
I added my support to this effort with a press release yesterday. You can read it on my official website at http://www.billcasey.ca/
The United Nations Report on Climate Change has identified Nova Scotia as being one of the most vulnerable to rising sea levels in North America. Rising sea levels are a direct result of climate change. It is because of this that I feel it is so important that we pay attention to how this will affect us here along the Upper Bay of Fundy.
Our dyke system was built long before the sea levels have reached the point they have today. We are already seeing damage from higher tides to this dyke system. A rising sea level is a cause for concern and it is an issue that I will continue to pursue.
I added my support to this effort with a press release yesterday. You can read it on my official website at http://www.billcasey.ca/
The United Nations Report on Climate Change has identified Nova Scotia as being one of the most vulnerable to rising sea levels in North America. Rising sea levels are a direct result of climate change. It is because of this that I feel it is so important that we pay attention to how this will affect us here along the Upper Bay of Fundy.
Our dyke system was built long before the sea levels have reached the point they have today. We are already seeing damage from higher tides to this dyke system. A rising sea level is a cause for concern and it is an issue that I will continue to pursue.
Welcome to my Election 2008 Campaign blog
Election 2008 promises to be the fight of my life. It is my first as an Independent candidate and it is the first where I have to re-building my funding from scratch. Funds are short as an Independent and if you can make a financial contribution I would appreciate anything you can share.
You can make your cheques payable to:
Official Agent for Bill Casey
P.O. Box 444
Amherst
Nova Scotia B4H 3Z5
So far I have had lots of fantasic support which is very encouraging. Besides the many, many kind words from constituents, I was thrilled that Elizabeth May, leader of the Green Pary, has endorsed my re-election in Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley by declaring that she will not run a candidate to oppose me in the riding.
Despite accusations by the Liberal candidate that I am not a "green" politician, I am very proud to be the only Member of Parliament to receive the "Political Will" award from the Nova Scotia Environmental Network, an organization that represents over 50 environmental organizations in Nova Scotia.
You can make your cheques payable to:
Official Agent for Bill Casey
P.O. Box 444
Amherst
Nova Scotia B4H 3Z5
So far I have had lots of fantasic support which is very encouraging. Besides the many, many kind words from constituents, I was thrilled that Elizabeth May, leader of the Green Pary, has endorsed my re-election in Cumberland Colchester Musquodoboit Valley by declaring that she will not run a candidate to oppose me in the riding.
Despite accusations by the Liberal candidate that I am not a "green" politician, I am very proud to be the only Member of Parliament to receive the "Political Will" award from the Nova Scotia Environmental Network, an organization that represents over 50 environmental organizations in Nova Scotia.
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