Chetwynd election forums cancelled due to candidate absence

CHETWYND, B.C. — The Chetwynd Chamber of Commerce has decided not to host all-candidate forums for the upcoming provincial election after two candidates failed to respond to its invitation. 

According to a statement released on Tuesday, October 1st, the chamber sent invitations to Peace River South MLA Mike Bernier, Conservative Candidate Larry Neufeld, and NDP Candidate Marshall Scott-Bigsby.

Bernier was the only candidate to accept the chamber’s invitation. 

The chamber decided to cancel the forum due to a commitment to provide an equal platform to all candidates. 

“As non-partisan organizations, it is essential that we provide equal representation to all candidates. With limited participation, it would not be fair or balanced for the community,” said the chamber’s executive director, Jerrilyn Kirk.

The chamber’s statement says the decision reflects the chamber’s commitment to fostering a fair and informed electoral process for all voters.

“It’s unfortunate to hear that I was the only person willing to do public debates on the issues that affect Peace River South,” Bernier explained on Facebook, “I have always felt it is your right to hear from candidates before casting your votes on their history, experience, and knowledge of the issues.”

The MLA went on to say this is his first time seeing an all-candidate debate not happen before an election.

Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Naomi Larsen says the organization will continue to support the community through nonpartisan methods during the election.