Peace River South candidate defends debate absence

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. – MLA candidates in Peace River South experience a public clash of opinion regarding debates as final voting day approaches.

Following a lack of willingness to attend from Conservative candidate Larry Neufeld, the Chetwynd Chamber of Commerce cancelled a planned election forum.  

Of the three candidates on the ballot for Peace River South, incumbent and Independent candidate Mike Bernier, Conservative candidate Larry Neufeld, and BC NDP candidate Marshall Bigsby, Bernier was the only candidate who confirmed his attendance at the debate. 

Bernier vocalised his disappointment about the lack of interest from his fellow candidates and the subsequent cancellation on Facebook, calling the situation ‘unfortunate.’ 

“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,” Bernier wrote. 

Neufeld visited Chetwynd on October 2nd for a ‘coffee and chat’ event at the local Tim Hortons.  In the comments section, Neufeld was asked why he opted out of the debate.

“More than ever, British Columbians are struggling to keep up with the rising cost of living as they see jobs, investment, and economic opportunity leave our province,” Neufeld wrote in reply.

“I owe it to the people of Peace River South to speak with them about their concerns on the direction of our province and how we can make it better. In the lead up to October 19, my focus is on engaging with voters directly at the doors.”

Bernier is hosting a candidate Q&A event on October 3rd at 7 p.m. at the George Dawson Inn, inviting voters to come and ask questions about local and provincial issues. 

“One thing I enjoy doing is meeting people and learning what’s important to you, and having those discussions,” Bernier said in the Facebook announcement. 

In answering questions in the comments section, Bernier also stated he would be planning a similar event in the Chetwynd area over the weekend. 

Energeticcity.ca contacted Neufeld for further comment on his reasons for not attending the debate but did not receive a response in time for publication.