By CKPG News

Candidate Questions: Joan Atkinson

Candidate Questions: Joan Atkinson – NDP

Oct 19, 2020 | 8:46 AM

Why are you running for office?

My decision to run as the NDP candidate for the riding of Prince George-Mackenzie was not an easy one as I love my current role as Mayor of Mackenzie; but when I was approached by Premier Horgan to join his team I quickly realized I had to seize the opportunity. I am a proud Northerner and I look forward to bringing northern concerns to the legislature to ensure our voices are heard.

How does your party plan to address the issue of climate change?

The unprecedented Covid19 Environment we find ourselves in, has clearly illustrated the BCNDP are the party that will lead our province through this pandemic and back to a stable and prosperous economy. In 2018, when the CleanBC plan was introduced it provided us with the very framework that we need right now to transition us to a clean economy, while improving the lives of all British Columbians regardless of where you live. The sustainable and environmentally sound extraction and processing of natural resources are paramount to our regional economy and the BCNDP have committed to investing in rural communities to support our industries and make our communities stronger.  We recognize a balance between economy and environment can sometimes be very challenging but can be achieved.

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How would you address the challenges facing some Aboriginal communities across our region?

Every British Columbian should be very proud that we are the first province to pass legislation on the rights of Indigenous peoples. The Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples introduced in 2019 safeguards respectful government to government collaboration. This historic legislation will ensure Indigenous communities in Northern BC share in the economy of our region.  We must work to eradicate discrimination and engage in meaningful reconciliation.  A relationship built on recognition and respect will move our region and province forward.

What’s your stance on the development of pipelines?

The approval of any industrial project requires decisions made to align with the BCNDP ambitious climate plan; which guarantees an Economy that supports the Environment.

How would your party address the spike in violent crime in Prince George?

We all deserve to feel safe in our communities and restoring our neighborhoods will require collaboration between residents and the service providers working on the front lines to reduce the recent upswing in crime and violence. The BCNDP are investing $25M for front line mental health and social service workers that will free up police to focus on serious crime

Has the provincial government done a good job at handling the COVID-19 crisis? If not, how would you or your party manage it differently?

The leadership demonstrated by Premier John Horgan during the Covid19 has been a model for the world. Listening to experts like Dr. Bonnie Henry, the government made the right decisions for our health care system, and British Columbians followed suit by staying calm, kind and safe.

What would you do to help seniors?

Our seniors have paid the highest price during the Covid 19 Pandemic and too many families have had to say good-bye to loved ones. We must do a better job. The plan to eliminate multi-patient rooms in care homes will ensure seniors are guaranteed the safety, dignity and quality of life they deserve.  The recent announcement of a new medical school will provide the health care professionals that our growing senior population will demand.

How would you address the opioid crisis in Northern BC?

Covid 19 has also impacted the drug supply chain into Canada so current street drugs are laced with impurities and fatally harmful ingredients and users are paying with their lives. The BCNDP plan to fast track the move to decriminalize small amounts for personal use will mean the focus can be shifted to the bigger criminals making and selling these drugs not the users struggling with the addiction.   Homelessness, mental health and addictions challenges have risen to the forefront in our Region.  This crisis cannot be fixed with just bricks and mortar, we must be providing individuals with not only a safe place to call home but also with the long term supports needed to transition them back into healthy, productive lives.  These people are brothers and sisters and children and parents and deserved to be taken care of.  The BCNDP created the first Ministry of Mental Health & Addictions because this is a major concern in our lives and must be given the attention it deserves!

Where in the riding do you live? Why? What are your favourite places to spend time in?

I have lived in Mackenzie for 22 years and my husband Jim and I raised our sons here, both of whom are employed in the forest industry. I love where I live and my favourite times are spent outdoors with family and friends at beautiful local spots.  My favourite places are local gems like Morfee Lake, Gantahaz Lake, Powder King, Whiskers Provincial Park and local hiking and skiing trails.

Name the last Netflix show you binge-watched?

I am not a Netflix binge watcher