As more local debates are planned across the riding, Harriston’s Bob Hosken representing the New Blue Party of Ontario is looking to make an impact.
The 47 year old who works at Wellington Heights in Mount Forest says he got involved with the local election stage citing issues he’s seen as a taxpayer
“I’ve been very frustrated with the representation I’ve been receiving as a taxpayer. Emails go unanswered or if I do its some response that doesn’t really answer my question. They usually give me information I already know and that’s why I’m asking the questions. I’m looking for accountability from our government”
Among some of the bigger topics locally includes rural healthcare as lack of staff has led to emergency departments not operating on a 24/7 basis. Hosken says the solution can come down to hiring back the staff lost due to mandates.
“New Blue is going to be hiring back all of the nurses and medical staff who have been let go due to the vaccination policy and their decision to either attempt to or refuse their vaccination for whatever reason.” said Hosken
In terms of protecting local agriculture land, Hosken says locally, it’s priority number one and ensuring all angles are discussed are a requirement.
“We need a long term plan in terms of land use. Whether that’s taking a look at urban zoning in our smaller cities or towns, looking at making multi units instead of big housing in these developments. New Blue is open to ideas…taking a look at ideas or stakeholders at the table and hearing those ideas, that’s how we have to solve every problem, looking at all sides of the issue and making sure you’re making the proper decisions with taxpayers money.”
Hosken adds other issues such as the cost of living boils down to taxes, adding the parties platform, “The New Blueprint” includes reducing HST from 13% to 10%. Provincially, Hosken says the New Blueprint will be to repeal Bill 195 – Reopening Ontario Act
“Obviously it wasn’t that at all, it was more like a lockdown bill. It expired on March 28th and hasn’t been repealed yet and that’s our number one priority is to repeal that bill.”
Election day is Thursday June 2nd.
