The candidates for the NDP, Green Party, and Liberals gathered at the YourTV (Cogeco 4/700) studios in downtown Belleville Thursday morning for their third debate, ahead of next Thursday’s by-election. It was the second and final public debate. It was a one-hour taped debate which discussed numerous issues.
PC candidate Tyler Allsopp cancelled his appearance early Thursday morning, due to a conflict in his schedule.
YourTV invited video submissions from Margaret Schuler of the New Blue Party of Ontario, Independent John Turmel, and Libertarian candidate Mark Snow. No video submissions were received.
Topics discussed in the debate included health care, education, infrastructure, affordable housing, the personal lives of the candidates, long-term care, lack of a skilled workforce and more.
During the education conversation, NDP candidate Amanda Roberston expressed concern over busing. Robertson, who is the vice-chair of the Hastings Prince Edward District School Board, says last year they had to move $2 million to cover the busing funding deficit.
“Specifically, we need to address the transportation funding formula that was recently released by this government, that actually shows Hastings and Prince Edward District School Board is going to be losing money year-over-year for the next five years.”
Liberal Sean Kelly used his closing statements during the debate to discuss the PC’s candidate’s absence.
” … and to not have a party show up and have that conversation – to me that says a lot. What does it say to you? If the candidate doesn’t show up and participate in this debate. We’re all running here, we’re all busy.”
Green candidate Lori Borthwick says helping people living with mental health and addictions issues is front and centre.
“People who’ve suffered trauma, we all tend to become addicted, whether it’s chocolate, wine, or opioids. When you’re on the street, your life is difficult and you look for things to make that life a little bit better.”
You can view the entire debate on Your TV
Thursday September 12 @ 7:00 p.m.
Friday September 13 @ 7:00 p.m.
Saturday September 14 @ 7:00 p.m.
Sunday September 15 @ 6:00 p.m.
Monday September 16 @ 11:00 a.m.
Tuesday September 17 @ 12:00 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday September 18 @ 7:00 p.m.
