On Oct. 21, Prince George residents will be voting for a member of parliament (MP) in either the Cariboo-Prince George or Prince George-Peace River-Northern Rockies riding.
PrinceGeorgeMatters has sent out a list of questions to those vying for a seat in the House of Commons.
Name: Todd Doherty
Age: 50
Running for: Conservative Party of Canada, Cariboo-Prince George
Profession: Member of Parliament for the riding of Cariboo-Prince George, first elected in October 2015
Neighbourhood you live in: College Heights
Previous political experience:
I am the Member of Parliament for the riding of Cariboo-Prince George, first elected in October, 2015. I am humbly seeking re-election and hopes to continue to serve and represent the friends and families of this region. I was honoured to be reappointed as the Shadow Minister for Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard. In addition, reappointed as Shadow Minister for the Asia-Pacific Gateway. I am the Chair of the National Softwood Lumber Caucus and have held the position as Deputy Critic for Indigenous Affairs. I was privileged to champion Bill C-211, An Act Respecting a Federal Framework on Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Bill C-211 required the Minister of Health to convene a conference with the Minister of National Defence, the Minister of Veterans Affairs, provincial and territorial government representatives, representatives of the medical community and patients’ groups for the purpose of developing a comprehensive federal framework to address the challenges of recognizing the symptoms and providing timely diagnosis and treatment of PTSD. I sit as a Member of the Parliamentary Associations of the Commonwealth, Canada-Europe, Canada-Africa, NATO, ParlAmericas, the Canada Group of Inter-Parliamentary Union, and the Inter-Parliamentary Groups of Canada-United States, Canada-Germany, Canada-Ireland, Canada-Israel, Canada-Italy, Canada-Japan and the Canada-China Legislative Association.
Who is your political hero?
There have been many political leaders who have inspired and influenced me; however, I’d have to say John Diefenbaker. Amongst other notable achievements, he showed leadership by appointing the first female minister ever in Canada and the first indigenous member of the Senate.
In three sentences or less, what inspired you to enter the election race?
The voices of our friends and families of Cariboo-Prince George have, and will continue to, inspire me to seek re-election. Over the past four years, I have had the honour and privilege of meeting so many individuals throughout our region. It is a truly humbling experience to be in a position to represent them and have a positive impact in their lives.
What’s the number one local issue at the federal level?
In my opinion, the number one local issue our region is faced with is securing a softwood lumber deal. Across our region, we have witnessed numerous mill closures, work curtailment, job loss, emotional and financial stress for the friends and families in our communities. Forestry has been a cornerstone industry in our province for over a century. We need to become a sector that is competitive across the world and looked at as a benchmark for technology, innovation, skills training, and climate change care. This takes strong collaboration at all levels of government and includes major issues such as climate change, indigenous reconciliation, and industry renewal.
@JustinTrudeau remember when I stood in the House & asked why you were turning your back on CDN’s impacted by the forestry downturn? You’ve failed the hardworking forestry families & the communities dependent on forestry. #forestrymatters https://t.co/Jux5oLtHA7
— Todd Doherty (@ToddDohertyMP) September 6, 2019
Beyond Prince George, what’s the number one issue facing Canada?
Affordability is the number one issue facing Canadians. We know that over 50 per cent of Canadians are less than $200 away from insolvency every single month. We need to ensure that government lives within its means and finds ways to put more money back in the pockets of Canadians.
What’s the best way for the country to deal with climate change?
Our party has put together the most comprehensive environmental platform ever. New policies will further lower Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions and strengthen environmental protections, without taking money out of Canadians’ pockets. It is built on three policy principles. Green technology, not taxes, a cleaner and greener natural environment, and taking our fight against climate change globally. Under this plan, it will not be free to pollute and there will be no sweetheart deals for anybody who does.
What is the biggest issue facing your party’s chance at success?
Nothing is getting in our way! Our volunteers are energized. Our campaign is underway and we are ready to go.
Younger voters typically vote less than older voters. How will you engage and encourage young voters to participate in this election?
One thing we continue to hear from our younger voters is the issue of affordability and climate change. Our platform includes plans that address these issues directly. Canada’s Conservatives know the government has an important role to play to put homeownership within reach for more Canadians. Our four-point plan will help unlock the door to homeownership. When you work hard, save, and invest in your future, the government should help you – not stand in your way. Our plan to tackle climate change is simple, invest in green technology, not taxes.
What is your party’s leader’s biggest flaw?
He cares too much.
How will you make sure Prince George continues to be prosperous via federal politics?
I will continue to fight for our region and take every opportunity to work with our municipal, provincial, and federal leaders to ensure investment, jobs, and opportunities can occur in our backyard.
Once elected, your job is to represent your entire riding. How do you plan on representing individuals who didn’t vote for you?
If re-elected, I will continue to be the voice for our friends and families of Cariboo-Prince George, despite their political stripes. Over the past four years, I have met with thousands of individuals who all carry diverse political beliefs. I will always make myself available. I will continue to listen, learn, and represent our region provincially and in Ottawa.
What informs your political stance? What books, publications, relationships or experiences?
The vast experience I bring to this role helps inform my political stance, along with the time spent throughout the riding with community citizens and leaders.
What local project or service would you advocate for more federal spending?
Spruce City Wildlife Association Hatchery, the Nechako White Sturgeon Hatchery, and the West Fraser Road in Quesnel are all projects I would continue to advocate for more federal spending.
Was Justin Trudeau’s decision to buy the TransMountain pipeline a good one? Why or why not?
No. Justin Trudeau’s flawed regulatory processes have sent a strong signal to international investors that Canada is not open for business. KinderMorgan was willing to invest $5 billion into our economy yet our governments uncertainly finally pushed them away. In the last two years, Canada has seen over $1 billion in potential investments leave the country. Simply put, the investor confidence in Canada has disappeared and the Liberals strongly empathized that by purchasing TransMountain pipeline.
What’s your favourite place to go for a quiet cup of coffee?
On my deck with my wife.
Who would play you in a film?
Tom Hanks. There is lots of depth to his characters.
Complete the sentence...
When I’m not at home or at work, you can find me:...throughout the riding meeting with the friends and families of Cariboo-Prince George.
The most random, yet interesting fact about me is:
My son and I went backpacking throughout China. It was an amazing experience to spend this time with my son and take in all the beauty and culture of the country.
Have you tried legal weed?
No.
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