Hilary Crowley, Green
Hilary Crowley is the Green Party candidate for MLA in Prince George Mackenzie.
Crowley lives in Summit Lake and works as a physiotherapist providing services to rural communities in northern B.C.
"I am also trying to expand the physio program at UNBC. There is a big shortage of physiotherapists here in the north and if we can train them in the north, we will be better able to keep them in the north," Crowley said.
With a passion for the great outdoors, Crowley has no shortage of outdoor activities that she enjoys regularly including gardening, canoeing and kayaking.
She is also a member of the Caledonia Ramblers Hiking Group, the Sons of Norway Cross Country Ski Club and the Naturalist Society.
But it is her passion for people that keeps Crowley truly inspired.
"I have a passion in helping those who are underprivileged and those with disabilities," she said.
Crowley also helped develop a disability program, Samuha Overseas Development Association that trains local village people in physiotherapy in a rural community in India.
For Crowley, running for public office is not only about taking a stand for what she believes in as much as it is a lifestyle.
"We need to get many Green politicians on board so that we can change the province's economy and lifestyle. Lots of people vote Green but because of the system we don't win, although other parties have adopted our policies," she said.
"People need to know that they don't need to strategically vote. We need to bring back democracy to the system with proportional distribution. And this was promised with the Liberal government."
If chosen as MLA for Prince George-Mackenzie, Crowley wants to make sure that natural resources are harvested in a sustainable way for future generations as well as a move towards renewable energy.
"A vote for me, will make sure that our natural resources are sustained for future generations and we need to do this for our grandchildren," she said.
Bobby Deepak, NDP
Bobby Deepak, the NDP candidate for MLA in Prince George-Mackenzie, considers himself a true northern man.
"I grew up in Fort St. James and have so many memories there. I came to Prince George in the '80s. That's why I am so passionate about the north," Deepak said.
"I have family here. I have deep roots here and I have deep roots in the north."
After receiving a law degree in Ottawa, Deepak came back to the area and opened a law practice in Prince George.
"Since then, I have always tried to do more for our community here," Deepak said. "That's why after running in 2013, I didn't give up. I decided to give it another run."
He wants to see the north get a fair share of the wealth that is generated here.
"I have a desire to make our community a better place to live, for my family, my friends and for the whole community," Deepak said.
"After 16 years of B.C. Liberals, I don't see life has been made better. In fact, more and more people are living paycheque to paycheque. So, I intend to be a loud voice working in conjunction with all levels of government to ensure that we get our fair share and also that our economy gets a kickstart and creates more good local jobs. Our jobs plan will ensure that."
As a lawyer and negotiator, Deepak says that an area that needs improvement is working together for a common goal.
"We all have a stake in our communities here. And that's what I want to bring. But I believe that we can work together in a concerted effort, regardless of political lines."
Deepak practices law in Prince George and teaches at CNC.
He has taught courses in business law, employment law, criminal law and criminology.
He is also the founding member of Stand up for the North and a member of the Nechako Rotary Club.
"I have volunteered extensively and helped with many northern events," Deepak said.
"I commit to working hard and my doors are always open. I am approachable and I commit to being a northern voice on issues that really matter."
Mike Morris, Liberal
He might consider himself a bit of an introvert, but as MLA for Prince-George-Mackenzie since 2013, Mike Morris knew that someone had to do the job.
"Sometimes you just have to do what you have to do. I think I amazed a few people," Morris said.
"I really am a quiet guy, a trapper who loves to stay on my own outdoors. I'm just a normal guy who loves my family, mechanics, building and music by the campfire."
So why run again in this year's election on May 9?
"It was so humbling to know that people trust me in Prince George-Mackenzie. And I want to continue to let people know what rural B.C. is all about," Morris said.
Morris still has a vision for public safety after retiring from the RCMP in 2005 after a 32-year career.
"As a cop dealing with the downtrodden, you see how that side works and you see a balance that's necessary," Morris said.
Morris was appointed as Minister of public Safety and Solicitor General in 2015.
Previously, he served as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Forests, lands and Natural Resource Operations.
Morris has also been the chair of the special Committee to Review the Independent Investigations Office, the convener of the Select Standing Committee of Crown Corporations and has served on other select standing committees including finance and government services and public accounts as well as the cabinet committee for environment and land use.
Morris and his wife Chris have been married more than 35 years.
The couple have two sons and five grandchildren.
"I'm hoping people will say Mike Morris has been here 45 years. He understands the socioeconomics and the history here," Morris said.
"We all have to look after each other here in rural B.C. and I think I can offer a strong voice, experience and wisdom."
