An NDP candidate has been announced for Steinbach in the October 3rd provincial election.

Gord Meneer says he is running because he believes that the Steinbach constituency deserves better from the provincial government.

Meneer says he has worked and been involved with the Steinbach community for more than 20 years. 

"We are active members in the community," he says. "We believe in helping the people who live here."

Meneer says he has been involved with the Legion, noting he cares about our veterans and civil servants like police and firefighters who help build and shape our community. 

"Being active in the community means I've been hearing about what the needs are," adds Meneer. "I get to listen to people, hear their stories and their concerns to understand what matters to people, and what isn't working for people under our current PC government."

Meneer has been an active member of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) for more than 25 years. He currently sits as Vice President of his local CUPE 998, is area Vice President for CUPE Manitoba and serves on the National Global Justice Committee for CUPE.

Meneer says a lot of families from Steinbach, Mitchell and Blumenort have voted PC for a number of years but he says what people are telling him at the door is that they are left feeling disappointed. 

"People are feeling let down by the government right now and I want to represent the riding of Steinbach and build what's important to us," he adds.

If elected, Meneer says two of his priorities will centre around healthcare and affordable living. Meneer stresses that the Steinbach constituency has an aging population that deserves quality healthcare. However, it is his opinion that healthcare in southern Manitoba is in rough shape today. He says people need better access to quality healthcare, rather than the long wait times they currently face and the fact that it is harder and harder to find a family doctor.

With regard to affordable living, Meneer says Steinbach is seeing lots of young families move into the area, yet they are struggling to afford a good life in our community. He notes the NDP will freeze Manitoba Hydro rates and cut the gas tax. 

Meanwhile, Meneer says an NDP government will not leave anybody behind. Meneer notes he wants to represent Steinbach so that this constituency can get the services it needs. 

"So, you can see a doctor when you need it and not a few months later," he says. "So, if you have an emergency, you can concentrate on recovery, not on whether or not you have a doctor or a room available at the hospital for you."

Meneer says he is proud to be running with such a great team, noting Leader Wab Kinew wants to bring Manitoba together and will be a Premier for everyone.

 

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