Blaney will not be seeking re-election in 2025
North Island Eagle, April 12 2024
NDP MP Rachel Blaney announced that she will not be running in the next federal election. She will remain the Member of Parliament for North Island—Powell River until then but will step down from her role as the NDP’s party whip.
“Representing our community is a true honour,” said Blaney. “There is nowhere else like it, and fighting for the people who live in North Island—Powell River has been and will continue to be my priority. The decision to not run again is not one I made lightly. But recent personal news means that I will need to be closer to home.”
After being elected by the people of North Island—Powell River in 2015, Blaney has secured real wins and changes for people in her community. Blaney’s work as the NDP’s critic for Veterans’ Affairs focused on making life more affordable and easier for the men and women who served Canada. She has also pushed Parliament to investigate the treatment of Women Veterans for the first time in Canadian history to ensure their service is recognized and valued. And as critic for Seniors, she has fought tirelessly to make sure seniors are living in dignity by raising Old Age Security and the Guaranteed Income Supplement, even pushing to give $742 million back to low income working seniors that the Liberals clawed back.
Blaney, as the NDP’s whip, has also played a key role in securing dental care and Pharmacare, which are saving families, senior and young people thousands of dollars — despite the fact that the Conservatives tried to block these measures and the Liberals delayed them for three decades all so they could put the profits of CEOs first.
“I want to thank my New Democrat colleagues and our community for your continued trust and support moving forward,” added Blaney. “I’m proud to be a part of the team that’s delivering for Canadians and getting more money back to you. In the meantime, I’ll keep pushing for measures that put more money in your pocket and get Ottawa to work in your favour, not ones that prop up rich CEOs.”
Photo —Kathy O'Reilly
North Island—Powell River MP Rachel Blaney has announced that she will not be running in the 2025 federal election.
Green Party’s Wegg
seeks North Island nod
North Island Eagle, April 12 2024
In a dynamic shift towards a future that works for everyone, Jessica Wegg, the Green Party of Canada Candidate for North Island-Powell River (NIPR) steps forward with a resolute vision for impactful change. Wegg’s recently-announced appointment as the International Trade critic for the Green Party of Canada underscores her unwavering dedication to addressing both local and global challenges.
“Jessica’s extensive background in law makes her an invaluable addition to our team as the Trade Critic,” said Elizabeth May, co-leader of the Green Party of Canada. “We’re honoured to have her take on this vital role.”
Drawing from her extensive experience as a lawyer championing individual and collective rights against systemic injustices, Jessica emerges as a powerful voice for the marginalized. Her advocacy for indigenous rights and her deep-rooted understanding of the pressures faced by working parents reflect her holistic approach to societal well-being.
Reflecting on the current socio-political landscape, Jessica emphasizes, “In times of adversity, simplistic solutions and scapegoating offer no lasting change or compelling vision for the future. The politics of fear lead nowhere. As Greens, we pledge to foster inclusive politics, engage in challenging dialogues, and fiercely advocate for our constituents. It’s time to empower individuals, rekindle their agency, and collaboratively forge effective local and national solutions.”
Wegg invites the community to engage directly with her campaign during a home-based meet-and-greet event in Campbell River on Saturday, April 27.
For further details and registration, please contact Ofri Livneh at 250-870-3117.
Further events will be announced in the coming weeks. Additionally, the North Island-Powell River Green Party AGM, to be held in Powell River on May 2, will provide a platform for public engagement and discourse.
“Join me in championing a progressive voice that heralds long-awaited transformations in Canadian politics. Together, let’s shape a future where every voice matters, we meet challenges together and create a politics and an economy that works for everyone.”
Photo — Submitted
Jessica Wegg is the Green Party of Canada candidate for North Island-Powell River