Larry Neufeld outlines key issues facing Peace River South ahead of election

DAWSON CREEK -- In a historic race for Peace River South, newcomer Larry Neufeld is challenging long-time political powerhouse Mike Bernier.

With no debate forums scheduled, the BC Conservative candidate is sharing his stance on key issues affecting the region.

In an interview with CJDC-TV, Neufeld emphasizes that the healthcare system is a major concern for the people of South Peace. His party would utilize private clinics to reduce wait times and increase the level of patient care.

“You and anyone else would have access to that same private care without the additional cost associated to yourself—beyond your current tax burden,” Neufeld explained.

He also supports streamlining the acceptance of internationally trained doctors and opening up more local opportunities to address staffing shortages.

“Folks with family ties to the north can receive education and training without uprooting their families,” said Neufeld.

On the issue of crime, Neufeld proposes re-criminalizing hard drugs immediately, despite their re-criminalization this past May. He advocates for ending what he calls a “revolving door system” to justice, including minimum sentencing and re-implementing the Mental Health Act.

The Conservative Party’s stance on SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) being taught in classrooms is clear, with Neufeld stating, “The Conservative position is that SOGI 123 would be removed from the classroom and replaced with additional or increased anti-bullying resources.”

He believes this decision would give parents more choice in their children’s education.

”No one is okay with bullying. No one is okay with exclusion. No one is okay with anyone being treated differently," he adds.

On protecting the resource sector, Neufeld says, “We’ve really slid backwards in our ability to develop and send our resources to market.” He proposes reducing red tape to drive investment into the region and engaging with First Nations to find common solutions.

"We would engage with First Nations, and we would work very, very hard to find a common solution whereby everyone can benefit," said Neufeld. 

Addressing the affordability crisis for seniors, Neufeld promises additional funding for housing and other needs. He suggests reallocating money from safe drug supply and injection sites to support seniors.

"What we would propose Is additional funding into a variety of situations that can both affect affordability for seniors and housing for seniors, and that would include things along the lines of looking at opportunities where we can find additional housing at a lesser cost.”

Neufeld’s campaign office is located on 10124 10^th Street in Dawson Creek, where he will continue to meet with constituents daily leading up the October 19^th election.