The upcoming provincial election will be all about trust, according to Barbara Nederpel, the New Democratic Party's candidate for Kamloops-North Thompson.
“We can't let the voters be duped again,” she told a nomination meeting held in Clearwater on Saturday, Sept. 17. “This government has done nothing but give tax breaks to and defend the wealthy and big corporations.”
Nederpel said that the BC Liberals' layoff of 9,000 hospital workers was the largest layoff of women in history.
The government has turned its back on climate action and the economy is so unstable that many British Columbians find it hard to find full-time, family-supporting work.
Medical Service Plan premiums have doubled since the Liberals took over, while BC Hydro, ICBC and even campground fees have all gone up excessively.
The government has allowed real estate prices in the Lower Mainland to rise so high that most people living there will never be able to own their own homes.
“On May 9, 2017, British Columbians will cast their ballots to build the province they want,” she said. “If you're ready, let's get to work.”
She came from a working class family, the candidate told the meeting. After a difficult marriage, she was able to go back to school and become qualified as a licensed practical nurse.
Nederpel is presently vice-president of the Hospital Employees Union and president of the Kamloops and District Labour Council.
The NDP's nomination committee contacted between 35 and 40 people about being candidates, committee member Kathy Kendall reported to the meeting. Several of those who expressed interest changed their minds when they heard that Nederpel was interested in running. When nominations closed, Nederpel was the only one who had put in the necessary papers.
Close to a dozen party members and other local residents attended the Clearwater meeting, as well as several from Kamloops. Similar nomination meetings were held in Barriere and Kamloops the same day.