The Leader invited the five candidates in the Dakota-Arm River riding to introduce themselves to voters through a question-and-answer format, and to submit a photograph. Candidates were asked to keep their responses to 200 words or fewer. They are listed in alphabetical order.
The following four candidates replied. (Jordan Reynolds of the Green Party was unable to meet the Leader’s deadline.)
Please get out and mark your ballot during Voting Week — Oct. 22-28.
Raymond Carrick: Progressive Conservative Party of Sask.
Residence: I live on a farm at Eyebrow.
As you campaign, what are you hearing from constituents?
From people in the constituency, I am hearing we need a change of government.
What are your priorities for this constituency?
I support a better health care system for rural Saskatchewan, responsible use of water (irrigation, using grey instead of putting the water back in river or streams, and investigations into foreign investment of farm land.
Why should people vote for you?
I believe in
honesty and common sense in government.
As a political party, we need to balance the budget and pay the debt off.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
I hope voters will come out to vote and I will be thankful for your support.
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Darren Ebenal: Sask. United Party
Occupation and residence: Currently farming with my oldest son and reside in the Davidson area. Previous employment: municipal government, oil/gas and potash industries.
As you campaign, what are you hearing from constituents?
Affordability, accountability and delivery of service in health and education.
What are your priorities for this constituency?
To conduct myself in a moral/ethical standard as I help our constituency/constituents navigate the bureaucratic system. Which SUP believes is too large, with too many barriers.
Why should people vote for you?
The fact that I’m the only candidate that lives in the constituency. My work history and personality allow me to engage challenging conversation and situations confidently. I believe considering these aspects, makes me a responsible choice.
Is there anything else you would like to add?
Vote! Do not let yourself be influenced by others, do your research and vote with your conscience.
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Barret Kropf: Sask. Party
Occupation and residence: Professional Coach living in Caronport.
As you campaign, what are you hearing from constituents?
Affordability is the main topic heard as we have knocked on over 4,000 doors in the riding and attended countless events. Dakota Arm River constituents appreciate the Sask. Party platform of growing the economy which creates opportunities in small-town Saskatchewan and gives us a bright future!
What are your priorities for this constituency?
Our priorities are to help small communities flourish and stay safe! Giving the humble hard-working people of rural Saskatchewan the tools they need to continue growing and pursuing excellence! The grad retention tax credit, the doubling of the ice arena grant, rebate to train more Class 1 drivers … these are such great initiatives for communities in Dakota Arm River. Combined with a lowering of the provincial income tax and an increase in the seniors’ personal home care benefit makes this election all about affordability for all!
Why should people vote for you?
I’ve logged tens of thousands of kilometres in the last 10 months to cover the riding from corner to corner, and meeting thousands of amazing people. My intention was for Dakota Arm River residents to meet me and see that I care! That I’m committed to protecting family values, being a great listener and then being a strong voice for our riding at the legislature.
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Jordan Wiens: NDP Candidate for Dakota-Arm River
Occupation and residence: Research agrologist. I reside in Saskatoon but I work throughout the constituency. Our shop is north of Dundurn and when I’m not there, you can find me at our plot sites in Outlook, Broderick, Davidson, Bethune, and Imperial.
As you campaign, what are you hearing from constituents?
I’ve been hearing about how hard it is for people to access health care as well as get quality education for their kids. In addition, the high cost of living and tax hikes are really hurting everyone. I’ve also heard from people who have lost some faith in Saskatchewan Party MLAs. After 17 years in power, they seem out of touch with the issues working people are facing.
What are your priorities for this constituency?
I’ll be a tireless advocate for health care. Saskatchewan people deserve health care when and where they need it.
In addition, the Saskatchewan NDP’s will put more money back into peoples’ pockets by suspending the gas tax and cutting the provincial sales tax off of groceries and children’s clothing.
Why should people vote for you?
After 17 years, it’s time for a change.
I’m working hard to earn the trust of the people of this constituency and I’m ready to be a strong voice for them in the Legislature.
Carla Beck and the Saskatchewan NDP have a fully costed plan to get us out of last place in education and health care and make life more affordable.