By Andrew de Souza

Hoback, Wassill no-shows at debate

Apr 21, 2011 | 6:30 AM

More than 100 people came out to hear Prince Albert’s federal candidate’s debate topics affecting the local community—the only problem was some questions went unanswered because neither the Conservative or Liberal candidates were in attendance.

Their absence, particularly Randy Hoback’s had an effect on the crowd. Some, like Keri Okanik had prepared a lengthy question for the candidates, but had to leave without an answer.

“We live in a democratic society and the whole point of representing leaders is to have someone who’s going to listen what we have to say,” she said.

She was asked if their absence would have an effect on who she would vote for.

“Absolutely it will.”

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Without Hoback or Wassil present, the focus was mainly on NDP candidate Valerie Mushinski, though all candidates had an opportunity to speak.

Canada Action Party candidate Craig Batley focused on the need to end violent conflict and military intervention and to reinvigorate the democratic process.

“I can’t fathom how we can be so resigned and be so casual and complacent that wars are inevitable,” he said. “The old guard uses our labour and our taxes to rebuild along a deadly pattern of mistrust, secrecy and greed. We want peace. Not a world divided and not a Canada divided.”

Green Party candidate Myk Brazier said he wanted to help create healthier water, air, soil and, ultimately, people.

“Children of the Earth,” he said. “We need to turn this bus around because we just passed a sign post that said Dark Age ahead and we just whipped by that thing doing 100 kilometres per hour, it’s crazy.”

Mushinski said she wanted to Ottawa to act as an actual voice for the region, not simply toe the party line.

“I believe our member of parliament is a person who has a voice within the caucus and within parliamentary committees and knows how to use that voice,” she said.

“I would be very, very honoured to serve as your member of parliament. I simply urge you to vote in the upcoming election because your vote is a vote for democracy.”

The election takes place on May 2.

adesouza@panow.com