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Patenaude representing NDP

Linda Patenaude to represent NDP in Kelvington-Wadena

Jun 1, 2020 | 9:00 AM

A long-time resident of the Kelvington area will represent the New Democrats in the Kelvington-Wadena constituency this fall.

Linda Patenaude was chosen to carry the party’s colours in the upcoming provincial election. She currently serves as the Activity Director for the Kelvington Housing Authority, and she and her husband Maurice live and work on their farm just outside of the community.

Patenaude told northeastNOW she has never sought office before due to family and business considerations, but has always been involved in politics.

“I really don’t like the direction our province is going right now, [and] I figured this might be my last chance to jump in and turn it around,” Patenaude said.

She said under the Saskatchewan Party government, the province’s debt has been increased exponentially, services have been cut, Crowns have been sold off, contracts have been outsourced, and the push to privatization is growing.

“The NDP is the party that comes the closest to aligning with my values,” Patenaude said.

The two most important issues for Patenaude are the public health care system and education.

She said health care must be adequately funded and be prepared to care for all users, not just the wealthy. Patenaude said she is concerned about the potential privatization of health care.

“We’ve had a little peek at how privatization works in health care in the long-term care facilities in Ontario [during the COVID-19 pandemic], and we really need to reverse that direction,” Patenaude said.

She added the education system should enrich children so they are proud, confident, and have all of the tools they need to reach their full potential.

The government’s decision to turf the Saskatchewan Transportation Company (STC) was a huge blow to rural areas like the Kelvington-Wadena riding, according to Patenaude.

“That really discourages living in rural Saskatchewan,” Patenaude said.

The lack of adequate cellular and internet service in the region is also a sore spot for Patenaude.

“Again, that discourages people from living in rural Saskatchewan, and actually increases the risks to you if you do live in rural Saskatchewan,” Patenaude said.

She said the next government needs to listen to, and work for, the people.

“What politics is going to look like when we come out the other side of this COVID-19 is interesting,” Patenaude said. “I think it will be different, but I think if we’re willing to adapt and learn some lessons here it will be better.”

Patenaude looks to unseat incumbent SaskParty MLA Hugh Nerlien in the next provincial election, slated to be held Oct. 26.

cam.lee@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @camlee1974

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