Federal Conservative Party leader Pierre Poilievre says he has spent his career “fighting for the things that people in Battle River-Crowfoot hold dear.”
Poilievre, who will be seeking a new seat in the House of Commons via a future by-election in the local riding, responded last week to questions posed by Caribou Publishing.
“I am not from Battle River- Crowfoot, but I am determined to listen, learn and work hard to understand and represent the values and interests of the people,” says Poilievre.
“Farming, energy, national defense, hunting and so much more are all keys to understanding and representing the people of the region.”
Outgoing MP Damien Kurek announced just days after being re-elected with an overwhelming majority of the local vote in the April 28 election, that he would step aside to allow Poilievre to run, giving the Conservative Party leader another chance at an all-important seat in parliament.
“Damien very kindly and generously offered to resign his seat temporarily,” says Poilievre.
“I’m humbled and grateful for the sacrifice both he and his wife Danielle have made to give me the opportunity to run in this riding. I look forward to when Damien will once again run to be the MP for Battle River-Crowfoot in the next general election.”
In the meantime, Poilievre says that Kurek has offered to work with him to monitor and prioritize the ongoing issues of local constituents.
“I will be spending time in the region in different communities, but I will still be spending a lot of time in Ottawa working to strengthen our team and continuing to lead our Party,” Poilievre explains.
“I’ve asked [Damien] to give me weekly updates from the ground.”
Poilievre, who was raised in Alberta, says he’s prepared to fight for the issues facing the province.
“I am proud of my roots and care deeply about unleashing the potential of this province and in the rest of Canada by reversing Liberal anti-energy laws and quickly approving projects so we can get our energy to markets around the world.”
Additionally, Poilievre says he values being able to work closely with Alberta Premier Danielle Smith.
“I will continue to work with and listen to Premier Smith. She has proven to be a tremendous advocate for Alberta, the energy sector and the West.”
Due to election laws, Kurek’s resignation cannot take effect until 30 days after the result is published in the Canada Gazette, the federal government’s official publication.
The first part of the Gazette’s election reporting was released on May 13.
The Governor General must issue the writ for a by-election no sooner than 11 days and no later than 180 days after the chief electoral officer is officially notified of a vacancy.
Prime Minister Mark Carney has stated that there will be “no games” on the part of himself or the Liberal party, and they will push to call a by-election in the riding as quickly as possible.
“I’ve indicated to Mr. Poilievre that if it’s the decision of him and the Conservative Party to trigger a by-election, I will ensure that it happens as soon as possible.”
When the date is called, a 36 day election campaign can begin.
“Battle River-Crowfoot has a rural way of life that I’m looking forward to learning more about and also meeting the hardworking people from these communities,” Poilievre says.
Eric Anderson
Publisher