Allyson Beauregard
Louis Lang believes a big change in the direction of the economy is needed. “Privatization and deregulation in the public sector and in social programs must be replaced by a public authority that is capable of controlling the ability of monopolies to damage the economy. The strengthening of the manufacturing sector must become a
Allyson Beauregard
Louis Lang believes a big change in the direction of the economy is needed. “Privatization and deregulation in the public sector and in social programs must be replaced by a public authority that is capable of controlling the ability of monopolies to damage the economy. The strengthening of the manufacturing sector must become a
priority so our natural resources can be used for the development of local economies, instead of being sold to the highest bidder,” he explained.
He believes this direction will also help strike a balance between protecting the environment and
promoting growth. “We need a new direction that keeps control of natural resources in the hands of the people so the benefits can be shared by the vast majority of Canadians,” he said. “The people can decide which resources they want to develop with full scientific knowledge of the consequences, which entails doing so without harming Mother Earth and its people.”
The candidate, who also supports supply management, said his party will repeal the entire Bill C-51.
Lang believes electoral reform is needed, deeming the present first-past-the-post system as being outdated and undemocratic. “Proportional representation may address some of the problems, but it’s not enough. There is a need to change the domination of the political process by the political parties and give more power to the
electorate. Having the right to vote every few years
cannot be considered the extent of democracy. Citizens need equal rights to: select candidates; the right to an informed vote; the right to recall; and the ability to initiate legislation,” he explained, noting that parties need equal access to political resources, especially media coverage and financing.
Lang supports bettering pension plans and returning the legal age of retirement to 65, as well as repealing the changes
made to the Employment Insurance system. “We support proposals to remedy the situation by having an EI single and universal
eligibility criterion of 350 hours of work; a minimum of 35 weeks of benefits, benefits no less than 60% of wages; and ensuring funds intended for EI cannot be used for other purposes,” he told the Journal.
According to Lang, boosting the Pontiac’s economy is a matter of
protecting and enhancing social programs to help the most vulnerable people in the region and ending dependence on one industry. “The government must have a plan to diversify
economic activity by
providing subsidies within agriculture and opportunities to attract new manufacturing businesses that can take advantage of the rich resources located in our region,” he added.
The candidate believes internet access should be regulated by the government to ensure equal access to all.
In conclusion, Lang said he would support partnership programs between Quebec and Ontario to protect and rebuild populations of migratory species in the Ottawa River. “It would be ideal if the three levels of government could work together. To protect the environment, the
government must facilitate the work of scientists and ensure all decisions and programs are based on facts and scientific know-how.”
