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Speak Up

Voter apathy, better known as the “my-vote-doesn’t-matter” attitude, is almost understandable for the average Canadian faced with another federal election on Oct. 14.

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After all, most Canadians have other things to occupy their spare time; hustling from work to pick up the children, attending a high school soccer game, or getting their property ready for another cold winter.

Waiting in line to cast a ballot in yet another federal election can seem like a waste of time on a beautiful fall day after a long weekend. But this could be one of the most important votes in the last decade.

After more than 10 years of economic prosperity, Canada is poised on a precipice, about to be pulled into a recession by the United States. Oil prices are falling; the stock market is insane; and many Canadians are nervous about their future. We need elected representatives that can provide a vision for the future and empathy for current economic woes.

Valley residents need an elected representative that understands forestry communities like Nackawic, Juniper and Plaster Rock are experiencing tough times.

We need an MP that can appreciate how rising production costs and stagnant commodity prices are strangling local farmers.

We need a politician that can take our voice to Ottawa and help forge policy and programs that will benefit rural New Brunswick over the short term and long haul.

Still not convinced that every vote counts? Consider that Tobique-Mactaquac has been pegged as one of the ridings to watch in Atlantic Canada. In 2006 Mike Allen snatched this riding from Liberal Andy Savoy with the smallest margin of victory in Atlantic Canada. Only 336 ballots – less than one per cent difference – separated the two leading parties. All four major parties have candidates in this riding, committed and concerned people who believe they can make a difference in communities like Grand Falls, Beechwood, Hartland and Canterbury.

Unlike previous elections, the parties and their candidates also represent real choice. Each party has a different approach on how they will tackle the faltering economy, loss of manufacturing jobs, climate change and energy costs. Take time to consider the issues and the party and candidate solutions.

This newspaper has a question and answer profile on some of the more crucial issues facing Tobique-Mactaquac voters, but there are other sources like the Internet which can help explain the difference between the Conservatives, Liberals, NDP and Green parties.

The Canadian democratic system is far from perfect, but it is one of the best in the world. Every Canadian adult has a responsibility to make a thoughtful decision in the voting booth next week.

Make your vote count on Oct. 14.