The candidates

MALCOLM ALLEN, NDP The riding’s MP since 2008, previously worked as an electrician and Canadian Auto Workers union official and was elected to Pelham town council, serving for a time as deputy mayor. Official Opposition critic for agriculture and agri-food, serves on the public accounts committee and chairs the NDP’s Ontario caucus. In Parliament, introduced private members’ bills to remove severance pay from employment insurance waiting periods and create a national organ donor day. Born in Scotland. Holds a B. A. in history and political science from Brock University.

VANCE BADAWEY, Liberal A businessman and former Port Colborne councillor who went on to serve 14 years as mayor, in addition to serving as a councillor for Niagara Region and as a representative on the regional police services board. Has served on a number of local boards and commissions, including the South Niagara Health Care Corporation, Niagara Sport Commission, Port Colborne Energy Inc., Port Colborne Fibre, Niagara Scotiabank Convention and Civic Centre Board of Directors, and Port Colborne Transit Advisory Committee.

LEANNA VILLELLA, Conservative Owner of Rose City Travel, Villella is a graduate of the St. Catharines Business College. Ran for the Conservatives in the 2011 federal election, placing second and increasing the party’s share of the vote. Has coached Welland minor soccer, served as a Big Sister, and as a board member for Tourism Welland, the Niagara Food Festival, and the Strategy to End Poverty. Villella has volunteered for the local crisis line, child assault prevention program and Open Arms Mission.