Stéphanie Desmeules-parti Vert du Québec

“The earth is dying,” Desmeules said, adding that her party has the expertise and the motivation to put pressure on government to improve the environment. As a single mom of four and experience as a caregiver, Desmeules said she has the same quality of life of constituents and is the right person to understand their needs.

Regarding the main issues in the riding of Orford, Desmeules said public transportation was at the top of the list.

“We need a plan that meets the needs of all people,” she said, with a goal of getting more solo drivers off the road. Desmeules added that the centralization of health care hurt the region, and local governance should be returned to the area. Supporting local agriculture and the environment are also important considerations, she said.

Desmeules said that Anglophones have a long history that has contributed to the richness of the region. “They are part of the community, with a strong culture,” Desmeules said, adding the English community would have her full support.

Desmeules said her main priority, if elected, would be to look at issues through a ‘green lens’. Whether it is culture, the economy or any other domain, using an eco-responsible approach, according to Desmeules, will ultimately benefit all citizens.

Candidate Tommy Poulin from Citoyens au pouvoir du Québec did not reply to request for an interview.