THUNDER BAY – NDP leadership candidate Paul Dewar will campaign in Thunder Bay from January 20 – 21st. Mr. Dewar is a former aid worker in Nicaragua, public school teacher, and teachers federation union vice president. In 2006 he was elected Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Centre, and in 2007 he was appointed Foreign Affairs critic under Jack Layton.
“I believe together we can build a stronger and more caring Canada,” said Dewar. “I’m traveling the country to talk to families about the issues they care about and earn their support to form Canada’s next government.”
During his time in Thunder Bay, Mr. Dewar will attend events and meet with students, community leaders and NDP members.
Timmins James Bay MP Charlie Angus has endorsed Dewar, “It’s about the next 70 — winning the seats needed to take down Stephen Harper. This is why I joined Paul Dewar’s team,” states Angus.
Thunder Bay Superior North MP Bruce Hyer says, “One of the leading leadership contenders is Paul Dewar. Paul has been an MP since 2004, longer than any of the other candidates. His mother Marion Dewar was mayor of Ottawa for decades. Paul has been impressive as an MP and as Critic for Foreign Affairs. He is patient, statesmanlike, and is like Jack layton is being a person who brings people together, unlike a divider like Stephen Harper”.
Hyer shares, “Paul Dewar is coming to town, and there are 3 “Meet and Greet” opportunities for you and kindred spirits, both on Friday, January 20.
You can come to:
1) Ruby Moon Pub and Restaurant from 4:30-6:30 pm (great food, cash bar)
2) Lakehead University “The Study” 1-2 pm
“No need to be an NDP member to come meet Paul and put him over the hurdles,” states Hyer.
Hyer has not formally endorsed any candidate yet. He states, “I have three criteria as minimum requirements as to how I will vote myself (besides the basics of honest, hardworking, bright, good communicator, etc.):
1) Bilingual in both official languages (not necessarily fluent, but functional and understandable and willing to improve). Paul speaks basic french and is improving steadily.
2) Elected at least twice to a prominent position like MP, MPP, or at least city council or similar (as a scientist, I know that once may be a fluke, twice is unlikely to be a random event). Has knocked on doors and been fire-tested.
3) Not in favour of whipped votes except on confidence motions or in exceptional circumstances. Believes in bottom-up Democracy. Normally allows MP’s to vote based on what is best for their Riding and for Canada.
Hyer comments, “Paul meets my criteria. He is on my short list. I would be pleased to work with Paul as our leader. I will share my short list with kindred spirits over a beer or coffee. There are three or four candidates who I believe have the potential to take us to forming government, and be our next Prime Minister”.
www.PaulDewar.ca for more information.