Black Press Staff:
The Green Party of Canada recently announced that Lacombe resident Les Parsons has been nominated and will represent the riding of Wetaskiwin in the upcoming federal election to be held on Oct. 14.
“After leaving the PCs following their merger with the Reform Alliance - a move that resulted in near-sighted economic fixes over policies for long-term, sustainable development, I joined the Green Party in 2004,” Parsons said of switching political colours adding that the feedback he has received from riding voters indicates the time is now for real and lasting changes and to make history by electing the first-ever federal Green Party candidate.
“My greatest concern is for the state of the world that we will leave to our children and our grandchildren. The Green Party is the only political party that offers real hope through real change for a better tomorrow for all Canadians,” he said when asked why he is running for the Green Party. “I am running for Canada’s future, to offer my political leadership to provide a long-term sustainable alternative to the Conservative Party, who offer only short-term economic-profit politics, that have resulted in the reality of our economic crises. The Conservative and Liberal policies over the past 30 years have continued to erode the quality of life and well-being of all middle class Canadians, while widening the gap between our rich and the poor.”
A seasoned worldwide traveler and devote humanitarian, Parsons has toured developing nations extensively and has worked with a number of charitable organizations including one operated by the late Mother Teresa which, he said, has given him a firsthand understanding of global issues and international development.
“My passion and motivation to be elected is driven by three main causes: to help provide a better balance and quality of life for the Canadian family; to help ease the suffering of poor people, and; to help protect the environment,” Parsons said. “My experiences across Canada and living around the world have resulted in my decision to become a Member of Parliament who will make a difference in Canada and our country’s role in our world.”