Stephen Fowler, the Green Party candidate in Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon, sat down with The News for an interview Wednesday.

We asked him about how realistic his party’s climate change proposals were.

He also responded to a written questionnaire about his priorities and suitability for office. Find both below. For information on the boundary of the major local ridings, and information on other local candidates, click here.

*In this video, Fowler references the use of Alberta oil in refineries. He contacted us later and said he misspoke, and that his party would refine oil from the Hibernia oil field off the coast of Newfoundland.

1. Why are you personally running to be a member of Parliament?

For over 30 years, society has been warned that our use and abuse of the planet is leading us toward catastrophic climate change. I believe it is important for everyone to do their part in our battle against this existential threat. Running for the Green Party of Canada offers me the chance to do what I can to help society understand the wonderful opportunity that lies before us. Canadians can lessen their impact on the planet by living within her means. Canadians can have a healthy, sustainable green economy. Canadians can all live a quality life of dignity, and opportunity.

2. What skills and attributes do you have that would make you a good elected representative for your constituents?

As a teacher, I have to make hundreds of decisions a day that affect the comfort of each of my students and the atmosphere of our room. I enjoy listening and learning from others. I am very approachable. I enjoy helping people to understand and to be heard.

3. What are the two biggest issues for your constituents in Abbotsford and how will you and/or your party address them?

The number one issue for my Abbotsford constituents is Climate Change. The Green Party of Canada has a comprehensive, costed plan that includes goals and targets to meet our zero emissions by 2050 goal. The second issue is how our changing Green economy is good for business and the family.

Video interviews/questionnaire answers

Abbotsford

Madeleine Sauve – NDP

Seamus Heffernan – Liberal

Stephen Fowler – Green Party

Ed Fast – Conservative

Locke Duncan – People’s Party

Aeriol Alderking – Christian Heritage Party

• • •

Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon

Brad Vis – Conservative

Jati Sidhu – Liberal (Sidhu did not sit for an interview)

Michael Nenn – NDP

John Kidder – Green Party

Julius (Nick) Csaszar – People’s Party