Candidate for leader of the BC Liberal party Mike De Jong was in Prince George on Wednesday, the first one of the current five candidates to make the trip.
The former finance minister says it was important for him to visit the region as he believes it’s a key component of the province’s economic growth.
De Jong also boasts the North’s way of living.
“Responsible resource development is on display for all to see, and it’s here where British Columbians can make a future for themselves, and I wanted to ensure that continues and even more options exist for people in this part of the province.”
.@Mike_de_Jong says he believes in what the people had voted for before NDP/Green coalition | #CityOfPG #bcpoli #BCLib18 pic.twitter.com/4ZuCSxuaEE
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) September 27, 2017
The MLA for Abbotsford-West believes he’s capable of standing up to Premier John Horgan and the NDP in debate if elected opposition leader.
He describes in the early 2000s, he worked closely with former Forests Minister Pat Bell in bringing more industry jobs to the North.
“When the US market was under attack, our response was to negotiate tough, but also create new options, and that has served the interests of so many families who would not have work. I think diversifying our trade portfolio is in everyone’s best interest.”
.@Mike_de_Jong: #NorthernBC pivotal in jobs, economic sustainability; encourages everyone to consider private enterprises | #bcpoli #BCLib18 pic.twitter.com/ySzOTQ2X1M
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) September 27, 2017
De Jong believes the success of the province is dependent on all regions, and not just the Lower Mainland or on Vancouver Island.
This is the second time he’s thrown his hat into the ring for the Liberal’s top position.
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