Adrian Dix was in Abbotsford Wednesday morning to unveil more of his party’s platform and to support his local candidates.
A crowd of supporters cheered outside Matsqui Centennial Auditorium, as the BC NDP leader told them his party represents the Fraser Valley.
While Abbotsford has long been a Liberal stronghold, Dix said he has spent a lot of time in the Valley and believes the NDP will “succeed in constituencies that they have never won before.”
“Vancouver Point Grey, Premier Clark’s riding, Abbotsford West – the finance minister’s riding (MLA Mike de Jong) – these are ridings that I’m running to win,” said Dix.
Candidate Sukhi Dhami is representing the NDP in Abbotsford West. Other contenders include Independent Moe Gill, Stephen O'Shea of the Green Party and Conservative Paul Redekopp.
Dix is not looking at past results, but rather said the party is taking a more “expansive view” and is running to win everywhere.
During Wednesday’s visit, Dix unveiled the next plank in the party’s platform, which includes building a sustainable economy and creating new jobs.
The NDP plans to create a $100-million, needs-based non-repayable student grant program to help students and increase the number of skilled workers in B.C.
Dix called B.C.’s skills shortage a “major impediment.”
The NDP also announced a one-year freeze on BC Ferries rates until an audit can be performed.
For more, visit abbynews.com.