Neepawa Panel Weighs in on Key Issues Ahead of Federal Election

In the lead-up to next Monday’s federal election, moderator Don Walmsley convened a local panel to discuss the issues that matter most to Neepawa residents. Representing various sectors of the community, the panellists shared their perspectives on what’s at stake and where federal leadership is most urgently needed.

Amanda Naughton-Gale, of the Neepawa Community Ministries Centre and a former economic development officer for the town, pointed to affordability as the top issue impacting people’s daily lives, from rising housing and food costs to transportation and other essentials. Working closely with residents, she also hears growing concerns about Canada’s role on the global stage, particularly concerning recent tariff disputes with the United States.

In addition, she emphasized the need to protect the rights of all Canadians, especially those who are vulnerable. “We need to make sure our most vulnerable are not being left behind,” she said.

Ken Waddell, publisher of the Neepawa Banner & Press and former auctioneer, highlighted Manitoba’s place in Confederation as his top issue. With western provinces classified as “have” provinces, Manitoba remains far from that designation. Waddell argues that the province needs more federal investment in transportation and value-added industries like food processing.

He echoed the affordability concern, particularly when it comes to housing. “When my wife and I first got married, I could buy a (small) house and a brand-new truck in the same year with my first job. That’s so far out of reach now that it’s just ridiculous,” he said.

Brian Hedley, General Manager of Neepawa-Gladstone Co-op and mayor of Neepawa, focused on tariffs as a key issue affecting local businesses. “Tariffs have the ability to reduce our standard of living and create a lot more problems,” he said. From a municipal perspective, he agreed with the others that affordable housing is the community’s most pressing need.

The panel also touched on immigration and interprovincial trade barriers, both of which have drawn national attention in recent months. Immigration is a particularly relevant issue for Neepawa, which continues to see growth in its population of temporary foreign workers, permanent residents, and new Canadian citizens, all of whom contribute significantly to the town’s workforce and culture.

To close the discussion, Naughton-Gale urged everyone to participate in the democratic process:
“Go and vote. Regardless of what party you are voting for, please exercise your right.”

Waddell added a final note of unity:
“And do away with the hate. If you can’t sit down and get along... then we’re in trouble in this country. I think we can — and we have to.”