Tell our readers a little bit about yourself and why you are qualified to serve as MP.
I, James Plunkett, am a 41-year-old truck driver with a disability, and I’m currently following my dreams. It is my mission to speak up for the “average Joe.”
I am familiar with difficulties that our people face due to minimum wage jobs, short hours and various disabilities. These people are our majority, and they deserve recognition, help and respect. I will do this.
What is the most pressing issue facing Chatham-Kent right now?
The Dresden dump proposal is a very important issue, and we agree that we do not need this type of development in our riding. It is a matter of environmental protection. It is our planet, and we need to protect it not just for us but future generations.
We strive to be able to protect not only our environment but our people’s enjoyment as well.
We need to protect the Sydenham River and all subsequent waterways it flows into. There is also air pollution and farmland to consider. The Green party stands for no dump in Dresden.
Any other issues of note?
It takes so long for people to get into subsidized housing. It can be over 20 years even in the direst of circumstances. Kitchener’s Green MP Mike Morrice has his riding down to four years. We must do as good or better.
How can the federal government better address the homeless issue in C-K?
Our government needs to allocate funds to reopen a shelter or two in Chatham-Kent–Leamington. They can take some of these closed schools and repurpose them to house the people currently sleeping in tents, inside the ATM areas of banks, under bridges, etc. They need to work harder to build affordable housing, assist in mental blockers and job training for the able bodied.
If elected, what will you do to best represent your constituents?
I will be available and approachable to anyone that needs to reach out to the government. I encourage you to contact your MPs with your concerns. How can I possibly speak for the Average Joe if Joe doesn’t advise me of his issue(s) with his government?
