Journal hosts federal election forum

Neither The Hants Journal, nor its Valley counterparts have shied away from political debate, or for that matter, holding elected officials accountable. And now, The Hants Journal will further the democratic process by hosting a federal election forum Thursday evening, Sept. 25, 7-9 p.m., at the Hants Branch #9, Royal Canadian Legion, Windsor.

The Legion is located by the Fort Edward Mall.

The forum aims to give Hants County residents the opportunity to meet and question federal electoral candidates as they address the issues that concern us all.

Journal editor Brent Fox says hosting the debate locally will enable voters in Hants County to make informed electoral decisions. “The people of Hants have every right to participate in a political forum that is accessible and open to everyone.”

With the province celebrating 250 years of democracy this year, Fox noted there is no better time for citizens to cast their ballots. “Democracy was a hard fought for and hard won cause in our province and there is a responsibility there on the part of the voters to be informed.”

It’s a responsibility, as well, of the media to support that process by engaging the public in open political discussion. “As journalists, it is our role to ensure this process is as transparent as possible; fairness and adherence to rules of order are paramount.”

The media has played an important role in promoting responsible government since at least 1829, Fox said, when Colonial Patriot editor Jotham Blanchard of Pictou County preceded the famous Joseph Howe in the art of political critique.

And though democracy continues to be a work in progress, Fox notes it is the voters themselves who move it forward. “The candidates will participate in every way possible to make the forum work, but it is the electorate who has the final say.”

Invited candidates are: incumbent Liberal Scott Brison, NDP Carol Harris, Brendan MacNeill of the Green Party and Tory Rosemary Segado.