The northernmost and largest riding in Manitoba is heating up as the federal election draws near.
Churchill-Keewatinook Aski encompasses more than half of the province’s land mass.
The population is mostly indigenous, and communities are spread out and isolated.
Candidates said many constituents feel forgotten.
“We really need to open up our eyes and see what’s happening in our own backyard here,” said Liberal candidate Rebecca Chartrand.
When asked about the biggest issues in the region, Chartrand and NDP incumbent Niki Ashton noted many similar problems.
Both mentioned poor education, third world living conditions, and a lack of good jobs.
Ashton has represented Churchill-Keewatinook Aski in Parliament since 2008.
She grew up in Thompson and still resides there.
“I’m the only candidate from the three major parties that is both from the north and lives in the north,” said Ashton.
Chartrand, a former Winnipeg city council candidate, believes the Liberal platform provides answers for northern Manitoba.
She said it promises billions for infrastructure and First Nations Education.
Chartrand also said that Ashton has not been tough enough of the provincial government, particularly about the displacement of flood victims in the Interlake.
“It’s difficult for an MP to stand up to the province, or to stand up to her father who is in charge of water management, and address the issues. So people are feeling there’s a conflict of interest here,” said Chartrand.
Ashton’s father, Steve Ashton, is an MLA with the provincial NDP.
Ashton said the federal election should focus on federal politics.
“It seems to me like the Liberal campaign has spent a lot of time talking about provincial issues, and that’s fine. But the reality is that our region has serious issues that correspond to the federal government,” said Ashton.
Libertarian candidate Zachary Linnick wants systemic government change.
“None of the parties are saying we’re going to change our system where you keep more of your money and you get to decide what to do with it,” said Linnick.
He said the Libertarian party would deliver a flat tax and reduce government regulatory agencies.
Candidates from the Green Party and Conservative Party did not respond to interview requests.