Meet the Candidates – Karl MacKinnon, Libertarian
1. Economic Development and Job CreationStormont–Dundas–South Glengarry includes everything from farms and factories to small businesses and tourism.
What specific policies will you support to stimulate local job creation, attract new investment, and help small businesses thrive across both rural communities and the City of Cornwall?
With the current trade dispute we have recently entered is beginning to have a negative effect on local manufacturing it is important that government, and our member if parliament be vigilant to act to counter new threats as well as take advantage if new opportunities.
Obviously it is necessary for us to return to a stable economic environment and trade policies should be focused on stabilizing our trade relations.
Lastly, Cornwall is perfectly situated to capitalize on new trade and manufacturing. The city has an central transportation network, logistic backbone, hydroelectric power the seaway and supporting infrastructure such as St. Lawrence College.
As a member of Parliament I would solicit businesses to come to the city and endeavor, with the support of the municipal government, to rebuild the city’s economic base.
2. Healthcare Access – Family Doctors, Mental Health, and Emergency Care
Many residents struggle to find a family doctor, wait times for mental health services are long, and some local ERs have faced temporary closures in recent years.
What will you do to ensure that SD&G residents have consistent access to primary care, timely emergency services, and better mental health support—whether they live in Cornwall or the surrounding rural townships?
Although most of what is done in Healthcare fall under provincial authority, the federal government can still play a supportive role.
Obviously the reductions in emergency services in various locations throughout the riding are the most serious issue. I would see my role firstly to engage with the local health authorities to see what is needed to restore this critical service. It makes sense that the people directly involved should be most helpful in suggesting a course if action.
3. Infrastructure – Roads, Bridges, and Broadband
Poor road conditions, aging infrastructure, and patchy internet still affect many parts of the riding.
What steps will you take to secure federal infrastructure funding for SD&G, including road and bridge improvements and expanding high-speed internet to underserved areas?
4. Agriculture, Sustainability, and Climate Adaptation
Local farmers are facing unpredictable weather, increased costs, and shifting environmental regulations.
How will you support modern, sustainable farming in SD&G—helping producers adapt to climate change through innovation, environmental stewardship, and resilience-building programs that work for family farms?
Agriculture Sustainability and Climate
There is a wealth of information available from recent study about sustainable agricultural practice that can be shared with the public. One grassroots initiative could include programs and awards to recognize model farming techniques. Other initiatives could involve recommendations such as the reforestation of strategic areas to reduce soil erosion.
These projects should be done by organizing community participation and volunteerism.
5. Affordability and Cost of Living
Whether in Cornwall or rural SD&G, families and seniors are struggling with rising housing costs, groceries, fuel, and utilities.
What actions will you take to make life more affordable for residents across the riding, and how will your policies ensure that both urban and rural communities benefit—not just major cities?
Due the economic trends of the last 4 years people are struggling with affordability
There is no long term answer to this other than to raise the standard of living for people by providing more gainful employment and higher salaries. One idea I’ve had is to reduce the taxation level onbthe lowest income brackets, and raise the amount of the income for minimal tax.
In the short term we could organize community relief by providing reduced public transportation costs and supporting other community based charitable organizations.
