Election Q&A: MICHAEL CHONG (Conservative)

1. Why are you the best candidate to represent the riding of Wellington-Halton Hills? (Response limited to 100 words). Prior to being elected, I worked as Chief Information Officer at the NHL Players' Association and as senior advisor at the GTAA for Pearson's redevelopment. My private sector experience taught me the value of a dollar. I'm also involved in volunteer work. I cofounded the Dominion Institute, which partners with the Royal Canadian Legion, to educate youth about veterans. I'm on the boards of the Elora Festival and Trinity College at the University of Toronto. Being active in the community has taught me that those who get involved can make a difference. That's why I decided to enter public life.

2. Looking at each of the other parties separately, please offer an opinion as to why they should not form the next government. (Response limited to 200 words). Since the Liberal Party is the only party other than the Conservative Party likely to form government, my comments will focus on them. The re-election of a Liberal government would further damage national unity. Liberal involvement in the sponsorship scandal has damaged federalism in Quebec, resulting in a resurgence of separatism and discrediting Liberals as a force for federalism in Quebec. Support for Quebec separatism has actually increased because of the Liberal Party's sponsorship corruption. In 2001, support for separatism stood at 40% (Winnipeg Sun, Oct. 29, 2005). Since then, a Leger poll shows support for separatism rising to 54% (Hamilton Spectator, Apr. 28, 2005). Most damning of all, 37% of Quebecers said the Gomery inquiry's testimony of sponsorship corruption motivated their decision to support getting out of Confederation (Winnipeg Sun, Apr. 28, 2005). If Liberals are re-elected to government, Quebecers will conclude that their only choice is between the discredited Liberals and the separatist Bloc. But if Ontarians elect a Conservative government, Quebecers will see that they have a third option: a Conservative government untainted by corruption and dedicated to keeping Canada united. Only by electing a Conservative government can we restore Quebecers' faith in federalism and in Confederation.3. What is the major local issue(s) in this campaign and what will you do to deal with it if elected? (Response limited to 100 words). Last election, I helped fight to keep Georgetown Hospital open, something I continue to be involved with. This election, the local issue is ensuring the high quality of life in Georgetown and Acton continues despite growth pressures. If elected, a Conservative government will help commuters and the environment by reducing GO Transit costs 16%. I'll continue to work with Mayor Rick Bonnette to push GO Transit to extend service to Acton. We'll also help working families by giving parents $1,200 a year for each pre-schooler in their family, money that can be spent on daycare, a babysitter or other essentials.