Why the NDP?

Recently, when I announced my intention to run under the New Democratic Party banner in the next election, I was asked about the reasons that motivated my choice.

Here are the main considerations that inspired my process of reflection:

Last September, many were surprised by the strong campaign conducted by the NDP during the federal by-elections in Quebec. The efforts of the NDP bore fruit and led to the victory of the ex-minister of the environment of Quebec, Thomas Mulcair, in Outremont. Was it really necessary to be astonished? The NDP breakthrough in Quebec was only one matter of time. After years of political scandals, high-level wheeling and dealing, backroom manipulations and general frustration towards the lack of accomplishments of the Bloc Québécois, observers were already suspecting that the people of Quebec were ready for a new experience with their change agents. They seek a credible and constructive organization which shares their same concerns, their same values and their same convictions. People want a new way, a modern and progressive party with strength, leadership and experience, finally able to represent their political voice in Ottawa. This is what unifies us today.

I, Francoise Boivin, Liberal Member of Parliament for Gatineau for 2004 to 2006, feel that the Liberal Party has lost sight of families today and completely lacks any leadership, using the empty excuse of “political strategic patience” as the country sinks further and further into an economic recession. As a woman of principle, I can not tolerate to see my former colleagues refusing to stand up to Stephen Harper, while he is rapidly and dramatically altering the nature of our great country. In short, Stéphane Dion's Liberal Party no longer represents my values and does not possess any initiative to progress. I chose to enter politics to enable change and improvement for the rights of workers and the status of women whom I have defended for more than 20 years.

How does one advance issues when the Liberal MPs endorse the policies of the Conservatives or simply abstain from voting on Harper budgets, disastrous environmental policies and a militarist approach of intransigence in Afghanistan? How does one claim to defend the interests of Canadians on such important issues for the immediate and the next generation, while refusing to defend their so-called principles in fear of electoral loss?

This is why I have come to the conclusion that the only avenue for me is with Jack Layton’s NDP, a party which represents Canadians before political calculations and has adapted itself to tackle the problems of the 21st century and beyond.

I believe in the ultimate importance of Canadian sovereignty in the matters of environment, energy, human rights, trade, and international affairs and I support a return to well-equipped peace missions rather than never-ending costly wars.

Thus in order to maintain my credibility and to continue my fight for social progress, environmental and economic improvements, I have decided to join forces with Jack Layton, a leader who shares my values with the same passion. I chose a team totally committed to the interests of Gatineau and Quebec and one that has no hesitation opposing Stephen Harper and his extreme conservative policies. As time progresses, the NDP will certainly win the hearts of people in Quebec.