SASKTODAY.ca staff reached out to the candidates in all of Saskatchewan's ridings with a universal questionnaire. We will be publishing these results in order they were received.
Name: Annaliese Bos
Age: 43
Running for: NDP – Regina-Qu’Appelle
Profession: Veterinary Technologist
Currently residing in (city or neighbourhood): Regina
Previous political experience: ---
Who is your political hero?
Tommy Douglas, Jack Layton.
What inspired you to enter the election race?
There are so many important issues that have come to light or have been exasperated over the past year and a half. The climate crisis, systemic racism, the crisis of our healthcare system, affordable housing, the importance of meaningful reconciliation. I felt that the NDP have the only clear answers to help combat these crises and that their platform is not just to placate voters but to make real, meaningful change. I wanted to be part of that and to provide a strong alternative for those in my riding.
What topics are most important to you in this federal election?
Reconciliation, climate change, healthcare and basic income.
Are you concerned about the short campaign time line for this election?
Yes, it puts pressure on all candidates. It is easy to allow yourself to get overworked, there is so little time to get all the steps done to even enter the race, let alone campaign.
What supports, if any, do you feel are needed to help businesses and residents with the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic?
I believe this starts with supporting the residents through basic income, paid sick days and increased minimum wage. In this way, households and individuals have enough income to support and participate in the economy. Businesses cannot flourish without customers, investing in the people first is paramount.
What, if any, agricultural federal programs and initiatives do you feel are necessary to help support farmers and ranchers in this year’s conditions?
The government should provide financial aide to farmers. Canadians depend on crops; we need farmers to make it through the current drought. Less locally grown food equals greater expense and greater toll on the environment to import from elsewhere.
Is there an issue that people are focusing too much?
Mask mandates, just wear the mask.
Is there an issue that doesn’t get enough attention?
Indigenous issues such as safe drinking water, poverty, systemic racism, reconciliation.
Why did you choose to run for your particular party?
I have always supported the NDP and the idea that we need to take care of each other to create a better society. It’s not about the individual, it’s about improving the lives of all Canadians.
What is the biggest issue facing your party’s chance at success?
The division of the left and strategic voting. Many people that lean politically to the left of center vote for the Liberals because they feel it is the only shot at not having a Conservative government. The disappointing part is that most, almost 2/3 of Canadians do not support a Conservative Government; however; since the right is united into one party, they can often form government, albeit one that is not representative of most Canadians.
How will you engage and encourage young voters to participate in this election?
I plan to use technology and social media in any way I can. Talk to students, see what issues are most important to them.
What is your party’s leader’s biggest flaw?
---
Once elected, your job is to represent your entire riding. How do you plan on representing individuals who didn’t vote for you?
By finding out what their real concerns are. I really believe that you can reach common ground if you enter conversations with kindness and empathy towards another’s point of view. Sometimes differences are not insurmountable and sometimes they are misinterpretations than actual differences.
What informs your political stance? What books, publications, relationships or experiences?
My grandparents were the most influential figures. My Oma was a refugee that fled Indonesia as a child and both grandparents are survivors of the Nazi occupation and the Great Hunger during the second world war. Because of that struggle, they felt compelled to help others once the came to Canada. They sponsored refugees, adopted 2 Canadian children, while raising 5 of their own. They taught their children and grandchildren that helping others is the right thing to do and that we are all equal. From that upbringing, I found myself drawn to socialist concepts of inclusivity, rather than exclusivity, that it is the government’s job to take care of it’s people.
What local project or service would you advocate for more federal spending?
Mental health/addictions support and affordable housing to help our most vulnerable populations.
What is something people don’t know about you?
I am part of the LGBTQ2SIA community, and I am also a mom with 3 kids who has come through a lot of struggle only to come out stronger on the other side.
