As Canada prepares for its federal elections on April 28, 2025, candidates are ramping up their campaigns, focusing on local issues that resonate with voters. In Chambly, residents will have the opportunity to cast their ballots at several locations, including the Centre jeunesse de la Montérégie, Complexe funéraire Desnoyers, Club FADOQ du bassin de Chambly, Isatis Sport, and Randell Hall. Voting will take place from 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM, providing ample time for citizens to participate in the democratic process.
For those eager to vote early, Elections Canada has opened 500 offices across the country, allowing voters to cast their ballots before the April 22 deadline at 6 PM. Advance voting is also available from April 18 to April 21, ensuring that everyone has the chance to participate.
However, as voters prepare to head to the polls, identification requirements remain a key focus. Voters must present a government-issued ID, such as a driver's license, that includes their photo, name, and current address, or they can bring their voter information card. For those without suitable ID, there is still a path to voting: they can establish their identity by making a written declaration and having a respondent, who must be registered at the same polling station, vouch for them.
In another part of the electoral landscape, Claude DeBellefeuille, the Bloc Québécois candidate for Beauharnois Salaberry-Soulanges-Huntingdon, has outlined six local issues she plans to address if re-elected. DeBellefeuille's platform, shaped by discussions with key local stakeholders, emphasizes support for workers and businesses impacted by the ongoing trade crisis with the United States. She has made it clear that her focus will be on revitalizing the local economy and enhancing community well-being.
Among her priorities is a concerted effort to collaborate with the Valleyfield Port Corporation and relevant operators to secure a license that would restore container inspection services by customs agents. This initiative is crucial for the continued development of the Port of Valleyfield, which plays a significant role in regional trade.
DeBellefeuille also intends to support the Canal de Soulanges Park team in maximizing the canal's potential. This initiative aims to harness the park's resources for tourism and local recreation, ultimately benefiting the community.
Furthermore, she plans to work with the City of Salaberry-de-Valleyfield and Canada Post to relocate the Valleyfield post office's commercial activities outside the city center. This move is envisioned to take place in a modern, carbon-neutral building that better serves the community's needs.
Addressing infrastructure concerns, DeBellefeuille is committed to collaborating with municipalities and railway companies to ensure that key level crossings in the constituency are repaired sustainably. This initiative is vital for enhancing transportation safety and efficiency.
In addition, she aims to improve the existing web application of the Corporation de la Voie Maritime, allowing residents to track unplanned bridge closures in real time. This upgrade would provide essential information to commuters and residents alike, helping them navigate their daily travels more effectively.
“In addition to these local priorities, I will continue to offer exemplary service to citizens who come to my office seeking assistance with their dealings with the federal government. My team and I make it a point to respond promptly to every request we receive,” DeBellefeuille stated, reinforcing her commitment to her constituents. She also highlighted her desire to support local businesses and agricultural producers, particularly in their interactions with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.
As the election date approaches, DeBellefeuille's campaign is set to focus on these critical issues, aiming to resonate with voters who are increasingly concerned about local economic conditions and infrastructure development. Her proactive approach reflects a broader trend among candidates to engage directly with the electorate, addressing their needs and concerns head-on.
In the context of the elections, VIVA MÉDIA has initiated a platform for candidates to express their views on pressing local issues, promoting direct dialogue with voters and enriching the democratic debate. This initiative underscores the importance of transparency and communication in the electoral process, providing a space for candidates like DeBellefeuille to articulate their visions for their communities.
As Canadians gear up to head to the polls, the emphasis on local issues is likely to shape the electoral landscape. With candidates like DeBellefeuille advocating for targeted solutions, voters are encouraged to consider how these proposals align with their own priorities as they make their choices on election day.
Ultimately, the upcoming federal elections represent a critical juncture for constituents across Canada. With a focus on local issues and community engagement, candidates are tasked with not only winning votes but also fostering a sense of trust and responsibility within their communities. As the clock ticks down to April 28, the anticipation builds, and the electorate prepares to make their voices heard.
