Johnston wants to continue his public service

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 19/08/2019 (2481 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

When it comes to serving the public, Neil Johnston is looking to broaden his horizons.

For a second time, the 58-year-old is running for the Manitoba Liberal Party in the provincial constituency of Riel. He previously ran in 2016.

“I’m really interested in continuing the public service that I have throughout my adult life, and I think I have a lot to offer,” said Johnston, who is a registered respiratory therapist and the chief executive officer of the Manitoba Lung Association.

Johnston said the province needs politicians who are willing “to listen and implement policies based on tried and true principles of government,” and are also willing “to take different approaches based on logic and rationality.”

“Specifically, the current government has focused on austerity without investing in growth areas. While it’s important to try and deliver services in a financially conscious way and invest wisely and efficiently, an efficient government also needs to invest in things that will grow the economy and the community, and not just cut, cut, cut.”

Having also lent his support to the federal Liberal campaign, Johnston said issues such as “health care, the economy, and support for family” are among the main talking points on people’s doorsteps this summer.

“I think socio-economic status is another big issue, and I think people are feeling pinched,” Johnston said. “The rich are getting richer, and there’s a widening gulf between the rich, and the middle-class and lower-income classes, which need to be lessened,” he said.

Johnston added that he has a longtime association with the Royal Canadian Sea Cadet Corps, which continues today.

“In my adolescence, as an older teen I helped younger teens develop, and my public service has continued as an adult in both my career and in the community. I’m looking forward to the opportunity to continue this.”  

Johnston is married to Cathy. The proud couple has one child, and recently welcomed their first grandchild.

Also running in Riel are Green candidate Roger Schellenberg, NDP candidate Mike Moyes, and incumbent MLA for Riel and PC candidate Rochelle Squires.