Allie Szarkiewicz, Conservative — Winnipeg Centre

Why do you want the job?

I believe I understand the issues that are important to families in the riding. I'd be a compassionate voice in Ottawa for Winnipeggers, and I understand the challenges that newcomers to Canada face because I pretty much lived it.

I watched my parents struggle when they first came here. My dad worked days, and my Mom worked nights. It was just a revolving door. I've been there and done that.

I have empathy for people who are coming in and experiencing it all.

What is the biggest issue for the country, and in your riding?

Each riding is so different by virtue of their demographics.

There are so many issues facing Winnipeg Centre. I would focus primarily on families, the economy and national security. It's what Prime Minister Harper has been talking about throughout the election.

We just announced about 1.3 million new jobs by the year 2020, and I was so proud to be standing shoulder to shoulder with the Prime Minister for that announcement.

We also just announced the new homebuyers' plan, which is really important to people coming into the area. Tied in with that is the home renovation tax credit. A lot of the houses in the area are older, so any kind of renovation tax credit would be beneficial for residents.

What would you do with the Senate?

I would appoint less senators. I would definitely like more transparency and accountability.

The senators have a role of some sort in Canada. I can't see abolishing the Senate. But they need to be more accountable.

Winnipeg was described as the most racist city in Canada. What would you do to combat racism?

I would definitely want to work with the Canadian Museum for Human Rights and getting people to work together by opening up conversation.

What role should the federal government play in dealing with climate change?

We have to get involved, and I think it's a must.

The government should be accountable for sustainability. I'd like to see businesses working together and with government.

I have children, but I have no grandchildren just yet. I someday would like to leave a good legacy, a good clean country with a sustainable environment for my grandkids.

If there was one government policy you think is done better in another country, what is it?

Speaking as a teacher, I love what Sweden is doing with their free education.

Because I am from Europe, I do go back often to visit my family. But just as a teacher, to have the opportunity for free education, and not just K to 12, but to continue on into university, college or trade school — I think a lot more people would take advantage of it.

Under what circumstances is deficit spending a good choice?

Deficit spending is not a good choice, period.

We have to keep our taxes low, and economic growth is important. When it comes to deficits, I say no, absolutely no.

We want to keep money in people's pockets, not run deficits.

What do you believe is the single most effective way to fight crime?

There is no single most effective way, unfortunately.

Poverty is a big issue, and getting kids involved after school in community events rather than hanging out on the streets.

Speaking as a teacher, Winnipeg Centre needs more community centres, after-school programs, drop-in centres and things to keep them busy. Playing sports and learning music costs money, and having more access to these things would be better.

What should be done about homegrown terrorism?

The crisis has to be addressed at all three levels, as Prime Minister Harper has stated.

Important aspects to terrorism are confronting ISIS, providing military with active stability, providing humanitarian aid through refugee resettlement and helping refugees out.

If there were a gay pride parade in your riding, would you go? Why or why not?

I would absolutely go. Why not?

People are people, no matter their colour, religion, sexual orientation, etc. People are people, and absolutely I'd go to support.

Have either you or your family had a frustrating experience with the health care system, and what would you do to fix the problem?

Have you been to an emergency ward lately?

When my kids were younger and playing sports, I was in and out of emergency all the time for various injuries. Sitting and waiting would be my biggest frustration.

Our medical system isn't perfect, but it's far superior to what many countries have access to.

What would you do to get more people to vote?

I have spent every evening, every Saturday, every Sunday, out there door-knocking and talking to the people of Winnipeg Centre.

I've had positive conversations with people, but some people don't care.

I encourage people to vote, even if you're not voting for me, regardless just get out there on Oct. 19 and vote. Have your voice heard.

What's a better use of federal dollars: fixing roads or building rapid transit infrastructure?

I would personally like to see a little bit of both. I can't really say one or the other. They both need desperate repair.

Would you support legalizing a small amount of marijuana? Have you ever tried it?

No I wouldn't, and no I haven't.