As the federal election approaches, Liberal candidate Tracey Sweeney Schenk is outlining her plans to address local and national issues in the riding of Hastings-Lennox and Addington-Tyendinaga (H-L&A-T).
Sweeney Schenk, a retired financial planner with decades of experience, has also worked in real estate for the past eight years. She is focused on bringing her knowledge of finance and local real estate to help solve issues facing her community.
Sweeney Schenk identified cost of living as one of the major concerns for residents of H-L&A-T. To address this, the Liberal Party is offering a middle-class tax cut, which will save two-income households up to $825 a year. Additionally, the Liberals are working to build more homes and eliminate the Goods and Services Tax (GST) for first-time homebuyers on homes under $1 million. These measures aim to make housing more affordable. Sweeney Schenk also highlighted the expansion of dental coverage to Canadians aged 18 to 64, which will benefit 4.5 million people, saving them an estimated $8,800 annually in dental costs.
In addition to national issues, Sweeney Schenk spoke about challenges specific to the riding, such as the sustainability of farming and agriculture. She noted that the area’s farmers are dealing with supply chain issues, but the Liberal Party is committed to supporting them. A new $200 million domestic food processing fund has been introduced, and the government is doubling the financial support available to farmers. Loan guarantees for farmers are also being increased from $500,000 to $1 million to help them during tough times.
Reconciliation with Indigenous communities is another priority for Sweeney Schenk. She stressed the importance of building strong partnerships with Indigenous peoples, noting her recent conversation with Chief Maracle of the Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte in Tyendinaga Territory. Sweeney Schenk emphasized the need to respect treaty rights and the unique relationship between Indigenous nations and the Crown. She also echoed the sentiment “Nothing about us without us,” highlighting the importance of involving Indigenous voices in decision-making.
Finally, Sweeney Schenk addressed the ongoing issue of tariffs. She stated that the U.S. tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum are harmful to industries, particularly the auto sector. The Liberal Party’s response includes retaliatory measures that will have a maximum impact on the U.S. while protecting Canadian industries. Sweeney Schenk also emphasized the need for strong leadership in handling economic crises, pointing to Prime Minister Mark Carney’s expertise in managing financial challenges both in Canada and internationally.
Written by Emily Chatwood
