Riley has lived in the District his entire life and has stayed informed about the ongoing concerns of its residents. He shares many of these concerns and would like to offer his thoughts on the following issues
Community and Emergency Support
I am committed to increased funding for community groups and organizations that are the backbone of our towns and communities. These groups enrich our communities through cultural, social, and recreational programs. By providing them with the necessary resources, we can ensure that everyone has access to supportive and vibrant community life.
We have seen the devastating effects of natural disasters such as Hurricane Helene and Tropical Storm Fiona. To protect our residents, I will push for increased funding for emergency management and disaster planning. This includes better preparedness, response, and recovery initiatives to safeguard our communities from catastrophic events.
Protecting Our Fisheries
Our fishery is one of our most important industries in the District, and it must be managed responsibly. I will lobby the federal government for joint management of the fishery to ensure that local voices are heard, and our resources are sustainably managed. This approach will help maintain a healthy fishery for future generations while supporting the livelihoods of those who depend on it.
Tourism Growth
Tourism is an important part of our economy, especially along the Baccalieu Coastal Drive, which offers some of the most stunning scenery in our province. I will work to increase tourism funding for this region, ensuring that we can attract more visitors and showcase our culture, history, and natural beauty to the world.
Sugar Tax
I am in favour of eliminating the sugar tax. While promoting healthy lifestyles is important, this tax has placed an unnecessary burden on consumers. Instead, I believe in focusing on education and community-led initiatives to encourage healthier choices without penalizing everyday shoppers.
Addressing the Rising Cost of Food
The cost of food is a significant concern for many families across Newfoundland and Labrador. To ensure that everyone has access to affordable, nutritious food, I will lobby for lower food prices by working with both provincial and federal governments.
This includes advocating for policies that address supply chain issues, support local food production, and reduce taxes and fees that drive up costs for consumers.By working collaboratively with farmers, grocers, and food distributors, I aim to make essential groceries more affordable while ensuring the long-term sustainability of our local food economy. Reducing food insecurity is a top priority, and I am committed to finding practical solutions that make a real difference in people’s lives.
Road Safety and Infrastructure:
Ensuring our roads are safe is a priority. I propose the installation of reflective strips in roadways to improve visibility, especially during low-light and foggy conditions, for drivers and pedestrians alike. These strips will enhance road safety and reduce the likelihood of accidents, particularly during Newfoundland and Labrador’s busy fishery season and long, dark winter months.
In addition, I support 24-hour snow clearing on major thoroughfares to ensure critical routes remain open and safe during winter storms. This will benefit both public safety and local businesses by maintaining consistent access to essential services regardless of weather conditions.
Furthermore, I support the implementation of a provincial brush cutting strategy. By creating a sound strategy, with regular removal of brush along our roadways, we will increase the safety of our roads, and make animals, especially moose, visible earlier to drivers.