Voters ignore candidates' forum in Brandon
Last Updated: Wednesday, December 21, 2005 | 1:57 PM ET
CBC News
About 10 of the people who attended were part of an adult education class, and their attendance was mandatory. Another 10 were either family members or colleagues of the candidates.
That meant the candidates probably outnumbered voluntary audience members – six different parties are fielding candidates, and one Independent is running as well.
Leah LaPlante was one of the few people who went out of personal interest.
"I think, in general, Canadians are not really interested in the process leading up to elections," said LaPlante, who works for the Manitoba Métis Federation.
"Really, that's too bad, because all of the decisions a person is going to make will affect every one of us in some form or fashion, so I think it's really important to take the time to get out and listen and to make an informed vote."
- RIDING PROFILE: Brandon-Souris
The Conservatives have held the Brandon-Souris riding for most of the past 50 years, with the exception of the 1993 election, when the Liberals took the seat.
