Leroy Laliberte has been working in community development for two decades. (submitted photo/Leroy Laliberte)

By Derek Cornet

provincial election

Social programs a focus for Athabasca Green Party candidate

Sep 25, 2020 | 5:00 PM

A man who develops social programs for communities through his company BURN Youth has been tapped by the Green Party to run in the Athabasca constituency.

Originally from Beauval, but a current resident of Meadow Lake, Leroy Laliberte said he has always been somewhat politically involved, but it’s always been in the background. It’s his first time running for a seat as an MLA, but he noted it’s not the first time he’s been asked.

“This time around I had the Green Party giving me the opportunity to do that, and I do kind of really enjoy the things that they stand for and it gives a person as a candidate room for growth,” Laliberte said. “There’s not a set political platform, they are willing to work with the candidate to make the best for their area.”

Laliberte will be campaigning against current NDP MLA Buckley Belanger, who has been in his position since 1995, along with Saskatchewan Party candidate Kelly Kwan. Laliberte explained he doesn’t have anything bad to say about Belanger, noting he has done a good job in the region, He added, however, there seems to be too much bickering in the Legislative Assembly and not much is being done as a result.

“Nothing is going to get fixed by being mad at each other,” Laliberte said. “I think the difference between me and other people is the motivation to create change and make change in a positive way.”

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An area of concern for Laliberte moving into the election is a lack of social programs for residents of northern Saskatchewan. He said those kind of programs have been lacking for a long time and creates a large impact when it comes to suicide awareness, prevention and intervention.

Laliberte called himself a motivated individual who has spent the last two decades focused on community development. Through his company, he’s provided youth outreach, social programs, workshops and motivational events.

As for relocating into the riding, Laliberte said he hasn’t made a decision on the matter.

“I’m really debating it. We’re set up in Meadow Lake,” he said. “My kids are going to school in Meadow Lake. That’s something we will really consider. Regardless of what happens with the election if it’s Buckley, Kelly or myself, I just plan on working directly with communities.”

Laliberte and his wife Diana have three daughters.

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derek.cornet@jpbg.ca

Twitter: @saskjourno