Milton Candidate Adam van Koeverden: Liberal Party of Canada

By: Laura Steiner, Local Journalism Initiative

Adam van Koeverden is running for a second term because he believes there is still work to be done.  “When I was first elected, I pledged to be Milton’s voice in Ottawa and I am making that pledge again,” he said in an interview via email.

He won the 2019 federal election against former Conservative MP Lisa Raitt.  In his first term he managed to fight for more affordable housing for Milton, as well as transit options.   van Koeverden joined Transportation Minister Omar Alghabara to announce an investment that would cover approximately 50% of the cost of full-day two way GO service. “These issues remain a priority for me,” van Koeverden added.

van Koeverden describes himself as someone who loves meeting people in person.  With the pandemic, he’s been unable to do so.  Instead, he, and his staff have used Zoom meetings, and outdoor meetings to interact with constituents.  “Finding all of the different ways in which I can keep advocating for issues that are important to Miltonians while juggling a host of other responsibilities has been a challenging albeit rewarding experience so far,” he said.  The former Olympian has kayaked on every continent except Antarctica.

The Liberals have a plan for a COVID-19 economic recovery that includes increases to EI for gig workers, as well as a commitment to creating 1 million jobs.  They’re also hoping to address labour shortages by increasing immigration.  Their latest budget forecasts a $154.7 billion deficit next fiscal year.

The Liberals approved the CN Intermodal with 325 conditions.  According to the party, this should make the facility the most tightly regulated in North America.  van Koeverden believes this project is not the right fit for the community.  “I will continue to provide a voice to our residents who believe this project is not the right fit for our community.”  He refuses to compromise his position that the project should be rejected.  “The health, safety and well being of Miltonians is my number one concern.”  The project was approved by Environment Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, and a vote in cabinet.

van Koeverden has been hearing of two main issues as he’s been canvassing.  “My party has the most ambitious plan on climate change,” he said.  The Liberals are pledging to cut Greenhouse Gas emissions (GHG) by 36% by 2030 when compared to 2005 levels, as well as continue with the carbon tax and working with international partners.  2019 carbon dioxide levels sit at approximately 730 megatonnes, an increase over 723 megatonnes when the Liberals first took office in 2015.

The other issue he’s been hearing about is affordability.  The Liberals are promising a $10/day childcare plan.  “Giving families access to affordable, accessible and high quality childcare is a key part of our party’s plan for the future, and it will benefit every single family in Milton,” van Koeverden said. Prior to the election, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had agreements in place with six provinces.  Ontario is not one of them.  Overseeing education, and childcare is a provincial responsibility.

The Liberals are promising to fund a permanent home for the National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation.  Additionally, they also promise sustained financial support for core operations including the fulfillment of the Commission’s mandate.  “We are firmly committed to addressing the longstanding, unmet needs of First Nations children,” van Koeverden said.  Approximately 80% of the calls to action are completed or underway. Despite a promise to clear boil water advisories, the Liberals have only succeeded in clearing 109 since 2015.  The federal government announced $320 million in funding for “Indigenous-led, Survivor-centric and culturally sensitive initiatives.”

Why Vote Liberal?

“Canadians have a choice to make on what they want the future of their country to look like. The Liberal plan is focused on creating and sustaining a strong and inclusive future for Canada with policies like $10/day childcare, all day Go Train service, and affordable housing here in Milton. Our plan is about working together and giving everyone a shot at success.”

For more information on Adam van Koeverden, and the Liberal Party visit his website.

Election Day is Monday September 20, 2021.