Michael Barrett focuses on keeping taxes low, growing local business

Conservative Party candidate Michael Barrett is running for MP in Leeds-Grenville-Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes. The seat has been vacant since the death of Gord Brown in May. The federal by-election is set for December 3.

Barrett says retaining and attracting new residents is key. He says creating a low-tax environment for businesses will create jobs locally. Red tape and tariffs are slowing down growth in the manufacturing industry, according to Barrett.  

He says getting up to speed on legacy issues tackled by Brown will be his first move on the hill. Barrett says working with thalidomide survivors and on a national autism strategy will be a priority.

Barrett is a veteran of the Canadian Armed Forces, a former councillor of Edwardsburgh-Cardinal and father of four. He says his experiences have prepared him for the role.

Barrett says he will be a tireless advocate for the community and accessible to all constituents.

The My Prescott Now newsroom is interviewing all four federal candidates this week. The other candidates are Mary Jean McFall (Liberal), Michelle Taylor (NDP) and Lorraine Rekmans (Green).