In the 1980s the Whistler Question began posing a question to three to six people and publishing their responses under “Whistler’s Answers” (not to be confused with the Whistler Answer). Each week, we’ll be sharing one question and the answers given back in 1984. Please note, all names/answers/occupations/neighbourhoods represent information given to the Question at the time of publishing and do not necessarily reflect the person today.
Some context for this week’s question: All elections have various issues that are debated but the 1984 election is reported to have been fought mainly on the record of the Liberal Party who had formed the governing party for the majority of the last two decades. In the election held in September 1984, the Progressive Conservative Party led by Brian Mulroney won 211 seats to form a majority government.
Question: What do you think are the major federal election issues?
Shane McPhaden – Truck Driver – North Vancouver
Well, to be honest I haven’t really been keeping track of it. Who isn’t concerned about unemployment, for instance. There’s so many questions and so many answers, no one knows. This one candidate might sound like he’s right on the money but then two months down the road something changes. A lot of people have trouble making up their minds.
Laurie Obyrne – Actress – Vancouver
There’s a million issues: unemployment, interest rates… I don’t think acid rain and fishing are getting enough attention, nor is agriculture. I am more concerned about the use of chemicals in that industry. But they are never spoken of. Peoples’ consciousness isn’t on those issues right now. It’s on their own personal conversation. There may be some candidates in outlying areas addressing those issues.
Jack Stein – Advertising Executive – Richmond
I think we need a change of government. I don’t know where to begin when it comes to issues. You might establish a stronger outside investment base, and there should be stronger representation from the west.