Outdrawing an identical event last week in Lloydminster by nearly double — the Unity Chamber of Commerce had to be happy with the 20+ person crowd that showed up at the Unity Community Centre for Tuesday's Battlefords-Lloydminster-Meadow Lake candidate forum ahead of the 2025 federal election.
Three out of the four registered candidates were in attendance: William Petryk, candidate for the New Democratic Party; Larry Ingram, candidate for the Liberal Party; and Darrell Patan, candidate for the Canadian Future Party. Notably absent from both forums was Conservative Party candidate Rosemarie Falk, the incumbent for the riding.
The evening opened with an address from Chamber president Kelsey Sperle on the rules of the forum, moderated by Kathy Johnson. After opening remarks, candidates were given a chance to answer five pre-planned questions from the Chamber, and then questions were opened up to the floor for about 30 minutes before candidates gave their closing statements.
Opening Remarks
The candidates opening statements saw them give a brief introduction to the crowd before going into their main issue this election.
Petryk was the first to take the mic, stressing affordability as a main issue, referencing an NDP plan that puts workers first.
"Once again, we’re facing change — and this time, it comes from global instability and challenges from nations we once called allies. Now more than ever, we must stand firm in our Canadian values, protect our democracy, and ensure prosperity for all."
Larry Ingram, a Liberal candidate for the riding since 2015, used his opening statement to speak on the wide-range of voters for the Battlefords-Lloydminster-Meadow Lake riding this election.
"It’s interesting to be heading into yet another federal election — our fifth in ten years. I’ve been to Unity for a few of them, and I’m always glad to be back. This new riding — Battlefords–Lloydminster–Meadow Lake — is huge... It stretches from Lloydminster and Meadow Lake all the way north to Big Island Lake and east past Shell Lake... We’ve been on the road meeting voters across the region, hearing their concerns, and sharing our message."
Darrell Patan of the Canadian Future Party took the mic last and did his best to steer unsure voters in the direction of a party that makes sense for them.
"We created this party because nearly 70% of Canadians identify as moderates, yet politics has veered too far to the extremes. Our goal is to bring balance back to the centre."
Chamber Questions
(Answers summarized through transcription)
Q: How does your party plan to respond to tariffs from the United States on Canadian goods?
Larry Ingram (LPC):
“Canada is the best country in the world, and we must protect our sovereignty. Unjustified trade wars, especially from the U.S., threaten our strength—but we won’t let that happen. By building one united Canadian economy, we can grow by $200 billion, ensure goods and workers move freely, and use government purchasing power to support Canadian industries. We’ll protect our culture, environment, and values, and continue meaningful partnerships with Indigenous communities. Canadians are kind—but we are never weak. We will always stand up to bullies.”
Darrell Patan (CFP):
“Since January 2025, Canada has faced growing threats—annexation, economic imperialism, and internal instability. We must diversify trade away from unstable or non-democratic nations and respond to U.S. tariffs with equal force. Ending interprovincial trade barriers could boost our GDP by 2%. The Canadian Future Party also proposes expelling U.S. diplomats whenever our sovereignty is disrespected—Canada must defend its independence with strength and resolve.”
William Petryk (NDP):
"I am going to answer that question with a quote (from The Economist)... 'Canada is moving fast, since it's trade diversification push began eight years ago, it has signed 16 deals, including a recent one with Ecuador. Canada has also begun talks with the Philippines, and Indonesia...Under Prime Minister Mark Carney, we’ll strengthen ties with like-minded partners—Britain, the EU, and key Asian economies'... so my answer is the ball is already rolling, and if elected, we’ll take it and move it toward the goal.”
Q: What is your party's position to support, specifically, the older community?
Darrell Patan (CFP):
"To combat rising costs, the Canadian Future Party will introduce tax and policy incentives to help Canadian businesses diversify their exports beyond the increasingly protectionist U.S. market. Additionally, we are committed to breaking down interprovincial trade barriers. On housing affordability, we will restore federal leadership by investing in non-market, climate-resilient homes and protecting the dignity of all Canadians. We will also launch a federally funded land acquisition program to reduce housing costs and make affordable rents more accessible, particularly for low-income Canadians. As for healthcare, Canada's primary care system is under pressure, so we will create a national professional licensing framework, increase residency positions for internationally trained doctors, and negotiate mutual recognition agreements with countries that have equivalent medical education and licensing standards. We will also reform access to operating theaters to address these challenges."
William Petryk (NDP):
"The NDP is dedicated to fighting for older Canadians to ensure they live with dignity and security. We are pushing for guaranteed access to family doctors and primary care by 2030, advocating for the hiring of more health workers, and establishing a national licensing system for health professionals. We’ve already fought for free diabetes medications and devices under the supply and competence agreement, laying the foundation for universal pharmacare. Housing is a top priority, and we will implement national rent controls and construct three million homes by 2030, including affordable housing tailored for seniors. We will also push to remove GST from essentials like home heating, internet, and phones, and introduce guaranteed income supplements to lift low-income seniors out of poverty. Additionally, we will introduce programs to support family caregivers, providing financial support and respite services. Unity will also fight to double the Canadian Disability Benefit, providing an additional $2,400 annually to those in need, particularly seniors."
Larry Ingram (LPC):
"President Trump's reckless trade wars have caused unprecedented volatility in the financial markets, putting retirement savings at risk. We must act swiftly to protect seniors and families, ensuring their life savings are shielded as much as possible. The previous Conservative government, which included Pierre Poilievre, tried to raise the retirement age to 67, but the Liberals reversed this to uphold Canada's promise that seniors deserve a safe and dignified retirement after a lifetime of hard work.
We will fight for the economic security of Canadians, protecting their incomes and savings by creating economic conditions for resilience. To help seniors during this time of market uncertainty, we propose reducing the minimum withdrawal amount from Registered Retirement Income Funds (RRIFs) by 25% for one year. This will provide seniors with flexibility and help them avoid having to liquidate their savings in a down market.
Additionally, we will temporarily boost the income of low-income seniors by increasing the Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) by 5%, providing up to an additional $652 per year, tax-free. GIS has been proven to help lift seniors out of poverty in Canada."
Q: While tax cuts have been included in party platforms, what is your party's objectives to reaching a balanced budget and will this affect the Canadian currency and markets?
William Petryk (NDP):
"Our country faces a critical challenge, and we must ensure that no one is left behind. Fiscal responsibility must be coupled with compassion and fairness. That’s why we prioritize investing in services, reducing inequality, and taking meaningful steps to tackle poverty.
We plan to increase revenues by over $10 billion over the next four years by closing corporate tax loopholes, ensuring that big corporations pay their fair share. Additionally, we aim to restore the federal corporate tax rate from 50% to 20%, which will generate an additional $20 billion.
We will also reduce wasteful spending by cutting unnecessary federal expenditures. Our consultants have identified $8 billion in savings that can be redirected to programs that truly benefit Canadians, particularly in healthcare, housing, and affordability. These investments will strengthen our economy, create jobs, and help reduce the debt-to-GDP ratio over time.
A strong economy is the foundation for fiscal responsibility. Over the last two decades, Canada has lost over $1.1 trillion in corporate taxes due to corporations not paying their fair share. If corporations had paid the same tax rates as in the 1990s, we would have seen a significantly better financial outlook for our country. As a result, governments have been forced to carry the burden, impacting important public services and shifting the responsibility onto workers."
Larry Ingram (LPC):
"I would love to have this question clarified, because when we start talking about cities, municipalities, provinces, and the federal government all tied together, I start to wonder—what is the real debt here? From my experience sitting on the RM Council, we were never allowed to carry debt. Every year, we had to ensure we were debt-free.
So, when discussions about debt come up, I think about it in those terms. If we're talking about a $100,000 debt, does that mean every Canadian is responsible for $100,000? And if so, how do we work to reduce that debt?
I think the solution lies in investing in infrastructure, such as building homes—whether it’s 200,000 or 2 million homes, as some have suggested. But the real question is, where are we going to find the people to actually build these homes?
Ultimately, I believe that with construction projects moving forward, people working, exporting goods, and importing materials, we will be able to manage the debt effectively."
Darrell Patan (CFP):
"I’m a little different. While we like to call ourselves a socially progressive and fiscally responsible party, I am committed to evidence-based decision-making. We also believe in telling the truth, even when it’s hard. And the truth right now is that we are facing the biggest threat to our independence since Confederation.
Countries are not eternal. There is nothing written that says Canada must exist. With our allies far away and the United States sliding towards autocracy, its president openly admires Canada, and we are very vulnerable.
We need to immediately increase defense spending to 2.25% of our GDP. These funds will improve pay and living conditions for our existing troops, refill our depleted stockpiles of ammunition and equipment, and begin an extensive expansion of the Canadian Armed Forces. This will put us in partnership with our allies and increase funding to match the 5% GDP of other democratic nations.
We need a plan to urgently rearm our country. This isn’t just about preparing our armed forces to defend Canada—it’s about being a leader in the global democratic relations. We must have a clear sense of purpose in the face of multiple crises.
We absolutely believe in balancing the budget, but first and foremost, we must protect our country, our people, and our democracy. Sadly, responsible deficits are the only way forward for Canada in the near future."
Q: What policies will you implement to support small businesses, and stimulate job creation in Canada?
Larry Ingram (LPC):
"Defending our economy means standing up to unjustified American trade wars that are trying to weaken Canada. These efforts are rooted in the misguided belief that the U.S. can dominate our economy. We will reject any attempt to weaken, divide, or control us. Our response will always be to protect Canadian workers and industries.
A Mark Carney-led government will maintain targeted tariffs on U.S. goods for as long as necessary and ensure Canadian industries are safeguarded from trade diversion. Every dollar raised from these tariffs will support workers and businesses impacted by the trade war.
We will create a $2 billion ‘Canadian Response Fund’ to strengthen our auto sector, protect manufacturing jobs, support workers in developing their skills, and expand our supply chain for raw materials and components. We will build a Canadian network for auto manufacturing, reduce cross-border dependencies, and attract new investment.
Our plan includes maximizing the use of Canadian steel, aluminum, and critical minerals—from exploration to battery production—to seize the economic opportunities ahead, create good-paying jobs, and build the strongest economy in the G7.
We will also protect Canada from foreign attempts to buy up our businesses, public healthcare, intellectual property, critical minerals, and other national assets by strengthening investment protections. This is how we defend our economy and secure our future."
Darrell Patan (CFP):
"First and foremost, we need to invest in Canada's economy to help our businesses thrive. The Canadian Future Party is committed to tackling our long-standing overreliance on the U.S. market with a bold trade strategy rooted in economic sovereignty and national unity. A key part of that plan is eliminating interprovincial trade barriers—removing them could unlock a 30% margin in growth potential right now.
We also need to strengthen ties with democratic partners, especially in Europe, to keep Canadian businesses strong while reducing our economic dependency on the U.S.
When it comes to taxation, our system is outdated and overly complex—it hasn’t seen meaningful reform since the 1960s. The CFP believes a modern, fair, and efficient tax code is essential for individual prosperity, business investment, and national strength. That’s why we’ll establish a Royal Commission to simplify and modernize our tax system, with a goal of implementing legislation within three years.
Finally, a strong and resilient Canada depends on robust industries. Supporting sectors like agriculture, oil and gas, and natural resources will drive job creation and help build a more prosperous future for all Canadians."
William Petryk (NDP):
“When it comes to taxation, fairness is the key. The NDP has always stood for a system where everyone contributes effectively. We propose increasing the top marginal tax rate for those earning over $215,000 from 33% to 35%, and we support international efforts to establish a global minimum tax to stop multinational corporations, like Amazon, from avoiding their fair share.
We also believe in supporting small businesses through grants and tax incentives, ensuring they can compete with larger corporations and continue to drive job creation and economic growth.
To strengthen our workforce, we’ll invest in vocational training, marketable skills, and higher education, while also advocating for the transferability of credentials between provinces—so workers can move where they’re needed most. Our vision is simple: a fair tax system, a skilled and mobile workforce, and an economy where small businesses and working Canadians thrive.”
Q: How does your party plan to support the traditional energy sectors in Western Canada?
Darrell Patan (CFP):
“I’ll start with energy. The Canadian Future Party supports a west-to-east pipeline to help get our oil to democratic allies. We believe the approval process for resource projects should be streamlined—while still responsible—and propose creating an energy fund that directs fossil fuel revenues into the development of carbon-neutral technologies. We can invest in both energy security and sustainability, and we will.
Canada must also embrace new nuclear energy. With advancements in small modular reactors, we have an opportunity to lead globally—protecting the planet while growing our economy by exporting Canadian expertise.
We also propose a coast-to-coast, government-owned Pan-Canadian utility corridor—with extensions into the Arctic. This would include infrastructure for pipelines, power lines, fiber optics, roads, and railways, helping connect remote regions and unlock mineral and resource potential.
And when it comes to strengthening democracy, we want to ensure every Canadian vote has real impact. That means adopting a more accountable model—like the UK’s—where backbench MPs can vote based on their constituents’ needs, not party lines. In rural, agricultural ridings like ours, that kind of true representation is critical.”
William Petryk (NDP):
“Economies rise on the strength of sectors like agriculture, oil and gas, and manufacturing—and the NDP is committed to supporting these vital industries while also preparing for a sustainable future.
Saskatchewan agriculture is built on quality and productivity, and we’ll invest in research for drought-resistant crops, watershed projects, and innovation to help farmers adapt to climate change and succeed both domestically and globally. Fair trade policies will ensure producers have the tools they need.
In the energy sector, we support a coast-to-coast Canadian pipeline to enhance energy transportation, along with expanding domestic refining capacity—provided it meets environmental standards. While we’re committed to a renewable future, we recognize the continued importance of traditional energy sources and are determined to ensure no worker or industry is left behind in the transition.
To grow our economy, we’ll invest in infrastructure and transportation, helping producers reach international markets efficiently. We'll also promote mobile and skilled workforces by funding job training and enabling interprovincial credential recognition. And through grants and tax incentives, we’ll help small businesses compete with larger corporations—building a more sustainable and inclusive economy for all Canadians.”
Larry Ingram (LPC):
“I want to talk a bit about food security, because it’s critical. Our farmers and fishers work hard—they’re the backbone of many rural and coastal communities. But today, they’re facing immense challenges—from climate change to the impacts of trade wars and tariffs, especially those driven by Trump’s policies. These disruptions are hitting people who help put food on Canadians’ tables the hardest, and we need to support them through sustainable and resilient practices.
As someone who grew up on a farm and later bought my own land, I’ve seen firsthand the transportation issues that producers face. Years ago, we were shipping grain from Saskatchewan all the way down to Regina, then over to Winnipeg, just to get it to Churchill. It was always dicey and more expensive than going west. But with the changing climate, the Port of Churchill now has longer open seasons, and we should take advantage of that.
We should be building rail lines to connect places like Fort McMurray and Meadow Lake to Churchill and even up to Stony Rapids. Yesterday I was in Leoville, and seeing those wide-open Regina plains just confirmed it—we have the land, we have the people, and we need the infrastructure. Let’s get those rail lines moving and strengthen Canada’s food supply and economy from the ground up.”
Open Questions
The floor opened for the crowd to ask questions directly after the Chamber portion.
Without hesitation, the first question was directed at the Liberal candidate Ingram, asking him what makes the new Liberal leader, Mark Carney, any different from Justin Trudeau.
"I find Mark Carney is more approachable, but at the very same time he's got the experience in the finance world that we're relying on right now to make a strong Canada."
Ingram referenced Carney's decision to immediately pause the consumer carbon tax as one that unified Canadians. Ingram sees that leadership in play, and shares a vision of bringing Canadians back together as one.
The CFP candidate Patan took the microphone next, with a simple answer to the question.
"This is my first kick at the can, just so you know... I am 53 years old, married, two children: Mark Carney is not going to be any different than Justin Trudeau."
Petryk then took a stab at the question saying that he's glad Carney has the ball rolling with different countries concerning trade agreements but had to question the repeal of the carbon tax, saying we are more like an opaque American system than ever before.
After the first question the forum took a slight turn as the next few listener submissions had to with topics perhaps better answered by the Bank of Canada.
The conversation got back on the rails as each candidate spoke on a united Canada, how we are better off financially than some people realize in terms of poverty, and an agreement that Canada has the resources consumers need, and that there needs to be a plan to get them to market.
The next notable question that each candidate responded to, had to do with engaging the younger population in politics.
"This is kind of for everybody. It's also not a future question, it's what are you guys doing now? What is your party doing to reach out to the younger generation, and also spreading your word and raising the voting percentage as my generation personally has the lowest voting turnout?"
Ingram answered first, partially joking that it should be the law that people have to vote, understanding that buy-in from the younger generation is something tough to get.
Part of the reason he is in politics is to make a difference for the younger generation, with a firsthand reason why.
"My son took his life at 25, and that loss is why I’ve stepped forward—to be a voice for this community. We need to ask what’s missing in our society that so many young people feel disconnected. Until we build a world where their spirit feels strong and valued, we’re falling short.”
Petryk was in agreeance with Ingram that reaching the younger generation is of utmost importance. Expanded borders in the riding means more young voters, especially in post-secondary schools, a section of society the NDP likes to make their presence known.
The CFP is just as involved in the fight to give youth a voice. The party has a youth council for interested youth to join so they can learn the ins and outs of politics, the value of voting, and the ability for the young people to make their own decisions.
Another big topic with the riding change is a notable rise in the Indigenous voting population. The final question of the night came from an Indigenous man, asking for answers on multiple questions that align to one big picture of "failed promises from the past."
"The government is focusing on truth and reconciliation, which actually started back in the previous government under Harper... What do you think your parties' future plans are to partner with the Indigenous people of this country?
Petryk answered first by saying the NDP is always communicating with First Nations, on a nation-to-nation basis. Their goal as a government regarding the Indigenous population is to increase the priority level for Indigenous issues more than any government.
Ingram believes that a Liberal government would continue on with previous truth and reconciliation efforts, while keeping those efforts going in jurisdictions like signing agreements and acknowledging land in different ways.
"I believe the Liberal Party is actively working toward reconciliation and signing agreements with First Nations. In areas like the rail line project I'm promoting, I recognize that much of the land involved is on or near First Nations territory. It’s important that we, as a government, acknowledge that. The compensation from the Cows and Plows agreement was long overdue—it could have and should have happened years ago. Taking these steps sooner would have allowed reconciliation to move forward more meaningfully."
Patan provided the final answer, about his party believing that "promises made are promises to be kept", and that the Canadian Future Party is committed to a time-bound, accountable path to reconciliation. This could include things like resolving all outstanding Indigenous land and governance claims within 10 years and replacing the Indian Act with a new agreement rooted in equality, consent, and mutual respect according to Patan.
"The Canadian Future Party recognizes that Indigenous peoples have endured generations of discrimination, systemic exclusion, and the lasting impacts of colonialism. Successive federal governments have failed to deliver meaningful progress toward reconciliation, undermining the well-being of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples—and holding back Canada’s social, economic, and democratic potential."
Closing Remarks
Larry Ingram (LPC):
"After an hour-and-a-half of at times back and forth conversation, each candidate was able to give their closing address.
“Thank you all for coming out and being part of this conversation. It’s frustrating when our elected Member of Parliament is nowhere to be found—again. We held a forum in Lloydminster, and instead of showing up to engage with us, she was across the province meeting with a handful of people. That’s not representation.
Our communities deserve someone who shows up, someone who understands what it means to be part of this riding—not just in name, but in action. I’d be proud to be that representative, to finally have someone on the inside who’s fighting for us, not just watching from the outside.
We’ve got big ideas—like building out the rail lines from places like Battleford to St. Walburg and beyond. We can’t keep saying we can’t. We’ve got to dig in, build, and move forward together. Thank you again for being here tonight.”
Darrell Patan (CFP):
“The Canadian Future Party believes the three major parties have gone too far—pandering to special interest groups and spreading misinformation. We're the only option that is both fiscally sensible and socially progressive, focused on evidence-based policies that actually matter to Canadians.
As a proud Saskatchewanian and a working-class Canadian, I’m here not with empty promises, but with a commitment to democratic values, public service that delivers, and a private sector that thrives. I showed up today—unlike one of our candidates who wants your vote but couldn’t be bothered to face voters.
If you believe the major parties no longer represent you, and you're ready to send a strong message to Ottawa, a vote for me is a vote for a better, centrist path forward. There is a better way—and it starts here.”
William Petryk (NDP):
“I want to thank everyone who came out tonight—your presence shows this election matters. It’s unfortunate not all candidates showed up, but those of us who care did.
New Democrats have always fought for ordinary people—and we’ve delivered. Over 1.7 million Canadians now have access to free dental care, diabetes medications, and reproductive healthcare. We secured $10-a-day child care and are making pharmacare a reality—all through the supply and confidence agreement.
We’re committed to addressing the rising cost of living, tackling corporate greed that’s driving up grocery prices, and investing in affordable housing, roads, bridges, and healthcare infrastructure. In response to Trump’s tariffs, we’ll build a resilient economy that puts workers first.
Now more than ever, Canadians need leadership that takes care of each other. We’re fighting for a government that puts people—not profits—at the center. We ask for your support.”