Correction: A previous version of this article had a typo in the email address to reach the candidate. It has since been modified and corrected. The email address to contact Robert Kreis is rob@roblyn.net
Over the weekend, Prime Minister Mark Carney called a snap federal election scheduled for Monday, April 28th—a move that comes just five weeks before polling day, making this one of the shortest campaigns in Canadian history. In an exclusive interview with Portage Online News, Robert Kreis, the Liberal nominee for Portage‑Lisgar, discusses his plans to address local challenges and advance a vision for a stronger, more inclusive Canada.
Tariffs top-of-mind
Q: "With tariffs adding additional economic pressure, do you feel it's responsible to push for retaliatory tariffs, or do you think more diplomacy is necessary to avert a potential crisis?"
A: We have seen through the actions and comments of the American administration and especially the President himself, that their reasons for the tariffs have little to do with fairness or the border security. The first stipulation was the illegal flow of drugs from Canada to the USA had to reduced greatly as well as the flow of illegal migrants from Canda to the US. The Liberal government dedicated an additional $1.5 billion dollars to the RCMP and Canada Border Patrol including the leasing of an Apache helicopter for increased surveillance.
The actual flow of illegal drugs from Canada to the US is but the smallest of fractions (about 43 pounds in 2024) of that flowing from Mexico to the US and indeed most of the Fentanyl that is imported into the United States is done by through legal points of entry by natural born Americans according to data from the US Customs and Border Protection.
None of our efforts moved the needle on the administration’s desire to implement tariffs.
The USMCA agreement that President Trump says is so one-sided and favours Canada, he actually claimed credit for negotiating in his last term. The Liberal government has consistently said it does not wish to get into a trade war with the US, our biggest trade partner and ally, and that is why it has chosen with the consultation and agreement of the Territories and all but two of the provinces.
The administration has also mused repeatedly about invading Canada or forcing us to capitulate through destroying our economy. The President has repeatedly referred to former Prime Minister Trudeau as Governor and Canada as the 51st state.
I think the vast majority of Canadians agree with Prime Minister Carney that until the US administration can deal with us from a place of mutual respect, that there is no reason to negotiate as we have no real basis to start from and no hope of good faith agreement.
That is why the Liberal government’s plan is to target retaliatory tariffs for maximum impact on the States but with minimum impact on Canadians and Canadian businesses and has committed to using our tariffs to provide relief to those businesses affected and to aide workers affected by making access to EI benefits immediate, eliminating the Consumer Carbon Tax, proposing a middle-class tax cut. This will help to build a stronger Canada while we search for new reliable trade partners and work to open new routes to transport our natural resources to other markets, as well as working with the provinces to eliminated provincial trade barriers by July 1, 2025
Upgrading water infrastructure
Q: Portage‑Lisgar’s agricultural and industrial sectors rely on reliable water systems. What role do you envision for federal funding and policy in modernizing water infrastructure, and how would you work with local authorities to ensure that?
A: “The federal government is certainly responsible for helping to fund some of the programs available. I’ve done a little research into what is unique to the Portage area—in terms of sewage, wastewater treatment, and water for agriculture. I think the best thing I can do if elected, is to get to know the people in Portage, understand their specific concerns, and leverage Prime Minister Carney’s new nation‑building projects that help drive community economic development. Providing better water for agriculture and improved water treatment will directly benefit the people here in Portage.”
Modernizing immigration and workforce training
Q: There have been persistent labor shortages in manufacturing, agriculture, and healthcare. What will you be able to do from Ottawa to help the province modernize immigration and workforce training to better meet those local needs?
A: “Certainly, we need to continue with immigration—but we must also change it so that it’s more efficient and specifically targeted at bringing in the skills we lack here. It’s one thing to increase overall numbers, but we need to address our shortage of specific skill sets. We must look for ways to make those individuals more accessible for coming into Canada to fill these critical gaps.”
Balancing climate action with farming needs
Q: Farmers in Portage‑Lisgar have expressed concerns that environmental regulations may impact their productivity. How would you balance the federal commitment to climate action with the practical needs of our agricultural community?
A: “I don’t think there are many who disagree that we need some action on climate change—it’s undeniable that the climate is changing. What’s important is having an open dialogue so that farmers don’t feel like policies are being forced on them. We need two‑way communication that can help lessen the impacts of climate legislation while ensuring that changes are as easy and profitable as possible for farmers.”
Addressing affordable housing
Q: Housing affordability remains a pressing issue in Portage‑Lisgar, where rent rates are soaring—especially in newer apartment complexes. What federal strategies or incentive programs would you promote to increase the supply of affordable homes?
A: “One key measure was announced by Prime Minister Carney on Sunday: eliminating the GST for first‑time buyers of new homes under $1,000,000. We need to encourage private investment in building new homes, as there’s simply a shortage of housing—made worse by increased immigration in recent years. It’s time to target those needs and invest in programs that incentivize home builders to construct more affordable housing.”
Improving rural infrastructure and essential services
Q: Many constituents have raised concerns about the availability of quality healthcare, education, and high‑speed Internet in rural areas. What plans do you and the Liberals have to advocate for federal investments that will enhance these essential services?
A: “Healthcare is a big concern for everyone—I’ve personally experienced the shortcomings of our current system. We’ve had too many Band‑Aid solutions. We need to take a hard look at the real issues in healthcare and develop a realistic funding plan that allows provinces to deliver services efficiently, in a way that’s tailored to their unique needs, especially in rural communities.”
Enhancing community safety
Q: How would you ensure that federal support for public safety and policing meets the diverse needs of both urban centers and rural communities?
A: “This is an issue across the country. Drugs and addiction have been at the forefront of our challenges. As chairman of Forward House Ministries in Winnipeg—where we operate a transitional home for men recovering from addictions—I’ve seen firsthand how these issues can lead to crime. There’s been talk about eliminating the bail program, but I don’t believe that’s the answer. The bail system needs reform, not abolition. We must address the underlying social issues that lead to crime rather than simply locking everyone up.”
Supporting small businesses and diversifying the economy
Q: While agriculture is the backbone of our local economy, diversification is vital for long‑term stability. What policies would you champion to foster new industries and support small business growth throughout Portage‑Lisgar?
A: “Prime Minister Carney has talked about reinvesting in Canada and providing incentives for businesses to invest here. With more jobs able to be done remotely—especially in the tech sector—we need to help people see the opportunities available at home rather than looking elsewhere. This means offering financing support and mentorship programs to encourage entrepreneurs to pursue their dreams in Canada.”
Bridging the Urban‑Rural Divide
Connecting to rural life from the urban centre
Q: Given that you live in Winnipeg, how will you ensure you remain connected to the unique challenges and priorities of a predominantly rural riding like Portage‑Lisgar?
A: “Yes, I do live in Winnipeg, but I understand that Portage‑Lisgar is a very rural and spread‑out riding. I approach every venture—whether it’s my work with Forward House Ministries or my campaign—with a commitment to visiting and speaking directly with the people. I will make it my duty to build genuine relationships, ensuring that I am constantly in contact with constituents so that their voices are heard in Ottawa. I am committed to this riding, for the sake of my children, my grandchildren, and the future of Canada.”
Transparency and federal funding
Q: There is growing local concern about how federal funds are allocated for community projects. What measures would you support to increase transparency and accountability, and do you believe former Prime Minister Trudeau should be held accountable for the ethics violations and alleged scandals he's been involved in?
A: “I believe that if anyone is guilty of misdeeds, they should be held accountable. That said, to say at this point that Mr. Trudeau is responsible for anything is premature—if he was, then an investigation will show it. With proper transparency, our federal auditors can examine programs and address any specific concerns. I encourage anyone with doubts to bring those issues forward so they can be properly investigated, rather than relying on unverified gossip.”
Building on a legacy
Q: Portage‑Lisgar has a rich political history that leans conservative, and in 2021 the People’s Party of Canada saw significant support here. How do you plan to build on past successes while ensuring everyone’s voice is heard?
A: “I believe Canadians have always respected differences of opinion and learned from deep conversations about our issues. I chose the Liberal Party because I believe in its values—I care about our national healthcare program, national dental care, and other social supports that improve everyday lives. I want to stand up for the values that make Canada unique, rather than adopting policies from down south that promote privatization. My goal is to unite this riding by building on our legacy while addressing today’s challenges.”
Final Election Thoughts
Q: As the official campaign kicks off, do you have any final thoughts for the Portage‑Lisgar community?
A: “I will commit to representing Portage‑Lisgar with all my energy. I’ve dedicated myself to learning the local landscape, and I encourage anyone with questions to reach out. You can email me at rob@roblyn.net or call me directly at 204‑791‑6219. I’m here to listen and to bring your concerns to Ottawa. Thank you for your time, and I look forward to earning your support.”