Saturday February 21, 2004
Higginbotham Pledges New Role for Surrey
Veteran Surrey Councillor Judy Higginbotham has promised to work for a new dynamic role for Surrey in the Canadian Federation, after capturing Saturday’s Federal Liberal nomination in the new riding of South Surrey-White Rock-Cloverdale.
Higginbotham defeated challenger John Haviland, a former constituency president and long-time Liberal activist. After more than two decades of service to the constituency as a Surrey Councillor, Higginbotham said she’s committed to bringing that same level of locally-based representation to Ottawa.
"Today the Liberal Party of Canada members in South Surrey-White Rock-Cloverdale have given us a clear direction," she told the audience. "People want an assertive and determined Liberal MP at the governing table, speaking positively and constructively about the role that Surrey and White Rock can play in national affairs."
She added that she eagerly anticipated the changes that Prime Minister Paul Martin has pledged to bring to government and his commitment to a bold new relationship between Ottawa and the Western Provinces, including British Columbia. "For more than nine years I’ve dealt with Paul Martin through the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM). He’s committed to a new deal for cities and municipalities and a new constructive approach to Canadian Federalism."
Higginbotham told her supporters that the only way to confront and deal with Western alienation is to "make a difference in Ottawa". People who know me know that I’ll speak up for both my riding and my Province. This is what Paul Martin expects from his MP’s and he’s pledged to give us a more autonomy and direct authority."
The victor also had high praise for challenger John Haviland and his campaign team. "I thought John mounted an impressive campaign and spoke eloquently and passionately about the renewal that must take place in the Liberal Party. "I’ve known John Haviland for years, and his unwavering commitment to our Party and our community has always been appreciated."
After the meeting both candidates embraced and pledged their mutual support to the broader cause of electing a Liberal MP in the new constituency of South Surrey-White Rock-Cloverdale."
Higginbotham said she’s anticipating a tough but vigorous campaign ahead. "One thing I’ve learned is that you do not take anything for granted. Every day it is a privilege and an honour to serve and to have the opportunity to make our community a better place to live."