The federal election campaign is now into full gear in the Kenora riding, with local offices opening and candidates hitting the campaign trail.
NDP candidate Howard Hampton is critical of the timing of the vote, noting suspended senators Pamela Wallin, Patrick Brazeau and Mike Duffy will once again be able to collect a pay-check.
Hampton says their suspension was only effective while parliament was in session, meaning they will be able to collect about $30,000 in salary from now until the October 19th vote.
Conservative incumbent Greg Rickford is touting his government’s recent announcements including the permanent addition of the Family Home Renovation tax credit.
He says their government is all about lowering taxes and helping the economy.
Rickford says personal income and business taxes are at an all-time low.
Rickford adds the Conservatives have also introduced other goodies including the Universal Child Care benefit and tax credits for small businesses.
Liberal Bob Nault says he will take advantage of the long campaign to address some key issues.
Nault says the issues he will be concentrating on include the economy and health care and he will travel the region finding out what local residents want to see.
He adds they need a plan to have northern Ontario flourish once again.
Nault says the country is entering its second recession under the Harper government.
Green candidate Ember McKillop has stated diversifying the economy and creating more full time jobs is one of her main priorities.
She adds she will be focusing on addressing aboriginal concerns.
