The MP for Acadie-Annapolis is reacting to Pierre Poilievre’s visit.
The Conservative Party leader spoke in front of over 200 supporters in Yarmouth Tuesday night.
Chris d’Entremont, who crossed the floor from the Conservatives to the Liberals in November, says he tried for years to get Poilievre to visit.
“To listen to issues that are important to residents of southwest Nova Scotia, especially the fishery. While I question his motives for this visit, I hope he at least listened to the issues that are important to us,” said d’Entremont.
Poilievre’s last visit the riding was in August, 2024 during the Congres Mondial Acadien.
During the speech Tuesday night, Poilievre said a Conservative government would put an end to illegal fishing.
D’Entremont says there’s been a turnaround in enforcement from DFO, and they’re making sure people are following the rules.
As far as the turnout for Poilievre’s event goes, d’Entremont noted it’s a lot less than he normally has.
“A couple thousand usually show up, but to see a couple hundred show up to this one between two big ridings, I think it goes to show that Mr. Poilievre is not that popular here.”
On Tuesday, Poilievre told Acadia News that a lot of people would run for the Conservatives in the region, and fight for affordability for all Nova Scotians.
D’Entremont crossed the floor in November, and said negativity within the Conservative Party and Poilievre’s leadership style played a factor in his decision.
The now Liberal MP said he heard from many on doorsteps during his election campaign, who said they could vote for him, but not for Poilievre.
“There’s been support and discouragement about my decision. I want to be part of a government that’s here to build our area, and we can participate in discussions. This move, while unpopular in some cases, is the right move for southwestern Nova Scotia.”
