Nira Dookeran nominated as Green Party of Canada candidate in Ottawa-Vanier

(OTTAWA) – The Green Party of Canada is pleased to announce the nomination of its candidate, Nira Dookeran, for the 2017 Ottawa-Vanier by-election.

“I'm running for the Green Party of Canada because it is the only party that truly addresses the needs of our future generations,” says Nira, a high school teacher, mother, wife and homeowner who is active in her community. She was previously the Green Party candidate in Ottawa-Vanier in the 2015 federal general election and taught at Rideau High School.

“All Greens make decisions based on the common values in our Global Greens Charter, and we won't sway to corporate pressures. Canadians have grown tired of the narrow partisan politicking that is again blocking the real changes we so urgently need. Justin Trudeau has shown his true colours by approving new fossil fuel projects and by abandoning his promise on electoral reform. Greens understand we have to work together, collaborate, and listen attentively and openly to each other. My priority concerns are climate action and sustainability, electoral reform, and the economy and jobs.”

Elizabeth May, Leader of the Green Party of Canada (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands), says: “I believe the people of Ottawa-Vanier are tired of politics as usual. As a teacher and strong community activist, Nira Dookeran is the best person to represent them honestly and boldly in the House of Commons.”

Nira’s strengths lie in bringing diverse people together to build consensus and get things done. Her leadership skills are shown in her work in schools including coaching teachers, engaging with parents, and “school greening” – as well as in her work with community associations and faith groups. She champions working collectively for transformation toward a more sustainable, peaceable and healthful way of living. Nira is a natural Green.

Find Nira’s bio below. Find Nira's campaign page here.

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For additional information or to arrange an interview, contact:
Dan Palmer
Press Secretary | Attaché de presse
dan.palmer@greenparty.ca
m: (613) 614-4916

For Nira's campaign, please contact:
Campaign phone: (613) 421-2300 |
E-mail: ottvan@greenparty.ca

Nira Dookeran biography:

Nira is a high school teacher, mother, wife and homeowner who is active in her community.  She was previously the Green Party candidate in Ottawa-Vanier in the 2015 federal general election.

Nira knows the riding well: she understands the diversity of Ottawa-Vanier, its richness and its challenges.  She taught at Rideau High School, and her son attended Manor Park Public School.

Born in Winnipeg, she’s lived in Ottawa since 1992, and has been a high school teacher with the Ottawa-Carleton District School Board since 2000.  She has also been active in community associations such as the Trinidad and Tobago Association of Ottawa, and the Council of Canadians.  She has a BA (University of Winnipeg 1984), an MA in Philosophy (University of Toronto 1985) and a B Ed (1988).