Local Liberals nominate Terry Sheehan (update, 3 photos)

Terry Sheehan will be the Liberal candidate for Sault Ste. Marie in the next federal election, scheduled to be held October 19.

Members of the Sault Ste. Marie federal Liberal riding association gathered at Algoma's Water Tower Inn Monday evening to officially nominate Sheehan, a city councillor and former school board trustee.

Sheehan will face incumbent Conservative MP Bryan Hayes and the NDP's Skip Morrison in the fall vote.

"People are looking for real change," Sheehan told Monday's audience.

"People (in the Sault) are looking for someone who is going to work hard all the time, to be in the riding more and be a strong voice for this riding when what we have right now is Ottawa's strong voice in Sault Ste. Marie."

"What we need is Sault Ste. Marie's voice in Ottawa, and I promise to be that strong voice."

Sheehan criticized the Harper government for not protecting industries such as Tenaris Algoma Tubes from the effect of unfairly priced imports, its policies regarding First Nations issues, seniors, the disabled, veterans and the environment.

"We're going to provide tax relief for the middle class, the middle class has been shrinking, we need to build up that middle class by providing tax relief and improving childcare," Sheehan said, speaking to SooToday after his acceptance speech.

"The more money they (the middle class) have in their pockets the more money they spend locally, and that's good for local business and entrepreneurs."

"The Liberals also have a plan for the environment and it's not only good for the environment it's good for jobs, and with Sault Ste. Marie having positioned itself as the Alternative Energy Capital of North America there is a huge opportunity to create new jobs in the new economy with the Liberal plan, because it rewards green, clean businesses, which we have an abundance of," Sheehan said.

Liberal heavyweights were on hand to support Sheehan at Monday's meeting.

"Terry is an energetic, passionate and determined young man in our community," Sault MPP David Orazietti said.

Orazietti praised Sheehan for his dedication to youth issues, business incubation and interest in seeing more four-laning of highways across Ontario.

"I think Terry would be a great champion for our community at the federal level," Orazietti said.

"Terry knows job creation, he knows education, he knows how cities work as a ward councillor, he's a family man, he's committed, he has the fire in the belly to win this riding back," said Ron Irwin, former Sault MP and cabinet minister. 

Sheehan's nomination was by acclamation, though Sheehan told SooToday two individuals who had been interested in seeking the nomination dropped their plans to support his bid.

"For that, I truly appreciate it," Sheehan said.

Sheehan has served as Ward 2 city councillor since 2003, after serving two terms as a trustee with the Huron-Superior Catholic District School Board.

Sheehan studied political science at Lake Superior State University (LSSU), and is currently employed as an employment and training consultant with the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities.

Sheehan, 45, is a married father of two.

NEWS RELEASE

SAULT STE. MARIE FEDERAL LIBERAL ASSOCIATION

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Terry Sheehan Acclaimed as Liberal Party of Canada Candidate for Sault Ste. Marie

Sault Ste. Marie, ON–Members and supporters of the Sault Ste. Marie Federal Liberal Association met Monday to nominate the candidate that will represent the Liberal Party of Canada in the riding during the upcoming election. Terry Sheehan was acclaimed after announcing his intention to seek the nomination in May.

Terry Sheehan is a four term City Councillor for the City of Sault Ste. Marie.  Prior to his city council work, he served two terms as a School Board Trustee on the Huron Superior Catholic District School Board.

Born and raised in Sault Ste. Marie, Terry attended St. Patrick's Elementary School, Sir James Dunn CVS, and studied Political Science at Lake Superior State University.  He has spent his career working in both the private and public sector in business, community and economic development. He is currently employed as an Employment and Training Consultant for the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. 

Terry has and continues to serve on many committees and boards, including the Algoma District Municipal Association. He is an active member in his community; taking a hands-on approach in problem solving and constituent issues. Always a voice around the table, Terry believes that hard work, practical solutions, and cooperation are the keys to strengthening our community and creating a successful future. 

Terry is also invested in the economic health of the riding and country. His strong business background allows him to spot opportunities for the economic success and job growth that will strengthen and grow our community. Through this work, Terry has developed strong relationships with both the business community and local labour groups, as he believes it is important to work constructively and inclusively with all. 

Eager to continue his hard work, Terry Sheehan stated, “I am thrilled to have been nominated to represent the Liberal Party of Canada in the riding of Sault Ste. Marie. I am ready to work hard in the upcoming election campaign. The people of Sault Ste. Marie know it is time for real change in our riding and across the country.” Terry is 45 years old and married with children.

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(PHOTO: Terry Sheehan addresses local Liberals after being officially nominated as the party's Sault Ste. Marie riding candidate for the next federal election, Algoma's Water Tower Inn, July 6, 2015. Darren Taylor/SooToday)