Voters will have an opportunity to speak directly with Red Deer riding candidates during a Federal Election Meet & Greet on April 23 at Westerner Park.
Traditionally Red Deer District Chamber has organized election forums where candidates introduce themselves to the audience, comment on issues and answer questions behind a microphone.
The Meet & Greet format will provide voters with a direct and informal opportunity to connect with candidates in a neutral, accessible, and conversational environment.
Each candidate will be provided with a designated table to engage directly with attendees, answer questions, and share information about their platform.
Chamber CEO Scott Robinson said candidates were only confirmed by Elections Canada last week due to the shorter time line until Election Day, so it was decided that a Meet & Greet was the best approach.
"If people want to know more about the candidates, and dig in and ask questions, it's a better way to do it than a public forum," Robinson said.
He said it will be a very informal event with no presentations. But the chamber will provide those who come out with a printed list of questions and candidates' answers.
Six candidates are competing to represent the Red Deer riding in the House of Commons in Ottawa.
The drop-in event runs from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the Marquis Room at the Harvest Centre.
Admission is free.
