Louise Harel will not participate in the CTV debate

MONTREAL , Sept. 22 /CNW Telbec/ - Despite the arrangements that were graciously proposed by the CTV network, Louise Harel will not participate in the English debate. "I very much want to create a stronger bond with the Montreal English-speaking community during this election campaign. But at this point in time, taking part in an English debate is not the best way to do this. Over the next few weeks however, I do intend to use all other means at my disposal, by increasing for instance the number of appearances and interviews in this community," said Louise Harel.

Mrs. Harel explained that while she is able to express herself in English, understand it and read it, a debate presents a confrontational context that entails an extensive mastery of issues and requires a very high level of bilingualism she does not possess. On the other hand, she is more than willing to present Vision Montréal's platform on various English networks, in a non-confrontational manner.

The Montreal mayor candidate also regrets the fact that the incumbent mayor refuses to attend any debate proposed by Montreal organizations, such as those of the Board of Trade of Metropolitan Montreal , the FRAPRU or the Regional Council on the Environment of Montreal , to name only a few.

"I know that French - and English - speaking citizens, who have had to deal with a similar situation in the past, understand my position," concluded Mrs. Harel .

For further information: Marie-Hélène d'Entremont, Vision Montréal, [phone], Cell.: [phone]