NDP candidate named for Regina Walsh Acres

Kelly Hardy has been named the Saskatchewan NDP’s candidate in Regina Walsh Acres for the upcoming provincial election.

The NDP broke the news in an email sent Thursday night.

In a news release, the party says for the last 10 years, Hardy has worked as a labour relations representative with a public sector union based in the riding.

It says she has also owned and operated a small business and is currently helping her partner with his.

“The people of Regina Walsh Acres deserve an MLA who understands the needs of working families — and Kelly is that candidate,” reads a statement from NDP Leader Ryan Meili.

“Her proud background in the labour movement, her commitment to social justice and her strength of character will be a valuable addition to our team.”

There has been some controversy over who would represent the NDP in the riding.

Sandra Morin had won the nomination 15 months ago but did not receive Meili’s endorsement, the leader saying that decision was based on information from the vetting process.

Those reasons have not been disclosed, with Meili citing confidentiality.

Morin herself has disputed the grounds for getting booted from the NDP ticket, saying, “there’s absolutely no justifiable reason for Mr. Meili to bully or sideline me or the members who voted for me as their candidate.”

The former candidate had the support of riding association president Barb Dedi, who was fired a month after Morin was dropped.

Meili has denied there was any connection between Dedi’s removal and Morin’s candidacy, saying a harassment complaint was brought against Dedi last year.

Dedi, a 40-year member of the party, reacted with disbelief, accusing Meili of bullying and violating the NDP’s constitution.