People stopped by the Herman Prior Centre in Portage la Prairie tonight for a chance to speak with two Portage riding candidates running in this month's provincial election.

The Portage Chamber of Commerce and Portage Community Revitalization Corporation partnered to host the meet and greet. Chamber Executive Director Cindy McDonald says around 50 people showed up to voice their opinions, and ask the questions that were important to them.

One candidate in attendance was Liberal Stephen Prince. He discusses some of the issues raised at the event.

Liberal Candidate for the Portage Riding Stephen Prince

"How can we bring more programs to the city to help not only people with financial issues and disabilities, but for all people. So some of the concerns that I addressed was, we're looking to invest in the community, but in order for the community to get those investments it has to change. So the only thing that I'm telling people is that if you want the change, and you're committed to the change, we have to vote someone other than PC."

Progressive Conservative candidate Ian Wishart was impressed by the amount of people who took in the event, and says a lot of great topics were discussed.

"I think it's really good to provide an opportunity for people to come and actually ask the candidates questions. Debates are great, but just a chance to interact with people in the community, and for them to get to ask their specific questions. Infrastructure comes up almost all the time, heard a lot about personal care homes, flood related issues -- so an outlet on Lake Manitoba, the Lower Assiniboine dykes -- and also Disability Matters issues."

PC Candidate Ian Wishart (right) chatting with a local resident

PCRC Executive Director Val Garlick talks about the importance of an event like theirs last night.

"I think it's super important for our community to have a chance to meet the individuals who are putting their name forward and running to be our representatives in the legislature. Some people were interested in knowing more about assisted living, flood mitigation, economic development, education, affordable housing. A lot of different topics."

The provincial election is April 19th. Don't forget to vote!