Liberals hope to hitch ride on Hynes-Coates’ tails

By Mike Moore   |   The Shoreline

She was the president of MADD Canada, and now the newest Liberal nominee for the district of Topsail-Paradise.

Patricia Hynes-Coates, a resident of Conception Bay South, is throwing her hat into the political ring, something she says is perfect timing.

“I have been watching strong women in politics for a while, I know that there is a need for them,” Hynes-Coates said Friday afternoon.

“I had said that when I finished my presidency (of MADD – Mothers Against Drunk Driving) this was something I would consider.”

Hynes-Coates received approval from the board, and the CEO of MADD to take a leave of absence in her final month at the head of the organization.

“I’ve listened to the people. I’ve been knocking on doors. I will continue to listen to the people,” she said. “I will provide them with a strong voice to see if changes can be made.”

Hynes-Coates said she has worked hard her entire life and described her family as blue-collar workers who work day and night to make ends meet.

“We have similar struggles to most people in the province and within that area,” she said. “We live paycheck to paycheck, and I’ve proven with MADD Canada that I can spark change. I’m going to bring that strength and determination and perseverance to the Topsail-Paradise constituents.”

It was a mutual interest that brought the Liberal Party of Newfoundland and Labrador and Hynes-Coates together. She said she expressed interest and believes in their policies. Paradise councillor Paul Dinn secured his party’s nomination in a closely-fought nomination contest with Conception Bay South councillor Darrin Bent, last month, who pledged immediately afterwards to support Dinn. Nominations for the NDP Party close at noon today. The by-election date has been set for January 24.