Tri-Cities Community Television met with Peter Julian, New Democratic Party candidate for New Westminster–Burnaby–Maillardville, as part of our federal election interview series. A familiar and trusted figure in the region, Julian is seeking re-election with a deep sense of responsibility and commitment to the residents he has represented for years.

Geneviève Kyle-Lefebvre – Local Journalism Initiative

Julian’s approach is rooted in civic leadership and community advocacy. His vision includes stronger collaboration between all levels of government to ensure local needs are not overlooked. “A Member of Parliament should never pass the buck,” he told us. “We have a responsibility to work with municipal and provincial governments to improve the lives of our residents.”

Housing remains at the forefront of Julian’s platform. He emphasized the need for a full restoration of the federal affordable housing program, which has been neglected since the Paul Martin era. Last year, the NDP refused to support the federal budget until significant commitments were made for affordable housing investments. Julian is now pushing for an initial $10 billion federal investment, with a clear benchmark: no Canadian should be spending more than 30 percent of their income on rent.

On urban development, Julian supports increased density around SkyTrain hubs but argues it must come with federal support for infrastructure and services. He criticized the ongoing underfunding of TransLink, calling it unacceptable that transit cuts are happening while federal dollars are diverted to offshore tax shelters. “Thirty billion dollars a year are being lost to tax havens. That money should be building housing and transit here,” he said.

Julian’s economic stance includes ending Canada’s dependence on exporting raw resources. He advocates for a value-added strategy that supports jobs and resilience at home. “Relying solely on the U.S. leaves us vulnerable,” he noted. “We need an international trade strategy that expands beyond the American market and supports Canadian industries.”

Locally, Julian has already played a key role in the development of the future Francophone Community Centre in Maillardville. He firmly believes that Maillardville’s cultural heritage must be represented in Parliament by someone who understands and speaks French. “This community has deep roots, and I’m proud to support its future,” he said.

Beyond policy, Julian is known for his accessibility. He organizes local meet-ups, participates in door-to-door conversations, and even intervenes personally when constituents need help. He also chairs a Youth Council that includes high school and post-secondary students and young workers—creating space for meaningful dialogue on issues that matter to the next generation.

Julian also spoke about how his party has successfully pushed for tangible improvements, such as dental care coverage, medication for diabetes, and school meal programs—services already benefiting families in Maillardville, Burnaby, and New Westminster.

As for the future, Julian is clear: “The federal government must start investing locally and helping ordinary people. I want everyone in this community to know that I am here for them. My family has lived in this region for four generations. I will continue fighting to make sure we all benefit from the beautiful place we call home.”

As the April 28 election approaches, Julian’s message is consistent and direct. For him, public service is not about political theatre, but about delivering results and ensuring that every person in the Tri-Cities can thrive.