Nova Scotia woman applies to become non-partisan senator

A Nova Scotia woman who claims to have no political affiliations has thrown her name in to become Nova Scotia's next senator.

Tammy MacLaren of New Glasgow filled out the rigorous Senate application to meet today's deadline. It marks the first time Canadians can directly apply for vacancies in the Red Chamber.

"I have all of the characteristics that I feel a senator should have. I'm honest, for one thing," MacLaren said. "Maybe that's what they needsome different people to breathe a little bit of fresh air into the Senate."

MacLaren is known locally for running several small businesses, as well as pushing causes such as funding for insulin pumps and twinning Highway104 between Sutherland's River and Antigonish.

Letter of reference

Her friend and fellow advocate, Joe MacDonald, wrote her a letter of reference. The fire chief for Barney's River Fire Department describes MacLaren's efforts as "an asset to the cause" of twinning the dangerous stretch of road.

"She started the petition online and she also made a hard copy of the petition that's over 5,700 [signatures] right now," said MacDonald.

Each candidate must have three letters of reference and provide a curriculum vitae.

'You can be anything'

Although MacLaren is not bilingual, she says she meets all qualifications for the Senate.

More than anything, she hopes to set a positive example for her children by applying.

"I always tell them you can be anything you want to be ...I think I would make a great senator."

There are currently 19 vacancies in the Senate and an additional vacancy will be created this month when Michel Rivard of Quebec reaches the mandatory retirement age of 75.