Conservative MP Dan Albas is seeking a fourth term in Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola

Since 2011, Dan Albas has served the people of Central Okanagan-Similkameen-Nicola.

During a one-on-one interview with Castanet News, Albas says if it's the will of the people, he's ready to return to Ottawa and get back to work.

Near the top of the list is interprovincial trade, specifically around wine, beer and spirits.

His latest bill, C-260 died as as a result of the election call, but says it's something Conservative leader Erin O'Toole supports.

"When I first ran for political office I heard from all political stripes, even non-partisan people who just wanted to see a greater market for their products,"said Albas.

"We know when Canadians can compete, we can do it with the best of them, so to see provincial liquor monopolies continue to push back against this movement...well over 90 per cent of the population supports this.

"We need to show them there's a government that understands their situation and wants them to grow. I want to be a Member of Parliament for this area that champions local issues and get results."

While issues around affordability across the board were at or near the top around the riding, Albas says the timing of the election is also a big issue.

"The snap election and timing was absolutely terrible," he said.

"Whether we're in the Central Okanagan where we're wrestling with higher COVID numbers because of the Delta variant, whether we're looking at the people in Logan Lake. People who were displaced that weren't even sure where they would be a week from now, to start talking about the election...they were frustrated, if not mad."

In terms of COVID, Albas says he's vaccinated and encourages everybody to take the opportunity to get the vaccine. But, he says there are people who either have immune system issues, mental health issues of are vaccine hesitant.

"We need to be talking to their better angels. We need to be giving them reasons why the science works and how vaccination protects all of us."

Albas says he believes part of the reason he has been able to remain in office since 2011 is his accountability.

"Ever since I've run for public office, I've made listening to people and being accountable to them the number one thing. I personally return phone calls, I write a weekly column so I can get that feedback from people and find out where people are at.

"And then, to take those ideas and put them forward respectfully. It try to be a respectful person in Parliament. I also am tough on the issues but good to the people."

"And, if we are going to build this country up, build this region up, we need someone who can listen, see the opportunities, make it a discussion in Ottawa then get real results for our communities."

You can watch the full interview below