Gay activist runs for Charlottetown council

A 20-year-old Holland College student believes he is the first openly gay candidate to run for Charlottetown city council.

Tyler Murnaghan told CBC News he wants to bring new ideas and a younger perspective to city hall.Murnaghan is running against long-time CounsellorDavid MacDonald in Ward 6, and said he has already received lots of support since making his announcement last week.

"I think it's good. It shows I'm a lot different, that's what I'm about, " said Murnaghan.

"I want to be about difference and change and a voice for different people."

Murnaghan said he wants to focus on protecting the environment by cutting down on pollution in the Charlottetown harbour.

Other initiatives would include creating a Charlottetown youth centre and creating more support for the gay community.

"[People]want something new, they want something fresh, they want some new ideas. I haven't got those ideas yet, but I'm sure they'll be rolling in soon," he said.

Murnaghan is member of the NDP. While Leader Mike Redmond has supported his decision to run, Murnaghan said he will remain non-partisan as a city official.

Charlottetown city elections take place Nov. 3.