On Parliament Hill

As Provencher residents enjoy the return of the sunny summer weather, and as, slowly, the light at the end of the long COVID-19 tunnel begins to burn brighter.

It looks like we are on the verge of being able to return to normal life and for most the feeling is “it’s about time”.

Other countries have figured it out.

I was so encouraged over the weekend to see our friends south of the border enjoying their fourth of July gatherings. To see people out in public, going to ball games, eating in restaurants, seeing friends and family, living life and celebrating their country.

Likewise, those in the UK are counting the days to “Freedom Day: the July 19th deadline set by the British Government for the majority of restrictions to end.

Some days, it seems like only Canada (Manitoba in particular) is still stuck in the “lockdown mentality”. The recent decision by governments to create two classes of citizens, based on one’s willingness to take a COVID-19 vaccine is particularly disturbing and, in my view, ill advised. Those who want a vaccine should be able to get one, and those who choose not to, should not be discriminated against. Canadians are divided enough without politicians making things worse, and I will continue to advocate for the Charter rights of all Canadians.

While there is still work to do, thankfully, even here, I believe the tide is turning and the end is, at last, in sight.

I am so excited to get out to events, meet with constituents, enjoy the summer sun and, together, celebrate our country, Canada: the greatest country in the world.

Canadians are tired of living in fear. Tired of endless cycles of restrictions. They’ve done what was asked of them, gone above and beyond, and, now, they are ready to go back to normal.

Let us hope this summer will be the final word on the long dark winter of COVID-19.