View From the Legislature

On November 19th, my colleagues and I gathered in the House as the NDP shared their Throne Speech, which outlines what Manitobans can expect from the government for the year ahead.

Unfortunately, it appears that the NDP recycled their Throne Speech from 2023, simply listing promises they already made last year. On top of that, I’d note that many of the initiatives mentioned are initiatives that were originally put in place by the former PC government, which the NDP are now just taking credit for.

I also want to highlight the complete lack of any school constructions being mentioned in the Throne Speech – namely a new school for the community of Ste. Anne. Ste. Anne has seen its population multiply greatly over the last few years, and they need a new school to accommodate their growing number of students. I am incredibly disappointed that the NDP cancelled the project that our former PC government had in place, which would have seen a new school operational in Ste. Anne by 2027. I am also incredibly disappointed that they’ve announced nothing to put in place of this project and to ensure that the community is able to accommodate the needs of their students and provide them with the best learning environment possible.

Lastly, with regards to the Throne Speech, I would like to discuss the gas tax. The gas tax pause was never a sustainable, long-term solution for affordability. It does not help all Manitobans, particularly those who need relief the most such as those who can only afford to take public transportation.

But despite the fact that the NDP continuing to prop this measure up as their only solution for affordability, there was no mention in the Throne Speech of whether or not the gas tax will continue. Add that to the fact that the NDP rammed through legislation this fall to hike the gas tax at the cabinet table whenever they want, it seems likely that there will be a tax hike on January 1st.

As your MLA, I will continue to advocate for you and ensure that your voices are being heard and that your concerns are being addressed.

In other news, with November quickly coming to a close, Christmas is right around the corner. I have been spending my time getting into the holiday spirit by attending some local parades. I recently had the pleasure of participating in the Anola Parade of Lights, where I had such a fun time seeing all the different floats, interacting with constituents, and spreading some holiday cheer. I am looking forward to participating in the Taché Christmas Parade of Lights that will take place in Lorette in the coming weeks!