Trail Talking

March is officially here, which means a new legislative session has begun. I look forward to continuing to gather in the House with my colleagues and figuring out ways in which we can better the lives of Manitobans. I also want to assure you all that we will be holding the NDP accountable, and making sure that your voices are heard.

On that note, I have recently filed petitions urging our provincial government to address the concerns regarding the cancellation of the much needed vocational school in the community of Ste. Anne, as well as the delay of improvements to PTH 12 and PR 210.

Under our former PC government, the community of Ste. Anne was set to receive a new vocational school that would be operational in 2027. Ste. Anne is a rapidly growing community, but they currently do not have the infrastructure to continue supporting their growing population. Having this new vocational school would provide their students with another school to attend, easing some of the resources at the current school, and help provide students with the best possible learning environment. In addition, it would also provide important skills programming, and create some much needed daycare spaces. Unfortunately, the NDP government have yet to implement a plan that would see the development of a new school.

As many Manitobans are aware, the PTH 12 and PR 210 is known for being a dangerous intersection, as numerous accidents have occurred, resulting in a handful of fatalities. In the summer of last year, a public consultation was held for area residents to provide feedback on four safety-reviewed options, and a presentation on the final option was to be held in the fall of last year. This final presentation never happened, resulting in even more delays to this rising safety concern.

I am incredibly disappointed to see how little the NDP government values our rural communities. As your MLA, I will continue to stand up for the constituents of Dawson Trail, and ensure that your concerns are being addressed.

On a positive note, I had a lovely time participating in this year’s I Love to Read Month festivities. I enjoyed visiting so many different schools and classrooms throughout the Dawson Trail constituency. It was such a pleasure to read to all of the students, answer their unique and curious questions, and be able to share with them the value and joy of reading. Thank you to all the schools and teachers who welcomed me into their classrooms these past few weeks.