On Parliament Hill

Last Thursday, Premier Brian Pallister announced phase two of Manitoba’s re-opening plan.

I applaud the provincial government’s movement toward a resumption of normalcy.

While the situation remains fluid, I am pleased with how well our province has done.

Through a mixture of good planning, good fortune and the willingness of Manitobans to make some sacrifices, we have effectively prevented the coronavirus from spreading exponentially in Manitoba as it has in some other provinces.

My thoughts and prayers remain with those who are sick or who have lost loved ones, as well as those who are still, effectively, in lockdown. It is important, as we get back to normal here in Manitoba, that we do not forget the very different reality faced by those in eastern Canada and other parts of the world.

COVID-19 has acted as a reminder for many about the importance of community, family and doing what we can to help and serve one another. We have seen how many businesses, churches and individuals have risen to the challenge presented by the virus. It has also reminded us to be grateful for the freedoms and luxuries we so often take for granted.

The response to COVID-19 has had many unintended consequences, and the social and financial impacts of the past few months will be felt for years to come.

As we move forward, citizens will judge what government got right and what it got wrong. What measures were necessary and what was overreach.

My hope is that, ultimately, such reflection will put Canada in a stronger position, should a similar situation occur in the future.

As Canada slowly re-opens, I will continue to stand up for my constituents and be your common-sense voice in Ottawa.