View From the Legislature

The recent increase in COVID-19 numbers in our province has caused greater concern regarding the coronavirus among Manitobans than likely existed during the days when few if any cases were being reported.

While there is much of summer left, it is the traditional time when some thought would turn to the upcoming school year for those that have school aged children at home.

There was a mid 1980’s song whose chorus screamed out “I need a hero!” Today, as much as ever, that would seem true.

It is sometimes said that professional sports are a metaphor for life. In many ways during the pandemic, it has been as much a mirror as a metaphor.

Despite the many challenges that are happening in the world these days there was optimistic economic news in Manitoba this past week as Statistics Canada data showed that our province had one of the strongest employment recoveries in the country during the month of June.

During the global pandemic Manitoba has had among the least restrictions for the least amount of time of any jurisdiction in North America.

Those who are in elected office know that while they are usually the ones who are in front of the public responding to issues, behind the scenes they are supported by staff members who are critical to ensuring that questions and challenges that residents have with government are addressed.

Over the past few months, many things have changed. And now with summer, undoubtedly the travel and vacation plans that many Manitoba families had made are being disrupted as well.

This Canada Day will feel a little different than the ones most of us have come to expect and enjoy. Instead of the traditional fireworks that usually end the national celebration across the country, most communities have opted for some form of virtual celebration given the current global COVID-19 pandemic.

Summer is not even in full stride yet but when it comes to preparing for the next school year, the planning is well underway. This planning is more important than ever as the province transitions away from at home learning to a return to in-class instruction.