View From the Legislature

For everyone, this past year has only been made easier because of the countless acts of kindness from friends and neighbours. On Tuesday, we saw this demonstrated not on an individual level, but on an international stage.

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum joined Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister for a virtual news conference in which it was announced that North Dakota would be offering to provide COVID-19 vaccinations, free of charge, to Manitoba-based truck drivers who are transporting goods into the United States. This is possible because the United States is one of the leaders in the world on vaccinations for their citizens. Because North Dakota is doing so well with their vaccination plan and Canada has been substantially behind, they have agreed to enter this arrangement to benefit Manitoba truck drivers.

This is a remarkable agreement for many reasons. It is the first of its kind between the United States and Canada. It is another demonstration of how, even in these unprecedented times, our two countries have continued to work together first on trade, and now for the safety of those who are ensuring that vital goods are being delivered. From the beginning of the pandemic, truck drivers have ensured that the economy kept moving and they have often not gotten the treatment or credit they deserve. This arrangement between North Dakota and Canada helps to recognize their incredible contribution.

The program will benefit both Manitoba and North Dakota as it protects citizens on both sides of the border and the drivers who choose to get vaccinated. In all, it is expected that between 2,000 to 4,000 Manitoba drivers will take part in the program that will see vaccines delivered by nurses from the North Dakota Department of Health near Drayton North Dakota.

For more than five years I have had the honour of co-chairing the United States-Canada Midwest Relations Committee. During that time, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand the remarkable ways in which our countries cooperate on an economic level. But I have also seen how connected we are culturally and socially. While the economic relations have continued remarkably well during the pandemic, because of the closure of the border, the cultural and social relationships have been negatively impacted.

Most Manitobans take the periodic trip to Grand Forks or Fargo for a weekend or a day trip. Those communities have become familiar with Manitobans and no doubt they have missed friendly Manitobans over the past year. The offer by the Governor of North Dakota and by extension the residents of that state are a reminder of our deep-rooted friendship and that there will come a day, soon, that we will be able to visit again. And when we do, we will have more to be grateful for than ever. But for today, suffice it to say Manitoba and those who will benefit from the vaccine program simply want to say “thank you” to our friends and neighbours in North Dakota.