Trail Talking

Entering the first session of the 43rd Manitoba Legislature, my colleagues and I gathered in the House in late November as we marked the occasion with a Speech from the Throne. As the Official Opposition, our PC Team will be holding the NDP government accountable for all of the promises they made during the Throne Speech, including making sure that they follow through on matters that affect affordability and the constituency of Dawson Trail.

In one such case, the NDP stated that they will be reconsidering the funding model for the nine schools that our PC government committed to have built in areas with growing populations. The original funding model chosen to fulfill these projects was a P3 system, a private-public funding model that would allow the schools to be built quickly and to be open by September 2027. Ste. Anne is one of the communities set to receive one of these schools, which would also include a daycare facility. It’s important that these emerging communities receive these schools within a timely manner so that they can continue to facilitate their growing populations. By choosing to rethink the funding model for these schools, the NDP government is delaying construction, which greatly impacts the affected areas’ ability to accommodate the growth of their communities.

On the other hand, something that was not included in the NDP government’s Throne Speech, was their position on the federal carbon tax and what, if anything, they plan to do about relieving Manitobans of this tax. Even though the NDP claim to be committed to making life more affordable for Manitobans, they continue to go back and forth on this issue, and they have no clear plans to address it with the federal government.

As the holiday season officially begins, I am looking forward to all of the exciting activities and events that come along with it. I have already been able to participate in both the Anola Parade of Lights and the Taché Parade of Lights, both of which were fun for the whole family and just a great way to get into the festive spirit. This time of year, there are also many craft sales and markets taking place as well. If you’re able to, I would encourage you to check one, or a few, of them out and support local small businesses by purchasing a gift for yourself and your loved ones.

The season also means that Christmas is almost here! I hope that you all have had a wonderful year full of so many great opportunities and experiences. I wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday season, full of lots of delicious food, rest, and time spent with loved ones. Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year!