View From the Legislature

With a provincial election about to begin, the end of my current term as MLA for the Steinbach Constituency is fast approaching. While I am looking forward to seeking re-election, it is also a good time to look back at this past term.

The last almost three and a half years have been very different than any I or my family have experienced previously in elected life. The opportunity to serve in government following the 2016 election was particularly rewarding and one that I looked forward to whether that be within the Cabinet or through another role in government. As it turned out, I had the unique privilege of being Minister for the two largest departments within the provincial government. Both the two and a half years I served as Health Minister and the past year as Education Minister have been extremely challenging but also very rewarding.

Serving in these two departments, which touch the lives of virtually all Manitobans, has given me a very unique view of the work those on the front lines of our health and education systems do. It is truly remarkable the skill and dedication the professionals in both of these occupations bring to their jobs every day. Change is always a challenge but it is especially so in parts of government that are big in size and even bigger in their importance to Manitobans. I am thankful for the many people I have been able to meet and work with in these areas.

And while these responsibilities are important, the most important role I have had, even during the past three and a half years, is that of MLA for the Steinbach Constituency. Local constituents have been kind, encouraging and understanding to myself and my family as I have taken on additional responsibilities that at times kept me away from home more than in the past. And over the past several years many important things have been accomplished locally. The completion of the emergency room entrance at Bethesda Hospital, moving forward on new Personal Care Home beds in Steinbach as well as much needed health capital upgrades are key among these important projects. In addition, new investments in schools has taken place including elevators to improve access and the approval for the expansion of the Mitchell Elementary School.

I have also been glad to see our government fulfill its commitment to make life more affordable for Manitobans, in particular, by lowering the provincial sales tax last month from 8% to 7% as we committed to do during the last election. It is only one step but an important step in ensuring Manitobans keep more money in their own pocket.

Mostly, I feel great gratitude to the residents of the Steinbach Constituency for giving me their confidence over the last term. A special thank you to the residents of Kleefeld and New Bothwell and their surrounding area as I will not be able to run for re-election there due to boundary changes. I have appreciated greatly being able to represent your communities.

My wife Kim and I are so thankful for the many words of encouragement we have received over the past three and a half years. We are grateful beyond words.