I hear you; I take great pride in listening to your concerns. Thank you again for taking the time to communicate with me, it allows me to bring this feedback to my Caucus colleagues in Ottawa. That is why I signed up for this job, to work hard and to do my best to represent the constituents of Nickel Belt. Democracy is strengthened when we speak up respectfully and as an MP representing over 91,000 residents in Nickel Belt there are many priorities, points of views and opinions to consider. Pandemic fatigue is impacting all Canadians, I appreciate and empathize with everyone, we all are desperate to return to a sense of normalcy.

Over the course of the last few weeks the Federal government has been listening and actively pursuing solutions to the changing pandemic circumstances. Some Nickel Belt constituents are concerned about the recently introduced Emergencies Act. This action was in direct relation to the illegal blockades and occupations which caused significant impacts on local businesses, residents, and trade. This decision was not made lightly, it was exercised after exhausting all other options and was supported by Ottawa Police Chief Bell, Ontario Conservative Premier Doug Ford and the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police (CACP) to name a few.

Contrary to misinformation that was widely spread, we did not limit people’s freedom of speech; freedom of peaceful assembly and we did not prevent people from exercising their right to protest legally. Other misinformation circulating about the scope of this Act. For example, the RCMP has recently clarified that they have not turned in donor list information to any banking institutions. I supported this measure as we needed to give Provincial and Territorial authorities the tools and abilities to address the blockades and occupation to keep Canadians safe, protect people’s jobs, and restore confidence in our institutions.

The Emergencies Act was created to flow from and uphold the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. These measures had to be, and were, compliant with our Charter. Parliamentarians debated, and the House voted. We followed procedure, and it is critical that we continue to do so. That’s why a joint committee of parliamentarians will be struck to review the declaration of emergency. Within 60 days, there will be an inquiry into the circumstances that led to the Emergencies Act being invoked. It will look at how we got there and why it was required. It could look at policing. The inquiry could also examine the funding, influence and disinformation that supported the illegal blockades and occupations – both foreign and domestic. We were very clear that the use of the Emergencies Act would be limited in time. When we invoked it, it was in place for up to 30 days, and we said that we would lift it as soon as possible which officially ended Thursday February 23. 

The reality of what the organizers were asking is simply not something the federal government has the ability to enact. It is not legislatively possible for the Federal government to end all mandates across the country. Let me be clear, I am open to and support the re-evaluation of Federal mandates, however the vast majority of mandates convoy organizers were asking our government to lift are provincial, this is not rhetoric, it is Legislative fact.

Mental health needs to be prioritized more than ever. I encourage everyone to reach out to seniors, neighbours, vulnerable people, children, and all those who may be facing struggles. The National crisis telephone number is 1-866-585-0445. When using social media, be on the look out for misinformation and skewed reporting of events which only emboldens extreme behaviours and leaves little room for positive, impactful, and real action. We must denounce fear mongering and malice.

I encourage each of you to connect with members of your community on how to truly advance change. One way to do that is to be deeply engaged in the democratic process, that means showing up to vote, consuming credible information and holding your elected officials accountable. Your MP is your voice, and I am as committed as ever to each of you. I have kept a grassroots approach when engaging with Nickel Belt constituents and continue to meet with individuals with varying opinions on topics while seeking to preserve the safety and development of our region.

Our governments primary concern from the onset of COVID-19 was the health and wellbeing of all Canadians. As an MP I have been very engaged and aware of the immense hardships faced by so many individuals, families, business owners, front line workers in all fields such as, medical, education, food service, postal services, truckers, retail and so many more, due to the harsh severity of the pandemic.  It was immediately clear Canadians would expect decision making which would require enormous input from our medical professionals. Governments have a responsibility to at times make decisions that may not be popular but are necessary to prioritize and secure the lives of the people they represent. Our government rallied to provide supports and benefits for those in need and continue to work together for the best interest of all Canadians.

Please note as of February 22nd, 2022, the Sturgeon Falls Constituency office at 94 King Street will be closed. Constituents may call the toll-free number 1-800-267-4829 for inquiries related to Federal government departments and agencies. 

Constituency office staff are tasked with initiating inquiries related to the federal Government to the best of their ability with the resources available. Political criticism is at an all-time high but please remember that constituency office staff are public servants who are working in a non-partisan capacity. They are not expected however to subject themselves to vulgar or aggressive behaviour. Individuals who insist on sharing views in a threatening, harassing, vulgar or aggressive in nature will not be tolerated. Please be kind, be patient and be courteous. 

In conclusion, the right to protest is fundamental, but must be done respectfully. I hear you loud and clear, you want an accountable government, and I will continue to bring your voice forward. I am hopeful that our path forward will be founded on real data, unity and a deep respect for Canadian values. Our government has a plan and has worked hard since 2015 to help our country and its residents grow and prosper, there is much more work to do and we are up to the task. I look forward to the tabling of Budget 2022 and the benefits it will contribute to further growth and prosperity in Nickel Belt and Northern Ontario. Thank you to all Nickel Belt residents for your resilience during these difficult times, for protecting one another with the help of public health measures and for being great citizens of this country.