Happy New Year! As 2020 begins, we take time to look back at our accomplishments during the past year. It was a year with setbacks for many Albertans, but I remain hopeful that we can improve our society by supporting one another.
I was glad to join over a dozen teachers plus community members for my constituency office’s Teachers’ Canvass event in late November. Our Mountain View neighbours were enthusiastic about sharing their stories and adding their names to our petition to support public education. I look forward to more MLA outreach events planned for this coming year.
Recent layoffs and cuts to services by Premier Jason Kenney and his government have made it more difficult for students, teachers, and staff in schools and universities to access programs, and is continuing to affect these workplaces and learning institutions. As always, I’ll keep fighting alongside my NDP Caucus colleagues for high-quality public education, available to all Albertans.
Public healthcare also faces enormous challenges under Premier Kenney, with thousands of nurses and other health professionals expected to be laid off this spring. Public sector unions and advocacy groups have been rallying to oppose these decisions, and while it’s an ongoing struggle, it is encouraging to see so many people coming together to fight these cuts.
I’m proud that my colleague Janis Irwin, MLA for Edmonton-Highlands-Norwood, led tireless efforts to stop Bill 207. This Bill ostensibly protects “Conscience Rights” but is widely seen to have discriminatory ramifications. Thankfully, it was voted down in committee during the Fall Sitting of the Alberta Legislature as Irwin’s commitment continues to inspire many across the province.
As always, I’m happy to hear from constituents. If you have feedback to offer, please contact my constituency office: [email protected] or 403-216-5445.
