This January, I return to Ottawa after a wonderful holiday season back at home in south Winnipeg with family and friends. It has been a pleasure to be a part of the many celebrations in the riding, and to meet community members and their families. I have also had the opportunity to have important conversations about local needs with constituents, community organizations, and leaders from our city. I am committed to ensuring that the federal government moves forward on issues that matter to Winnipeg South residents.

2019 was a year of change and growth for Winnipeg and Canada. The Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Chrystia Freeland signed the new, progressive North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which will be profoundly beneficial for our economy and for Canadian families. The Winnipeg Blue Bombers also brought the Grey Cup home for the first time in 29 years!

In December, I was honoured to announce my appointment as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Economic Development and Official Languages (Western Economic Diversification Canada) and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Environment and Climate Change (Canada Water Agency). I look forward to working with my friends and colleagues, Minister Mélanie Joly and Minister Jonathan Wilkinson, to grow our economy across the Prairies and advance the federal government’s commitment to create a new Canada Water Agency. The Agency will work with the provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, local authorities, scientists, and experts to keep Canada’s water safe, clean, and well-managed.

At the start of the new year, I reflect on our city’s communities and organizations whose good work provides hope and support to many in need. We must continue to work together to fight inequality and create growth and opportunities for all. One of the federal government’s key priorities is to continue to fight climate change, the greatest collective challenge of our generation, while also investing in a green economy.

I would like to wish everyone all the best in 2020, and I look forward to meeting you and your families at many more community events this winter!