Pinsky running for Tories in Tuxedo byelection

Tuxedo

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This article was published 12/06/2024 (471 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Lawrence Pinsky says he will continue to advocate on behalf of Manitobans if elected as the new MLA for Tuxedo.

Pinsky is the Progressive Conservative candidate for the southwest constituency that’s been vacant since the resignation of former premier and longtime Tuxedo MLA Heather Stefanson in May.

A lawyer for the last 31 years, Pinsky — who said he’s in the latter half of his 50s — has practised mostly, but not exclusively, family law throughout his career.

He’s been a been a key figure in advocating for his clients, and his legal resumé includes work with family law reform, nationally and locally, which includes advocating for amendments to The Divorce Act and The Arbitration Act. He’s also the founder of FAMLI, the Family Arbitration Mediation Legal Institute.

“When I’m asked about why I’m running, it goes back to the notion of bringing people together in a collaborative, mediative way. It’s also about holding people to account,” Pinsky said.

“I’ve been blessed to have a wonderful practice, and amazing clients … and there comes a point when you say to yourself: ‘Am I going to stand up for what I believe in?’ You have to fight for the Canada you believe in,” he added.

Pointing to his involvement with legislative change, Pinsky said he sees himself more of an advocate than a politician.

Pinsky said he’s finding that canvassing the constituency and knocking on doors is a rewarding experience.

“I didn’t think I would enjoy the 10,000 steps I’m getting in knocking on doors, and meeting people. Some of the stories are sad and some are heart-wrenching, and I’m talking to lots of people I don’t know in the community,” he said.

“It’s been an honour and a privilege to meet all these folks. A remarkable privilege.”

According to his campaign material, Pinsky is described as “a proud lawyer, advocate, community volunteer, father, and former basketball coach. Tuxedo has been my home for almost 20 years, where my wife and I have raised our three children.”

He grew up in humble surroundings, as his family lived in a one-bedroom apartment on Main Street. His father was a Holocaust survivor and his mother was the daughter of an immigrant blacksmith and farmer from Saskatchewan.

The provincial byelection in Tuxedo will take place on Tuesday, June 18. Also running to represent the constituency are Carla Compton (NDP), Janine Gibson (Green), and Jamie Pfau (Liberal).