Making sure your voice is heard

River Heights

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 10/01/2024 (837 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

The first session of the new Manitoba legislature was filled with much promise and optimism, and represents a significant turning point in the relationship between Manitobans and their government. Gone are the combative ‘us vs. them’ processes. Our government is working hard to create a spirit of openness, a focus on consultation and an emphasis on problem-solving driven by data, facts and stakeholder input.

While the first session was short, important legislation — such as the designation of Orange Shirt Day as a statutory holiday, and enshrining Louis Riel as the honorary first premier of our province — was passed, and the initial steps were taken towards making significant changes to improve adult literacy. But nothing represents the new openness better than the very simple act of restoring the annual holiday open house at the legislature. As Premier Kinew said, “This building is your building, and you are always welcome in it.”

Thousands of you agreed and joined us for what was an extraordinary day — the first of many such days.

At the local level, I want to continue my work to ensure the voices of our community — your voices — are heard loud and clear at the policy making table in our new government. That process began by hiring an incredible team to work alongside me on your behalf. I’m pleased to announce that Jill Carr has joined my staff to work on community development and outreach; Morwenna Trevenen will handle casework, correspondence and special projects; and Tim Fennell will provide logistics and media support. All three have deep roots in our community, and I feel very fortunate that they have agreed to join our community team.

I also strongly believe that local public consultation must be ongoing, and take a variety of forms. During the two years prior to the election, that consultation happened on your doorstep. While that direct work will continue, in the weeks ahead we will be announcing other important consultative initiatives designed to ensure your voice is clearly heard. One of those will be our issues-focused Changemaker Conversations -— larger public meetings that will allow the community to explore key issues in greater depth, and to share its expertise with decision makers. Details and dates of this initiative, and others, will be released very soon.

While I continue to look for an accessible, affordable community office to better serve River Heights, beginning Jan. 5, I will regularly be available in the Hugo Hall at the Crescentwood site of Corydon Community Centre, 1170 Corydon Ave., between noon and 4:30 p.m. on Fridays. To connect with my office, or to book an appointment, please call 204-774-3669 or email mike.moroz@yourmanitoba.ca