Local MPs look ahead to 2024

East Winnipeg

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 03/01/2024 (952 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

With 2023 now in the rear view mirror, and 2024 on the horizon, we asked two local members of Parliament if they have any resolutions — personal and/or political — they’d care to share, and what three priorities they have identified for their ridings in the coming year. (Responses may have been edited for length and clarity.)

Raquel Dancho (MP for Kildonan—St. Paul):

Personal resolutions — My husband and I recently welcomed our new baby, Elizabeth, in November. One of my personal resolutions for the new year will be focusing on postpartum health, and physical and mental wellness. We live in a beautiful community, and I am looking forward to many walks with Elizabeth.

Political resolutions — My main political resolutions remain to continue working hard to represent the residents of Kildonan—St. Paul with the dignity, compassion, and respect they deserve. And I will work to ensure Manitoba’s voice is heard in Ottawa.

Three priorities that I have identified for Kildonan—St. Paul are:

• Making life more affordable is the first priority. I will work to hold the Liberal government accountable to axe the carbon tax and bring down the cost of living for families and seniors;

• Jail not bail. Community safety must be a priority, violent repeat offenders need to be held responsible for their actions. Residents deserve to be safe on our streets;

• Infrastructure development. It is wonderful that we live in a growing and active community with several new neighbourhoods and businesses. I will be advocating at all levels of government for infrastructure funding for construction projects in Kildonan—St. Paul, like the Chief Peguis Trail extension.

Dan Vandal (MP for Saint Boniface—Saint Vital):

Resolutions — It is important to maintain good work-life balance, and appreciating what really is important in life: relationships with family, friends and community. That is my resolution for the new year.

Three priorities — I will continue working on issues that improve the quality of life for constituents of Saint Boniface—Saint Vital, Manitobans, and all Canadians:

• 2024 is the year we expand dental care. By May 2024, all seniors will be covered by our plan;

• As everyone recognizes, our health system is facing serious challenges. I will work with the Province of Manitoba to ensure it has what it needs to improve health care for all Manitobans;

• Following up on our commitment of creating high-quality, affordable child-care spaces, I will continue our partnership with the Province of Manitoba to build more capacity.