Keep supporting local businesses in austere times

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 04/06/2020 (1935 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Earlier this month, Manitobans were given some positive news regarding the easing of measures aimed at curbing the spread of COVID-19.

However, the Pallister government’s austerity-driven agenda looms large over Manitobans, and its impact is being felt strongly in Fort Garry. The Pallister government has made cuts that have resulted in job losses across a wide variety of sectors, including over 8,000 jobs in the public services. When combined with private sector job losses, over 80,000 Manitobans have lost their jobs in the last few months. 

While Manitobans have been successful in their efforts to flatten the curve, our province is at risk to experience a “flat” recovery as a result of these job layoffs and reductions in government spending.

Many of our friends and neighbours are experiencing economic hardships during this pandemic, and many are experiencing these difficulties as a result of the Pallister government’s austerity agenda.

The University of Manitoba has been asked to formulate a plan that could see a 30 per cent reduction in staffing costs at a time when demand for support has increased immensely. Our constituency office has heard from many Fort Garry residents about the impact of these budget reductions in their own lives and in the wider community. As we fight against these cuts in the Legislature, many have asked what can be done locally to help support our community. 

As the weather heats up, there are ways to engage with your community in a safe and responsible manner. Simple activities like a bike ride with a family to a local bakery, coffee shop or store is a simple way to support a local business you love. A leisurely walk through your neighbourhood can provide you the opportunity for a friendly wave or conversation with a neighbour you’ve been missing through the thaw of spring.

We have many parks and pathways in Fort Garry, go out and enjoy them while continuing to social distance. Over the course of the pandemic, we have heard the message “we’re all in this together” and it remains true as we enter the recovery stages. It is critical that we continue to work together to ensure that we continue flatten the curve, and not the recovery. 

We know layoffs are not a way to reignite an economy and stunts consumer spending. We know that supporting our communities, lifting up our most vulnerable, and ensuring appropriate supports are in place will be critical as we move forward. Unfortunately, it seems the premier has other ideas.

What are you doing to revitalize our community during these times? Feel free to contact my office at (204) 421-4241 or mark.wasyliw@yourmanitoba.ca.

Mark Wasyliw
Fort Garry MLA constituency report

Mark Wasyliw is the independent MLA for Fort Garry.

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