As we begin 2023, I want to first wish everyone throughout the constituency of Flin Flon a happy New Year.
This year, we should have a provincial election. It is scheduled to take place no later than October 3, per the fixed election date law, but we have seen the Progressive Conservatives (PCs) not follow that law in the past. Rumours persist that the PCs may call an early election. There are also fears they may try to extend their mandate by a year if there is a federal election called this year.
Whatever scenario plays out, rest assured that I will continue to tirelessly stand up for the north regarding issues that are important to us.
The number one issue I hear from constituents is in regard to the state of health care in the north - or, more precisely, the lack of access to timely care close to home. I will continue to advocate for proper, timely, affordable health care in the north, whether it is in the Legislature, in the press or on doorsteps.
The problems with Manitoba’s health care system today is clearly related to this government’s lack of investment into northern health care — be it in training, wages, hiring or retention of people, investment in infrastructure or the unreliable and unaffordable state of the Northern Patient Transportation Program (NPTP).
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Krishan Sethi, one of Flin Flon’s longest-serving general practitioners, as well as congratulations on his well-deserved retirement at the end of 2022. Dr. Sethi took the initiative to set up his practice in Flin Flon to meet the growing medical needs of our constituents. He was indeed an asset in our community, as he worked tirelessly to fill in the gaps resulting from inadequate northern health care staffing levels and infrastructure.
As the mining and processing facilities have now ceased operations in Flin Flon for the first time in nearly 100 years, we do not have a main industry to support us. This will have an impact on the population, on taxes and what services we can expect to see going forward. We will all need to work together towards ensuring Flin Flon’s future.
If you would like to contact me regarding any concern in your community, please feel free to get in touch by email at [email protected] or by phone at 204-687-3246.
