This summer, I have been busy going back and forth between Ottawa and our constituency, advocating for you and demanding answers to the tough questions concerning Canadians.
Programs like CERB need a real plan with in-depth detail that would get Canadians back to work.
A real plan would also ensure economic certainty. Conservatives have proposed practical solutions based on the feedback we have received from Canadians.
These include the ‘Back to Work Bonus’, changes to the CEBA, fixing challenges with EI maternity leave, and fighting for increased support measures for agriculture and energy.
In these chaotic times, the government needs to work for Canadians, to mobilize and take action against COVID-19, and aid those effected.
There have been moments where bi-partisan cooperation has worked in order to get supports to those who need it. However, we have also seen a troubling trend of decisions – starting with the Liberals’ attempted ‘power grab’ in March, their undemocratic gun grab, and the growing list of Liberal tied scandals related to pandemic spending.
My belief in the important role good governance plays in our democracy has been emphasized, despite the shortcomings of the Liberal Government.
A big part of the work we are doing in Parliament today relates to the efforts of committees, such as Ethics and Finance. We are examining the Prime Minister and the Liberal Government’s actions that led to the WE Charity fiasco.
This examination provides the Official Opposition with crucial information on the ethical failings of the Liberal Government and allows us to stand up for our democratic institutions.
The Ethics Committee, as well as a number of other Parliamentary Committees, have sat through hours of Liberal filibustering, pandering, excuses, and a myriad of other deceptive tactics to try to hide the truth about the WE Scandal.
We remain committed to fighting hard for Canadians and their right to know what their Government is up to.
This past week there was also a special summer sitting of the House of Commons. This special sitting was due to the pressure we put on all the other parties to ensure there is democratic accountability during this global crisis. Notably, on Andrew Scheer’s final day leading our team as Leader of the Official Opposition and Canada’s Conservatives, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau decided to take vacation time.
He decided that he would not attend either in person or virtually. Regardless, once again Andrew did a great job holding the Government to account.
In closing, it is an honour to serve the people of Battle River-Crowfoot.
Whether making sure your voice is heard in the capital or assisting folks locally with federal programs and services, my team and I remain focused on you.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column or need assistance with federal government programs you are encouraged to write Damien at 4945-50th St., Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call 780-608-4600, text 403.575-5625, or e-mail damien.kurek@parl.gc.ca.
You can also stay up to date with Damien by following him on social media @dckurek.
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