Entering the House of Commons is always an awesome experience but it is even more exciting and humbling after a general election. I am honoured to be your Member of Parliament and I want to assure you that I will work relentlessly to address the challenges that face us, today and in the future.
On Nov. 18, newly elected Members of Parliament gathered to elect the Speaker who would preside over the 40th Parliament. The energy in the room was electric and the enthusiasm carried over to the next day when Governor General Michaelle Jean read the Speech from the Throne that outlined the Conservative Government’s plans for the upcoming session.
I had an opportunity to speak during the debate on the Speech from the Throne and to give a Wetaskiwin perspective. our constituency is home to hard-working, honest Canadians who believe that they can make their own way in the world but expect their government to provide a fair and level playing field so they can compete.
Since we took office in 2006, we have taken great strides to correct the inequities of the past and we will keep our sights fixed on responsible fiscal management. Our Government is so committed to providing the strong leadership that Canadians expect and deserve that in our Throne Speech we set out a five-pronged plan to safeguard Canada’s economic security and protect Canada’s future.
First, in the coming weeks and months, Canadians will see action as our government works with our trading partners and allies around the world to reform global finances; a global problem that requires a global solution.
Second, ensuring sound budgeting is essential. Our government will never allow Canadians to suffer simply to balance the books, but at the same time, Canada must never return to ongoing unsustainable structural deficits. We will look at all spending under a microscope to ensure that taxpayers’ hard-earned dollars are used with care.
Third, secure jobs for families and communities will be a priority. We will strengthen our workforce by encouraging trades and apprenticeships, by supporting workers facing transition due to age or changed circumstances, and by providing further support for our auto and aerospace industries, on which the livelihood of so many Canadian families depend.
Fourth, just as the financial worries began beyond our borders, so too can we find international solutions by seeking out new investment and trade. We will look at ways to develop shared solutions with our allies and we will seek out new, safe, trading opportunities for Canada around the globe.
And finally, in addition to these measures, we will work to make government more effective. Action like reducing red tape, improving the way in which programs are delivered, fixing procurement and improving management of federal agencies will help government serve all Canadians better, now and in the future.
With the strong governing mandate outlined in the Throne Speech, Canadian individuals, families and businesses can be assured that they are not only protected for the future, but they will also emerge from this period of global economic instability stronger than ever before.
Please contact my constituency office for assistance on any federally related matters, postage free, at: #6, 4612 - 50th Street, Ponoka, T4J 1S7; tel: 403-783-5530; toll free: 1-800-665-0865 or visit my web site: www.blainecalkinsmp.ca