Economy remains focus for Portage-Lisgar MP
Posted By Greg Vandermeulen
Posted 28 days ago
Relatively speaking Canada is in a strong position, and within Canada, Manitoba is in a strong position. Within Manitoba the riding of Portage-Lisgar is in a strong position. We know there’s been some industry that’s been hit, and hit hard. Relatively speaking we’re doing very well. - Candice Hoeppner
A continued focus on the economy, justice issues and listening to Canadians are just some of what is keeping Portage-Lisgar MP Candice Hoeppner busy in Ottawa these days. Despite criticism from the opposition on a variety of issues, Hoeppner said they have not strayed from their original campaign promises.
“We have been very clear,” she said. “Our goal remains the economy.”
Economic indicators are showing modest improvement, but experts warn that the rising loonie may temper some of that recovery.
Hoeppner said while it’s good to see things are getting better, it is no time to relax. “We have to be very vigilant,” she said. “We still have stimulus going into the Canadian economy.”
She added that this area is more fortunate than most.
“Relatively speaking Canada is in a strong position, and within Canada, Manitoba is in a strong position. Within Manitoba the riding of Portage-Lisgar is in a strong position,” she said. “We know there’s been some industry that’s been hit, and hit hard. Relatively speaking we’re doing very well.”
The governing Conservatives have also continued to push their agenda regarding justice reforms.
Hoeppner said she was very disappointed when Liberal senators attempted to gut a recent bill that called for an end to two for one sentencing.
She said the fact that some people opposed the bill becomes irrelevant after elected MPs choose how to proceed on an issue.
“The House of Commons did vote to support it,” she said, adding that Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff should hold his senators accountable.
Hoeppner was also happy to hear a recent announcement regarding foreign trade zones, one of which will be set up in Winnipeg.
“I’m going to keep advancing that issue,” she said.
Hoeppner said recent polls that show Prime Minister Stephen Harper is gaining in popularity are not something she focuses on.
“Polls are just a snapshot in time,” she said. “Our job is to listen to Canadians and put their priorities first.”
However, Hoeppner said those who know Stephen Harper understand that he’s not doing the job because he wants power but because he cares about the country.
She added that more Canadians are beginning to realize that as well.
