Please vote on Oct. 16
By MARTIN SHIELDS Member of Parliament Bow River Riding
On Oct. 16, we will be headed to the polls to choose our municipal representatives.
I would like to offer my warmest congratulations to those who have chosen to stand for office. Running for office isn’t easy. They are making an incredible contribution to the local, grassroots democratic process by putting their name forward as candidates. Let’s all be sure to support their efforts by attending our local candidates’ forums and debates, and don’t forget to get out and vote on Oct. 16!
In Ottawa news, we’ve had a busy start to the fall session. The Liberals proposed tax changes are still generating a lot of heated debate in the House. Unfortunately, the Liberals voted against our motion to extend the consultation deadline. I continue to stand with my Conservative colleagues in opposing this tax grab every step of the way.
As part of that effort, I am continuing to host roundtables across Bow River to make sure that our residents have a public forum through which to express their concerns. Please don’t hesitate to contact me with any input you may have.
While the House officially returned on Sept. 18, I was back on the Hill a week early to hear witness testimony on Bill C-49 – a piece of legislation that radically changes transportation laws in Canada.
If you haven’t heard about C-49, you should know that it will make changes that could directly affect you. The Bill introduces a “Passenger Bill of Rights,” which will require airlines to compensate customers for inconveniences such as overbooking and flight delays.
C-49 will also impact how we get our goods to market by making changes to railway regulations. These broad changes include everything from extended interswitching distances to railway safety and ownership rules.
I believe the legislation needs to do more to make sure that rail cars show up and move product to market on time. I am urging the Liberals to listen to Canadian shippers and farmers and make changes to the Bill. C-49 aims to ensure adequate rail service – but Canadians need and expect great rail service.
Finally, at this time of Thanksgiving, the recent terror in Edmonton was a reminder of the immense gratitude we owe our first responders, and especially Const. Michael Chernyk, who was injured in the attack. I hope that everyone was able to spend time with friends and family to enjoy a hearty meal and reflect on all we have to be grateful for.
As always, my office is available to assist you with any federal issues. I can be reached in Ottawa at 613-992-0761 or martin.shields@parl.gc.ca. My Brooks office can be reached at 403-793-6775 or martin.shields.c1@parl.gc.ca, and my Strathmore office at 403-361-2980 or martin.shields.c1B@parl.gc.ca.