Supplied by Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing MP Carol Hughes…
Elliot Lake: With Canadians struggling through the pandemic, the government needs to live with their mistakes and focus on real priorities, according to Algoma-Manitoulin-Kapuskasing MP, Carol Hughes.
Hughes comments follow the announcement that parliament will prorogue until the government delivers a Throne Speech to begin a new session on September 23rd. The event has the potential to trigger a snap election, something Hughes says would create an unnecessary gap in our efforts to contain the pandemic.
“The WE charity scandal that has cost the Prime Minister a star cabinet member with the resignation of his Finance Minister, will not magically disappear along with Mr. Morneau,” said Hughes. “While Canadians wait for direction and assistance, the government is occupied with their own fortunes.”
The parliamentary re-set is taking place at the same time as Canadians are dealing with high unemployment and parents are preparing to send their children to school with more questions than answers.
“With a planned sitting next week and committees working hard to get answers and solutions for Canadians, now is the wrong time to stop everything in the name of self-interest,” said Hughes. “Our priority should be on Canadians who are still relying on the CERB and don’t know how they will pay the bills at the end of the month.”
Although election speculation is expected to be rampant until the throne speech is voted on, Hughes says New Democrats will work to keep delivering for Canadians.
“That’s why we’re focusing on the needs of Canadians who are still struggling and worried about caring for their kids, their elderly parents, or keeping a roof over their heads and food on their table,” said Hughes. “As long as we can continue to force the government to work with us so we can deliver for people across the country, that’s what we’ll keep doing.”