It has been quite a year on the federal political scene. I am pleased to provide a brief review on 2019 and a few comments on what to expect in 2020.
Of course, the big event in 2019 was the federal election. I would again like to thank the constituents of Red Deer-Mountain View for your trust in me to represent you in Ottawa.
I am committed to continuing to bring your voice to Ottawa and advocate for the things that matter to you as my constituents. I was deeply honoured to receive more than 80 per cent of the vote in our area and do not take that mandate lightly.
Unfortunately, we were not able to form government in 2019. There were some positive strides however. We were able to increase our total votes by over a million from 2015 and earned the votes of more Canadians than any other party. We were able to reduce the Liberal majority to a minority government and we now form the largest official Opposition caucus in Canadian history.
We were able to put ourselves in a good position by being the only party in Parliament that was fighting for jobs and the economy, including the energy and agriculture sectors. We are the only voice of the taxpayers with any serious intention of balancing budgets and protecting future generations from the burden of debt. We are the only party that represents rural Canada’s interests.
I was proud to serve alongside Andrew Scheer and am saddened to see him step down as party leader. Although I understand his rationale to spend more time with his young family, it is still difficult to lose a leader with the integrity and skills that Andrew possesses.
Next year will bring new challenges and new opportunities. Entering into a leadership race does not mean that Justin Trudeau has a free pass. We will continue to hold him accountable as Her Majesty’s Loyal Opposition.
He is still in a minority government and can be brought down at any time he loses confidence of the House of Commons. Rest assured we will be ready to take our message to Canadians if that happens.
I would like to thank the community again for your continued support.
I hope you are able to enjoy time with loved ones over the Christmas season and look forward to working on your behalf in 2020.
Earl Dreeshen is the MP for Red Deer-Mountain View.
