As the spread of COVID-19 in Canada slows down, the economic and social impacts of the pandemic are becoming more apparent.
Faced with rebuilding an economy that was largely brought to a forced halt, Canada is at a crossroads of sorts. The course we set in the immediate term will significantly impact every area of our economy and society for years to come. That is why it is critical that Canada gets its response right.
I believe promoting good ideas and finding solutions to tough problems is aided by a diversity of contributors. Just as boardrooms are improved by a diversity of viewpoints, so too is our democracy.聽
Since the pandemic began, Conservatives have been putting forward constructive solutions to help Canadians and the results are clear. We have successfully advocated for improvements to the federal Liberal government鈥檚 COVID-19 response, including an increase to their wage subsidy legislation, a correction to the administration of the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) for expectant mothers and the inclusion of credit unions in the delivery of the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA).
It was wrong of the Liberal government, the NDP and the Green Party to shut down parliament and strip it of its powers.聽聽
The fact remains however that many government programs are rigid, slow to roll out and have left too many Canadians to fall through the cracks. Despite parliament鈥檚 suspension, Conservatives will continue to propose positive solutions and use every tool at our disposal to hold the government to account.
Conservatives know that our recovery will be driven by Canadians like you, who will do the hard work of rebuilding the economy, who will be impacted by the success and failures of government programs and who will be responsible to pay for them.聽
Contributions from a diverse set of voices, lived experiences and viewpoints will enable better responses to the unprecedented challenges we are facing. Greater engagement from all Canadians including traditionally underrepresented voices like women and minority groups will only result in better outcomes for our communities and our country 鈥� these contributions are valuable and needed at every level of government.
Whether it is signing a petition, communicating with an elected official, joining the conversation, participating in a community group, getting involved with a political party or even running for elected office, know that your voice matters. Together, we can work towards a more united, stronger and prosperous Canada for generations to come.
