IN TOUCH WITH MP EARL DREESHEN

January 28, 2014

January was another interesting month for both myself and for our Government. My colleagues and I recently returned back to Parliament on January 27, 2014 and we have an ambitious schedule ahead of us in continuing to deliver on our majority mandate received in the last election.

January saw my role take me to Mexico as I took part in the 22nd Annual Meeting of the Asia Pacific Parliamentary Forum. It was an incredible experience to meet with lawmakers from a variety of countries. I was honoured to share my comments on our robust education system here in Canada and also on our energy and food security.

When I returned to Red Deer, one of January’s highlights was hosting a discussion in Red Deer surrounding Canada’s 150th Anniversary. The meeting brought together local historians, museums and long-time community volunteers for a high level discussion aimed at setting the framework for the Federal Government’s involvement in the 2017 celebration. I was very pleased with the discussion we had and look forward to more discussions as we move towards 2017.

Returning to Ottawa, I am happy to report that our Federal Budget will be released earlier than usual. Minister Flaherty has announced that the 2014 Budget will be tabled on February 11, 2014. This will give us more time to debate the budget and get an earlier start on implementing our Economic Action Plan. I encourage everyone to keep an eye out for the Budget, as it sets the framework for our Government’s direction.

In addition to the Budget and staying on track to return to balance, the Government will be hard at work fulfilling last fall’s Throne Speech commitments, introducing new legislation that will:

– open new markets for Canadian goods;

– create a Victims’ Bill of Rights;

– protect our children from high-risk child predators; and

– strengthen the value of Canadian citizenship.

I look forward to all the discussion and debates that will take place in this session of Parliament. Of course, I encourage all of my constituents to let me know when we are heading in the right direction or the wrong direction on any particular issue. I would like to thank you all for your continued support and I look forward to continuing to serve you in Ottawa this spring.

Until next time

Earl Dreeshen,

MP Red Deer