Dear Constituents, an update from my office:
This Week in Parliament
On Tuesday the federal government released their Fall Economic Statement, also referred to as the “Economic and Fiscal Update.” My BC Conservative colleagues and I were pleased to see that our strong advocacy and Team Canada approach has resulted in $5 billion being allocated to BC for natural disaster recovery. You can read our full statement on my website.
Despite this positive news for BC, this update fails to address the largest economic issue facing Canadians: the cost-of-living crisis.
Inflation is soon expected to reach a 30-year high. Housing and gas prices are up by a third. Families will pay an additional $1000 next year to feed themselves. To address these challenges, the Conservatives proposed reviewing excessive spending announced in Budget 2021 that will exacerbate inflationary pressures. We also called on the government to do more increase the resiliency of the Canadian supply chain.
My interventions in the Chamber this week are linked below:
- Advocating for Farmers affected by Floods
- Adjournment Proceedings (Critical Infrastructure)
- Petition Presentation: Supporting our Afghan Allies
Lytton Community Update
The Minister of Emergency Preparedness responded to my letter requesting funding to rebuild Lytton. Minister Blair was able to confirm they have received a request from the Province under the Disaster Financial Assistance Arrangements. Federal officials are working with their provincial counterparts to provide an advance payment for costs associated with restoring homes, public works, small businesses and working farms. Indeed, many of those funds were likely announced in the Fall Economic Statement this week.
Also, after much delay I am excited to announce postal services will resume in Lytton on Monday! Canada Post will open their temporary location at the G’wsep Gas and Food on Monday, December 22nd from 10:00am-2:45pm. Canada Post advised that staff will be commuting from Lillooet and will strive to keep those hours 5 days per week.
For more on how I’m fighting to rebuild Lytton, please visit my website.
New Travel Restrictions and Christmas Gatherings
On Wednesday the federal government announced they are once again advising against non-essential international travel.
For more information on provincially mandated restrictions this holiday season, please visit B.C.’s response to COVID-19.
You’re My Boss
Your feedback is valued. Please do not hesitate to contact my office to voice your concerns or seek assistance with any federal government programs at 604-814-5710 or [email protected].
Finally, an early Merry Christmas to you and yours. Like many of you, 2021 posed some unique challenges for my family. My hope is that everyone reading this message will take some time to positively celebrate Christmas and spend quality time with those they love and cherish.
Despite our challenges Canada remains one of the best places on earth to live and pursue the opportunities we choose. It is also a country where people still care about helping their neighbours. The number of constituents who readily donated and volunteered to assist those in need was beyond my expectations.
Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.
Luke 2:14
Sincerely,
Brad Vis, MP
Mission—Matsqui—Fraser Canyon