There is much to reflect on as we begin 2020. Conservatives across the country reduced the once-held Liberal majority to a minority government, gained 22 seats, and won the popular vote. Despite not forming government, we have started the 43rd parliament by advocating for better fiscal management, for our oil and gas industry, and for the principles of good governance.
2019 was highlighted by a series of Liberal missteps including the SNC-Lavalin scandal. The construction giant, SNC-Lavalin, was accused of illegal activities including the bribing of foreign government officials. At the center of the coverup was Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. He put the independence of Canada’s judiciary at risk and was found to have clearly violated ethics laws.
In Alberta especially, this last year saw the continued struggle of hardworking individuals held back by Liberal economic policies. The carbon-tax has led to higher costs of everyday essentials, bills C-48 and C-69 have destroyed confidence in the energy industry. We now have an economic environment that has led to the most personal bankruptcies in the last decade, and a scenario where almost half of Canadians are only $200 a month from insolvency.
Moving forward in 2020, the Official Opposition will hold the Prime Minister and his Liberal government to account for their out of control spending and reckless economic policies. This sky-rocketing debt, higher job losses, and declining business investment drives Canada’s Conservatives to champion our vital industries such as Canadian agriculture and oil and gas industries. We understand what it takes to enable hardworking people to prosper, promoting policies that will lower taxes, responsible spending, to make life more affordable for everyday Canadians. You can be sure we will be proactive in helping Canadians.
As 2019 draws to a close, once again thank you, everyone in Battle River-Crowfoot, for your support, trust, and the opportunity to serve you in Ottawa. Throughout the election and every day since, I have worked diligently to make sure your voice is heard in Ottawa. I can assure you that as we enter a new year, I will do everything I can to continue fighting for you.
In closing, this journey would not be possible if it were not for the efforts of so many. So again, I thank you. As we enter this new year, even though we face challenges, I trust the best is yet to come.
If you have any questions or concerns regarding this column you are encouraged to write Damien at 4945-50th Street, Camrose, Alberta, T4V 1P9, call toll-free 1-800-665-4358, text 403.575-5625, or e-mail damien.kurek@parl.gc.ca. You can also stay up to date with what Damien is up to by following him on social media @dckurek.
