Weekly update from Kenora MP Eric Melillo
Dear Constituents,
It’s been nice to be back in the Kenora riding for several weeks! I’ve enjoyed meeting with constituents across the region.
Solutions for Rural Internet
I’m happy to announce that my motion recognizing “the immediate need for investment in broadband in Northern Canada to ensure remote communities are not left behind during this pandemic” has been tabled in the House of Commons. Internet access is not a luxury, and the North cannot afford to be left behind.
Standing up for the North
In Indigenous and Northern Affairs Committee (INAN), I had the opportunity to question Tabatha Bull from the Canadian Council for Aboriginal Business about issues affecting Indigenous business owners.
I asked her about the challenges faced by businesses transitioning to e-commerce in areas without reliable internet and tourism operators in Northern Canada who are increasingly worried about losing another season.
At a second INAN meeting on Thursday, I asked Northern Affairs Minister Dan Vandal about the proposed rail line connecting Alaska to Alberta; why his government won’t act on implement our Conservative solutions for northern internet; and why there is no northern stream for the Liberals’ rapid housing funding, despite our well-known housing crisis.
Fighting for Food Security
I’ve been having many informative consultations with stakeholders about the Nutrition North program, discussing its effectiveness and how it might be improved.
Advocating for Tourism
I also enjoyed a meeting with Kenora campground owners who are part of the Manitoba Camping Association. We discussed how the government can help tourist camps weather this crisis, including the need for clarity on how camps may be able to open safely next season.
Around the Riding
Last week, I enjoyed participating in the Metis flag raising in Kenora on Louis Riel Day, speaking to students at Lillian Berg School, meeting with Sioux Narrows Nestor Falls Council, and visiting Eagle Lake First Nation.
As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, or if you would like to arrange a meeting, please call me at 807-468-2170 (Kenora) or 807-223-2182 (Dryden) or contact me by email at eric.melillo@parl.gc.ca.
Sincerely,
Eric Melillo
Member of Parliament
