As we begin 2023, I want to first wish everyone throughout the constituency of Flin Flon a Happy New Year.
This year, we should have a provincial election. It is scheduled to take place no later than Oct. 3 per the fixed election date law, but we have seen the Progressive Conservatives not follow that law in the past. Rumours persist that the PCs may call an early election. There are also fears they may try to extend their mandate by a year if there is a federal election called this year. Whatever scenario plays out, rest assured that I will continue to tirelessly stand up for the North regarding issues that are important to us.
The number one issue I hear from constituents is in regards to the state of healthcare in the North or, more precisely, the lack of access to timely “care close to home.” I will continue to advocate for proper, timely, affordable health care in the North, whether it is in the legislature, in the press or on doorsteps. The problems with Manitoba’s healthcare system today is clearly related to this government’s lack of investment into northern healthcare — be it in training, wages, hiring or retention of people, investment in infrastructure, or the unreliable and unaffordable state of the Northern Patient Transportation Program.
I would like to extend my heart-felt gratitude to Dr. Krishan Sethi, one of Flin Flon’s longest serving general practitioners, as well as congratulations on his well-deserved retirement at the end of 2022. Dr. Sethi took the initiative to set up his practice in Flin Flon to meet the growing medical needs of our constituents. He was indeed an asset in our community, as he worked tirelessly to fill in the gap resulting from inadequate northern healthcare staff and infrastructure.
As the mining and processing facilities have now ceased operations in Flin Flon for the first time in nearly 100 years, we do not have a main industry to support us. This will have an impact on the population, on taxes and what services we can expect to see going forward. We will all need to work together towards ensuring Flin Flon’s future.
If you would like to contact me regarding any concern in your community, please feel free to get in touch by email at tom.lindsey@yourmanitoba.ca or by phone at 204-687-3246.
