Report From Parliament Hill:
Eric Melillo, MP, Kenora Riding
Dear Constituents,
Last week, the Prime Minister invoked the Emergencies Act for the first time in Canadian history, in response to trucker protests in Ottawa.
The Emergencies Act gives the government far-reaching powers, including the ability to freeze the bank accounts of Canadians thought to be involved in or supportive of the protests.
This is an unprecedented overreach that is the result of the Prime Minister’s failure in leadership. While I agree that the illegal blockades must end, governments and police have the resources to act without compromising the rights of Canadians.
Justin Trudeau made no attempt to de-escalate the situation. He went from weeks of no action, to the most extreme action.
On Thursday, I spoke in the House to call on Parliament to reverse this decision. The Conservative Party will always stand up for the rights of Canadians.
Improving Voting Access
On Thursday, I questioned Canada’s Chief Electoral Officer about voting issues in the Kenora riding.
Miscommunications between Elections Canada and local communities during the 2021 election – including last minute changes to voting dates and polling locations - caused confusion and may have prevented some residents of fly-in communities from voting.
Participating in the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, I asked the Chief Electoral Officer how this could have happened, and how Elections Canada plans to prevent similar situations going forward.
I was glad to hear that Elections Canada takes responsibility for these issues and that they have committed to improving communication and access for rural and remote communities. I will be watching closely to ensure they follow through.
Standing up for Seniors
On Tuesday, I spoke in the House to stand up for seniors in the Kenora riding.
I spoke about the serious impacts of inflation on the lives on vulnerable seniors in Northwestern Ontario and called on the government to prevent another GIS clawback.
Working For You
As always, if there is anything my office can assist you with, please call me at 807-223-2182 (Dryden) or 807-468-2170 (Kenora) or email me at eric.melillo@parl.gc.ca.
Sincerely,
Eric Melillo
Member of Parliament