Report From Parliament Hill:

Eric Melillo, MP, Kenora Riding

Dear Constituents, 

I was glad to hear that Canada will be allowing fully-vaccinated American tourists to enter the country starting on August 9th.  

This will allow American visitors to patronize our local businesses again and stimulate our economy. Many businesses in Northwestern Ontario are heavily reliant on American tourists, and the border closure has hit many businesses and workers very hard. 

Unfortunately, this may be too little, too late for many tourism operators and business owners in our region. By the time our border re-opens next month, operators will have already lost the majority of their summer season.  

This is why Conservatives have been calling for a re-opening plan for months. Unfortunately, the Liberal government failed to provide re-opening metrics in a timely manner that would have allowed business owners to plan ahead, and have only just announced their plan to loosen restrictions.  

I’m also disappointed that the U.S. has extended their border closure. Days after Canada announced our re-opening plan, the American government announced that their land border would remain closed until at least August 21st. While this doesn’t affect Canada’s re-opening plan, it was devastating news to Canadians separated from friends and loved ones in the States. 

Canada is fortunate to enjoy a close and mutually beneficial relationship with our neighbours to the South. I’m calling on the Prime Minister to negotiate with President Biden to ensure this important relationship is maintained and restore freedom of movement for Canadians. 

Fire Safety 

My thoughts are with everyone affected by the fires and heavy smoke in northwestern Ontario. I urge everyone to consult their municipal governments for updates and heed all safety advice.  

Working for You 

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 807-223-2182 (Dryden) or 807-468-2170 (Kenora), or contact me by email at eric.melillo@parl.gc.ca. 

Sincerely, 

Eric Melillo 

Member of Parliament