MP Reflections

Posted by Ken Germain

on Sep 12, 2015

Freshly retired Member of Parliament James Rajotte (P.C. Edmonton Leduc) received a warm welcome as speaker of the week on September 8.

We were given a very informative, non-partisan talk on what this responsible job entails. 15 years as MP brings experience in getting things done.

Good ideas from constituents often take a lot of work and time to push through to budget consideration.

When Jim began, written letters were the method of communicating, now it's 4000 emails week, each expecting a quick response.

Helping internationally in Ghana and Ethiopia were two of Jim's projects he felt worked well.

We heard that Senate reform would be better for all and that members can vote against their own party without being referred to as 'sheep" or "rebels"; just voting their own way.

Manufacturing has improved their equipment, with tax advantages to become more competitive, efficient and environmentally wise.

All in all a very refreshing talk given the current negative attitudes being displayed towards politicians.