June 2020
In times of crisis, leaders emerge. They empathize, encourage, support, plan, explain and inspire.
We have seen genuine leadership day after day since the threat of COVID – 19 became a reality. The daily announcements continue, and all orders of government have stepped up to address the challenge head on.
Our local community organizations, including our hospital, Chamber of Commerce, food banks, service clubs and churches have all pitched in, again providing the leadership to fill the needs of many in our community.
Our essential workers continue to put their own health at risk in order to ensure the rest of us are safe and secure.
The Ontario Legislature has assembled frequently since March, most of the time with fewer Members and staff present due to the need to practice physical distancing in the Chamber.
By and large, the sitting days have been characterized by co-operation, with all members working together to pass legislation. In the 30 years I have served as a Member at Queen’s Park, this has been unprecedented.
Everyone in our province has had their lives up-ended by COVID -19, but in spite of this, we have shown our endurance, resilience, courage and belief that we will get through this together, and Ontario will emerge from it stronger than ever before. We know that we will.
It appears that together, we have successfully “flattened the curve” of new COVID – 19 cases. But we can’t let up. We must all continue to heed the advice of our public health officials, their recommendations are even more important as the Ontario economy begins to re-open.
And it is also time to support our local businesses, now more than ever before. Buy a gift card to a local store; order take out; arrange a curbside pick up of your favourite products; be patient; and say thank you.
We can all be leaders in this time of crisis.
As always, my staff and I are available to help any way we can on matters involving the Provincial Government. We are working remotely, but we will get back to you if you call or email.