Looking forward to 2008

December 26 2007

During the month of December, I was able to spend a great deal of time traveling throughout the constituency and I was able to meet face to face with many of you.  Whether it is in a private meeting, an Open House, or meeting on the street, I value the opportunity to hear directly what issues matter to you.

When I was first elected, I made a commitment that I would be a strong voice in Victoria.  I promised that I would raise your issues and concerns and that I would fight for the communities I represent.  I also said that I would provide opportunities for you to share your concerns with me.

During the two sittings of the Legislature in 2007, I brought forward many issues that you had raised with me; forestry, housing, ATV legislation and highway maintenance are just a few examples.  Residents asked me to push the government to restore funding to Childcare Resource and Referral Centres, and speaking out on that issue has made a difference. 

As a rural MLA, I understand that the issues faced by rural communities are different from those in urban areas.  Many of fellow NDP MLAs also represent rural communities and Rural Caucus was formed to be the voice of rural British Columbia.  The 14 members of the Rural Caucus are committed to working with rural residents to develop a strategy that supports the retention of services in rural areas and that supports the concept of keeping wealth in rural communities.

This fall, I wanted to provide more opportunities to meet with constituents so I held a Community Forum in each community.  I was pleased by the number of people who attended and I found the discussions that we had there very informative.  I have developed a new website at www.NormMacdonald.ca which is regularly updated with my MLA reports, press releases and media stories.  I have also joined Facebook which I have found very interesting. 

I am looking forward to another great year in 2008.  I will be working in the constituency until the Spring Session which begins in February.  I invite you to continue to keep in touch.  My staff in each of the community offices is available to assist you with your issues.