Manitoba Election 2016

Melanie Wight - Burrows

1. Why did you decide to run in the 2016 Manitoba election?

I have learned a great deal in my first term and met so many amazing people.  We have worked hard together and accomplished many things like the new Quick Care Clinic and the $7 million commitment by our NDP Team to the Maples Community Centre rebuild.  A few years back, before I was an MLA, our NDP team put significant resources into the North Centennial Recreation Centre (which is across from where I live). I want us to keep moving Manitoba forward in the very important area of recreation. Both of the other parties have plans for massive cuts, which will result in lost jobs and fewer front line services.  I want to do all that I can to make sure that the people of Burrows can continue to work (Manitoba has the lowest unemployment rate in the country), get a good education for their children, and be assured that healthcare remains available to them without costly premiums or a loss of doctors and nurses.

2. What experience will you bring to complement your role as MLA?

I have four years of experience as MLA, and have been the Minister of Children and Youth Opportunities since 2014.  Having this understanding of how government works is key to continuing our good work in Burrows and in the Province. I spent many years working with teenage boys involved in crime as a trainer, studying topics like the effects of abuse and neglect on child development. I have a degree from the University of Manitoba as well as a certificate from Red River College in Youth Care. I am also a certified commercial property manager.  These varied experiences and education have been invaluable in my work as MLA.

3. Is there anything in particular you would like to change in our province? In your electoral division?

I want to continue the forward movement I see all over Manitoba in so many areas.  I want to provide pro-active preventative care for children much earlier as we know that the first five years are the most important years. I want to make sure that our seniors and families are able to maintain a good quality of life. We will continue to invest in education, health care and infrastructure in significant ways.

4. What key issue(s) / topic(s) would like to stand for in your role as MLA, and why is it important to you?

One of the most important things is ensuring that our people are able to get good jobs and provide for themselves and their families. This starts with good education and we have been working to improve educational opportunities every year. We are also investing in infrastructure and flood mitigation and this has stimulated the economy. In 2015 it resulted in Manitoba being the number one job creator in the country. I want to make sure we remain on this path.
 

5. What is one thing in particular that you value about the electoral division that you wish to represent?

I value the diversity of our community and the respect that everyone has for each other.  I am also so touched by the kindness and generosity of the people I meet at the doors, and the many people that so willingly volunteer their time and money to make our community what it is.

 

6. Do you have any other comments regarding your candidacy?

I want to thank the people of Burrows for giving me the honour of representing this community.  If reelected, I look forward to being able to get back to helping people from our constituency office on McPhillips, and supporting and attending the many incredibly diverse events all over the Province.