LETTER TO THE EDITOR: Premier talks first year

Over the past year, I have had the wonderful honour of leading your provincial government here in Manitoba. During that time, I have seen the best of Manitobans. I had the honour of standing on the beaches of Normandy with our veterans, who as young people, fought to protect our way of life, human rights, democracy, and respect for all people. I joined students and educators as we launched a province-wide school food program that ensures every student in Manitoba has a healthy meal when they need one. I listened to the courageous voices of the family members of murder victims who stood up, demanded justice, and are now working with us to bring their loved ones home.

This year Manitobans came together in the face of great difficulties. I heard the sadness and the pain of the people in Carman who lived through terrible violence and unspeakable tragedy. I visited with people in Northern Manitoba who were evacuated from their homes because of wildfires, not knowing if they would be able to return. Our Health Minister and I travelled to hospitals and mental health facilities in every part of our province to hear directly from the workers on the front lines about what can do to fix health care, our government’s top priority. These conversations have guided our work to hire more health care workers, open ERs, and make sure you have the care you need close to home.

A year ago, we ran a positive campaign that was focused on you, the people of Manitoba. After years of division, we are building a Manitoba where no one is left behind. From fixing health care to making life more affordable, our team is bringing Manitobans together from all walks of life and creating a path to a future where every young person in Manitoba can succeed and reach their full potential.

On election night, I said your government can’t take the first step, you have to want to take it. But if you do take that step, our government will meet you. Right now, every kid can access a meal when they show up to school. We are creating a path to housing, a path to recovery, and a path to working and living the positive life that you dream of for yourself. If you take the first step, our government will be there to meet you and ensure that you get all the support you need on your path to living a good life.

Today, we celebrate this anniversary not as an accomplishment from any member of our team. Instead, we celebrate it with a great humility that comes from recognizing the enormous responsibility we have to you, the people of Manitoba. Our commitment to you is the same as it was one year ago: that we are going to continue working every single day to make Manitoba a better place for you, for your kids and for your grandkids. So, thank you to the people of Manitoba. Thank you for trusting us to lead your provincial government. I look forward to another year of working together for all Manitobans.