ON THE CANADIAN REGIONAL PARLIAMENTARY SEMINAR

MPP Anand’s fifth Members’ Statement was on the topic of the “Canadian Regional Parliamentary Seminar”, delivered on 17 October 2018. 

See full transcript below:

“Good afternoon, Speaker. Last week, I was fortunate to have the opportunity to attend the 40th Canadian regional seminar in Iqaluit, Nunavut. The seminar was attended by both federal and provincial representatives; 36 in total. There were six panel topics covered, with many notable moments.

On the panel discussion on decorum in the chamber, the Clerk from Quebec discussed the Quebec Legislature’s move to ban clapping in the House during question period, a move to reduce antics and to be more productive. Our own Deputy Speaker, Rick Nicholls, also presented very well on the topic.

On mental health matters, the discussion was heavily participated in by all the members. It was interesting to note that there was consensus among all members for the need to invest in mental health. Mr. Speaker, I’m proud that our Ontario government has already committed to investing $3.8 billion in mental health.

I also had the opportunity to represent Ontario in a panel discussion, Reflecting and Respecting the Indigenous Presence in Parliament. I reported that while work has been done in the last decade to increase Indigenous participation and representation, there are still four provinces with zero political representation from the Indigenous community. I believe there’s still a lot of work that needs to be done.

Lastly, I would like to give a shout-out to the Clerks’ offices both here at Queen’s Park and in Nunavut for their execution of a flawless event. I would encourage other members to attend.”