This winter, I have been proud of how the members of Flin Flon and surrounding northern communities continue to show their resolve and work ethic by helping those in need however they can, filling the gaps left by the provincial government.
One recent example of this is the overwhelming response by northerners in the fight against homelessness during these frigid months, where those without shelter are at severe risk. As temperatures dropped this January, the homeless in Flin Flon were thankfully welcomed into our first overnight homeless shelter run out of the Friendship Centre. The shelter is staffed by volunteers and will stay open until March, keeping members of our community warm through the night.
Unsurprisingly, northerners have been working hard to support the Flin Flon Aboriginal Friendship Centre in a variety of ways. I want to thank all the organizations, businesses, and individuals who donated the thousands of plastic bags that were made into comfortable bed mats to be used at the overnight shelter, as well as to those who donated their time to assemble them. Thank you to all the volunteers who are working hard to make sure the shelter is open and available for those in need, as well as for all the other bedding, winter clothing, and necessities that have been generously offered.
With the rate of homelessness in Flin Flon twice the national average, this issue is one that deeply affects our entire community. I am proud of how our community members responded this winter to provide a short-term solution, but I am also concerned at that lack of involvement by the government in providing solutions. If the government is serious about ending homelessness in the north, we need to see a long-term housing strategy, which deals with the lack of low-income housing vacancy in areas like Flin Flon, as well as increased funding. We need a strategy that is able to make use of the buildings that are sitting empty, and is able to change people’s lives by giving them a place
to call home.
I was also disappointed to hear of the Bissett mine closure. With 90 people laid off and 150 jobs in jeopardy, the closure is another hit to rural labour, and as far as I know, it seems as though the closure hit workers out of the blue. I have communicated with the minister to ensure that severance was or will be paid, but no adjustment committee will take place. It is time for this government to come up with a real jobs plan for this month, before the remaining mining jobs disappear.
I have also been hearing increasing worries about the absence of doctors and the availability of healthcare, and I hope to have some answers soon, as I am meeting with Helga Bryant, CEO of the NHRA in early February.
I want to hear your concerns or questions. Please contact my office at [email protected], or call me at (204) 687-3246.
