The way our rural communities have responded to COVID-19 is being applauded by Dan Mazier.
The MP for Dauphin - Swan River - Neepawa says he’s witnessed lots of patience and understanding, especially with snowbirds coming home from the US and following public health orders to self-isolate for 14 days.
The impact of COVID-19 can be especially difficult for rural communities. From Mazier’s point of view, the closing of Service Canada buildings is a big concern, especially in this riding.
“In a riding this size, you close those three Service Canada offices, that probably impacts the people that need these services the most. Those are the people that don’t have internet service and don’t have access to computers."
Mazier says he's on the phone daily, looking to work out a solution to continue the delivery of essential Service Canada programs in the Parkland.
Many of the financial assistance measures from the federal government have been laid out in Bill C-13. Mazier says it’s a complex bill, and he is happy with the 75% wage subsidy designed to help Canadian businesses keep employees on staff through this challenging time.
If you’re thinking of getting on Employment Insurance, Mazier has a bit of advice for you.
“I would advise everybody, if you know you’re going to be applying for EI, to open up a CRA account as well. That’s where the money is going to come through.”
Mazier, as a former president of Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) is keeping a close eye on agriculture assistance programs. He takes issue with a few aspects of the federal liberal’s measures, especially the increases for Farm Credit Canada (FCC).
“The problem with [that] particular announcement was it’s just allowing people to get more debt; defer your payments, things like that. It’s just kind of a band-aid, kicking things down the path.”
Mazier predicts agriculture will be one of the leading industries once the country comes out on the other side of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Mazier is opening the door for all of his constituents to contact him and his office, saying “if I can be of any help. Please phone the office, don’t be scared to email (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.). That’s what I’m here for, I’m here to serve.”
