By Damien Kurek MP Battle River-Crowfoot
The Conservative Party of Canada has elected a new leader — the Hon. Erin O’Toole.
Erin brings a fresh voice, strong leadership, and ambitious goals for Canada’s conservatives, including uniting Canadians from many diverse backgrounds throughout all regions of our country.
This past week I had a productive conversation with O’Toole, and I can say he is already exceeding my expectations.
He has a positive plan to get our nation back on track, restore confidence and respect in our democratic institutions and ensure Canada is respected around the world.
He assured me my views and the views of my constituents will be valued and protected in the caucus he leads. He also clearly demonstrated he understands the roots of western alienation and the importance of the energy industry and agriculture to Canadians.
Erin has strong leadership skills and an ethical sense of character that was developed during his twelve years in the Royal Canadian Air Force as a flight officer.
He rose to the rank of captain before retiring and joining the private sector where he worked for more than a decade.
Most recently, he has spent more than seven years in Parliament, including serving as a cabinet minister in 2015 under former Prime Minister Stephen Harper. He has also held a number of high-profile positions in the opposition.
Throughout the leadership campaign, Erin proposed bold ideas for our nation and it is exciting to see those plans being put into action.
I am truly eager to begin introducing Erin and the Conservative plan to Canadians, so everyone can compare and contrast it to the scandal, waste, and mismanagement of the Liberals.
I would also like to thank Andrew Scheer for his service as the Leader of the Official Opposition and the Conservative Party of Canada.
Despite stepping down as leader, he continued to work tirelessly to ensure the party was left in good hands and the transition to a new leader was a smooth one. It was an honour to serve with him as leader and I look forward to continuing to work with him in Parliament.
The Conservative Party is moving forward united and strong, that was made evident by the other candidates who also ran for the leadership.
We are a party of diverse beliefs, ideas, and backgrounds that represent what it is to be a Conservative.
Erin has already been hard at work making sure that the Official Opposition is ready the moment Parliament returns on Sept 23.
Lastly, he has begun one of the most important tasks, introducing himself to all Canadians. I believe Canadians will like what they see.
If you have any questions about Erin O’Toole, or need assistance with federal government supports and programs, please do not hesitate to contact my office. My staff and I are here to help.