MP Randall Garrison, (Esquimalt-Juan de Fuca NDP) has now been in office for one year and he is pleased to report that in that time he has opened his constituency office in View Royal and Aldersmith Place.
He is helping constituents with such issues as immigration, Old Age Pensions, employment — basically any federally-funded programs.
Garrison said it was important as the federal government was shutting offices which restricts access for citizens making people phone when there is no person-to-person contact. He said he deals with about 20-30 people every week in the office.
He mentioned that as part of the federal budget, the Harper government through the Department of Fisheries and Oceans, is no longer taking responsibility for fisheries habitat.
“It will have a huge impact on local fisheries,” said Garrison. He said DeMamiel Creek will no longer be their responsibility. He stated that it was obvious they were going to protect their jobs and stock and increase protection of habitat.
Garrison mentioned the commitment to the E&N rail line with funding of $7.5 million of the $15 million cost. He said service is likely to resume next April.
“This will allow us to build the service.” He said Sooke residents would then be able to drive to Langford to catch the train.
Garrison has been named the Public Safety Critic and feels this is a good new challenge.
“It’s a privilege to be an MP and I enjoy representing this riding,” said Garrison.
