David Wlks, MP -- Kootenay

Letter to Editor regarding Senate Issue

May 22, 2013,

Over the past week I have heard from constituents voicing disgust and displeasure with recent events that have occurred in Ottawa, specifically, the issues revolving around Senators Duffy, Wallin, Brazeau and Harb.

I can tell you unequivocally that I am equally upset over the entire set of events. I do not condone nor tolerate any form of illegal activity whether criminal or civil in nature.

I am frustrated by a set of legislative rules that do not allow us to remove someone from public office for a breach of trust. Furthermore, if a criminal act has been committed and enough evidence is gathered then it should be brought before the courts for judgement.

The Senate is enshrined in the Constitution. That is why we have asked the Supreme Court of Canada whether the reforms we have proposed can be accomplished by Parliament alone. We have also asked the Court to rule on options for abolishing the Senate completely.

Most, if not all pundits, agree that the latter is not likely due to a constitutional challenge.   Most amendments can be passed only if identical resolutions are adopted by the House of Commons, the Senate and a two-thirds majority of the provincial legislative assemblies representing at least 50% of the national population. This formula, which is outlined in section 38 of the Constitution Act, 1982, is sometimes referred to as the "general amendment procedure" and is known more colloquially as the "7+50. In simple terms, it is not likely to happen.

There is no room for ignorance of law or procedure when you sit at the highest level of government.   We have at our disposal countless legal authorities to give us advice and guidance. If you choose not to accept that advice or guidance then, in my opinion, you live with the consequences.

Any person who holds a public office position, either elected or appointed, should not only withstand public scrutiny, but stand before the public to explain any short comings.

If you can do neither, you should do the honourable thing and quit the position.

Sincerely

David Wilks, M.P.
Kootenay Columbia
Letter to Editor regarding Senate Issue

May 22, 2013,
Harper Government Invests in Improvements to Community Infrastructure in Invermere

April 09, 2013,

INVERMERE, British columbia – Today, David Wilks, Member of Parliament for Kootenay—Columbia, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support for upgrades to the Pynelogs Cultural Centre under the Harper Government’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).

“Our Government is committed to creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity in our communities across Canada,” said MP Wilks. “By making these investments in local infrastructure, we are helping boost economic activity and maintain a high quality of life for Canadians.”

The Harper Government’s investment of $10,420 will allow the Columbia Valley Arts Council to upgrade the Pynelogs Cultural Centre by constructing additional storage space to house important artwork and cultural artifacts.

"This support will help turn the Pynelogs Cultural Centre into a more flexible and ideal Gallery and meeting space," said Jami Scheffer, Columbia Valley Arts Council Manager. "Everything presenters and Gallery shows need will be easy at hand, and we will now be able to clear precious floor area for larger events. Our thanks to the Government of Canada for making this possible."

In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced further support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure. Our Government committed $150 million over two years for the Fund. The Fund supports projects that look to improve existing community infrastructure accessible for use by the public, such as community centres, recreational buildings, local arenas, cultural and other community facilities.

Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small- and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.
Harper Government Invests in Improvements to Community Infrastructure in Kimberley

April 05, 2013,

KIMBERLEY, BRITISH COLUMBIA – Today, David Wilks, Member of Parliament for Kootenay—Columbia, on behalf of the Honourable Lynne Yelich, Minister of State for Western Economic Diversification, announced support for the Rotary Park playground under the Harper Government’s Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund (CIIF).

“Our Government is pleased to support infrastructure projects across the country like upgrades to the Rotary Park playground,” said MP Wilks. “The Community Infrastructure Improvement Fund will benefit Canadian families and communities immediately, helping to support job creation, boosting economic activity, as well as creating safe and accessible community infrastructure facilities for years to come.”

The Harper Government’s investment of $7,637 will upgrade the Rotary Park playground with new swings and a wheelchair accessible platform. This investment will allow the Kimberley Rotary Club to enhance the accessibility of the playground to accommodate visitors with physical disabilities.

“On behalf of the Kimberley Rotary Club, I would like to thank the Government of Canada for their support,” said David Bellm, Kimberley Rotary Club Director and Projects Chairperson. “This funding, along with the Club's initiative, will result in a lot of smiling faces at Rotary Park this summer.”

In Economic Action Plan 2012, the Harper Government announced further support to help communities across the country modernize their infrastructure. Our Government committed $150 million over two years for the Fund. The Fund supports projects that look to improve existing community infrastructure accessible for use by the public, such as community centres, recreational buildings, local arenas, cultural and other community facilities.

Since 2006, the Harper Government, through WD, has invested in job-creating small- and medium-sized businesses, aerospace, marine and defence industries, and supported innovative entrepreneurs in pursuing emerging markets. By continuing to promote new economic opportunities, WD is helping to create jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.

Latest Riding News

May 22, 2013

Statement in the House - Economy