Politicians are used to taking potshots over everything from their political decisions to their personal lives.
Sometimes these potshots are justified, for instance, in the case of former premier Alison Redford’s excesses, while at other times, it stems from personal animosity and bitterness, as was the case of the recent cutting commentary and laughter over the break-in at the home of Liberal leadership candidate Justin Trudeau.
It is no easy job and no small responsibility to represent the people who elect you and to be held up to ridicule and pointed attacks. The job is one of public service at all times and hours, that can eat into one’s personal life and family time. In the case of our local councillors, reeve and mayor, many serve the public office in addition to full-time work, no small feat of dedication to their communities. While they may still be subject to scrutiny and criticism, it is important that discourse is always respectful and cognizant of the hours they put in and their intent to do the right thing for their communities.
Last week, MP Brian Storseth announced he would not be running for re-election, in order to spend more time with his family. It is a decision to be respected after he has given nearly a decade of service to the area.
In his time as MP, Storseth has been a strong voice of support for the Conservative government’s mandate, when it came to issues such as repealing the long-gun registry or mandatory minimum sentencing. One high point in his political career was the passing of his private member’s bill to repeal Section 13 of the Canadian Human Rights, a contentious section for supporters of free speech.
However, as he points out in a story in this week’s Journal on the Temporary Foreign Worker Program, he has shown himself willing to break ranks with the party if it conflicted with the views of his constituents.
His support has been massive, with the riding routinely returning Storseth back to parliament with among the largest margins of victory for the Conservative party across the country.
We thank him for his service and achievements, and wish him well in his future endeavours.
