"Dear Vancouver-Kingsway Residents:
On January 23, 2006, I was re-elected as the Member of Parliament for Vancouver—Kingsway. On February 6, 2006 I accepted a challenge from Prime Minister Stephen Harper, to join his government to ensure the federal government reflects Vancouver's values and serves its interests.
These past several days have been a difficult time for my family and me. I know many of my constituents are having difficulty with the choice I have made. To those of you who are upset with my decision - I apologize. However, I did not come by this decision lightly and I stand firm behind the decision to become a part of this new government.
Prior to my 2004 entry into politics I had a lengthy career in government and in business. Politics was the last place I thought I would end up. Then former Prime Minister Paul Martin encouraged me to serve our city and our province in his government. He convinced me that Canadians won't fix government until we attract people who care more about issues and results than ideology, and that loyalty to ideas, tangible improvements and smart government are what public service is all about. I agreed and I was honoured to serve then and I remain committed to the constituents of Vancouver-Kingsway today.
On February 6, 2006 Mr. Stephen Harper became Prime Minister of Canada. In assembling his government, Prime Minister Harper encouraged me to serve our city and province again, this time in his Conservative government. While this was a difficult decision for me, it came down to a question of effectiveness and how I could best serve my province, my community and the people I represent. I truly believe that I can serve you best by giving you direct representation inside our new government. I feel that I am now in a better position to advance your priorities.
My priorities have not changed. We need a strong economy focused on international trade and the benefits the Pacific Gateway can bring. We need to intensify the fight against crime. Our anti-crime initiatives will start dealing with this important issue. We need to ensure our health care system is delivering high quality and timely services. I will continue to fight for improvements in our immigration system and settlement support services, including a better approach to foreign credentialing. We need to put priority on education, skills development and training for people at all stages of their lives, and we need to support our seniors so they have the facilities and resources to meet their needs.
I will continue to work hard on the same issues and priorities that were your concerns in the past. I will continue to serve the constituents of Vancouver — Kingsway to the best of my ability and I will continue to ensure your views are presented in the House of Commons.
My Constituency Office was always non partisan, and will remain a non partisan, service oriented office at the same location with the same contact numbers — 2148 Kingsway, Vancouver, BC, V5N 2T5. Tel: 604 775 6263 Fax: 604 775 6284.
Thank you and I look forward to continuing to serving you.
David Emerson, P.C., M.P.
Member of Parliament
Vancouver — Kingsway"
