Statement: Supply and Confidence Agreement

Six months ago, Canadians gave Parliament clear marching orders: put people and families first, deliver results, and build a better future. This is what Canadians expect from their politicians.   

I was immensely proud to have won the right to represent all Sudburians, and to continue the work of our federal government. 

The supply and confidence agreement recently reached between the federal Liberal and NDP parties is good news for Canada, and for Sudbury. It has the potential to provide a stable government for three or more years in times of turbulence, both at home and abroad. It will allow the government to move forward with confidence on many of the priorities Canadians made clear to us all last September.

It is important that Canadians not buy into the divisive rhetoric of Canada’s Conservatives regarding this development. Not only are arrangements like this commonplace around the world, but they also often lead to more stable, more progressive, and more representative governments. France, Germany, Italy, Finland, Norway, Denmark, The Netherlands, Ireland, Croatia, Serbia, and dozens of other countries around the world benefit from coalition governments more often than not.

Only seven months ago, more than 50 per cent of Canadians voted for Liberals and NDP to represent them in Ottawa. Together, our two parties account for 55 percent of Members of Parliament.

Locally, almost 65 per cent of Sudbury voters cast ballots for myself and the NDP candidate. I vowed, having won that election, to represent all voters. I have lived up to that commitment, and this agreement between our parties provides a clear framework to ensure this work will continue in Ottawa.

This is about getting big things done. By working together, we can fulfil our full potential.

Viviane Lapointe – Member of Parliament – Sudbury