2023 has been a hallmark year for Portage-Lisgar MP Branden Leslie after having been voted in to take over Candice Bergen's role. He outlines highlights of the past revolution around the sun.

"One is definitely the fact that I was one of the initiators of Bill C-234, to have it come full-circle, that I'm speaking proudly on behalf of, in the House of Commons," says Leslie. "That goes to show the importance that the farm community has to our riding and across the prairies, but really across this country. To be able to stand up proudly and fight for what I know is a good policy, has been both humbling but very enjoyable. Obviously, over the first three months of Parliament that I've been here, I've had the privilege of making a number of speeches so far."

Branden LeslieBranden Leslie in House of Commons

He explains he's asked several questions in question period, and made many statements. 

"In the committee side of things, it was a highlight to be able to bring an agricultural, natural-resource, and frankly, a common-sense viewpoint to that committee, and our deliberations and studies, and really try to change some of the dynamics of the committee that is often focused entirely on how to reduce emissions," notes Leslie. "Grounding that, and I'd like to say, adding that, jobs matter. Our economies that support our rural communities matter. It's been a lot of fun in that sense, trying to speak up for our region and just our way of life."

Leslie adds it's been an honour for him and he's excited to enter 2024 now that his feet are somewhat wet to pick up where they left off at the end of last week, and continue to fight.

"It's also been an absolute pleasure when I'm back home in the riding, to tour around," says Leslie. "I've had the chance to go to so many small and medium-sized businesses, tour the operations, get to know and hear the concerns of small business owners. When I'm out in the community, folks come up and tell me what's on their mind."

He adds it's quite fun for him, to put it mildly. Leslie says frustration is also part of it due to so many that have a tough time and take issue with this government. 

"It's great to hear their concerns, but it's a feeling that trying to connect to those views that I hear in the grocery store, or the phone calls I get, and try to relay them in a parliamentary speech,  and see this come full-circle within just a few months, has been an honour, a humbling privilege." 

Here are some links to Leslie's issues of which he spoke at the House of Commons.

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