Portage la Prairie MLA Ian Wishart held a barbeque event to hear from Portagers on issues that matter to them while also giving back to the community through burgers, chips and drinks. 

Wishart talks about the purpose of the event.

"It's a chance to connect with our constituents here in Portage la Prairie. I really enjoy it. It's a great chance to visit with people, find out what issues they're interested in, and enjoy a burger and chips." 

Wishart adds that he felt the event was very blessed as it was a beautiful day on Thursday for a barbeque.

The MLA says that he has heard a wide range of issues from Portagers. 

"Healthcare is always one that we hear a lot about here, and the province is doing quite a bit these days to try and reduce the wait times that accumulated both before and during the COVID problem. We continue to work on that, and we're making progress."

He shares how important he believes it is to hear from the people he represents.

"Portage is a special constituency to me, and I'd say across the province, it is kind of a bellwether. You know how Portage is doing is sort of reminiscent of how the rest of the province is doing. We see all the construction around here in the west end of the city," says Wishart. "West of the city on the overpass that has been damaged has been a bit of an eyesore for way too long and is finally coming together. We're getting the work done there. A lot of progress is being made. We know that a lot of new businesses come to Portage, and it's a positive time."

Wishart notes that he believes the changes around Portage are the biggest he has seen in the city in his lifetime and believes it will only continue to grow.

June 23rd, 2022.June 23rd, 2022.