2024: A Breakthrough Year Amidst Challenges, Says Hajdu
“We’ve truly tackled some monumental challenges head-on, and the Canadian dental care plan stands as a shining example of our commitment.”
THUNDER BAY — In a candid conversation, Member of Parliament and cabinet minister Patty Hajdu reflected on the rollercoaster that has been 2024 for Canada’s government.
“Despite the turbulence, we’ve accomplished so much this year,” she emphasized during a year-end interview with Dougall Media.
She pointed to the “political gamesmanship” in play, where filibusters in the House and conservative resistance have attempted to derail progress. Yet, the Liberal voice representing Thunder Bay-Superior North and serving as minister of Indigenous services stands firm. “We’re getting hard things done, regardless.”
This conversation took place just before the seismic announcement of a cabinet shake-up with Chrystia Freeland’s resignation on December 16, a moment that caught many off guard.
When asked about Freeland’s departure, Hajdu responded with empathy, acknowledging, “Those decisions are never easy. It’s a deeply personal choice, and I respect her for it.”
In her discussion just prior to the resignation, Hajdu highlighted the significant strides the governing Liberals have made. “The Canadian dental care plan is a remarkable initiative that’s generating real results for our community.”
Thanks to this federal program launched earlier this year, thousands in Thunder Bay-Superior North are experiencing access to dental care for the first time in decades, a change that Hajdu proudly champions.
She noted the slow but steady increase in participation, stating, “About 85% of dentists across the nation are now onboard with the Canadian dental care plan.”
Further good news? “We’ve witnessed tangible progress in lowering inflation rates and consecutive interest rate cuts in 2024,” she shared enthusiastically. The government has even introduced a GST holiday on select goods to ease the financial burden on Canadians.
“It’s been a year of productivity, even in the face of the Conservative opposition’s persistent roadblocks,” Hajdu remarked, pointing out that while the Liberals seek collaboration, the Conservative leader seems to prefer chaos. “Pierre Poilievre talks about tax cuts, yet when the opportunity presented itself, he voted against them.”
The Conservative party has also made headlines for obstructing vital legislation like the First Nations Clean Water Act and turning a blind eye to climate change realities, as Hajdu highlighted.
Despite the persistent challenges posed by the Official Opposition, she remains optimistic. “We’re continuously working with the New Democratic Party and Bloc Quebecois in various ways, while the Conservatives keep throwing non-confidence motions our way.”
“Every day, we engage in this work,” she said, emphasizing the importance of finding common ground among MPs and parties dedicated to serving Canadians. “Our role as parliamentarians is to deliver results, not to obstruct the progress that citizens rightfully expect.”
As for international relations, Hajdu underscored the significance of collaboration with the United States, regardless of who occupies the Oval Office. “The U.S. is our friend and neighbor,” she stated. “We share common interests, and it’s essential that Canada’s priorities are respected while we navigate these relationships.”
