Newly-elected Abbotsford-Mission MLA Reann Gasper was named to the B.C. Conservatives’ shadow cabinet last week.
Gasper is the new shadow minister for child care, children, and youth with support needs.
“This responsibility will allow me to advocate for families and children with diverse needs and I am very passionate about families thriving in our province. The care of our future generations is of utmost importance where family-centred policies take precedence over red tape,” Gasper said in a statement to the Mission Record on Wednesday (Nov. 27).
The Abbotsford-Mission MLA will be monitoring and examining the actions of the ministry regarding child care and support services, including reviewing policies, programs and spending.
Gasper says she is also responsible for engaging with families, advocacy groups, and Indigenous communities to bring their concerns to the legislature and advocating for families who are navigating caregiving challenges.
Among the issues Gasper highlighted as critical in child care were services for neurodiverse children, waitlists for services, a lack of mental health resources, and unaddressed family crises.
Meanwhile, Maple Ridge East MLA Lawrence Mok was also named to the B.C. Conservative shadow cabinet with the skills development and international credentials portfolio.
"Training for the job market is very important in today’s competitive economy, and many immigrants know how hard it is to have one’s credentials recognized in Canada," Mok said.
"Furthermore, we should streamline the hiring process of foreign nationals who are trained as doctors, specialists, nurses, healthcare providers, engineers and architects from overseas approved or certified institutions, so that they can start working sooner and contribute to the economic prosperity of Canada."
On Nov. 18, Premier David Eby unveiled his cabinet that will run the government. Two days later, Conservative Leader John Rustad unveiled his opposition shadow cabinet, with all but two of his MLAs given portfolios.
-With files from Neil Corbett
