Parliament is prorogued and John Nater is back in his Perth-Wellington riding.
The Conservative MP said he has more time to meet with local residents, business owners and others to discuss their concerns.
Without parliament, though, Nater said, legislation can’t be passed and there are no committee meetings.
It comes at a time when 25 per cent tariffs have been suggested by president Donald Trump, and that is dominating political conversations.
“There is the threat of tariffs south of the border. Border measures that need to be passed and we can’t respond to that because parliament isn’t sitting.”
Nater said prorogation has impacted how Canada reacts to challenges.
“Also presents a real challenge because without parliament there is a lot that we can’t do in response to some of the challenges locally and internationally.”
Nater said “we are hugely connected with our American friends south of the border” and the case needs to be put forward that Canada is a reliable and trusted trading partner.
Nater said chances are there will be a confidence vote a couple of days after parliament resumes, leading to a federal election. Although polls are favourable towards the Conservatives, he doesn’t take anything for granted.
“It really does feel like people are ready for an election. They are ready to make their voices heard, to make their viewpoints heard, on what they would want to see from the country moving forward.”
Parliament is set to resume on March 24.
