By Jim Wastasecoot
Northern transportation for health care and making time for communities across a sprawling constituency are among the concerns Jennifer Flett says she is working on as MLA for The Pas–Kameesak.
In an interview with Terra Indigena, Flett described her first experiences in the legislative chamber, her efforts to help constituents and the planning required to serve communities spread across a large area.
Flett said constituents in the northern part of the riding have raised concerns about transportation for health care. She identified the issue as one she is examining, although she did not outline specific changes or a timeline.
“People have been citing concerns about how to improve the northern transportation system for health,” she said.
During constituency week, Flett said she returned home, met with departments and community groups, and travelled to another part of the riding. She is keeping track of her visits to help ensure communities receive attention across the constituency.
“I’m keeping track of where I’m going so that I try to hit as many constituency areas as I can,” she said.
That work requires considerable travel and coordination. Flett pointed to the distances between communities such as Wanless, Cormorant and Moose Lake and the southern reaches of the constituency around Matheson Island.
“So it takes a lot of planning and figuring out where I’m going to be,” she said.
Flett also reflected on the significance of wearing traditional regalia when she was brought before the Speaker at the beginning of her time in the chamber. With Truth and Reconciliation Day approaching the following day, she wanted her presence to express both her Indigenous identity and her commitment to representing the whole constituency.
“I also wanted to let people know that an Indigenous person is sitting here, and I am capable of representing you,” she said.
Her first member’s statement honoured residential school survivor Edwin Jebb and his lifelong work in education.
Since then, Flett said, she has asked her first question in the House and begun participating in debate. She described learning the procedures of the legislature while also attending committee hearings, meeting with lobby groups and responding to constituents seeking help on a range of issues.
“It’s been a big learning curve, and I absolutely love it,” she said.
Flett said she also made a point of returning to the constituency around Truth and Reconciliation Day. She spoke about being near Peguis and attending the powwow at Fisher River as part of her efforts to spend time in different communities.
As she settles into the role, Flett said she is developing a clearer understanding of whom to approach when constituents bring forward problems.
“I’m starting to get a better handle on everybody’s roles and who I go and talk to for this situation,” she said. “So it’s coming together.”