Newly elected Gary Vidal sets up his new office in Meadow Lake. (Nicole Reis/meadowlakeNOW Staff)

By Nicole Reis

New MP

Vidal looking to strengthen Saskatchewan’s voice in Ottawa

Nov 13, 2019 | 3:10 PM

Newly elected MP Gary Vidal is settling into his new digs nicely.

The former mayor of Meadow Lake is entering federal politics at a historical time and is approaching his role with solidarity of the nation in mind.

The federal political landscape is one where Vidal hopes he can instill some unity among provinces while ensuring that Saskatchewan is heard in Ottawa. This comes after Andrew Sheer and Premier Scott Moe met briefly with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau yesterday.

That meeting lasted for nearly 30 minutes where Conservative leaders raised issues of western alienation, the Carbon Tax and equalization payments for negotiation with the Prime Minister.

“My history as business person, a hockey coach and a politician, has been more of a consensus builder. I think my history somewhat draws people together, I’m all about ‘team’ and I get that this is a different world. But my history is one of building relationships and I hope to take that to Ottawa,” Vidal said.

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Vidal said he understands the “very real” sentiments of pro-western separation groups though has an alternative response to divisive politics.

“If I have a role of bringing that voice for Saskatchewan balancing that with having our voice heard and being respected and still vote on a consensus that makes our country stronger and more unified, that’s a role that I’d like to play,” Vidal added.

Vidal said his perspective is shifting from one where he once observed federal politics to one where he is determined to act as a strong voice for Saskatchewan.

Vidal will be sworn into caucus in Ottawa on Nov. 15.

Editor’s note: This story was corrected to make clear Vidal’s caucus swearing-in takes place Nov.15, not Nov.20 as originally reported.

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nicole.reis@jpbg.ca

@nicolereis7722