Last week we saw two MLA’s retiring from politics who have served their Constituents well. Early last week, Manitoba Health Minister, Tim Sale, announced that he would not seek re-election. While my views differ from our Health Minister, I can say that we both share the same vision – to improve the quality of life of Manitobans and the quality of health care in Manitoba. All MLA’s share this view, regardless of their political party – only the approach is different! I thank Tim Sale for his dedicated service to Manitoba.

Last Wednesday, Jack Penner announced that he would not seek re-election in the next general election. Jack has been an MLA for 18 years in Emerson Constituency, having first been elected to the Legislature in 1988. He has served the Province as Minister of Natural Resources and Minister of Rural Development in the 1990’s. He created the Department of Rural Development at the request of then Premier, Gary Filmon, because of his commitment to improve the quality of life in rural Manitoba. Jack’s commitment to rural Manitobans and to farmers was evident when he led the charge to ensure the support for the Beef Industry when the US border was closed to live Canadian cattle. Jack attended every Beef Barbecue in the Province for more than 2 years to show support for the cattle industry. Jack could not have done it without the support of his family. His wife Dora is looking forward to spending more time with Jack after his retirement from politics. Jack has four children and six grandchildren.

Having worked with both Tim Sale and Jack Penner in the Legislature, it will be sad to see them leave politics. I hope that those who replace them will be as committed to Manitoba and their Constituents as they have.