Ryan Leef Maverick Watch

Despite the government’s general reluctance to convene an inquiry into missing and murdered aboriginal women, Conservative MP Ryan Leef says it’s time to call one.

Leef joined the Native Women’s Association of Canada in calling for a national inquiry into the missing and murdered aboriginal women. “This is not an aboriginal issue,” he said. “This is not a territorial issue. This is a national issue.”

Applause greeted his announcement.

“We heard the stats loud and clear. And they are alarming,” he said.

And asked about this he asserts a rather reasonable understanding of representative democracy.

“It boils down to my role and responsibility as Yukon’s member of parliament to make sure that what I see as a loud and clear voice on this issue gets communicated effectively,” he said in an interview with iPolitics…

“I certainly don’t see myself stepping out against the party, against party lines or against my government,” he said. “This isn’t an issue where we’re arguing with one another, picking a fight at all. This is my recognition, my understanding that I have to represent my constituents who put me in Ottawa, and I fully appreciate that my colleagues, some will have different perspectives.”