Ottawa

Vic Toews responds to Pat Martin

A statement from the Public Safety Minister.

“Rather than commending Youth for Christ for the exceptional work they do both in Manitoba and around the world, NDP MP Pat Martin (Winnipeg-Centre) launched into a rambling tirade against the organization through Twitter last night.

For a sitting Member of Parliament to attack an organization with blatant mistruths is both irresponsible and disgraceful. The new facility that Youth for Christ operates from better serves the Winnipeg region and allows it to expand its reach and capacity. It is beyond comprehension why he would attack an organization for its religious affiliations while claiming that it funnels money out of Canada and has low enrollment in the Winnipeg area. These claims are patently false. The funding for Youth for Christ was allocated through Infrastructure Canada as part of Canada’s Economic Action Plan and was meant to allow for the necessary upgrades that would better serve the community. Youth for Christ helps countless disadvantaged youths and works to curb gang activity and the violent life it leads to.

In the midst of his outburst, I understand that Pat Martin was upset about being left off the guest list for another announcement I made earlier this week that would see new residential accommodations built for newcomers.

It is news to me that he is suddenly interested in the concerns of his riding. I’ve dealt with many opposition MPs in Winnipeg, including former MP Judy Wasylycia-Leis and current Winnipeg-North MP Kevin Lamoureux, both of whom have contacted my office previously and have spoken with me regarding funding for their ridings – in my seven years as the Senior Minister for Manitoba, Mr. Martin has not made the same efforts.

Given that the bulk of the money was allocated by the provincial NDP Government, I have to wonder why they also chose not to invite him. Clearly even his own party doesn’t want him at events.”

Looking for more?

Get the Best of Maclean's sent straight to your inbox. Sign up for news, commentary and analysis.
  • By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.