MLA Cadieux joins BC government in the hot seat
MLA Stephanie Cadieux, MLA for Surrey-Panorma, is optimistic about BC’s future.
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Updated: August 28, 2009 4:10 PM
As the Legislature re-convenes for the Fall, Panorama’s recently elected MLA Stephanie Cadieux will get a first-hand look at parliament under pressure.
With health care high on the agenda, Cadieux, will be paying close attention.
After suffering a spinal cord injury in a car accident when she was 18, she has became a strong community advocate for programs encouraging people with physical disabilities to regain their independence and achieve their goals.
Cadieux is proof of what courage, tenacity and a positive attitude can achieve.
As former marketing and development director for the BC Paraplegic Association, past president of Realwheels Society and Ambassador for the Rick Hansen Man in Motion Foundation, her input should benefit the government when her chances arise.
In her experience, time has changed many pre-conceived ideas. With a mindset parked firmly beyond her wheelchair, she reports that, in her estimation, BC leads the pack in social respect and awareness of those with physical disabilities.
“I rarely have to advocate on for myself now. “ I notice people are more vocal on my behalf.”
“There are challenges in health care,” she agrees, while defending the need to remain within the budget.
Regarding seniors, she says the concern over the closure of temporary beds is off-set by an increase in permanent beds now available.
“I understand changes are stressful and distressing, but the core services remain intact, and non-profit organisations are doing a good job. Coming from the non-profit sector, I understand their position.”
On the controversial HST she says her newly opened office at 120–5455-152 Street, Surrey has received it’s fair share of “for” and “against” calls.
“I know lots of people are concerned,” she says, “but I feel it is the best thing in the long run. Businesses are backing it, and are pleased the PST is out.”
Cadieux, and her constituency assistant Sharon Crowson (formerly at MLA Kevin Falcon’s Cloverdale office), can be reached at 574-5662.
editor@cloverdalereporter.com
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