Statement from Larry Maguire, Member of Parliament for Brandon-Souris:
The responsibility of representing the people of Brandon-Souris as the Member of Parliament for the past 11 years, as well as the 14 years prior to that as the Member of the Legislative Assembly for Arthur-Virden, apart from my partner, family, and my 33-year farming career, has been the most fulfilling highlight of my life.
However, today I am announcing that I will not seek re-election in Brandon-Souris. This decision is based on being recently informed of a concerning health condition that may prevent me from participating in some or all of the campaign and could impede my ability to give my full attention in the future.
As I reflect on my career as the Member of Parliament, particularly during our time in government, I am proud of the accomplishments we achieved for Westman.
We secured federal funding to fully refurbish the Brandon airport, a project that benefits everyone in our region. We also built critical flood protection infrastructure in numerous communities, ensuring that homes and businesses are no longer at risk.
I will always remember the federal funding that helped construct the new 18th Street Bridge, also known as the Daly Overpass in Brandon. With the addition of a fourth lane, traffic congestion is a thing of the past, making it safer and more efficient for all who rely on it.
And to this day, I am thrilled to receive phone calls and emails from people across the country who tell me how my Private Members' Bill, C-208, has saved them thousands of dollars when transferring their farms or businesses to their children or grandchildren.
I want to thank every person, including the board of directors of the local Conservative Electoral District Association in Brandon-Souris, for their support during the sometimes-trying years. Westman is undoubtedly one of the best regions of Canada.
I also wish to extend my gratitude to my staff, who have been incredibly helpful over the past 25 years to those who reached out to our office by phone, email, or in person with their concerns. I have always carefully considered the energy and effort that these responsibilities require, and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with my staff on your behalf in every corner of our great constituency.
As I step away, I feel incredibly blessed and offer my sincere blessings to all.