MP Dan Mazier Visits Neepawa, Discusses Key Issues

Dauphin-Swan River-Neepawa MP Dan Mazier visited Neepawa this week to recognize Ken and Christine Waddell, publishers of the Neepawa Banner & Press, Rivers Banner, and Virden Empire-Advance, for their contributions to the news industry—particularly local journalism.

While in town, Mazier sat down with the Banner & Press and NACTV to share his thoughts on key issues affecting both his constituency and the country.

Leadership Concerns in Ottawa

With the Liberal leadership race underway, Mazier is less concerned with who takes over and more troubled by what he sees as a leadership vacuum in a critical time for the country. “Canadians should be outraged,” he said, criticizing Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for continuing to make major decisions despite resigning as party leader. He and Banner & Press reporter Eoin Devereux likened it to “trying to have it both ways.”

The Impact of Tariffs on Local Industry

Mazier has been reaching out to local industries in his riding to assess the potential impact of tariffs, particularly in the agricultural sector. He noted that tariffs on grain could be devastating for the region, while Neepawa’s HyLife pork processing plant—one of the area’s largest exporters—could also face significant challenges. Beyond agriculture, businesses like RITZ Machine Parts in Dauphin, which exports industrial tubing to the United States, may also feel the effects.

Despite concerns, Mazier pointed out that Canada’s weakened dollar could provide a silver lining, making exports more competitive internationally. He remains confident that the market will adjust accordingly.

Affordability: The Top Concern for Canadians

Mazier, who has been spending significant time in the constituency, emphasized that affordability remains the number one issue on people’s minds. “I talk to everybody every day, and it is amazing—it has everyone concerned. It doesn’t matter where your income scale is,” he said. While he did not propose a specific solution, he was adamant that a federal election is necessary, saying, “We need an election,” and making it clear that he believes it should happen sooner rather than later.

Also on Today’s Show:

• Presentation to Ken & Christine Waddell – 2:14
• Project 320 Phase 1 Open House – 3:47
• Interview with Dan Mazier – 10:01
• Titans vs. Winkler (Jan. 21) Highlights – 20:48

Mazier’s visit underscored the pressing economic and political concerns facing both his riding and the nation. As he continues to advocate for local industries and affordability, he remains firm in his belief that change is needed at the federal level—and fast.