The first year on Parliament Hill was a hectic one for Kenora MP Eric Melillo.
The rookie Conservative representative says he had a lot on his plate this past year.
Melillo was appointed to Erin O’Toole’s shadow cabinet as Northern Affairs critic for the official opposition, and he’s also on the Natural Resources and Indigenous Affairs committees.
He says 2020 definitely had its challenges but it also included a number of accomplishments.
“Structurally with how Parliament works has been quite interesting to manage but like everyone else we’ve been adapting and doing our best to make it as normal as possible.”
Melillo notes his Conservative party was able to adapt and keep the government accountable during the pandemic.
Melillo says one major accomplishment was expanding broadband internet to the remote north.
“Starlink has started operations in Pikangikum and I was very happy to work with the minister responsible on that file to help push for changes to CRTC regulations and allow Starlink into the market in Canada.”
The First Nation community is the first in Canada to receive the satellite broadband service.
Melillo believes this will lead to tremendous opportunities for our region and all across Canada’s north.
He stresses another highlight was securing mercury treatment centres for Grassy Narrows and Wabaseemoong First Nations.
