Dan Albas and Greg Fergus, Members of Parliament, discuss the challenges of engaging with constituents during breaks, difficulties of travel and time management in Canada, the importance of empathy, recharging during the summer, and transitioning back to Ottawa for the Fall Sitting.
MPs have a significant workload during the summer break, engaging with constituents and attending events to fulfill their duties.
The summer break provides MPs with the opportunity to focus on their constituencies, engage with constituents personally, and work on other projects to better serve their constituents.
Deep dives
MPs have a busy schedule during the summer months
During the summer months, MPs are not in Ottawa but still have a lot of work to do. They engage in activities like mending fences in their constituencies, connecting with constituents, and attending events. The workload increases as they are expected to be present and engage with their constituents even during the summer break. MPs have to balance personal and professional responsibilities while making the most of the limited time available to them.
MPs have different schedules and priorities during the summer break
The daily life of an MP during the summer break varies depending on their individual priorities and responsibilities. Some MPs, especially those in urban areas, may attend multiple events in a day, while others focus on activities like door knocking and meeting constituents. The summer break allows MPs to plan their schedules and balance their personal and professional lives, making the most of the flexibility provided by the break.
MPs use the summer break for constituency work and personal engagements
The summer break provides the opportunity for MPs to focus on their constituencies and engage with constituents on a more personal level. They take part in activities like door knocking, attending barbecues, and listening to constituents' concerns. MPs also use this time to work on other projects, such as updating their websites, conducting research, and managing their staff. The break allows them to have more control over their schedule and make the most of their time at home.
MPs face different challenges and expectations during the summer break
MPs face unique challenges during the summer break, including balancing personal and professional responsibilities, dealing with travel logistics, and managing the expectations of constituents. Some MPs, especially those in rural areas, have to travel extensively to reach their constituents, while others benefit from their proximity to Parliament Hill. MPs also have to ensure they maintain good communication with their staff, spouse, and family, as the demands of the role can be exhausting. The summer break allows MPs to evaluate and adapt their approach to meet the needs of their constituents effectively.
When the cameras get switched off in the House of Commons, the work of an MP doesn’t stop — and that includes over the summer months when politics might be the furthest thing from anyone’s mind.
To give us an idea of what life is like for an MP away from Parliament Hill, I’m joined this week by two Members of Parliament: Dan Albas, Conservative MP for the B.C. riding of Central Okanagan–Similkameen–Nicola, and Greg Fergus, Liberal MP for the Quebec seat of Hull–Aylmer.
(Note that this episode was recorded a week ago, before wildfires hit the Kelowna region.)
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