Banff-Airdrie Member of Parliament (MP) Blake Richards has been named to the Conservative Opposition’s shadow cabinet, as critic for tourism and deputy critic for democratic institutions. The announcement was made Nov. 20.
“As Tourism Critic, I bring my experience representing the Bow Valley, and in it some of the most iconic tourist destinations in Canada. For the last seven years, both as MP and as Chair of the Parliamentary Tourism Caucus, I have gained a unique perspective on how to support a thriving Canadian tourism industry,” said Richards.
Regular engagement with tourism industry representatives, not-for-profit groups, different levels of government, businesses, and others across the constituency will provide Richards the input he needs to fulfill these critic roles.
“I will continue to engage with people from across our riding in order to represent their interests in Ottawa and to hold the government to account on issues that matter to Canadians. In my role on democratic institutions, I look forward to a robust debate regarding any proposed changes to the electoral system and Senate to ensure they reflect the best interests of Canadians” he added.
In addition to serving as Chair of the Parliamentary Tourism Caucus, Richards chaired the House of Commons Standing Committee on Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development and served as a member of the Procedure and House Affairs committee in his prior two terms as governing Conservative MP.
