MHAs, at least those on the opposition side, are making a new year’s resolution for a more productive time in the House.

NDP Hopes to Lead by Example when it Comes to Decorum

The provincial New Democrats have the most seats they’ve held in the House of Assembly in the last number of years with three, and this time they’re all rookies – which the party leader believes helps.

Party Leader Alison Coffin is joined in the House by Jim Dinn and Jordan Brown. Coffin says it’s been huge, and although they’re all brand new, they all come from different backgrounds, with diverse skills and perspectives.

With that, Coffin says they haven’t been tainted by a lot of the other things happening surrounding decorum. Coffin says they have been effected by it, but it’s been a real bonus for them to be separated from a lot of the harassment and negatives coming out of the House.

One way to improve decorum, is by improving their own behavior, says Coffin.

The caucus agrees on being on their best behavior and setting a good example. So, Coffin says whenever issues arise, they take the high road and tackle the issue and not the person, while getting to the heart of the matter.

Coffin says by setting a good example, they’ll help change the tone and tenor in the House. That, along with the passing of the legislature specific harassment free workplace policy, Coffin hopes decorum will improve, if not, she says it will be very long year.

Paul Lane Looks for a More Collaborative Approach to Governing

MHA Paul Lane is hoping for more collaboration from government in 2020.

The Independent member of the house says a real effort to work together has been lacking in the House of Assembly.

MHA Paul Lane says true collaboration to him means members of all parties and independents, sitting around and talking to each other about the issues, throwing out suggestions, everyone having access to the information and data that government would have.

MHA Lane says if meaningful contribution is to be made from all members, there has to be a more cooperative approach in the upcoming new year.