By Doug Eyolfson
Thanksgiving is a good time to slow down and think about the people and the communities we are grateful for. This October, as we recognize Seniors’ and Elders’ Month in Manitoba, it is also a good opportunity to recognize the older adults who have spent decades helping shape the communities we call home.
When I think about Winnipeg West, I think about the older adults who have spent decades helping make our community what it is today. They have raised families, built businesses, volunteered, supported their neighbours and contributed in countless ways to the neighbourhoods we call home.
I hear about those experiences when I meet with people across the riding. I also hear about some of the challenges that come with getting older, whether that is the cost of groceries and gas, getting to appointments, staying active in the community or simply keeping up with the day-to-day expenses of life.
Affordability continues to be a concern for many people. Our government recently tabled the Canadian Fuel Affordability Act, which would extend the temporary suspension of the federal fuel excise tax on gasoline and diesel until January 31, 2027.
Under the legislation, the tax would then be set at half of its regular rate for February and March 2027.
For someone who relies on their vehicle to get to a medical appointment, pick up groceries or visit family, the cost of filling up the tank can add up quickly. There are other supports that are important as well, including the Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit, the Canadian Dental Plan and the Canada Disability Benefit.
At the same time, we have to think about the communities we are building for the years ahead.
Our government recently introduced the Building Canada Strong Act, which includes measures to help move major infrastructure projects forward more efficiently, strengthen transportation and trade corridors and address bottlenecks that can make it harder to move people and goods. The legislation also maintains environmental standards and respects Indigenous rights.
These are big national issues, but they have a local impact. Good infrastructure affects how people get around, how businesses operate and how connected our communities are.
I also want to make sure that older adults in Winnipeg West have a direct opportunity to tell me what matters to them.
This fall, we will be welcoming the 2026–2027 cohort of our Older Adults Advisory Council for constituents aged 65 and over. The council meets monthly, according to the Member’s schedule, and provides an opportunity for members to discuss current events and share their perspectives on issues affecting older adults in our community.
If you are 65 or older and would like to be part of the council, I encourage you to apply. Résumés can be sent to doug.eyolfson@parl.gc.ca by October 15, 2026.
I am looking forward to meeting with members of the council, hearing about their experiences and learning more about the issues that matter to them.
Having those conversations directly with people in our community is an important part of representing Winnipeg West.
When I look around our community, I see a lot to be thankful for. I see families supporting each other, volunteers giving their time, caregivers looking after loved ones and community organizations helping people every day.
And I am particularly grateful for the older adults who have helped build Winnipeg West and who continue to be such an important part of our community.
I hope everyone across Winnipeg West has a safe and happy Thanksgiving. I hope you have a chance to slow down, enjoy a good meal and spend some time with the people who matter most to you.
Happy Thanksgiving.
Doug Eyolfson is the Liberal MP for Winnipeg West.