The House of Commons has decided, out of an abundance of caution, to adjourn until Monday, April 20.
Souris-Moose Mountain MP Dr. Robert Kitchen noted that the job of a Member of Parliament requires frequent travel all over the country, meeting with individuals and groups from all over the world, as well as working in close proximity to hundreds of other Members of Parliament, Senators, and staff.
All parties worked together and came to an agreement to adjourn however, the House does have the ability to recall itself and sit before that date if necessary.
In the meantime, the Government will have the ability to spend money to respond to pressing needs.
“We have negotiated several strong accountability measures to ensure proper oversight of the Government’s spending throughout this period. All spending will be referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts when the House resumes sitting, and all committees can be recalled during the adjournment for further scrutiny if needed,” said MP Kitchen.
“In addition, the Auditor General will conduct an audit of the Governments expenditures under this special provision. To be clear, the Gove ridingrnment of Canada will still be operating and fulfilling its responsibilities.”
For the Souris-Moose Mountain, Kitchen’s office will continue to offer assistance to constituents as usual. However, he asks that constituents call or email his office rather than coming in.
Dr. Kitchen’s office can be reached by phone at (306) 634-3000 or by email at [email protected]for the constituency office, or at Ottawa, at [email protected]
