On Friday, the Federal NDP said that it has removed an MP from her shadow critic roles after it was revealed that she had left the country amidst the strict public health guidelines to not travel during the ongoing corona virus pandemic.
A statement released by the NDP stated that Niki Ashton, who represents the Manitoba riding of Churchill- Keewatinook Aski, had reportedly traveled to Greece to see an ill family member.
The statement read that even though they are sympathetic towards Ms. Ashton’s situation and understands her to need to be with her family, but millions of Canadians are following the public health guidelines, even when it was made impossible for them to visit sick or aging relatives.
The Canadians rightfully expect their elected representatives to lead by setting an example. While this no family vacation, but Ms. Ashton shall be removed from her shadow critic roles.
Ashton is a member of the Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure of the Standing Committee on the Official Languages as well as the Standing Committee on the Official Languages.
The NDP has further stated that her roles would be assigned to other caucus members in the coming few days.
The removal of Ashton from her role comes amidst the news of several other Canadian politicians who have left the country amidst the pandemic.
It was earlier of Friday when Alberta’s Municipal Affairs Minister named Tracy Allard was found to have vaccinated in Hawaii despite the recommendations from the government to stay at home.
On Thursday, Ontario Finance Minister Rod Philips reportedly resigned from his cabinet position after it was revealed that he was taking a personal trip to the Caribbean during the corona virus pandemic.
