Skip to content

LETTERS: Vexation with representation

Editor: Not all MPs are created equally! The logical extension of that statement is therefore: Not all representation is equal.

Editor:

Not all MPs are created equally!

The logical extension of that statement is therefore: Not all representation is equal.

I own a company. The business started in Victoria and then we built a second factory in Delta. Accordingly, I have homes in Victoria and in White Rock.

In my capacity as a business owner, I have had the good fortune to travel to other parts of the world and meet with wonderful people.

During my travels, I met a person who was engaged in the fabrication and installation of equipment that I utilize in my factory. Accordingly, I purchased equipment from this gentleman and had him install it for me in Canada. Under short-term worker visas, this gentleman visited Canada in 2004, 2006 and 2009.

In 2014, on a visit to his home country, I suggested the next time he should visit Canada for leisure purposes, I would be pleased to host him. He agreed and decided to also bring his wife, who had never been to Canada.

They applied for the visitors’ visas but were denied by the Canadian government.

We found this very perplexing considering that he was a successful businessman; he had substantial assets in his home country and he had been to Canada on three previous occasions and returned home without incident.

My lawyer suggested I speak with my local member of Parliament.

I called my White Rock MP in the hope that I could meet with him to discuss this matter.

I did not get past the receptionist!

I was told my MP was too busy and that I should tell my issue to her or one of the staffers. It looked as though a meeting was not in the cards!

I told the receptionist my story. The receptionist advised that there was nothing they could do and that they would not interfere with bureaucratic matters.

I retorted that I wasn’t looking for interference but guidance. The receptionist responded that there was nothing they could do.

I was disappointed and angered by this turn of events. I eventually forgot about the matter, until my mother advised me that considering I have a home in Victoria, I should speak with the local Saanich MP.

Always listen to your mother!

I called the MP and the response was one first of empathy. Then one of her staffers said she would call the appropriate authorities and seek some further information on the denied application.

This MP then provided a letter of support that should my potential guest apply again she would be there to assist.

My friend is now in the process of applying again for a visa – wish us luck!

You be the judge of the equality of representation you receive from your elected officials.

Jag Gillan, White Rock