Monthly Reflections

February Monthly Reflections

Winter skies continue to prevail. The days are getting much longer and we realize that the season is definitely moving forward. This winter makes me want to celebrate the brightness of spring and summer to the fullest.


○BC Legislative Assembly

The problem of housing supply issues, health care, cost of living, and many other issues in the region have been reported daily. The BC Legislature began its session on February 20, and the debate began in the Legislature. I was invited to attend the opening ceremony at the Parliament Buildings in Victoria, where the "Throne Speech" was read by Lieutenant Governor Austin. I was able to experience the unique Canadian tradition as well as a sense of urgency as the general election approached. The Hon. Kahlon, Minister of　Housing, whom I visited just before the opening ceremony, also spoke of his commitment to the issue with a sense of urgency.

○Business Community

I continue to meet with local business leaders, and in February I met with the CEOs of BC Hydro and T&T, respectively. Both of these companies are well known to many of you and are closely connected to our daily lives here in the region. I learned about the energy supply situation, logistics with Asia, and other issues, and also exchanged views about the possibility of cooperation with Japan. I also met again with Hon. Bailey, Minister of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, and Mr. Mihlar, Deputy Minister, Ministry of Jobs, Economic Development and Innovation, who are responsible for the economic administration of BC. I hope to make use of these exchanges in the future.

○Events for the Japanese Canadian community and Japanese residents in BC

I had the opportunity to attend a lecture at the Ohfukai and a speech presentation at the Vancouver Japanese Language School (held by JALTA) this month. At the lecture, I enjoyed the rich world of knowledge that unfolded during the lecture and question-and-answer session, and I was impressed by the dedication of the students at the speech presentation. Once again, I would like to express my respect for the efforts of those around students who support their learning.

○Sports

In February, I received a visit from players and others of the Sakura Sevens, the Japanese national team that participated in the Vancouver 7’s women's rugby tournament. I was impressed by the sincere expressions on their faces as they spoke about the appeal of rugby and their aspirations for the future. I send my heartfelt encouragement to these young players, who are full of self-confidence as pioneers. I also met with soccer player Yohei Takaoka, a goalkeeper for Vancouver Whitecaps FC, and asked him about his life as a player in Vancouver. I would like to extend my heartfelt support to these athletes who bring dreams to children and many other fans.