Senator Stratton Congratulates fellow Manitoban Don Plett on Senate Appointment

September 14, 2009

Ottawa, Ontario – As Parliament returns to session today, both Members of Parliament and Senators return to Ottawa.  This also brings the addition of new Senators to the Senate of Canada.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced in August the appointments of nine distinguished Canadians to serve in Canada’s Senate.
“Our government will continue to push for a more democratic, accountable and effective Senate,” said the Prime Minister.  “If Senate vacancies are to be filled, they should be filled with individuals who support the legislative agenda of our democratically-elected government, including Senate reform and real action against gang- and drug-related crime.”

The new Senators will all support the urgently-needed anti-crime legislation currently being held up in the Senate.  They have all pledged to support the Government in its efforts for Senate reform, including the legislation to limit Senate terms to eight years which was introduced in May 2009.

Senator Stratton, who serves as Chief Government Whip, welcomed the announcement of fellow Manitoban Don Plett. 

Mr. Plett has dedicated much of his life to community service in his home province of Manitoba.  As a Red River College alumnus, Mr. Plett served on the Board of Governors of the College.  An active sports enthusiast, he has coached and played hockey, basketball, and golf and was President of the Landmark Minor Hockey Association.  Mr. Plett also served as President of the Chamber of Commerce, Chair of the Village Council, and Chair of the local Utilities Board.  Throughout the years, he has maintained an active interest in politics, including serving as President of the Conservative Party of Canada. 

Senator Stratton congratulated the addition of Mr. Plett (who will be officially sworn in on Tuesday, September 15) and the other new Senators, indicating that he looked forward to returning to session to ensure the effective passage of legislation currently before the Senate.