Even though the economy has slowed considerably, this is a time of hope and renewal and I hope we will maintain that optimism which comes so naturally at this time of year.

The two highest priorities of the government at this time of massive job losses must be to stimulate the economy so that new jobs are created and to provide timely assistance to those who have now become unemployed. My job in Opposition is to keep the government focused on these two priorities and I can assure you that I take this responsibility very seriously.

But I also have another important task to do. As your Member of Parliament, I am proud to be the Liberal Party’s critic for Industry, Science and Technology. This portfolio plays a key role in the creation of jobs and I am particularly focused on the jobs of tomorrow, those based on knowledge. Last week I will be visiting four provinces to listen to the ideas of leading Canadians on how to make us more competitive in the face of a rapidly changing world.

On a different note, I am proud to say that the Westmount — Ville-Marie Riding Association has a newly elected Board of Directors and Executive Committee and that the Riding Office is up to speed and running smoothly.

I also have an office in Ottawa and would be glad to meet residents there when Parliament is sitting. Typically, the House sits for three or four weeks followed by a week of recess when Members return to work in their ridings. Even when Parliament is sitting, I usually manage one day per week in my riding office (typically on Friday).

I am also honoured to be the Chair of the Quebec Liberal Caucus which is comprised of all Quebec MPs and Senators and which meets weekly. In addition, I am the Chair of the all-party Aerospace caucus, which began meeting recently and which focuses on one of Canada’s strongest industrial sectors, the aerospace industry.

Notwithstanding the current challenges, my job is extremely rewarding and I’m very proud to represent the residents of the great riding of Westmount — Ville-Marie.

• Marc Garneau is the Liberal MP for Westmount — Ville-Marie.