2nd MPP Placement: Geneva and MPP John Fraser

For my opposition placement, I had the pleasure of working with MPP John Fraser of Ottawa South. MPP Fraser serves as the Interim Leader of the Ontario Liberal Party and the critic for Labour and Education. One of the most valuable aspects of working with MPP Fraser was observing his participation in the Chamber during Question Period, which provided insight into his ability to articulate positions clearly, respond effectively under pressure, and engage in the fast-paced exchange of debate.

During my placement, I supported Question Period preparation and participated in media scrum briefings, which provided invaluable insight into the activities involved in working in the office of the Interim Leader. Further, I had the opportunity to write a Private Members’ Bill (PMB) that was tabled before the House. I also conducted policy research for future PMBs, engaged in stakeholder meetings, and had the unique opportunity to gain insight into the various roles of the Liberal Caucus Services Bureau.

My visit to Ottawa South was my first time in the constituency and provided a valuable introduction to the community. The experience offered meaningful insight into the local priorities and concerns of residents, as well as the range of services and support delivered through the constituency office. I appreciated the opportunity to meet the team and gain an understanding of their day-to-day work in responding to constituent needs. A particular highlight was attending the Education Town Hall at a local community centre, which brought together community members and offered meaningful insights into the key considerations shaping local education discussions. Overall, the experience deepened my understanding of how constituency offices operate at the local level and strengthened my awareness of the issues affecting residents in Ottawa South.

I would like to express my gratitude to MPP Fraser for your mentorship and for welcoming me to your team. Thank you for providing an incredibly valuable experience, and it was a pleasure learning from you. I would also like to extend a big thank you to Veronika, Gabby, and the entire team for making my placement a meaningful experience. Thank you for supporting OLIP!