2nd MPP Placements: Alex & MPP Andrew Dowie

This Spring, I had the honour of being placed with MPP Andrew Dowie, MPP for Windsor-Tecumseh and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Environment, Conservation, and Parks (MECP). I also had the pleasure of working closely with MPP Dowie’s Executive Assistant, Brianna Robinson.  

I had the opportunity to take on all kinds of tasks in MPP Dowie’s office, such as writing member statements and speeches. I also attended important briefings about government bills that related to his parliamentary assistant portfolio with the MECP. I even got to help with the submission of his Private Members Bill (PMB) and began research for his next PMB. I also staffed MPP Dowie at countless events, including the 2025 Ontario Engineering Projects Awards.  

A highlight from my placement was taking the train to Windsor during constituency week. There, I got to meet MPP Dowie’s constituency staff and participate in stakeholder meetings. I even had the opportunity to meet the mayors of Tecumseh and Windsor, Gary McNamara and Drew Dilkens. It was a unique time to visit Windsor—a border town whose economy and residents are entwined with the United States. I was able to learn how local leaders like MPP Dowie are trying to overcome the challenges caused by the trade war.    

After spending the previous session with an opposition MPP, it was fascinating working with a government member. While both government and opposition members act as provincial representatives for their constituencies, their goals and priorities at Queen’s Park differ in important ways. I saw MPP Dowie advocate for the unique needs of his community while lending his support to the government by advocating for legislation and fulfilling the duties of his parliamentary assistantship.  

I would like to extend my sincerest thanks to MPP Dowie and Brianna for welcoming me into their office and trusting me to help with their important work. I would also like to thank MPP Dowie’s constituency staff for hosting me during my visit, along with the friendly staff at the MECP. I had a fantastic time in MPP Dowie’s office and will always be grateful for the experience.