Grande Prairie-Mackenzie Member of Parliament Chris Warkentin will be taking on more responsibility this fall. He will take on the role of Deputy House Leader the official opposition which he says is an exciting promotion.
“It really is a good feeling to know you do have the confidence of the leader. Obviously, I have enjoyed working with Rona Ambrose and I look forward to serving our caucus but more importantly, serve all Canadians in this role.”
Warkentin has accepted the job to hold the Liberal government accountable which he explains means being the first one awake in Ottawa. He will be assisting the leader and the conservatives in question period as well as working with the Shadow Cabinet in favour of Canadians.
“I have to get up before anybody else and make sure we set out the plan for the day. I make sure we have a message for the leader and that all of the questions will be asked in the house of commons, as well as speeches will be cohesive and coherent.”
Part of his new job includes keeping tabs on what the government is doing with responses and keeping them in check.
Warkentin has served in Ottawa for 10 years with experience as Chair of the Standing Committee for Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Works and the Official Critic for Agriculture and Agri-food.