Portage MLA Ian Wishart won't be running in next election

Portage la Prairie MLA Ian Wishart will not be running in the next election. He was first elected in the 2011 Manitoba provincial election. Wishart explains his decision and recounts his time serving the area.

"I served 12 years," says Wishart. "I believe this is a position that we occasionally need to have new people in. I'm getting up in age, as well, and another four-year term seems like a little too much of my future, without really knowing how long that might be. Certainly, I'm honoured to have served Portage constituents for 12 years, but I think it's time that they give consideration to having a different MLA."

He notes he's informed the party of his decision and says they'll be putting things together to have a nomination race in the not-too-distant future. 

Wishart shares some highlights from his time in office. 

"In this job, you don't say you accomplish anything by yourself," notes Wishart. "It's working with your partners, whether they're federal or provincial, or even individuals in the community and business. So, it's all about all of us together making progress. I think anyone from the Portage area knows that in the last 12 years, Portage and District have changed quite substantially. You can see some of the things that are visible, like the bridge at the west end and the construction that's going on there."

He adds the roadwork in downtown Portage has also been a part of his involvement.

"There are things like the rebuild out of Lake Manitoba following the flood of 2011, and the same for St. Ambroise," continues Wishart. "There's been lots of highway work and that sort of thing. Also, there are the businesses that have come to town and the ability to work with them. The province has been very open in attracting new businesses and we've had considerable success in the constituency with Roquette and Simplot, and enhancements in McCain and NutriPea expanding, as well. Of course, there's also Richardson Pioneer and the Can-Oat complex over there. We've seen a lot of big industries expand here. And with that, comes all of the small businesses. Then there are just too many to name. But, you know, Portage has certainly had a significant change in the last 12 years, and it was nice to see it happen and nice to be a small part of it."

He notes he hasn't made any specific commitments in plans following his retirement from politics. 

"I have had a couple of organizations reach out to me, and I'll give it consideration," adds Wishart. "I'm certainly not going to move away, seeing as this is my home. I'm proud to be from Portage and area, and I am planning on staying here."

Wishart says the next election must take place before October 3, 2023, noting it can be any time between now and that date, adding he expects a fall election.