MLA Justin Wright’s year in review and look ahead at 2025

Posted on January 16, 2025 by Ryan Dahlman

By Nerissa McNaughton
Southern Alberta Newspapers

MLA Justin Wright represents the Cypress-Medicine Hat riding. As he reviews 2024, he considers the significant advancements in mental health for Southern Albertans to be an important accomplishment. 

Wright says, “Over the past year, we’ve focused on mental health initiatives. Following the abrupt closure of the southeast Alberta Canadian mental health branch, we quickly organized a summit, bringing together mental health organizations and community members. From there, we identified gaps in programming—both real and perceived—and worked collaboratively to address them. Out of all the programs reviewed, only two services were found missing, which highlights the progress we’ve made.”

He continues, “One of our local organizations submitted a proposal to the Ministry of Mental Health and Addiction to offer a missing service here in Medicine Hat, while Canadian Mental Health Alberta agreed to cover the other. We shifted focus during our next summit, moving from identifying gaps left by the southeast Alberta branch to understanding available community resources and breaking down silos between organizations.”

A surprising revelation came up during this shift in focus.

“How many people knew Medicine Hat Family Service (www.mhfamilyservice.com) offers a sliding scale where counselling can be as low as $8 per session? This highlighted the importance of raising community awareness rather than just funding. By understanding existing programs and services, we can properly identify gaps and address needs.”

In thinking back on other challenges, Wright reflected, “One of the biggest challenges in 2024 has been addressing the interconnected issues of mental health, housing, and economic pressures. While initiatives like the mental health summits help with awareness and resources, they only tackle part of the problem. Mental health, in particular, has only recently received the attention it deserves after years of stigma that urged people to ‘suck it up.’ Tackling these challenges requires a comprehensive approach that acknowledges the complexities of each issue.”

In 2024, Wright was pleased to be a part of the CSG West conference.

“Building strong cross-border relationships is key to economic growth. At the recent CSG West conference, I connected with representatives from 13 U.S. states, all with mixed perspectives on trade issues like tariffs and border challenges. My focus has been on fostering collaborations through organizations like CSG West and the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region to drive investment into our region. One major opportunity is the Ports to Plains Corridor, which will now stretch from Texas to Edmonton. This positions Medicine Hat and the surrounding area as Alberta’s next logistical powerhouse, promising significant economic benefits for the province.”

A priority for Wright last year was job creation – and he is pleased with the progress.

“Alberta saw a record 46,000 full-time jobs created. This isn’t just about finances—it’s about peace of mind, quality of life, and mental wellness. It’s about building prosperity for Albertans, ensuring individuals and families thrive alongside our economic growth.”

Another achievement was the work done for veterans.

“Some of my proudest moments come from my role as Alberta’s military liaison. Hosting the first veteran-focused mental health summit at the legislature was a key step in acknowledging their needs, despite veterans traditionally being seen as a federal responsibility. For us, they are Albertans first. Establishing Canadian Armed Forces Day as an annual event highlighted their incredible contributions, as did the strong turnout for this year’s Remembrance Day.”

“A major focus has been addressing veteran homelessness. By learning from best practices across the province and partnering with organizations like Homes for Heroes and Veterans House, we’ve made significant progress. Currently, we have emergency beds available for all known homeless veterans in their communities, with permanent or semi-permanent housing options also accessible. This ensures that every veteran wanting housing has a solution.”

“Additionally, working with groups like the Newly Institute has advanced PTSD treatments, resulting in remarkable successes. It’s an honour to advocate for those who have given so much, ensuring they receive the support they need as they transition back into civilian life.”

As he looks to the year ahead, he is filled with, and shares, hope.

“I’m incredibly hopeful for 2025. The foundation we’ve built in 2024 is set to flourish. We’ll see job creation and major progress on infrastructure projects like Highway 3 and Highway 41, with significant advancements in design and planning. Advocacy for water management, roadway upgrades, and educational improvements remains a priority, bringing tangible benefits to the region. I’m also thrilled to see continued grants supporting local organizations, helping strengthen our community. Southeast Alberta is poised to showcase why it is the province’s strongest corner, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”