Jim Lemaigre says he is looking forward to the challenges that come with representing a large constituency. (Submitted photo/ Jim Lemaigre)

By Nigel Maxwell

Election results

Former Sask. RCMP officer looks forward to new venture as MLA

Feb 16, 2022 | 2:02 PM

The newly elected Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) for the Athabasca constituency says his phone has been ringing off the hook all day.

Jim Lemaigre, who has a background in policing, won Tuesday’s byelection by more than 200 votes. After all 37 ballot boxes were counted, Lemaigre had 1,146 votes and the NDP’s Georgina Jolibois received 900.

“It was exciting. My message to the constituents this entire campaign was to put a voice on the side of government and I think enough people heard that message,” he said.

Lemaigre’s victory marks the first time the Sask. Party has been elected in Athabasca.

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Prior to running for the Federal NDP in last fall’s election, Buckley Belanger had for over 20 years represented the large constituency as an NDP MLA. Lemaigre attributed the change to the fact the byelection was held at a time when people knew who the government was.

“One elder put it quite nicely. He said you know we’ve been on the outside of government for so long, so like why would we put ourselves back there again,” Lemaigre said.

Over the course of his campaign, which involved travelling hundreds of kilometres, Lemaigre noted there were a number of common concerns he heard including the state of Highway 155, as well as the need for long term care for elders; enhanced supports for addictions and mental health; job opportunities; and opportunities for youth.

Lemaigre also noted his background in policing and as a program manager for the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety, taught him that his strength as a leader will only be as strong as the partnerships he builds with the various community leaders.

“I’m quite excited about that and so collectively we can address some of these issues and have fair representation for all communities,” he said.

In addition to thanking the constituents who came out to vote, Lemaigre also expressed gratitude to his team and his family for their support and guidance during the election campaign.

larongeNOW was unable to reach Jolibois about the byelection, but Jolibois did post a statement on her personal Facebook page.

“Like Kevin Costner said the sun will rise again. Thank you for many who supported me and still believe in hope,” she said.

Jolibois now returns to her duties as elected Mayor for Northern Village of La Loche.

” I am proud of my record as the longest serving mayor of La Loche. Again, thank you to many who believe in my style of leadership,” she said.

In a press release issued Wednesday, Leader Ryan Meili thanked her and her team for a hard fought campaign.

“We made strong connections and spoke with thousands of northerners about the kind of change they need to see in their communities,” he stated. “These issues will drive our advocacy moving forward. The Saskatchewan NDP will continue to stand with northerners and fight for the investments and services northerners deserve.”

Meili also congratulated Lemaigre on his win and wanted to him to know how important his new position will be.

“Whether it’s lack of cell coverage, lack of available health services, or crumbling roads, northerners need a strong advocate in the legislature to bring their voice to Regina, and that will require him to be a dissenting voice within his own government,” Meili said.

– With files from Derek Cornet

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nigel.maxwell@pattisonmedia.com

On Twitter: @nigelmaxwell