MLAs were back at work Monday as a brief fall sitting of the Manitoba Legislature got underway. It was the first time politicians returned to the floor following the September 10 provincial election that saw a second-straight majority

Josh Guenter. File photo.government for the Progressive Conservatives. 

A throne speech kicked off the two-week sitting where Premier Brian Pallister re-committed to fixing the provinces finances, repairing the services, and rebuilding the economy in the second term. 

Josh Guenter, P.C. MLA for the new Borderland constituency, says his party's primary focus in the coming days will be passing the provincial budget brought forward this past spring. 

"The nuts and bolts of legislative machinery needs to take place, so that's what we're focused on for the next two weeks...and delivering on the commitments and the promises that we've made to Manitobans," said Guenter.

According to a government news release, those commitments also include reducing red tape and encouraging innovation, completing Manitoba's implementation of the New West Trade Agreement, addressing addictions and public safety, and investing in front-line health, education and social services. 

Being a rookie MLA, it was Guenter's first day working on the floor of the Manitoba Legislature since being elected. 

"If I can say, I was just awestruck. It's a beautiful place," he said. "Walking in this morning and reflecting on the privilege of serving here on behalf of the constituents of Borderland...and reflecting on the fact that they sent me here, it's very special to be here."

Early in his political career, Guenter aims to build relationships with various stakeholders throughout the Borderland constituency and to move the region forward.