MLA: CHRISTINE MELNICK - RIEL

Lord, we lift up to you our MLA Chris Melnick.  We thank you for her influence as she represents the people of Manitoba.  Lord, I pray that you would give Chris strength and wisdom as she gives attention to improving the lives of those she comes in contact with.  Lord, we ask that Chris and her family always  experience your peace and provision.

Born in Winnipeg, Melnick received a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Manitoba and subsequently received a master's degree in library and information science from Dalhousie University in Nova Scotia. She has worked for a variety of businesses in the private and public sectors, with experience such fields as in education, advertising and offshore oil. Prior to entering provincial politics, she was employed as a librarian and researcher at the Canada/Manitoba Business Service Centre, and was a School Trustee for the Louis Riel School Division of Winnipeg. She was also active in women's health, human rights, literacy and environmental issues, and sat on the province's Council on Post-Secondary Education.

Melnick was elected to the Manitoba legislature in 2003 in the south Winnipeg riding of Riel. Following the election, she was appointed Minister of Family Services and Housing, with responsibility for Persons With Disabilities.

Melnick was re-elected in the 2007 provincial election and again in 2011. In September 2007, she was appointed Minister of Water Stewardship. In January 2012, Melnick was appointed Minister of Immigration and Multiculturalism.