Newsletter - Nov. 15, 2023
This summer, I announced the Refocusing Government Spending Initiative which proposes $15.4 billion in refocused spending over the next five years so that the our government can continue to make prudent investments in a long-term health care plan, an advanced low-carbon economy, and affordability measures that target the needs of Canadians.
Last Thursday, I tabled the Supplementary Estimates (B) 2023-2024, which underscores how taxpayer funds will be prudently allocated to address Canadians’ priorities and outline any proposed new government spending. So far, we have successfully reallocated $500 million in discretionary spending, including cutbacks in outsourcing and executive travel.
These savings will help us make important investments in key areas, like decarbonization and sustainable infrastructure so that Canada remains a world leader in the greening global economy.
As departments find ways to cut back $15.4 billion over the next five years, we will continue to enact programs and policies that make life more affordable for Canadians and deliver on our priorities, like the Energy Affordability Package.
Tim Hortons Limited Edition Holiday Smile Cookie:
This weekend, I joined Tim Hortons to launch the first-ever Holiday Smile Cookie in Oakville. This national campaign will support Kerr Street Mission and other Tim Hortons Foundation Camps to promote food security in our local community.
The Holiday Smile Cookie campaign only lasts from November 13 to November 17 so make sure to buy a cookie for a great cause this week!
Food Drive for Fare Share Food Bank:
From now until November 30th, my constituency office on 301 Robinson Street, will be hosting a food drive for Fare Share Food Bank. This local non profit supports food security for over 800 families in Oakville, and works with other non profits to grow, procure and deliver food to those in need in our communities.
The food drive will be inside my constituency office. However, during the Oakville Santa Claus Parade, we will bring the food drive to the road so that more constituents can donate non-perishable food items on the morning of November 18th.
Diwali & Bandi Chhor Divas on the Hill
Last week, I had the opportunity to host Diwali and Bandhi Chhor Divas on Parliament Hill. We celebrated with friends, colleagues, community members, and many more. This is a special time for communities in Oakville and across Canada to come together, share in each other’s traditions, and always let light triumph over darkness.
Diwali celebration at Oakville Town Hall
This month, I enjoyed the first-ever Diwali celebrations at Oakville town hall. It was wonderful to gather with the local Hindu community to celebrate hope, positivity, and the victory of knowledge. I look forward to celebrating at town hall for the years to come!
Remembrance Day with the Oakville Legion
On Remembrance Day, I stood with Canadian Armed Forces, first responders, cadets, Oakville residents, and veterans from the Royal Canadian Legion, Branch 114. We honoured the immense sacrifices that Canadians in service have been making to protect our freedom, peace and security for over 100 years.
Lest we forget.
Queen's Conference on Business and Governance
Youth are the future leaders of our government, and our country. Earlier this month, I visited my alma mater, Queen's University, to discuss the intersections of business and governance with students. I hope to see some of you running for office one day and staying involved!
The FWD50 Conference
The Government of Canada has an opportunity to be a world leader on digitization - and we’re working towards that. At the FWD50 conference, I shared our ambitious, yet tangible plans to make service delivery more efficient and modern across Canada.
The Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce
The Canadian Hindu Chamber of Commerce empowers entrepreneurs across the country. Last night over 500 stakeholders, small business owners, community members, and leaders like the Honourable Rechie Valdez, came together in Oakville to celebrate our Hindu-Canadian businesses we know and love.