Newsletter - Jan. 11, 2024
Happy New Year, Oakville! I hope the start of this new year finds you all in good health and high spirits. As we welcome 2024, I can't help but look back at all the incredible achievements and milestones that made 2023 a memorable year for us all.
Last year, we introduced billions of dollars in new financing to build more homes, began to rollout the Canada Dental Care Plan, and stood up for Canadians when the Conservatives voted against key measures like the Canada Child Benefit, the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement and the Rapid Housing Initiative which is projected to build 12,000 new affordable homes for Canadians.
Notably, I tabled the Supplementary Estimates (B) which presents the first update on the Refocusing Government Spending Initiative to effectively deliver on Canadians' priorities. As committed in Budget 2023, $500 million in travel and professional services has been refocused and removed from the budgets of 68 departments. Additional information about the Initiative's refocusing will be presented in the 2024–25 Main Estimates and tabled in Parliament next month. The Estimates also outlined spending on important priorities, including $500 million in military aid to Ukraine, over $8 billion for settlements and compensation for Indigenous groups, $430 million to help developing countries address climate change, and $212 million for the Interim Housing Assistance Program.
As we approach budget season and continue to move forward on these priorities, I want to hear from you! Pre-budget consultations are now open - these discussions play a vital role in informing a resilient economy that works for all Canadians. Link here: Let's Talk Budget 2024 | Let’s Talk Budget 2024- Canada.ca (letstalkbudget24.ca).
I am looking forward to continuing to work together to make Canada a safe, supportive and inclusive place for everyone to call home.
Meeting with the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce:
Fun fact: The Hamilton Chamber of Commerce has been empowering local entrepreneurs for over 175 years, and is the 3rd oldest Chamber in Canada! Together, we are working to reduce red tape, support small businesses across Canada and advance regulatory modernization and so much more!
Visit to Gastronomous:
Earlier this week, I enjoyed my visit to Oakville's own Gastronomous to learn more about its innovation in automated cooking processes. This dedicated team is advancing the goals of sustainability and automation while addressing labour shortages. Can’t wait to see your next steps!
Meeting with CEO of Cogeco Connexion:
Cogeco connects millions of Canadians via broadband and is a leading employer in Oakville and Halton. Thank you President Frédéric Perron and Senior Director, Tim Caddigan for our discussion on the importance of service delivery in Halton and a competitive communications sector.
Visit to Amica Bronte Harbour:
Happy New Year to all the seniors at Amica Bronte Harbour! I always enjoy connecting with residents on important topics, like fiscal responsibility, healthcare and key social supports like the Canada Dental Care Plan. Thanks to James Montague for making this visit a success!
Mayor Burton's New Year's Levee:
Delighted to attend the Town of Oakville's New Year's Levee hosted by Mayor Rob Burton and our dedicated town councillors. It was a pleasure to join residents for the incredible musical performances by WeSing Canada & other local groups. Looking forward to 2024!
Meeting with Code for Canada:
It was a pleasure to meet with Code for Canada to discuss the importance of modernizing our systems to better deliver services for Canadians. Digital transformation is at the core of our work at the Treasury Board and I look forward to continuing to work with Code for Canada to advance our shared priorities.