Newsletter - Feb. 17, 2023

For generations, our public health care system has been part of what it meant to be Canadian. But for far too many, our system is not living up to its promise. Between long wait times, a shortage of family doctors, reduced hours at clinics and hospitals, and a lack of mental health care, Canadians are rightfully worried about their access to health care. 

That's why we are providing nearly $200 billion in additional funding over the next ten years to our provincial partners to improve health care in Oakville and across Canada. 

We know that money alone is not the answer. We need to make structural improvements to our public health care to remove barriers and deliver results for our community. That's why we will sign agreements with provinces and territories to;

• Make sure Canadians have access to family doctors and nurse practitioners

• Support the people who power our healthcare system and reduce backlogs

• Help people get good mental health care and substance use support

• And ensure your health information is available to you and your health providers – so you get the best quality care.

Additionally, provinces and territories will need to provide transparent information so Canadians can be sure that every new dollar goes towards tangible results we can see and feel, like reduced wait times.  

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we showed that we can work together to tackle big challenges. A resilient, universal public health care system is at the core of our values. We will always stand up to protect, defend, and enhance it. Through these new investments, we are strengthening our system so that we can continue to rely on it in the decades to come.

Ukraine Defense Contact Group meeting and the NATO Defence Ministers’ Meeting
This week, I had a series of productive meetings with my Defence Minister counterparts in Brussels. There, I reaffirmed Canada’s unwavering support to Ukraine and our commitment to continue providing meaningful contributions to the Alliance.

These meetings were an important opportunity for Allies and partners to coordinate military assistance to address Ukraine’s current and longer-term defence priorities. Our donation of four Leopard 2 main battle tanks has now been delivered to Europe, and a Canadian Armed Forces team of trainers is in place training Ukrainian tank crews in Poland.

We will continue to work closely with our NATO Allies to keep our people safe. Our resolve has had an important impact on Ukraine’s ability to defend its independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity, and we will continue to demonstrate our strength and resilience in defence of the international rules that keep us all safe.

Black Excellence Gala
Earlier this month, I had the pleasure of attending Black Mentorship Inc.'s magnificent Black Excellence Gala, Oakville is enriched by its powerful Black history. I am so grateful for all that Black Mentorship Inc. is accomplishing in preparing the next generation of Canadian Black leaders right here in Oakville. No matter the month of the year, it is our responsibility to celebrate the immeasurable contributions of Black Canadians, which have all too often been overlooked.

Trip to Washington D.C.

The United States is Canada’s closest ally, partner, and friend. Last week, I visited Washington D.C. with Minister François-Philippe Champagne to meet with key business, industrial and political leaders to advance the Canada-U.S. economic and national security partnership.

During our three-day visit, we met with members of Congress on both sides of the aisle, as well as senior executives at major U.S. defence and aerospace companies. We discussed opportunities for increased investments in Canada and additional partnerships with the Canadian industrial base. Reinforcing and further integrating North American defence industrial supply chains creates well-paying jobs, growth, and resilience on both sides of the border.

While in Washington, I also met with U.S. Secretary of Defense, Lloyd Austin, to discuss our critical priorities, including aid to Ukraine, NORAD modernization, and other pressing global security issues.

Our unparalleled alliance ensures the safety and prosperity of both our peoples – and at this pivotal time for global security, our collaboration is more important than ever.

Meeting with Shaarei-Beth El Congregation
I had the pleasure of joining Shaarei-Beth El Congregation to welcome Shabbat. I recognized members for their exemplary contributions to Oakville, and reiterated that we’ll continue to fight antisemitism in all forms. I thank Rabbi Wise for inviting me.

Relief for Türkiye and Syria
The devastating earthquakes in Türkiye and Syria last week have left countless in need. To support the international response to this emergency, Canada is providing $10 million in humanitarian assistance. This contribution will help support emergency medical services and provide shelter, food and other essential items. We are deeply saddened by the loss of life and destruction, and we will continue to look at ways we can support those affected during these difficult times.

Black History Month
On a cold December day in 1995, a historic motion was adopted in the House of Commons to recognize February as Black History Month. This motion made by the Hon. Jean Augustine, the first Black woman elected to parliament and appointed to cabinet, has given way to nearly 30 years of federal recognition of this important occasion.

This year’s theme “Ours to Tell” is an invitation to tell their stories and share their histories, their successes, their sacrifices, and their triumphs.  Oakville has a rich and powerful Black history. For many, Canada was the shining light at the end of the underground railroad. It represented a beacon of hope and the start of a new life for those fleeing the atrocities south of the border.

As we reflect on Canada’s Black history, we need to remember the promise that our diversity holds and remain true to our multicultural values. No matter the month of the year, it is our responsibility to celebrate the immeasurable contributions of Black Canadians, which have all too often been overlooked.

Building Canada's Largest Battery Storage Project.
On February 10th, we annouced that we will be supporting the Oneida Energy storage project with an investment of $50 million. The Oneida Energy storage project represents a significant Indigenous-led development that will create good jobs for Canadians while reducing emissions.

This project is another milestone in our plans to build the reliable and affordable clean electricity grid that will help to power the future of Ontario’s economy.

Coldest Night of the Year
On February 25th, my Youth Council will be participating in a walk in support of Front-Line Outreach's Coldest Night of the Year. 
 
Front Line Outreach is an Oakville based organization that is raising money for many great causes including: helping the homeless and those at risk of becoming homeless, More than a Meal, and Camp Dakota. 
 
If you would like to learn more - visit their website here:  http://walk.w-ith.us/MPAnitaAnandsYouthCouncil