As we come to the end of another productive year, it is a good time to reflect on what we have achieved and to focus on what the next year holds for us.
We’ve accomplished many goals, and I’m proud to have brought in historic investments to help meet priorities outlined by local organizations and municipalities across Nickel Belt and Greater Sudbury.
Firstly, I am truly honoured to be the MP for Nickel Belt, representing all 93,000 residents. I’d like to thank everyone for your continued support. I have enjoyed meeting many of you at various community events in all parts of our vast riding.
I travelled many kilometers navigating from town to town to meet with residents, stakeholders, unions and community leaders and shared open dialog on important issues, future developments and local needs.
I also took part in some incredible annual and milestone events. I attended the Capreol Centennial celebrations, the 25th anniversary of Camp Soleil in Noelville, Feast on the Farm in West Nipissing, Valley East days, café music Rayside-Balfour just to name a few. It was a pleasure to share stories and get to know what matters most to you.
I am proud to have been born and raised in Nickel Belt. It boasts so many vibrant communities such as Garson, Markstay, Verner, Dowling, Azilda, Cartier, Val Caron, St-Charles, Warren, Coniston, River Valley, Alban, Lavigne, Field, Gogama, Wahnapitae First Nation, Mattagami First Nation, Atikameksheng Anichnawbec First Nation, Killarney and many more.
These communities hold some of the most dedicated passionate and selfless people I have ever had the privilege to meet. They are one of the key factors in what makes Nickel Belt a wonderful place to work, play and live.
This year, as chair of the National Liberal Rural Caucus, I dedicated myself to lead the way and to advocate for all residents of rural Canada. Rural communities like Northern Ontario face unique challenges. Your feedback plays an integral roll in allowing me to convey your message and ensure your voices, those of northern Ontario, are heard in Ottawa. In doing so, significant government investments in infrastructure, housing, education, innovation, accessibility and senior’s issues have positively impacted Nickel Belt and in 2019, I will continue to advocate for more so that our municipalities can prosper economically and socially.
As co-chair of the Indigenous Caucus, I’ve worked directly with First Nations communities to influence legislation across Canada. Building on this momentum, we hope to forge even better relationships in 2019 and engage with elders and youth to improve housing, education, treaties and land claims.
Canada’s foundation is built on immigration. We live in the best country in the world, one filled with opportunity and freedom. Immigration is an economic driver, it helps grow our economy, attracts investments and creates new jobs.
There regrettably have been many inaccuracies and falsehoods about immigration circulating. If I can ask one thing on this topic, it would be to encourage everyone to get the facts because intolerance, as we have seen in recent months, is futile and only causes division. We have seen a surge in newcomers choosing to call Nickel Belt home. I sincerely hope this new year holds equal opportunity for all Canadians, those naturally born and newly settled.
Community engagement is at the heart of everything I do, and I look forward to meeting many more of you in the upcoming year so that together, we can set new goals and priorities for our region. Thank you once again for entrusting me with the privilege of being your representative at the House of Commons in Ottawa.
I remain committed as ever to working hard for all residents of Nickel Belt and Greater Sudbury.
