Newsletter

Dear residents, 

I hope you were able to enjoy the many Canada Day celebrations. I had the privilege of participating in several events in the riding, including Beacon Hill, Pineview, Lindenlea and the Eastview Royal Canadian Legion.  There was also a very special citizenship ceremony held at the Vanier sugar shack.  Many thanks to the Vanier Museopark for hosting the event, where we proudly welcomed 25 new Canadians to the National Capital Region. A great way to celebrate their first Canada Day as Canadian citizens. 

This week, I had the privilege of taking part in two ceremonies presented by His Excellency Kanji Yamanouchi, the Japanese ambassador, at his official residence.  The relationship between Canada and Japan is positive and growing steadily.  Here in the National Capital Region, the Japanese Community Association of Ottawa is very active in promoting heritage, socio-cultural and educational activities.

The first ceremony honoured three institutions offering Japanese language courses in the National Capital Region: Ottawa Japanese Language School, University of Ottawa and Carleton University.  The second was to recognize Ms. Sachiko Okuda, who was awarded the Order of the Rising Sun for her great contributions and dedication to the Ottawa Japanese Community Association, education, cultural exchange and newcomer support, which has had a profound impact on many people here in our community. 

The evening of July 6 marks the beginning of the Islamic New Year. I extend my warmest wishes to the Muslim community of Ottawa-Vanier. This period of reflection and renewal marks the beginning of Muharram, the first month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It's a time to honour the rich cultural heritage and contributions of our Muslim neighbors. May this New Year bring peace, prosperity and joy to all who observe. 

Burundi Day will be taking place of the 6th of July. I would like to extend my warmest wishes to the Burundian community of Ottawa-Vanier. Your culture and traditions greatly enrich the diversity of our community. May this special day be filled with joy, unity and pride as you celebrate your heritage and the contributions you make to our community. Happy Burundi Day! There will be a celebration at Stratchona Park, find out more below! 

Have a wonderful weekend!

The Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, launched a public online consultation to help inform the development of the Youth Mental Health Fund.  

The online consultation will run June 24 to July 31, 2024 and invites people to share their perspectives and expertise on the development of the YMHF. The consultation is open to all Canadians, incuding young people and their families, academics and other orders of government, Indigenous organizations, and community organizations that deliver mental health services to youth

You can find the link to this forum here.

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Service after Service: The National Veterans Employment Strategy

The Government of Canada is committed to improving employment opportunities for veterans, promoting their well-being and easing their transition to life after service. Every year, thousands of members of the Canadian Armed Forces leave the military and seek employment in the private and public sectors, representing a potential workforce of 259,605 people between the ages of 25 and 64. 

The National Employment Strategy for Veterans aims to develop the unique skills acquired during military service, and to secure meaningful employment upon release. It guides governments, the private sector and NGOs to increase employment opportunities, and adapts to the changing needs of veterans. In addition, it addresses the specific challenges of female, 2ELGBTQI+ and Aboriginal veterans, providing platforms to better understand and meet their needs. ACC also works with public and private employers to raise awareness and promote veterans' valuable skills, ensuring a successful transition to civilian life.

Service after Service: The National Veterans Employment Strategy.
 

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Nominations for His Majesty King Charles III's Coronation Medal

Nominations are now open for the Coronation Medal of His Majesty King Charles III! As Member of Parliament for Ottawa-Vanier, I am delighted to participate as a nominating partner with 20 medals awarded to deserving recipients from our community.

Eligible candidates must meet the following national criteria:

• Have made a significant contribution to the country, a province, a territory, a region or a community, or have accomplished something abroad that brings credit to Canada, and
• Be alive on 6 May 2023, the date of Her Majesty's Coronation. The medal may be awarded posthumously, provided the nominee was alive on that date

Members of the community are invited to nominate outstanding candidates who have made a difference in the community for the King Charles III Coronation Medals. Nominations will be accepted until July 31, 2024.

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