The weather is starting to slowly warm up, the sun is setting later, spring is on its way!

Yesterday, Prime Minister Mark Carney and his new cabinet were sworn in. A new chapter begins, and the new government is focused on what matters most to Canadians: creating more well-paying jobs, protecting workers and their families, and making Canada safer. I will keep you updated on the actions this new team will take.
 
As you know, the American president frequently shifts positions on tariffs, creating significant uncertainty for Canadian jobs and industries. Despite these reversals, the Canadian government's priority, as I wrote earlier, remains clear: protecting Canadians, jobs, and industries. 
As of March 12, the United States has imposed 25% tariffs on Canadian steel and aluminum. In response, Canada has implemented reciprocal 25% tariffs on several billion dollars’ worth of U.S. imports. These reciprocal tariffs kicked in on March 13^th.
Protecting Canadian jobs and industries remains this government’s top priority.

Click here to learn more.

March 12 marked the 11th anniversary of the end of Canada’s mission in Afghanistan. We pay tribute to the 158 Canadian soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice. In the aftermath of the tragic events of September 11, Canada answered the call to defend our allies and strengthen global security. Their courage and dedication will forever remain in our memories.

I also want to pay special tribute to Marcie Ila Lane and her daughter Olivia, whose resilience and strength remind us of the ultimate sacrifice made by Master Corporal Scott Francis Vernelli, whose legacy continues to inspire us. Thank you both for taking part in this ceremony in remembrance of our veterans.

We will always be grateful to our veterans, their families, and all those who have served. We will remember them.

 

Starting April 21, the hiring period for Canada Summer Jobs 2025 will begin, offering more than 70,000 jobs to young people aged 15 to 30 across the country—including right here in Ottawa-Vanier.

Last year, 122 organizations in our riding participated in the program, creating 366 jobs for youth, with a total investment of $1.6 million. These summer jobs play a vital role in skill development, networking, and preparing young people for the future.

I strongly encourage you to share this information with the young people in your community!

To learn more about the 2025 edition of Canada Summer Jobs, click here!

 Canada Summer Jobs: 70,000 new job opportunities for youth on the way this summer
 

Finally, during this Irish Heritage Month, I would like to wish a happy St. Patrick’s Day to all those celebrating this weekend. May this celebration be filled with joy and camaraderie!

Thank you for your attention, and I encourage you to stay informed about important developments in our community and beyond.

Nominations are now open for the 2025 VOscars Volunteer Awards!  Each year, Volunteer Ottawa gives you a chance to pay tribute to people and organizations making a difference in our community.  Give the gift of recognition by submitting a nomination in one of 7 award categories by May 30, 2025.  And please share the submission with your nominee to let them know how much their generosity is noticed and appreciated. It’s a very special way to say, “Thank You” and celebrate the difference they make in the lives of others.  
Three finalists will be selected in each category and invited to the VOscars Volunteer Awards Gala on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at the Preston Event Centre. 
Awards for Individual Volunteers

• Outstanding Youth Volunteer Award
• Outstanding Older Adult Volunteer Award
• Leadership in Skilled Volunteering Award
• Mayor’s Award for Volunteer Spirit

Awards for Organizations

• Leadership in Corporate Volunteerism Award
• Pathways to Possibilities Award
• Outstanding Volunteer Program Award

LAUNCH: Call for Proposals for Preventing and Addressing Family Violence

The Honourable Ya’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health announced more than $17.5 million over the next five years, for 13 projects that focus on family and gender-based violence prevention across Canada. We are also launching a call for proposals to support new projects aimed at preventing and addressing child maltreatment.

Click here to learn more.

Canada launches its first global Africa Strategy: A partnership for shared prosperity and security 

 Canada is launching its very first Africa Strategy: A Partnership for Shared Prosperity and Security. This strategy marks a new chapter in Canada's relationship with the African continent, focusing on economic partnerships, promoting peace and security, as well as sustainable and inclusive development.

By working closely with African partners, diaspora communities, and Canadian businesses, this strategy will strengthen trade exchanges, support human rights, and tackle global challenges such as climate change. Together, we are building a more prosperous and secure future for both Canadians and Africans.

Click here to learn more. 

Tax Clinic

With tax season approaching, we invite you to participate in the free tax clinics that our constituency office will be organizing to help you prepare your tax returns and become eligible for government benefits mentioned in this schedule.

We are happy to guide you through the process and answer any questions you may have.

The tax clinics will take place on the following Saturdays, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, at 233 Montreal Road:

• March 15 (Full)
• March 29 (Full)
• April 12
• April 26

For more information or to confirm your attendance, please contact the constituency office at [email protected] or by calling (613) 998-1860.

Plan your Summer Staycation: NCC Weekend Bikedays begin May 10
 

The National Capital Commission is pleased to announce the return of NCC Weekend Bikedays for the 2025 season. From May 10 to October 13, the Kichi Zībī Mīkan, the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, and a section of the Queen Elizabeth Driveway will be reserved for active use.

The NCC Weekend Bikedays schedule has been adjusted this year to accommodate ongoing construction projects and address feedback received from communities and users.

NCC Weekend Bikedays will take place on Saturdays, Sundays, and holiday Mondays:

• On the Queen Elizabeth Driveway, from Somerset Street to Fifth Avenue, from 8 am to 8 pm
• On the Kichi Zībī Mīkan, from 8 am to 12pm
• On the Sir George-Étienne Cartier Parkway, between St-Joseph and the Aviation Parkway from 8 am to 4 pm

Building on last year’s success, the NCC Summer Zone pilot project returns in new ways. Residents and visitors will be able to enjoy a vibrant waterfront experience at Dows Lake, including a new recreational dock. Additional seating will also be available along the Rideau canal, giving the public more places to relax and enjoy the view. Follow our social media channels for details, coming soon.

Vanier 5Km Run and Walk!

Join Ward 12 Councillor Stéphanie Plante for a fun-filled morning of running, music, and maple syrup at Museopark's Sugar Festival.

Sunday, March 30th, 2025

Richelieu Vanier Community Centre

• Check in: 9:00 am

• Race begins: 9:30 am

• Tickets $25/person

• $45 w/ meal ticket

• Discounted tickets for children

All funds raised from this event will go back to Museopark! Runners will participate in a 5KM race through the beautiful Beechwood Cemetery!

We are also looking for volunteers to help assist runners with staying on the path and ensuring the safety of all participants! All volunteers will receive a free breakfast as a thank you! More details can be found on the event website. All volunteers are asked to register on Eventbrite and will be contacted with more information.

For any questions please email [email protected]

Click here to learn more!  

Sugar festival

Celebrate 40 Years of Sweet Traditions!

Get your maple fix and dive into the festive atmosphere of the 40th Vanier Sugar Festival, presented by Desjardins Ontario Credit Union! After last year’s resounding success, we’re back for a week of celebrations, traditions, and delicious treats at the only urban sugar shack in Canada. A unique experience showcasing traditional maple syrup production and the rich heritage of our neighbourhood – proudly celebrated for 40 years!

Save the date and join us for a sweet and festive week!

Click here to learn more! 
 

Take Action! Register Your Project for the Spring #CapitalCleanUp Campaign!

Starting March 14, you can register your project for the #CapitalCleanUp Spring Campaign! Organize a clean-up project with your family, friends, neighbors, or colleagues, and help us keep Ottawa clean and green.

Get cleaning and register your project before May 2 at ottawa.ca/cleanup.

Don't miss this opportunity to help make our city even more beautiful and enjoyable for everyone!