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Dear residents,
I am deeply honoured to continue my work in the House of Commons thanks to the renewed trust of the people of Ottawa–Vanier–Gloucester. Serving our community for a fourth mandate is the greatest honour of my life. I remain fully committed to representing all residents, building more affordable housing, revitalizing our downtown—especially the ByWard Market—strengthening the public service, and ensuring that everyone has access to dental care, contraception, and diabetes medications, for those who are eligible and in need.
Yesterday, May 8th, I had the honour of participating in the commemorative ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe and the Liberation of the Netherlands, held at the National War Memorial. Alongside Second World War veterans such as Betty Bell, Roland Lalonde, and Lou Lane, General Jennie Carignan, Senator Rebecca Patterson, young cadets, and Her Excellency Margriet Vonno, Ambassador of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, I laid a wreath in tribute to those who served bravely for peace and freedom. We will forever be grateful for their sacrifices.
 
Although the House of Commons has not yet resumed and the official swearing-in has not taken place, I have already resumed work in the riding. My team and I continue to support you, respond to your concerns, and prepare for the upcoming parliamentary session by advancing key community priorities.
The riding of Ottawa–Vanier–Gloucester is also expanding, with the addition of Blackburn Hamlet within its boundaries. I extend a warm welcome to all new residents and would like to sincerely thank Marie-France Lalonde, former MP, for her exemplary service to the community.
Please don’t hesitate to contact my office with any questions or if you need support. We are here for you—whether it’s for federal services, participating in local events, or discussing issues in the riding.
I would also like to take a moment to extend my heartfelt congratulations to His Holiness Pope Leo XIV. I join Catholics around the world in offering my prayers as he begins his pontificate. His message of compassion, unity, and peace deeply resonates in these times. May the Church continue to be a light and a voice for the most vulnerable in our society. May God bless him.
On Friday, May 9, I joined Mayor Mark Sutcliffe and municipal councillor Stéphanie Plante for the official opening of the brand new Richcraft Hope Centre at 216 Murray Street. This supportive housing centre will provide 24/7 care for 48 residents experiencing homelessness, along with a 16-hour-per-day drop-in service for those in need. It will offer essential resources such as financial literacy, housing support, legal assistance, help obtaining identification, and more—removing barriers to long-term, stable housing. Over 650 meals will also be served daily to the most vulnerable members of our community.
Thanks to the Rapid Housing Initiative, our government supported this project with a $13.3M investment. Together with the City of Ottawa and organizations like Shepherds of Good Hope, we’re building a more compassionate and inclusive Ottawa.
 
As the nice weather begins to settle in, so too does the start of the Canadian Tulip Festival. Taking place from May 9 to 19, this iconic celebration fills our capital with thousands of blooming flowers and, this year, holds special significance as we mark the 80th anniversary of V-Day—commemorating the end of the Second World War and the enduring friendship between Canada and the Netherlands. The festival is a tribute to peace, history, and the beauty of spring. I know many of you are already out enjoying the sunshine with family, exploring local markets, community festivals, and the beautiful green spaces of Ottawa–Vanier–Gloucester. I hope to see you at one of these events!
Thank you again for your trust. I look forward to continuing to build a fairer, greener, and more inclusive future for all in Ottawa–Vanier–Gloucester.
Before I close, I want to take a moment to honour all the mothers, grandmothers, and maternal figures who enrich our lives. As Mother's Day approaches this Sunday, May 11, let us take time to show them our love and appreciation.
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© 2026 Mona Fortier
