Alberni Valley Multiplex- Skating Party

Mood Disorders Society of Canada Meeting

It was a privilege to meet with representatives from Mood Disorders Society of Canada recently in Ottawa to discuss the important role of community organizations and peer support workers in helping Canadians with mental illnesses. They spoke about how the chronic underfunding of Canada’s mental health sector limits the ability of non-profit organizations to expand services and meet growing demand. We agreed that investing in community mental health organizations could reduce pressures on the healthcare system and help Canadians who are struggling. Finally, we talked about my Private Member’s Bill, C-414, which is pushing for parity between physical and mental health in our universal, public healthcare system. Canada is facing a mental health crisis and it’s clear we need systemic change so everyone can access care when they need it most.

Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Director

 

Thank you to Comox Valley Chamber of Commerce Executive Director for inviting me to the Chamber's roundtable discussion with members last month. Issues raised during this meeting included: affordable housing, the impacts of cuts to foreign students, transitional issues in the aquaculture industry and business insurance. I very mush appreciate connecting with members at this annual event and receiving invaluable feedback about issues of importance to the business community in the Comox valley. 

Mayor Minions and Josie Osborne- Roundtable in Port Alberni

Thanks to Mayor Minions and Josie Osborne for including me in Port Alberni’s roundtable with the Honourable Ravi Parmar, Chief Watts, Chief Lauder and industry leaders this month. We know the industry is struggling and the impacts on workers is devastating. It was important to hear from all about the changes that are required at all levels of government. I promised to continue the fight in Ottawa for biomass tax incentives to help protect Canadian jobs in this sector including 350 good jobs at the Catalyst paper mill.