Palestinian Youth Movement in Port Alberni

Today, I was pleased to join an "intergenerational community in care, connection and collective action” which came together in Port Alberni to respond to the call from the Palestinian Youth Movement for a global day of action. In Parliament, I stand with my NDP colleagues in their continued call for Canada to work for peace for Palestinians and Israelis. The death toll in Gaza has surpassed 30,000 with 70% of the victims women and children. The Hamas terrorist attacks on October 7 killed almost 1,200 people and over 100 hostages remain in Hamas captivity.

Millions of residents of Gaza are displaced and at risk of starvation, death and disease and the U.N. reports over 70% of civilian infrastructure including homes, hospitals, schools, water and sanitation facilities have been destroyed or severely damaged by military attacks. Israelis are still at risk of attacks by Iran-backed terrorist groups including Hamas and Hezbollah. The NDP continues to call for: an immediate ceasefire and the release of all hostages; suspension of all trade in military goods and technology with Israel and increased efforts to stop the illegal trade in arms, including to Hamas. Among other key measures, we also call for unimpeded humanitarian access to Gaza. The decades-long occupation of Palestinian territories must end and work must progress towards a two-state solution. Go here to see the full NDP motion calling on Canada to act to end the horror in Gaza: https://bit.ly/4bYtrvs

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Alberni Valley Multiplex- Skating Party

Great fun at the Alberni Valley Multiplex on Thursday as skaters of all ages took to the ice to glide the light fantastic! Thanks to the gang who travelled all the way from Ahousaht First Nation for the skating party and members of the Alberni Valley Rescue Squad who demonstrated their human pyramid building skills. Thanks especially to the Multiplex management and staff for creating a winter wonderland at the rink. It was truly magical and provided a chance to forget the worries of the world for a couple of hours.

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.