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Hello Davenport Friends and Neighbours,
Last night, I attended the 100th Anniversary celebration of General Mercer Junior Public School. General Malcolm Smith Mercer was the highest-ranking Canadian officer to have died in battle. During WWI in Belgium, in advance of what was to be a major battle, he was inspecting the front lines when he and his forces came under enemy fire. He was at first wounded and hours later, under heavy fire, he was killed.
It was very moving to see the many alumni who came out to attend the celebration (from as far back as 40, 50, even 60 years ago!)- a sign of a school that has had a very positive impact on the community. Ed, who went to the school in 1932 - 33, is 102 years old! The photo above is of him and me! 🙂I was pleased to present a letter to the school on behalf of the Prime Minister. A moving tribute and celebration!
I also had a chance to attend Politics and the Pen in Ottawa this week - an event that raised $5 million to support Writers Trust Literary programs and to award the Shaughnessy Cohen Prize for political writing. Davenport resident Josh O’Kane was nominated for his book Sideways: The City Google Couldn’t Buy. The winner of the prize was Chris Turner for his book How to Be a Climate Optimist. It was wonderful to see so much support for Canadian writers.
Which leads me to say “Happy 45th Anniversary” to Groundwood Books ! Last night I popped by to personally say congratulations to President Semareh Al-Hillal, Karen Li and their amazing team. It was also wonderful to meet founder Patricia (Patsy) Aldana and owner of House of Anansi Press Scott Griffin.
On a more sombre note, any news of gun activity and violence is always concerning and is particularly devastating when there is gun activity so close to home. On April 14, there was a shooting at Concord and Bloor. It was a random shooting that led to the death of a 24-year-old young man who is remembered fondly by the Davenport Village and Wallace Emerson communities.
Over the last 7 years we have invested a large amount of money to tackle the root causes of gun violence ($250 million) and to provide additional resources to the border (almost $1 billion) among other actions. Last week we doubled down - investing $390 million more to combat gun violence and an additional $450 million to further enhance border security to stop guns from coming in. More information below...
Foreign interference has been a hot topic for weeks in Ottawa. Earlier this week (Monday), the Minister of Foreign Affairs announced the decision to expel Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei, who allegedly was involved in a plot to intimidate Conservative MP Michael Chong and his family due to criticisms of China’s human-rights record Mr. Chong made in the House of Commons.
We took time to validate the allegations after they first came out in the media before taking action to expel Mr. Wei, and we also were careful to consider all the factors at play. Our federal government is firm in our resolve not to tolerate any foreign interference in our internal affairs, or challenges to our democracy. The intent is to go after foreign agents acting inappropriately on Canadian territory, not to discriminate against Asian Canadians in any way.
The House of Commons erupted in debate around a woman’s right to choose as the Conservative opposition introduced a private members bill that many see as a backdoor attempt to restrict women’s rights in Canada. Here is a speech in the House of Commons that explains how the bill attempts to reopen the right to choose debate. More on this below.
The Federal Government was able to reach tentative agreements with both the PSAC and the CRA last week. PSAC negotiated a 11.5% salary increase compounded over 4 years along with a $2500 pensionable lump sum payment. The CRA received a 12.6% salary increase compounded over 4 years with the same lump sum payment. Maintaining a respectful relationship with the federal public service is a key priority for our federal government and these agreements reflect that.
Davenport residents should have received my latest communications on the federal government’s dental care plan - currently available to children under 12 in households earning under $70,000 and soon to be expanded to seniors, children under 18 and Canadians with disabilities... Click here for a copy.
This weekend I will be celebrating 70 years of Portuguese immigration to Canada - what an achievement! Looking forward to hearing the tales of the Portuguese pioneers and watching the vibrant folk dancers.
Of course, I will also be celebrating my mother this weekend too - on Mother’s Day. I want to wish a Happy Mother’s Day to all Davenport moms. I hope you have a special day planned with your loved ones.
It looks like it will be a beautiful weekend to be out and about - so enjoy the weekend!
It’s a true honour and pleasure to serve you Davenport.
My best regards,
Julie Dzerowicz
Member of Parliament, Davenport
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1. Gun Violence and C-21
Gun-related crime and gang violence are of great concern for all of us here in Toronto, and indeed across the country.
As mentioned in my opening letter, we had a recent shooting in Davenport that randomly and fatally targeted an innocent victim. Guns are too readily available, and we must continue to take actions to get them off our streets, to protect our borders (from guns coming in) and to tackle the root causes of gun violence.
Last week, Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino, announced that our federal government will invest $390 million over the next five years to fund a range of initiatives designed to address this pressing issue.
The funding will be used to increase the number of police officers, and to support community-based programs aimed at preventing gang involvement and addressing the root causes of violence.
The federal government will also establish a new firearms tracing and analysis program to help law enforcement agencies track the origin of firearms used in crimes.
The fight against guns in Canada begins at our border and we are committed to countering the illegal trafficking of firearms. Our federal government has further invested $450 million to add more Canada Border Service Agency agents at the border to stop the illegal flow of guns into our country. CBSA and RCMP are seizing a record number of guns at the border and domestically.
Canada and the United States are working together to advance both domestic and bilateral efforts to reduce firearm violence – including through the Cross Border Firearms Task Force (CBFTF) – to trace and seize guns used in crime, disrupt cross-border firearms smuggling, and to identify and target shippers and receivers through the coordination of joint operations and investigation.
2. Chinese Diplomat Expelled from Canada
On Monday, Canada expelled Chinese diplomat Zhao Wei after an intelligence report accused him of trying to target the family of Conservative MP Michael Chong, who has been critical of China's treatment of its Uyghur Muslim minority.
"We will not tolerate any form of foreign interference in our internal affairs," stated Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly.
China has expelled several Canadian diplomats in what is widely seen as a retaliatory move. The Canadian government has condemned the expulsions and has reiterated its commitment to upholding human rights and promoting democratic values. Canada has also been working to build alliances with other countries to address human rights concerns in China, and to push for greater international scrutiny of China's human rights record.
The expulsions came after Canada expressed concern over China's treatment of the Uyghur population, which has been subject to mass detention, forced labor, and other human rights violations. China has denied these allegations and has accused Canada of interfering in its internal affairs.
3. Protecting Women's Right to Choose
Our federal government is definitive: we will protect women’s right to choose in Canada. At a time when that right is being threatened in the United States, at a time where our democratic institutions are weakened and democracy is under attack around the world, we have to remain vigilant around the protection of our rights.
The federal Conservatives introduced a private members bill that is seen as a backdoor attempt to eliminate women’s right to choose in Canada. Here is a speech given in the House of Commons explaining how this is a back-door way of opening the right to choose debate.
"I thought that was very revealing and very alarming in terms of, if this law was passed, how it could be misused, misappropriated by the anti-abortion movement, how they could build on it to try and establish further restrictions." said Abortion Rights Coalition of Canada Executive Director Joyce Arthur.
Our Prime Minister, Cabinet Ministers, and Liberal Members of Parliament joined forces to clearly state that we will not accept any attempt to weaken a women’s right to choose. See our video on why we are pro-choice.
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1. In Davenport: General Mercer Junior Public School 100th Anniversary
Wow! A truly historic moment celebrating 100 years of General Mercer Junior Public School. General Mercer - a major general led forces in WW1 and was killed at the opening engagement of the largest battle of his career. Read more about him here.
My sincere gratitude to the TDSB and the incredible team at General Mercer Junior Public School who organised a number of events to celebrate this important occasion.
There were hundreds of alumni that came back to celebrate this unbelievable school that has had such an impact in building a strong community. Photos of students at the school over the last hundred years were on full display.
We heard about how a wreath was placed on the grave of General Mercer on March 27 this year by the team working with the Canadian Ambassador to Belgium.
Rob of the Queen’s Own Rifles was on hand to create a Canadian Flag Tribute to General Mercer. There was lots of cake, food, videos, and other great elements of a celebration.
Thank you, Principal Esme McKenzie, for showing me around the General Mercer Museum! Congratulations on reaching this milestone - here’s to many more years of supporting and educating our youth!
2. In Davenport: Studio Magazine Issue Launch at Craft Ontario
I attended the launch of the latest edition of Studio Magazine, a design magazine that offers a platform to explore contemporary social issues and supports craft artists and their work. I loved meeting and having a chance to speak with Executive Director Janna Hiemstra, Editor in Chief Nehal El-Hadi, and other contributors. Thanks to Studio's editorial and artistic leadership team for celebrating artists and communities, and for educating audiences throughout Canada.
I encourage everyone to pick up a copy. And for those that do not know about Crafts Ontario on Queen St. … it is a gem. Amazing Canadian art by talented artists - and a great place to buy pieces for your home, office or as a gift.
3. In Davenport: Groundbooks Celebrates 45 Years Publishers
Amazing to celebrate 45 years of Davenport based publisher Groundwood Books! Groundwood publishes award-winning literary picture books, fiction, poetry, nonfiction and graphic novels from Canada and around the world - they do it all.
Loved meeting meet founder Patricia (Patsy) Aldana and owner of House of Anansi Press Scott Griffin.
Also bumped into the librarian that I first met at Palmerston Library when I worked there at the age of 14!
Check out their website here.
4. In the House: Politics and the Pen
It was a true honour to attend Politics and the Pen 2023 reception and gala. Politics and the Pen is an exceptional celebration of literary talent and political insight, celebrating the very best in Canadian writing.
Congratulations to Davenport constituent Josh O'Kane, who was nominated as a finalist for the Politics and the Pen Prize for his book SIDEWAYS: The City Google Couldn't Buy - a national bestseller!
The other nominated books were Kinauvit?: What’s Your Name? The Eskimo Disc System and a Daughter’s Search for her Grandmother by Norma Dunning, From Left to Right: Saskatchewan’s Political and Economic Transformation by Dale Eisler, Valley of the Birdtail: An Indian Reserve, a White Town, and the Road to Reconciliation by Andrew Stobo Sniderman, and Valley of the Birdtail: An Indian Reserve, a White Town, and the Road to Reconciliation by Douglas Sanderson (Amo Binashii).
The winner was Chris Turner for his book How to Be a Climate Optimist: Blueprints for a Better World.
They raised $5 million for writers … thanks to all leaders for organising. We have so much talent in this country, and they need to be supported.
5. Canadian Media Producers
I had a chance to attend the reception of the Canadian Media Producers Association (CMPA), who were on the Hill advocating for support of Canada’s independent production sector and the creation of world-class content in a modernized broadcasting system through inclusive funding.
CMPA represents over 600 independent production companies, mostly small and medium-sized enterprises that produce English language content for television, feature film, and digital media platforms.
CMPA is a strong advocate for local and Indigenous media businesses. With Davenport having one of the most dynamic and vibrant arts and culture communities in Canada, it is a priority to continue to support CMPA.
6. Canadian Building Trades
In Davenport there are lots of trade workers, so I made it a priority to attend the Canada's Building Trades Unions (CBTU) parliamentary reception.
CBTU represents over 600,000 workers across Canada. Their reception provided me with an opportunity to meet with Building Trades members and leaders in the construction industry from across Canada.
It’s important for me to connect with organizations who represent construction workers and hear about the most recent developments in the industry’s operations, as well as ensure that I understand their issues and advocate on their behalf!
7. In the House: Meeting Ambassador of the European Union Melita Gabric
I had the privilege of meeting with the Ambassador of the European Union, Melita Gabric. We engaged in a constructive conversation about the current state of the relationship between Canada and the European Union, with a specific focus on the work of Canada-NATO Parliamentary Association and the upcoming Spring Session which I will be leading in Luxembourg next week.
Throughout the meeting, I reiterated Canada’s commitment to maintaining a strong partnership with the European Union, particularly in the areas of trade and economic cooperation. We discussed the need to work together to overcome the challenges posed by the current political and economic climate, emphasizing the importance of ongoing dialogue and collaboration.
Ambassador Gabric shared similar sentiments, underscoring the importance of continued cooperation between Canada and the European Union, particularly in the areas of security, trade, and cultural exchange.
8. In the House: Meeting Secretary of State for Portuguese Communities, Paulo Cafofo
It is with great pleasure that we extend a warm welcome to Secretary of State for Portuguese Communities, Paulo Cafôfo, on his visit to Canada. Secretary Cafôfo will be joining us to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the Portuguese community's immigration to Canada.
The Portuguese community has a rich and vibrant history in Canada, with countless contributions made to our society over the past seven decades. This anniversary is a celebration of the enduring spirit and resilience of the Portuguese people, who have thrived in Canada while maintaining their unique cultural identity.
Secretary Cafôfo's presence at these celebrations is a true honor for us, and a testament to the lasting relationship between Canada and Portugal. His visit provides an opportunity for us to strengthen our ties and deepen our cooperation in the areas of trade, investment, and cultural exchange.
Our federal government has introduced a pathway to citizenship for non-status construction workers in Canada for construction workers in the GTA. We also provide opportunities for youth through the International Youth Experience program that allows youth to come to Canada to gain work experience and travel.
As we celebrate this important milestone, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the Portuguese community for their invaluable contributions to our country.
9. Celebrating the Coronation of His Majesty King Charles III
I was invited to attend the Canadian Coronation Celebration of King Charles III in Ottawa. It was a privilege to be a part of such a historic event and was a true testament to the enduring bond between Canada and the Crown.
In a statement, Prime Minister Trudeau said King Charles III is deeply aligned with Canada’s priorities on the environment and Indigenous reconciliation, with the former National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Perry Bellegarde noting Charles’ active support for Indigenous knowledge systems and Indigenous rights.
Our federal government has also taken steps to modernize our relationship, with a secular, updated version of the Canadian Crown and Royal Style and Title.
I extend my warmest congratulations to His Majesty King Charles III on his coronation, and I wish His Majesty all the best as he embarks on the next chapter of his reign.
10. In the House: Welcoming Speaker of the Congress of Deputies of Spain Meritxell Batet Lamana and Delegation
I had the honor of meeting with Her Excellency Meritxell Batet Lamaña, Speaker of the Congress of Deputies of Spain, to discuss issues of mutual importance to our two countries.
I was impressed by Her Excellency's knowledge and expertise, as well as her commitment to furthering the relationship between Canada and Spain.
I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to Ambassador of Spain Alfredo Martínez Serrano for arranging this meeting. His efforts were instrumental in making this important exchange possible, and I am grateful for his continued support and friendship. I look forward to continuing to work with Her Excellency and the people of Spain to build a stronger and more prosperous future for all of us.
11. In the House: Meeting Costa Rican Ambassador
During my meeting with Ambassador Adriana Solano Laclé of Costa Rica, we discussed a variety of topics related to the bilateral relations between our two countries.
One of the key things we talked about was the leadership of Costa Rica in nuclear non proliferation, being one of the original 50 states that signed and ratified the Treaty on Prohibition of Nuclear Weapons. Costa Rica does not own, possess, or control nuclear weapons, has never done so, and does not host any other state's nuclear weapons on its territory.
We talked about the importance of increasing economic ties, particularly in the areas of agriculture and tourism, and finding ways to expand trade opportunities between Canada and Costa Rica. I also welcomed her to Ottawa, as the Ambassador recently arrived in the Capital and presented her credentials.
I also emphasized Canada's strong support for Costa Rica's efforts to promote sustainability and environmental protection and expressed our willingness to collaborate on these important issues.
We both agreed that there is a need for continued cooperation on matters of mutual interest, such as climate change, human rights and peace and security in the world!
12. In the House: Meeting Mexican Ambassador Carlos Joaquin
It was a pleasure to meet with the Mexican Ambassador, Carlos Joaquín. As I Chair Canada-Mexico Parliamentary Friendship group, it was important for me to discuss ways to build stronger relations between our two countries. The meeting was filled with lively and engaging conversation about the many shared interests, values, and opportunities that exist between Canada and Mexico.
As we move forward, I am confident that we will be able to build on the strong foundation of our existing relationship and create new opportunities for growth and prosperity. There is much work to be done, but I am looking forward to the challenge and the opportunity to work with Ambassador Joaquín to build a brighter future for both Canada and Mexico.
I would like to express my gratitude to Ambassador Joaquín for taking the time to meet with me. I am confident that our partnership will continue to thrive and grow in the future, and I look forward to the work ahead.
13. In Davenport: Celebration of Dia da Liberdade
It was truly an honour to celebrate Dia da Liberdade with Associacao Cultural 25 de Abril also known as ‘Freedom Day’ in Portugal.
This day commemorates the Anniversary of the Carnation Revolution that saw the end of dictatorship and the war in the colonies and initiated the transition to freedom and democracy in Portugal.
This day serves as a reminder of how we all have to stay vigilant and never stop fighting for the freedom to choose our leaders and for our democracy.
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Other Important News & Announcements (click on links for more info)
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- Global Affairs: Prime Minister concludes successful visit with President of the Republic of Moldova
- Emergency Preparedness: Ministers Blair and Boissonnault announced a matching fund for Canadians impacted by wildfires in Alberta
- Global Affairs: Prime Minister to travel to the Republic of Korea and attend G7 Summit in Japan
- Sport: Minister St-Onge announced the release of the National Sport Reform Strategy
- Emergency Preparedness: Minister Blair released Phase One of the National Risk Profile, a strategy examining our ability to respond to floods, wildfires, and earthquakes
- Passport: Canada unveils new Passport
- Public Safety: 1 OPP officer killed, 2 others injured in shooting in Bourget, Ont.
- Global Affairs: A foreign agents registry bill will be tabled later this year: source
- Public Safety: MPs unanimously vote to probe Chinese envoy’s alleged targeting of Michael Chong
- Heritage: Meta has a team working to block news on Facebook, Instagram from Canadian users
- Global Affairs: China expels Canadian diplomat in tit-for-tat response
- Health: Minister Ien announced $4.2 million for two projects that will help remove barriers to vital abortion services and offer accurate reproductive health information for Canadians
- Global Affairs: On Tuesday, Ministers Ien, Joly, Miller, and Sajjan announced Canada’s bid to join the 2023 United Nations Human Rights Council
- Global Affairs: Statement by the Prime Minister on Europe Day
- Indigenous Services: Ministers Hussen, Miller, and Hajdu announced over $100 million for Indigenous shelters
- Global Affairs: Chinese diplomat declared ‘persona non grata’
- Global Affairs: Last Saturday, the Prime Minster attended to coronation of King Charles III
- The Senate of Canada: The Prime Minister announces the appointment of two senators
- Heritage: CRTC considering banning Fox News from Canadian Cable Packages
- Environment: Minister Wilkinson Launches Canada Electricity Advisory Council to Help Build Canada’s Clean Electricity Future
- Public Safety: Government of Canada announces more than $25 million for projects to counter radicalization to violence
- Social Development: Canada’s poverty rate remains below pre-pandemic levels
- Public Safety: Trudeau says he's told CSIS to share more intel following report China sought to target MP Chong's family
- Global Affairs: Canada sanctions Iranian regime for continued human rights violations
- Environment: Deputy Prime Minister co-chairs first meeting of Canada-U.S. Energy Transformation Task Force
- Health: Minister Bennett announced over $6 million for children and youth focused projects under the Mental Health in the Early Years Initiative
- Agriculture: Minister Bibeau launched a new $10 million phase of the Local Food Infrastructure Fund to support local organizations
- Public Service: CRA reaches deal to end strike
- International Development: Ministers Sajjan and Hussen announced over $100 million for humanitarian aid projects in Africa
- Finance: CRA holds back tax refunds from people who say they received benefits by mistake
- Crown Indigenous Relations: Minister Miller signed a self-government treaty with the Whitecap Dakota Nation
- Health: Parliamentary Secretary Briere announced $8.5 million to the Canadian Red Cross to enhance mental health support of those most impacted by the pandemic
- Public Safety: RCMP's recruitment plight could threaten its ability to do its job, advisory board warns
- Public Safety: Minister Mendicino announced new amendments to Bill C-21, along with a regulatory package on gun control which will permanently ban assault-style firearms from Canada
- Finance: Ottawa wants to automatically file tax returns for low income Candians - and perhaps eventually for everyone
- Health: Ottawa resumes long running battle over prescription drug prices
- Canadian Heritage: Bill C-11, the Online Streaming Act, received Royal Assent.
- Innovation : Minister Champagne announced $1.4 billion in support for 11 large-scale research initiatives in strategic areas, through the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF).
- Global Affairs: Melanie Joly in Kenya to help inform Canada's response to the crisis in Sudan
- Gender Equity: Prime Minister advances gender equality and strengthens trade ties while in New York City
- Health: Ministers Bennett and Mendicino announced $18 million for a program to help members of affected communities from the Nova Scotia mass shooting
- Innovation: Government of Canada invests $1.4 billion in strategic research at postsecondary institutions
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