Yesterday marked the first official day of the 44th Provincial Parliament. As I took my seat, I was overwhelmed with gratitude to my Hamilton Centre neighbours who have placed their trust in me as their Member of Provincial Parliament.
Over the past few weeks, many community members have reached out to share their fears during this time of uncertainty. The ever-evolving threat of tariffs has already impacted our local industries. As a labour town, Hamilton has a long history of coming together during difficult times and standing in solidarity with our workers. We must do so now. This means ensuring that our provincial government is using every lever available to protect local jobs and offer additional supports to workers and families who are affected. As the official opposition, the NDP is ready to take up this challenge and work collaboratively to protect Ontarians.
We must also remember that the foundation of a strong economy is a healthy community. A community with reliable access to primary care, well-funded emergency departments and hospitals, and a long-term care system where older adults can live with dignity. A community that offers housing for all, including expanded emergency and supportive housing programs so that no one is left outdoors. A community that uplifts each other, demanding that no one should live in legislated poverty on social assistance. A community that recognizes our interdependence with the environment, where we work to clean our air and preserve the land that sustains us.
Hamilton Centre’s strength is in our community. Together, we must continue to organize, to take care of each other, and to demand that our government puts forth policy that prioritizes people over private interests. I am ready to take up this challenge with you.
