With fall just around the corner and the kids going back to school, I wanted to put a wrap on an eventful summer with some highlights of what we have done in Scarborough–Rouge Park.
Community BBQ
In June, I hosted my first Community BBQ at Adams Park. We had a great number of constituents join us from across the riding to enjoy food, music and activities. I want to thank the many organizations and vendors that helped make this event possible. Thank you for all those who came and I hope to see you all next year!
New Appointment
This past summer, I was appointed as the Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Transportation. A quality transit system that is sustainable, efficient and affordable for all is essential to the residents of Scarborough–Rouge Park.
Wheelchair Basketball
In June, I had the pleasure of attending a couple of Team Canada’s wheelchair basketball games at the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre at the University of Toronto Scarborough Campus. I am a huge supporter of inclusive engagement in sports and athletics because it brings our communities together to have fun and enjoy each other’s company.
Summer Festivals
I have also attended numerous summer festivals where I had the opportunity to meet with many of my constituents, discussed the government and recent policy announcements, and perhaps enjoyed one too many hot dogs. From the many, I want to highlight the 43 Division Police Open House, the 34th Annual Highland Creek Heritage Festival, the Harvest Call Summerfest, and the Port Union Waterfront Festival.
Seniors Consultation
One of the highlights of the past month was the seniors’ consultation I hosted with Raymopnd Cho, Minister of Seniors and Accessibility, to get a better understanding of the needs and concerns of the elders in the community. Care of our aging Canadians is something I will keep advocating for in the provincial parliament. I am proud of our work thus far, including the Ontario Government’s investment to fund 481 new long-term care beds in Scarborough with a further 129 to be redeveloped as well as provide free dental care for low-income seniors.
Sages-Femmes Rouge Valley Midwives
I also had the opportunity to tour the Sages-Femmes Rouge Valley Midwives facility. It plays an important role in the community by helping mothers welcome their children into this world with care and professionalism in addition to looking after mothers post-partum. Health care is of the highest imperative for me and I am proud that the Government of Ontario is investing $178 million to midwifery services providing access to up to 35,000 families across Ontario. This provides more choice for families while taking the burden off the health-care system.
My staff and I can be contacted at 416-283-8448 or vijay.thanigasalamco@pc.ola.org and the Constituency Office is located at 8130 Sheppard Ave. East unit 105. Please call ahead to set up an appointment with me. I look forward to meeting you.