Honoured to represent Canada on Remembrance Day
On the eleventh hour, of the eleventh day, of the eleventh month, Canada remembers. Although many Canadians observed a moment of silence on November 11 from their own homes, I was honoured to represent the Government of Canada alongside a small contingent of Veterans and their families during Remembrance Day ceremonies at the Toronto Zoo and the Royal Canadian Legion Branch 258.
In times of war and times of peace, these brave men and women answered the call – travelling into harm’s way in service of their country. Although their voices can no longer be heard, we honour their courage, bravery and selflessness by showing our gratitude to their families, sharing their stories, and ensuring their legacies live on forever.
Legislative Updates from Ottawa
In October and November, Parliament moved forward at a blistering pace. In addition to passing our second confidence motion in as many weeks, our government introduced vital legislation to Ban Conversion Therapy, update our Medical Assistance in Dying laws, modernize our Broadcasting Act to ensure fairness for Canadian creators, proposed an inclusive Citizenship Oath that recognizes Indigenous peoples in Canada, and unveiled the details of our proposed ban on single-use plastics.
COVID Support Measures
Since the start of the pandemic, our government has listened to families and business owners to ensure we respond effectively to their needs. That’s why we introduced new and targeted supports to help Canadians during this second wave. These measures include: The Canada Recovery Benefit (CRB), the Canada Emergency Rent Subsidy (CERS), the Canada Emergency Business Account (CEBA), the Regional Relief and Recovery Fund (RRF), the Canada Recovery Caregiving Benefit (CRCB), the Women Entrepreneurship Strategy (WES), the Black Entrepreneurship Program (BEP), and a one-time payment for Canadians with disabilities.
While the road to recovery may not be easy, these supports will be critical to help individuals and entrepreneurs stay strong. As we continue to get through this difficult time, we will continue to take action to support Canadian families and businesses, and set the stage for a stronger and more resilient Canada once the pandemic is over.
The Holiday Season
As we approach the holiday season, we need to remain vigilant about the steps we take to keep ourselves and our loved ones safe. Sadly, more than 10,000 Canadians have lost their lives to COVID-19, and recently, regions across the country have been setting records for positive cases. Following public health advice and avoiding the 3 C’s wherever possible – closed spaces, crowded places and close contact situations – is the best way to slow the spread of this virus. The small actions make some of the biggest differences, so continue to wear your mask, stay at least two metres apart, limit your social circle, wash your hands regularly, and download the free COVID Alert App.
Slowing the spread of COVID-19 will require a complete Team Canada effort. In order for us to get through this together, we must all step up and do our part.
My team will continue to be here to support the residents of Scarborough – Rouge Park. If we can be of assistance to you, please reach out to my office via email at Gary.Anand@parl.gc.ca or by telephone at: 416-283-1414.
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