MP John Aldag presented with ‘Polio Hero’ Award

March 11, 2024 – Langley, British Columbia

By Lilianne Fuller

Member of Parliament, John Aldag, was presented with two special honours at the Rotary Club of Langley Central’s March 6th meeting. He was presented with a Rotary Polio Hero award and a Paul Harris Fellowship.

Dean Rohrs, Chair of the Rotary Polio Advocacy Committee for Canada and the former Vice President of Rotary International presented Aldag with the Rotary Polio Hero Award. “John has been a polio warrior. He has supported our cause and been instrumental in setting up meetings and events in Ottawa for Rotary - over the past 5-8 years,” she said. “A few weeks ago, he rose to read a letter to the caucus advocating for more funding for polio eradication,” she added.

Rotary and Polio eradication go hand in hand and the government of Canada has played an active role in global polio eradication. To date Canada has contributed just short of a billion dollars and Canada was the first country to place polio eradication on the G8 (now G7) agenda when it hosted the 2002 summit. In 2010 and 2018, the G7 reaffirmed its commitment to global polio eradication. “Canada’s work to end polio spans decades and transcends party. Together we’ve used our collective strength to defeat this devastating disease in almost every part of the world,” said Past Rotary International President John Germ.

One of the founding principles of Rotary is the eradication of polio. Rotary members have contributed more than $2.1 billion and countless volunteer hours to protect nearly 3 billion children in 122 countries from this paralyzing disease. Rotary's advocacy efforts have played a role in decisions by governments to contribute more than $10 billion to the effort. In Langley, Rotary has raised hundreds of thousands of dollars through member donations, special fundraisers, and bequests from Rotarian member’s wills.

At the meeting, President Rudy Storteboom of the Rotary Club of Langley presented Aldag with a Paul Harris Fellowship award for his contributions to Rotary. In 1905, Chicago Attorney Paul Harris founded Rotary International, and the Paul Harris Fellowship recognition acknowledges individuals who embody Rotary’s ideal of Service Above Self and who contribute financially, or have contributions made in their name to the Rotary Foundation. “John is a friend and personal hero of mine. John is a champion for his constituents, and he demonstrates the Rotary motto of ‘Service Above Self’ in all that he does,” said Storteboom.

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca

Dean Rohrs, Chair Rotary Polio Advocacy Committee for Canada 604-836-1454 Dean@cbrplus.com

Federal and provincial investments in water and wastewater infrastructure improvements in southern B.C.

December 7, 2023 – Greenwood, British Columbia

Two communities in southern British Columbia will receive significant upgrades to their drinking water and wastewater infrastructure thanks to an investment of more than $4.5 million from the federal and provincial governments, along with the City of Greenwood and the Village of Keremeos.

Announced by Member of Parliament John Aldag, Minister Anne Kang, Mayor John Bolt, and Mayor Jason Wiebe, these projects will improve municipal services and support a healthier environment in and around these communities.

In Greenwood, funding will replace the existing water reservoir, construct a treatment facility and pump station, and upgrade the water supply well. The new facility, pump station, and associated infrastructure upgrades will include improved filtering and disinfecting systems to ensure that residents have reliable access to high-quality, drinking water.

A project in Keremeos will remove and replace approximately 25 manholes and approximately 12 sections of sanitary gravity collection pipe. The planned replacements will improve the efficiency of the existing sewage infrastructure in the village and mitigate groundwater infiltration, a risk that has become increasingly prevalent in the area due to climate change.

Once complete, these improvements will ensure residents have access to safe and reliable water and wastewater treatment that will also protect the environment and support community development. 

“Investing in projects that help us adapt to the impacts of climate change is critical to building resilient communities. The funding announced today will improve both drinking water and wastewater infrastructure in Greenwood and Keremeos and help them to mitigate new climate-related challenges. We will continue to invest in the infrastructure that keeps our communities safe and healthy well into the future.” – John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca

Governments of Canada and British Columbia invest in wastewater infrastructure improvements in Kimberley

December 4, 2023 – Kimberley, British Columbia

The City of Kimberley will build new wastewater infrastructure after a combined investment of more than $90.6 million from the federal, provincial, and municipal governments.

Announced by Member of Parliament John Aldag, Minister Anne Kang, and Mayor Don McCormick, this project will construct a new wastewater treatment plant in Kimberley. The new plant will replace the aging Pollution Control Centre, built in 1967, which is located in a flood prone area. It will also have measures to make sure that the service is reliable and will take odour control measures to not disturb nearby communities.

Once complete, the plant will provide Kimberley with high-quality, reliable wastewater treatment that minimizes potential environmental impact on the St. Mary River and communities downstream of it. It will also eliminate the risk of flooding to the site.

“Investments in green infrastructure help us to build resilient communities while safeguarding our environment. The funding announced today will not only improve wastewater treatment in Kimberley, but will protect local inhabitants and ecosystems. We will continue investing in the well-being of Canadians and the preservation of our country’s natural assets.” – John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca

The governments of Canada and British Columbia invest in Fraser River Bank Erosion Protection

December 1, 2023 – Abbotsford, British Columbia

Efforts to reduce the risk of further erosion on the Fraser River bank, and in particular that of the Matsqui Dike, are receiving much needed support, thanks to the combined investment of more than $19 million from the governments of Canada and British Columbia, along with the City of Abbotsford.

Announced by MP John Aldag, Minister Nathan Cullen, and Mayor Ross Siemens, the project will increase the resilience of the dike -- which is situated on the Sumas First Nation’s traditional fishing territory, and also protects the Matsqui First Nation downstream.

This project is the first of its kind to address flooding and bank erosion concerns in Abbotsford through a collaborative approach between Sumas First Nation, the City, and the Province. The project design incorporates Indigenous knowledge, engineering, and environmental solutions to minimize the risk of Fraser River flooding due to a Matsqui Dike breach, while restoring fishing sites and improving fish habitat.

Overall, the project will reduce the likelihood of bank erosion creating a dike breach, due to climate change.

Making adaptation investments now will have major economy-wide benefits later. Every dollar that is invested in adapting and preparing for climate-related disasters can return as much as $13 to $15 in benefits.

“With increasing importance on protecting our environment and communities from climate change, investments in disaster mitigation is another step the federal government is taking to protect Canadians. With this announcement, we are working to mitigate climate issues that continue to impact the Fraser River and the Matsqui Dike by protecting this area from further erosion. We will continue to work with all levels of government to secure Canadians’ future, better protect homes, and create greater climate resilience.” – John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca

The governments of Canada and British Columbia invest in more resilient connections for communities in southeastern B.C.

November 17, 2023 – Golden, British Columbia

Two bridges crossing Kicking Horse River will receive upgrades that make them more resilient to the impacts of climate change, thanks to a combined investment of more than $89.6 million from the governments of Canada and British Columbia. Announced by Member of Parliament John Aldag and Minister Rob Fleming, this project will reduce the risk of damage to essential infrastructure in Golden caused by climate-related events.

Kicking Horse Bridges 1 & 2 cross the river on Highway 95 and act as the sole link for vehicles between the north and south sides of Golden. They also provide a key link between Highways 1 and 3 and several communities along Highway 95 between Golden and Cranbrook. Funding will replace and increase capacity of the Kicking Horse River bridges to withstand the impacts of climate-related events such as ice jams, debris flows, and flooding. The upgrades will prevent the damage and potential loss of important connections that could threaten access to essential goods and services for communities in the area. Project funding will also improve active transportation options on the bridges by constructing multi-use paths that connect to the municipal active transportation network.

Making adaptation investments now will have major economy-wide benefits later. Every dollar that is invested in adapting and preparing for climate-related disasters can return as much as $13 to $15 in benefits.

The federal government will continue investing in infrastructure to continue growing our country’s economy, building resilient communities, and improving the lives of Canadians.

“Our government remains committed to building a more resilient Canada. Infrastructure Canada’s Disaster Mitigation and Adaptation Fund supports proactive improvements to essential public infrastructure that will do exactly that. The funding announced today will reduce the risk of damage caused by climate-related events to two bridges that are integral to the residents of Golden and Highway 95 users. We will continue to invest in disaster and mitigation projects that safeguard Canadians and the infrastructure that keeps our communities running.” – John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca

Langley receives over $260,000 from the Government of Canada to revitalize the downtown core and Willoughby Community Park

November 17, 2023 – Langley, British Columbia

Safe and inclusive public spaces are key to building vibrant communities. They bring together people of all ages and abilities and attract new visitors, supporting local businesses and boosting economic vitality.

Today, John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City announced more than $260,000 in PacifiCan funding through the Canada Community Revitalization Fund for two public space projects in Langley. The announcement was made on behalf of the Honourable Harjit S. Sajjan, Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada (PacifiCan).

The Township of Langley is receiving $230,000 to create a new plaza at Willoughby Community Park. The plaza is adjacent to the new professional sports field for the Vancouver Football Club. It will provide a public space for visitors to socialize and enjoy food trucks before games and other seasonal events. Project work includes site design and construction, installation of walkways, lighting, seating, and public art.

The Downtown Langley Business Association is receiving $31,320 to install picnic tables and planters in Langley's downtown core to provide visitors with a place to sit outdoors while shopping in the area.

Projects like these help communities and businesses in British Columbia welcome visitors from near and far, improve community wellbeing, create jobs, and grow the local economy.

“Today's announcement means more vibrant spaces for Langley residents to enjoy. Visitors to Langley’s downtown core and Willoughby Community Park will soon be able to enjoy the upgraded amenities and build on the great sense of community in our neighborhoods. I look forward to Langley residents making use of these newly revitalized spaces.” – John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca

Federal government announces $179 million for homes in Abbotsford, Langley, and Surrey

November 16, 2023 – Abbotsford, British Columbia

Today, the federal government announced nearly $180 million to build 590 purpose-built rental homes across four projects in Abbotsford, Langley, and Surrey. The funding will come as fully repayable low-interest loans through the Rental Construction Financing Initiative (RCFi).

The announcement was made at The Hub by John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City, on behalf of the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and Communities, alongside Lara Holtby, Chief Financial Officer at Wiebe Properties.

Located at 3070 Gladwin Road in Abbotsford, this project contains 64 units. The Hub will also include a 9,000 square foot amenity centre on the ground floor where residents can access a gym and fitness centre, multipurpose room, lounge areas, business centre with working spaces, guest suites for friends and family, and an outdoor patio. Construction of The Hub is expected to be complete in summer 2024.

Next to The Hub — also by Wiebe Properties — is Park Suites, located at 3030 and 3040 Gladwin Road, which was completed in 2022. Park Suites spans two buildings and offers 157 units. Both The Hub and Park Suites are part of Central Park Village, a community spanning 9.5 acres.

Canada’s construction of rental homes has not kept pace with the country's growing cities and population, leading to a decline in the existing and aging rental stock for decades. To tackle this issue, the federal government introduced the RCFi to help build more rentals across the country. Increasing the overall supply of rental housing is crucial to creating stronger and more vibrant communities that Canadians can feel proud to call home.

Funding details for the four projects include:

• $35.5 million RCFi for Park Suites, 3030 and 3040 Gladwin Road

• $18.1 million for The Hub, 3070 Gladwin Road

• $64 million RCFi for 213 units at Pennyfarthing Apartments, 20234 56 Avenue, Langley; $9.15 million from Pennyfarthing Homes

• $62.3 million RCFi for 156 units at the Grove, 16622 24 Street, Surrey

“These purpose-built rental homes in Langley, Surrey, and Abbotsford are an essential part of the solution to the housing crisis. Through RCFi, our government can increase its supply of new rental developments so Canadians can live and work in their communities. These projects offer much-needed housing for families and individuals to grow and flourish in these beautiful cities we call home.” – John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca

Supporting BC’s healthcare needs

October 11, 2023 – British Columbia

Mark Holland, Canada’s Minister of Health, has announced a funding agreement between the federal and British Columbian governments.

Earlier this year, the federal government earmarked $25 billion for tailored bilateral agreements with provinces and territories to address each region’s unique healthcare needs.

The governments of Canada and British Columbia have signed a three-year, $1.2 billion health deal to improve the province’s healthcare system.

Through this agreement, the Government of Canada is helping to develop a model of care at 83 acute care sites throughout the province.

This deal will also enhance access to mental health and addiction services, including by expanding the number of Foundry centres across the province from 16 to 35 and reducing 30-day re-admissions for mental illness and substance use.

The province has also agreed to work with the First Nations Health Authority to improve access to culturally appropriate and informed care for Indigenous residents.

“British Columbians want and deserve better access to healthcare services. This announcement is a significant step in the direction of supporting better health outcomes for everyone. I look forward to seeing how these new measures will improve access to healthcare and mental healthcare for residents of Cloverdale – Langley City.” – John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca

The governments of Canada and British Columbia and the City of Trail invest in energy retrofits in the Trail Memorial Centre

October 10, 2023 – City of Trail, British Columbia

A landmark investment exceeding $3.5 million is set to greenlight an environmental and functional makeover for the Trail Memorial Centre, announced by MP John Aldag, Ministers Anne Kang and George Heyman, alongside Mayor Colleen Jones.

This historic facility will undergo a significant retrofit, integrating its HVAC systems with its boiler and refrigeration units. Aiming to slash greenhouse gas emissions by a remarkable 73%, the upgrade ensures a meld of sustainability with enhanced operational efficiency, diminishing the Centre's natural gas dependency. In essence, this project is not merely a building retrofit. It’s a forward-thinking endeavor to weave sustainability into the community’s beloved sporting and recreational hub.

For more than 70 years, the Trail Memorial Centre has been home to numerous athletes who have grown to national and international fame. The facility, which has hosted many significant hockey games featuring Canadian Men’s and Women’s National Teams, is equipped with two ice surfaces, dressing rooms, a gymnasium, racquetball and squash courts, meeting rooms, a large-scale commercial kitchen facility, and the Hockey Hall of Memories. Once complete, the upgraded facility will be better equipped to serve players, athletes, residents, and visitors alike.

As Canada navigates towards a green future, investments like this intertwine community and heritage, and aim to improve the lives of Canadians.

“Recreation centres play an important role in the health of communities by providing access to vital services and activities, fostering social inclusion and improving the quality of life for residents. Our government’s investment to upgrade the Trail Memorial Centre will make a significant difference in the lives of members of the community. Canada’s infrastructure plan invests in thousands of projects, creates jobs across the country, and builds cleaner, more inclusive communities.” – John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca

Funding for organizations supporting Indigenous Women and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in British Columbia

September 26, 2023 – British Columbia

The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls highlighted the underlying systemic causes of ongoing violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people. The COVID-19 Pandemic also created unprecedented challenges for victims and survivors seeking help and the frontline organizations that support them.

On behalf of Minister Marci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth, John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City, and Taleeb Noormohamed, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, announced over $3.8 million for ten organizations in British Columbia that work to end gender-based violence in Indigenous communities.

Lower Fraser Valley Aboriginal Society (LFVAS), located in Langley City, received $400,000 of the $3.8 million. With this funding, LFVAS will be able to increase its capacity to address the root causes of gender-based violence and ensure that Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, and their communities, can prosper now and in the future.

“The high rates of violence against Indigenous women and girls are alarming. Frontline organizations, activists, and volunteers, like Lower Fraser Valley Aboriginal Society, are leading this systemic change. Supporting their life-saving work is a priority. This funding will help bolster capacity to prevent and address the root causes of gender-based violence and continue to build a safer community in Cloverdale – Langley City.” – John Aldag, Member of Parliament for Cloverdale – Langley City.

Contacts:

Megan Waddington
Constituency Assistant
Office of John Aldag, Member of Parliament
604-575-6595
john.aldag@parl.gc.ca