Question to Min. Holland on Federal-BC Healthcare Agreement

Thank you to Minister Holland for answering my question in the House of Commons about the government’s recent $1.2B healthcare agreement with the province of British Columbia.

Questions to Suncor CEO

Thank you Suncor CEO Richard Kruger for speaking with the Standing Committee on Natural Resources and answering my questions about Canada's ongoing work to reduce Green House Gas emissions and the impacts of the oil and gas sector on climate change.

Presentation of CAPE Petition

This morning, I presented a petition put forward by the Canadian Association of Physicians for the Environment (CAPE) that urges the Government of Canada to issue a fossil fuel advertising ban.

This petition was signed by 3127 Canadians who are worried about the impacts of climate change on their health.

I look forward to the Government's response.

Statement about Seniors and National Pensioners Federation

Mr. Speaker,  

October 1st was National Seniors Day. On Friday, I met with three members of the National Pensioners Federation to hear about their concerns and hopes for the rights and well-being of aging people in this country.  

According to Statistics Canada, people aged 85 and older could triple to almost 2.5 million over the next 25 years. Many of those citizens are in my province of British Columbia, where individuals 65 and older make up nearly 20% of the population.  

Challenges such as the pandemic, accountability for caretakers, and climate change's effects on human health concern this demographic and all those who care for them. The National Pensioners Federation is currently working on a draft for the UN regarding the proposed Convention on the Rights of Older Persons, which would emphasize the critical importance of these issues. 

As we move into new chapters for Canada, let us honour the rights of older persons and work hard to ensure people possess the tools and care to navigate aging with security and dignity. 

Statement about Don and Kaye Aldag

Thank you, Mr. Speaker. 

Mr. Speaker the year was 1958. John Diefenbaker was Prime Minister of Canada, and the 24th session of Parliament began on May 12. Tommy Douglas was the Premier of Saskatchewan, and Terry Fox was born that year. The Avro Arrow flew for the first time, Canada-wide television started, and the Canadian Football League was established (Go Riders).  

 Arguably the best news event of 1958 was when my parents, Don and Kaye Aldag, were married in southwestern Saskatchewan at the Good Hope Lutheran Church. My parents raised our family, including my siblings, Debbie and Rick, on the family farm that my great-grandparents homesteaded, instilling the values of hard work and optimism even during the most challenging of times.  

This past summer, our family celebrated Mom and Dad’s 65th wedding anniversary. Thank you to my parents for their unwavering support for myself and my siblings. Happy anniversary Mom and Dad. I love you. 

Statement on Summer Events

Mr. Speaker, 

I rise today to share the exciting events that are taking place this summer in Cloverdale-Langley City.  

First the Surrey Pride Festival will be taking place on June 24th for a celebration of diversity, inclusion, and equality. I look forward to celebrating Pride Month in our community. 

On June 29th, my office will be hosting our first Summer BBQ at Langley City Park. This BBQ is a great opportunity for us to come together for music, fun, and delicious food.  

On July 15th, we have the Al Anderson Pool Party, a chance to beat the summer heat with freezies and other cooling off activities.  

During the second weekend of August, we can look forward to a warm movie night in the park, complete with popcorn and a starry sky. 

As we embrace the spirit of summer activities, let us connect and celebrate the season of summer with our constituents.  

Lastly, I would like to wish all fathers a Happy Father’s Day, including my dad, Don Aldag. 

Thank you. 

Statement Congratulating High School Graduates

Mr. Speaker, 

At this time of year, we celebrate the academic achievements of those who have fulfilled another year of studies. This includes those who have completed another year of post-secondary studies, including my daughter Hattie, and those who have convocated.  

We also celebrate the achievements of elementary and secondary schools in Cloverdale-Langley City. I congratulate all Grade 12 students who are preparing to celebrate the significant milestone of graduation, including my daughter Kalani. 

As these students pursue post-secondary education, trades training, and enter the workforce, I’d like to acknowledge their hard work and accomplishments in pursuit of their passions and life goals. 

Congratulations to the graduating and convocating classes of 2023! I look forward to seeing these graduates and graduands shape our future ideas, policies, and investments as they become leaders in our country. 

Thank you Mr. Speaker.  

Statement Congratulating Darcy & Manjit

Thank you Mr. Speaker,  

The John and Muriel Arnason Award is granted to a couple who “serve together to make the Township of Langley a better place through charitable, philanthropic, or other means”. This year’s recipients were Township of Langley residents, Darcy and Manjit Gill.  

Since 1994, Darcy and Manjit have both been actively volunteering in the community and have made a significant difference in people’s lives. They are or have been involved with the Langley Memorial Hospital Foundation, Langley Meals on Wheels, BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, the BC Cancer Society, and the list goes on. Even right now, every week, Manjit delivers meals to students at HD Stafford Middle School.  

Our community is very grateful to this couple. Congratulations to Darcy and Manjit on this recent recognition. Your work has made our community a better place to live.   

Statement Thanking Kimz Angels

Thank you, Mr. Speaker, 

On Wednesday mornings in Langley City, a line forms in front of Langley Vineyard Church. This line includes people struggling with hunger, homelessness, and sometimes mental health issues. Some come for healthcare support, while others come for much needed social contact. Waiting inside to welcome those in need are Kimz Angels.  

With over 70 volunteers, Kimz Angels cares for our community’s homeless and hungry populations. These Angels provide food, clothing, housing, and essentials to those who need it, no questions asked. Kimz Angels also support seniors with financial struggles, young girls facing insecurities at school, and single mothers. They champion the importance of making positive impacts on other’s lives.  

The giving of furniture, non-perishable food, baby necessities, kids’ toys, school supplies, or shelter changes life stories. All it takes is a community coming together to help give a hand up, and this is what Kimz Angles do, rain or shine, in our community.  

I have had the privilege of volunteering with Kimz Angels many times over the years. I have seen the tireless efforts that Kimz Angels make in Langley City. Thank you, Kim Snow and all your angels, for the work you do. 

Thank you. 

Statement on Cloverdale Rodeo

Mr. Speaker,  

Following a 3-year break due to COVID, I’m excited that the Cloverdale Rodeo will once again be taking place from May 19th to 22nd.  

Established in 1888, this agricultural fair and exhibition is Canada’s second largest Rodeo event. The Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair was created to encourage the development of agricultural resources in the Fraser Valley of BC. There will also be a variety of western food vendors and a parade of over 1,000 participants, myself included.  

From marching bands, to skateboarders, dance groups, and clowns, there will be something for everyone to enjoy. Live musicians will play on stage as the surrounding community comes together to share in art, sport, song, and dance. I encourage both British Columbians and those outside the province to come experience our western hospitality. Join me in getting back to country and agriculture at the Cloverdale Rodeo this upcoming May long weekend.  

Thank you, Mr. Speaker