Vimy Ridge Anniversary to be Observed April 9

April 9th will be recognized as Vimy Ridge Day in Ontario as the result of all-party legislation that received third reading in May. The Battle of Vimy Ridge is widely regarded as a watershed in the development of Canada as an independent nation. The Battle marked the first time Canadian Divisions fought together on the same battlefield under Canadian leadership to carry out a Canadian strategy. Four divisions of 100,000 Canadians attacked and captured the ridge where other allied forces had failed. Victory was secured at the price of 3,598 Canadians killed and nearly 10,600 wounded.  The recognition of Vimy Ridge matches similar legislation passed by the federal government. This special declaration also encourages the efforts of the Vimy Foundation and helps to make all Canadians aware of the importance of the Battle of Vimy Ridge.  In 1922, France granted Canada perpetual use of a section of land at Vimy Ridge for a battlefield park and memorial. A memorial consisting of two towers of white limestone was erected in 1936. The Vimy Memorial is a lasting tribute to all the Canadian soldiers who gave their lives in the First World War.

Resolution Supports AgriStability Reforms

This week, in the Ontario Legislature, the Official Opposition is introducing a resolution calling on the Government of Ontario to help farmers by supporting reforms to the national AgriStability program at this year’s meeting of the federal and provincial Ministers of Agriculture. The resolution calls for a comprehensive business risk management program, jointly funded by farmers and the federal/provincial governments, as presented to the Province by the Ontario Agriculture Sustainability Coalition. Barring any last-minute changes in the Legislature’s agenda, the resolution will be tabled by MPP Jim Wilson under Private Member’s Business on Thursday, June 3. 

Alzheimer Act Passes Second Reading

All-party legislation calling for an Ontario Advisory Council on Alzheimer Disease received second reading May 20.  It has been referred to the Standing Committee on Justice Policy. This legislation deals with a number of new initiatives that will assist persons with Alzheimer disease and their families. Included in the all-party bill is the development of a strategy for research, treatment and prevention of Alzheimer disease and related dementias. If passed, this legislation would also include the creation of an Alzheimer Advisory Council.  The Advisory Council would cover topics including public education and awareness, training, research, strategies for care, treatment and prevention. It is encouraging to see MPPs from each political party working together on this legislation.

 Opposition Leader Will Table Bill to Help New Canadians Build Careers and Create Jobs

Ontario PC Leader Tim Hudak has introduced details of his upcoming Newcomers Employment Opportunities Act. The act includes practical and affordable measures to help new Canadians find employment and create jobs in Ontario.

Hudak’s bill would lower the investment threshold for any immigrant investor who is looking to open a business outside of the Greater Toronto Area. If passed, the Bill will lower investment requirements for immigrant applicants seeking permanent residence status in the investor category if the immigrant investor plans to operate a business outside of the Greater Toronto Area. In addition, the bill would provide new tax incentives for employers who pay for English and French language training for new Canadian employees. Finally, Hudak’s bill would require every Ontario regulated profession to provide potential immigrants with affordable and comprehensive access to credentialing information. 

In addition to serving as Opposition Leader, Tim Hudak is Ontario PC Citizenship and Immigration Critic. He released details of his bill after meeting with prominent business leaders from several multicultural communities at the Mississauga Seniors’ Centre.

How to Become a Parliamentary Page

Young Ontarians who are in grade seven or eight, have a Level 4 grade average and love to learn about Ontario’s Parliament are invited to apply to the Legislative Page Program.  Applicants must be actively involved in extra curricular programs both inside and outside their school. Ontario students selected for the program will work hard, meet new friends, learn a lot and experience parliament in action. Being a parliamentary page is also a lot of fun. There is a deadline of June 15 and December 15, depending on whether you are applying for the fall or the winter session of the Legislature. Further information is available online at www.ontla.on.ca; by e-mail at page_program@ontla.on.ca; and by telephone at (416) 325-7457.  Durham Riding is well represented in this program. It’s always a privilege to welcome Durham pages and their families to Queen’s Park.

Booklet is Gateway to Ontario Tourist Attractions

Through Attractions Ontario’s Passport Magazine, Ontario residents and visitors can view a listing of favourite tourist sites and also take advantage of $1,200 worth of money-saving coupons. A colour-coded map directs visitors to various regions of the province, each offering tours, campgrounds, museums, amusement parks, historic sites, galleries, and much more. Attractions Ontario estimates that business generated from this initiative brings in more than $70 million in revenue from sources such as visitor spending, tourism-related jobs and tax revenue. Attractions Ontario currently has 553 members across the province. Further information is available online at www.attractionsontario.ca . 

June is Recreation and Parks Month

Many Ontario municipalities have proclaimed June as Recreation and Parks Month. The month celebrates the many benefits or recreation and parks for children, families, organizations and communities across Canada. More information is available online at www.recandparksmonth.ca