Federal Minister Visits Lambton-Kent-Middlesex
It was my pleasure to host the Honourable Alice Wong, Minister of State for Seniors today for two roundtable discussions in Strathroy and Wallaceburg. Minister Wong’s focus this year is on healthy, active aging for seniors. She encourages all seniors from 65 to 100+ to stay informed, stay engaged and stay active. I’d like to thank everyone who came out to be part of the discussions. If you’d like more information about federal government programs or initiatives for seniors, head to www.seniors.gc.ca




Employment Insurance Changes To Benefit Parents
Our government has recently announced a proposed new Employment Insurance (EI) special benefit for parents of critically ill children. We recognize the emotional and financial challenges faced by parents when their child has a life-threatening illness or injury and the vital role parents play in a child’s recovery. Once implemented, this new EI benefit will provide income support for up to 35 weeks to eligible parents or legal guardians of children under 18 years of age, with a life-threatening illness or injury. The new EI special benefit is expected to be available in June 2013 and will help an estimated 6,000 families per year.

Protecting Children From Sexual Predators
We remain committed to keeping our streets and communities safe and last week a significant step was taken to better protect children across the country. The Protecting Children From Sexual Predators component of the Safe Streets and Communities Act came into force. Among other things, these changes will mean mandatory jail time and an end to conditional sentences (i.e. house arrest) for seven offences including luring a child, sexual assault and aggravated assault. Mandatory prison sentences will also increase for nine sexual offences involving child victims, including possessing, making, or distributing child pornography.

Summer Olympics Wrap Up in London, England
I’d like to congratulate all of our Canadian athletes for a job well done in London! Melanie McCann from Mount Carmel and Hilary Stellingwerff from Grand Bend did exceptionally well to be part of their Canadian Olympic teams and made us all very proud. Melanie placed 11th overall in the modern pentathlon event, having been ranked 28th going into the event. Despite an amazing push at the end of her race, Hilary was just edged out of qualifying for the final of the 1500m.

Bev and Barb’s Appreciation Summer BBQ’s
Thank you so much to everyone who attended my appreciation BBQ’s this summer. The most recent was held following the Inter-denominational church service during WAMBO festivities in Wallaceburg and attracted close to 500 people. Another 200 joined us a couple of weeks before for a fun time at the Texas Longhorn Ranch. These BBQ’s are just one way for me to express how much I appreciate being your local Member of Parliament and your continued support.
Until next time.

Bev Shipley, M.P.
Lambton-Kent-Middlesex
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