September 21, 2012

Parliament Resumes

I headed back to Parliament Hill this week after having time over the summer to work in the riding. I was fortunate enough to attend dozens of meetings and events across Lambton-Kent-Middlesex and meet many of you.

The priority for this session of Parliament is to stay the course of our budget – the Economic Action Plan - jobs, growth and long-term prosperity. We will continue to negotiate free trade agreements and open new markets around the world for our businesses and industries. We will also continue our low tax regime for individuals and businesses.

The highlight for me this week was to congratulate and welcome our Canadian Olympian and Paralympian athletes to Parliament Hill and the House of Commons. What a wonderful group of dedicated individuals.

Motion 312

Many of you are familiar with Motion 312 , introduced by my colleague Stephen Woodworth to review the Criminal Code and determine when a human being becomes a human being. The final vote on the Motion is scheduled for this Wednesday, September 26th, and I am pleased to support the Motion.

Helping Families in Need

Our Government has introduced the Helping Families in Need Act , which provides income support to parents of murdered or missing children and EI benefits to parents of critically ill or injured children. The Act also supports parents by making them eligible for sickness benefits, should they fall ill while collecting parental benefits.

Helmets to Hardhats

Veterans have told us time and time again that one of the most important elements of a successful transition into civilian life is meaningful, well paid employment. This is why our Government has partnered with Helmets to Hardhats Canada and why this week, we officially launched the program’s website www.helmetstohardhats.ca This website will allow transitioning and serving Canadian Forces members to find jobs in the construction industry across the country.

Walking a Mile in Her Shoes

The annual Walk a Mile in Her Shoes event is set for this weekend and I’m happy to be taking part for the third straight year. The popular event, which sees dozens of men cram into women’s high heels for a mile-long walk, raises money for the Women’s Rural Resource Centre. The walk starts at St. John’s the Evangelist Church in Strathroy at 2:30pm Sunday. I don’t know how you ladies do it every day!

Visiting Parliament Hill

In my last e-newsletter, I reminded you about the opportunity to visit Parliament Hill the next time you’re in Ottawa. Just call my Hill office at 613-947-4581 to set up a date and time. I was pleased to welcome Kerry Levitt and her daughter Gracie from Arkona this week.

Until next time.

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