Congratulations!

Constituents from Lambton-Kent-Middlesex never cease to amaze me. We have some very talented, courageous and compassionate people in our area and they all deserve some time in the spotlight. This week, we’re highlighting the incredible efforts of volunteer firefighter Daniel Glanville from Ailsa Craig who has received a Governor General’s Medal of Bravery. Daniel was part of a team of firefighters who, under very dangerous conditions, rescued a man from a collapsed silo. We’re all very proud of you, Daniel!

Pension Reform

Our government has heard time and time again from taxpayers that pensions for MPs, Senators and public servants should be more in line with the private sector. Last week, we announced plans for significant pension reforms. The reforms, introduced in the Jobs and Growth Act, 2012, will see contribution rates for MPs, Senators and public service employees moving to a 50-50 cost-sharing model. As well, MPs, Senators and newly hired public servants can’t begin collecting their pensions until age 65 rather than 55. These reforms will save taxpayers $2.6 billion over the next five years. I’m happy to report C-46, the Pension Reform Act was passed unanimously by all parties through the House of Commons.

The Jobs and Growth Act

The Jobs and Growth Act, 2012 was introduced last week. It is legislation that will implement key measures from our most recent budget, Economic Action Plan 2012 to help grow Canada’s economy, fuel job creation and secure Canada’s long-term prosperity. Among other things, we’ve extended the job-creating Hiring Credit for Small Business for one year. We also want to help Canadians save for retirement by implementing the tax framework for Pooled Registered Pension Plans and improving Registered Disability Savings Plans. You can read more about The Jobs and Growth Act, 2012 at www.goo.gl/H3xpc

Supporting our Veterans

As we approach Veterans’ Week and Remembrance Day services across the country, our government has launched a useful new tool to help veterans quickly and easily find information on the benefits, services and programs offered by Veterans Affairs Canada. The newly created Benefits Browser can be found at www.veterans.gc.ca and allows veterans and their families to browse “Benefits at a Glance” or select information specific to their military service.

Students Get Involved

The Raise Your Voices! National Student Banner Contest has just been announced. It’s a cross-Canada public art contest for students in Grades 5 through 8. As a classroom activity, students are encouraged to create a one-of-a-kind banner design that represents an issue or topic of importance to Canadian youth. Seven winning banners are chosen and flown from spring until fall in Major’s Hill Park, near Parliament Hill. The artists who create the top three banners also win a videoconference chat with the Governor General of Canada, His Excellency the Right Honourable David Johnston. You can find out much more about the contest here on my website.

Until next time.

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