Newsletter - Feb 12, 2026
I want to begin by acknowledging the horrific shooting in Tumbler Ridge. As Canadians, our ability to come together in a crisis is what binds us. We grieve with those whose lives have been changed forever; loved ones, classmates, friends, teachers, and more. In this time of grief and sorrow, we must remember the love and empathy that bind us all. I also want to recognize the first responders who put service before self in helping the community deal with this tragedy.
In moments like these, we are reminded not only of our shared humanity, but also of our shared responsibility to care for one another and to build a country where communities are safe, resilient, and supported.
As global economic conditions continue to shift, our government’s focus is on strengthening what we can control at home. That means building a more resilient economy, protecting good jobs, and making sure Canadian industries are positioned to compete and grow in a changing world. These priorities matter deeply here in Oakville East, where manufacturing and skilled trades continue to support families and bolster our local economy.
Last week, Prime Minister Carney announced a new national auto strategy designed to strengthen Canada’s automotive sector and support the workers and communities that depend on it. With Oakville East home to Ford Motor Company Canada, one of the country’s largest auto employers, this strategy directly impacts our community. Our new strategy will reward vehicles built in Canada, encourage new investment, and help ensure that auto manufacturing jobs remain here for the long term. By supporting innovation, clean technology, and advanced manufacturing, this approach helps Canadian plants stay competitive while responding to global market pressures and evolving consumer demand.
The new strategy also looks ahead to the future of the industry by making electric vehicles more affordable for consumers, expanding charging infrastructure, and supporting workers through training, reskilling, and work sharing programs. For Oakville East families, this is about job stability today and opportunity tomorrow, ensuring that our workforce remains at the centre of Canada’s automotive future.
The new auto strategy is a key part of the overarching strategy to diversify Canada’s trade relationships, so we are less reliant on any single market. By strengthening ties with partners in Europe, Asia, and the Indo Pacific, Canada is opening new doors for our exporters and manufacturers while reducing vulnerability to global shocks. A more diverse trade network helps Canadian businesses grow, attracts investment, and supports industries like auto manufacturing that depend on strong, reliable supply chains.
These international efforts are always guided by one core principle: delivering benefits at home. When Canada builds new trade and investment partnerships, we do so with Canadian workers, businesses, and communities. For Oakville East, this means protecting manufacturing jobs, supporting local suppliers, and ensuring our economy remains strong and resilient.
As part of our broader international engagement, I had the opportunity last week to mark the official opening of Canada’s new consulate in Nuuk, Greenland. This represents a significant commitment under Canada’s Arctic Foreign Policy. As interest and competition in the Arctic increase, Canada is standing alongside our Arctic partners to promote stability, security, and cooperation in the North. Strengthening our presence in the Arctic is not only about diplomacy and security, but also about ensuring Canada remains an active and trusted partner in shaping the region’s future. Click here to watch a video of the Canadian flag raising Canada’s new consulate in Nuuk, Greenland.
As your voice in Ottawa, I welcome your feedback and questions, and I will continue keeping you informed about how national decisions and initiatives connect back to our community.
Recent Highlights
Black History Month
During Black History Month, we honour and celebrate the profound contributions that Black Canadians have made to Canada’s industries, communities, and cultural heritage throughout our history. Through sustained investments, our government continues to support Black-led organizations, entrepreneurs, and community initiatives here in #OakvilleEast and nationwide. Click here to watch my remarks for CCAH's black history month celebration.
Canada's New Consulate in Nuuk, Greenland
Canada’s new consulate in Nuuk is now officially open — a major commitment under our Arctic Foreign Policy. As strategic competition increases in the Arctic, Canada is standing with our Arctic partners to advance stability, security, and shared interests in the North.
Lunar New Year: Sunrise Mandarin School
I spent this past Sunday celebrating Lunar New Year with Oakville’s Sunrise Mandarin School community. Thank you for strengthening cultural understanding and engagement in our Oakville community. Happy Lunar New Year to all.
Tamil Heritage Month
Canada’s Tamil community is vibrant and contributes so much to our country. A couple of weeks ago, I joined a celebration for Tamil Heritage Month, honouring the rich culture and traditions that bring us close. As my father was of Tamil heritage, I grew up with many of these traditions and immersed in the culture. Thank you to Gary and Juanita for bringing us all together. Nandri!
