Hello Friends,
As we step into the holiday season, I’m reflecting on the many milestones we’ve achieved together this past month. November was a whirlwind of activity, marked by meaningful progress, important celebrations, and impactful conversations.
Our government continues to deliver on promises to improve transit, healthcare, and infrastructure. From investing in 55 new trains for Toronto’s Line 2 subway to renovations at the Queensway Health Centre, which will bring South Etobicoke its first MRI machine, we’re building a better future for everyone.
As you may have heard, the Ontario Legislature has passed Bill 212, Reducing Gridlock, Saving You Time Act, 2024. With the added amendment, Bill 212 allows for the immediate removal of the bike lanes on Bloor Street West. It also mandates municipalities to seek provincial approval before installing bike lanes that remove lanes of traffic. As many residents and businesses directly told me, the under-utilized bike lanes created gridlock. These bike lanes also posed challenges for emergency vehicles, seniors and those with accessibility issues.
I also had the privilege of joining the Minister of Transportation to announce that the Gardiner Expressway construction is entering Phase 2 construction – an impressive four months ahead of schedule. This milestone, made possible by a $73M investment by the province, once again demonstrates our commitment to improving infrastructure and reducing gridlock.
In addition, we officially broke ground on the Ontario Line subway tunnels at Exhibition Station. This transformative project will cut commute times across the GTA and bring nearly 230,000 people within walking distance of world-class public transit. Those who get on at Long Branch GO and Mimico GO, or the future Park Lawn GO, will be able to seamlessly use the Ontario Line to reach their destinations faster.
I was honoured to support Bill 215 that seeks to enshrine September as Ukrainian Heritage Month, recognizing the immense contributions of the Ukrainian community in Ontario. This came as we marked 1,000 days since the start of Russia’s unjust war on Ukraine — a sobering milestone that strengthens our resolve to stand in solidarity with Ukraine’s fight for sovereignty.
The legislature also passed an important motion introduced by MPP Jess Dixon (Kitchener South–Hespeler) calling on the Ministry of Education to encourage and support all publicly funded school boards in partnering with police services through Community School Liaison Officer (CSLO) programs. I am strong supporter of the Community School Liaison Officer programs that are designed to build meaningful relationships between students and officers, serving as a bridge between schools, families, and communities.
I also had the opportunity to tour the Jean Tweed Centre, which is doing incredible work to empower women facing mental health and addiction challenges. With a $98,200 Ontario Trillium Foundation grant, the Centre is expanding its programming to prevent substance abuse among high-risk youth.
Another highlight was seeing the impact of a $600,000 Black Youth Action Plan grant at the Canadian College of Healthcare and Pharmaceutics. This funding is helping nurses and paramedics with upskilling and placements, ensuring brighter futures for participants and addressing critical healthcare workforce needs.
As always, I enjoyed connecting with residents at Coffee with Christine at the Yellow Cup Café, where we discussed the issues that matter most to you. Your voices guide my work at Queen’s Park and inspire me every day.
Together, we’re achieving remarkable things for Etobicoke-Lakeshore and Ontario. Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we build a vibrant, prosperous future for everyone.
Sincerely,
Christine
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