Working hard for the people of Winnipeg West
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With the return of Parliament for the fall session, I remain committed to representing you and advocating for the people of Winnipeg West. I am pleased to share some of the important progress we are making locally and across Canada to improve the lives of families in our community.
Our government is taking decisive steps to tackle the housing crisis. We have launched Build Canada Homes, a federal agency designed to accelerate the development of affordable housing. By working closely with provinces, municipalities, Indigenous communities, and private partners, this agency is streamlining approvals, providing incentives, and helping homes get built more quickly and affordably.
In Winnipeg West, the Naawi-Oodena project, located between Tuxedo and River Heights, is set to create approximately 2,100 new homes, with 20 percent of these units dedicated to affordable housing. The first phase is currently underway which will deliver up to 1,200 homes. This initiative will open doors for many families seeking safe and affordable places to live.
Strong, vibrant communities depend on spaces where families can come together, stay active, and foster meaningful connections. The newly redeveloped playground at John Steel Park in Westwood has officially opened with support from federal investment. The playground includes a fully accessible ramped play structure, independent play equipment, and swings, providing a welcoming and safe environment for children and families to enjoy.
Having lived in Headingley, it was especially meaningful to witness the official opening of the expanded Headingley Community Centre. Supported by federal funding through the Investing in Canada Infrastructure Program, this expansion includes a new gymnasium and multi-purpose community spaces that will benefit residents of all ages. This facility will continue to serve as a cornerstone for recreation, connection, and healthy living for many years to come.
Our government is addressing the rise in hate-motivated incidents through Bill C 9, An Act to Combat Hate Crime. This legislation enhances protections for schools, places of worship, and community centres by making it illegal to intimidate or obstruct access to these spaces. It also prohibits the public display of hate symbols such as Nazi and terrorist logos. These measures are vital to ensuring that every member of our community feels safe, respected, and included.
As part of our ongoing commitment to combat climate change and reduce energy costs for families in Winnipeg West, the federal government is investing nearly $30 million to bring the Canada Greener Homes Affordability Program to Manitoba. This program offers no-cost energy upgrades, such as insulation and heat pumps, specifically supporting low- and middle-income households, including Indigenous communities in our area. By helping Winnipeg West families save on their energy bills, this initiative also contributes to cleaner air and supports the creation of good local jobs in our community.
We are making progress at a pace not seen in generations. As we look ahead, I want to highlight an important national milestone. On Nov. 4, the federal government will table its next Budget in Parliament. This will be a generational investment moment, a crucial opportunity to reinforce Canada’s long-term prosperity and security.
In an increasingly complex and competitive global economy, where we face rising geopolitical tensions and an ongoing global trade war, Canada must act decisively to protect our industries, support our workers, and build a resilient economy that can thrive in a new world economic order. This requires a responsible balance between operational spending and capital investment. We must be rigorous with our expenses so we can be ambitious with our investments. That means directing resources toward nation-building projects such as infrastructure, housing, clean energy, and innovation — the kinds of investments that deliver lasting returns for generations to come.
We are committed to laying the foundations for a more inclusive, more sustainable, and more competitive Canada. I will be advocating for Winnipeg West every step of the way.
Thank you for your ongoing engagement and support. Your voices inspire me every day as I work to ensure Winnipeg West remains a thriving place to live, work, and raise families.