Kate Young

[Cardiac Arrhythmia Network of Canada, February 1st, 2019]

Mr. Speaker, February is Heart Month. Heart disease affects approximately 2.4 million Canadian adults and is the second leading cause of death in Canada. That is why organizations such as the Cardiac Arrhythmia Network of Canada, of CANet, are so important.

CANet is based in London and brings together health care professionals, academia, industry, not-for-profit and patient input to support new ideas and groundbreaking research on arrhythmia and related heart conditions.

I recently had the opportunity to visit CANet and see first-hand the work it is doing. Its research and first-of-its-kind technology will have significant impact, not only on Canadians suffering from arrhythmia but also on caregivers and for Canada's health care system at large.

I applaud CANet for its important work and encourage all members in the House to join me in raising awareness on cardiovascular health this month.

[Make-A-Wish Canada, December 12th, 2018]

Mr. Speaker, for years, the Make-A-Wish foundation has granted wishes to children with life-threatening medical conditions.

Aiden Anderson is a 15-year-old boy from my riding of London West who lives with a severe heart condition. Today his wish is coming true. Aiden's wish is to be Prime Minister for the day. He is here today with his family on Parliament Hill and gets to experience a tour of Centre Block, dining at the parliamentary restaurant, holding his own press conference and of course, meeting the Prime Minister of Canada.

His strength, determination and courage serve as an inspiration. He sets an example for all of us and demonstrates that no matter one's age or the challenge we face, we can and we will succeed.

I congratulate the Prime Minister for the day, Aiden Anderson.

[Olympic Medals, December 4th, 2018]

Mr. Speaker, it is my honour to congratulate the first female Canadian athlete to medal in weightlifting. Christine Girard competed in the women's 63-kilogram division in both the 2008 Olympics in Beijing and the 2012 Olympics in London. Yesterday in Ottawa, a 10-year and a six-year wrong were righted.

Christine was finally awarded the bronze for the 2008 Olympics and the gold that she rightfully won in 2012. Not only is she the first female Canadian athlete to win a medal in weightlifting, she is also the first to win gold. This is now the second gold medal Canada won at the London Games.

Christine's story is one of perseverance and determination, and is one that all Canadians should know. I hope all members of this House will join me in congratulating Christine on receiving her hard-fought medals.

[International Day of Persons with Disabilities, December 3rd, 2018]

Mr. Speaker, today is the United Nations International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This year's theme, “Empowering persons with disabilities and ensuring inclusiveness and equality”, is at the heart of the Government of Canada's commitment to build a Canada without barriers.

In June, our government introduced Bill C-81, the accessible Canada act, which if passed will address barriers to accessibility in the federal jurisdiction.

Earlier today, the Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Accessibility announced that Canada has acceded to the optional protocol to the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities. This means that Canadians will have additional recourse if they believe their rights under the convention have been violated.

These actions speak to our dedication to creating a truly inclusive and accessible Canada. Please join me in celebrating people with disabilities and the significant contributions they make to Canadian society.

[Canada Post Corporation, November 6th, 2018]

Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to creating a more inclusive, accessible and barrier-free Canada. That is why enhancing Canada Post's accessible delivery program is a key part of our government's renewed vision for the postal service.

I am pleased to rise to inform the House that this week marks the first meetings of the Canada Post accessibility advisory panel. This national advisory panel of experts and advocates for persons with disabilities and seniors will advise Canada Post on an enhanced accessible delivery program to make it easier for Canadians to access their mail and parcels.

The accessibility advisory panel will serve as a valuable forum for input and dialogue on the issue of accessibility. I thank the distinguished Canadians who have agreed to serve on the panel and help Canada Post continue to improve delivery for all Canadians.

[Violence Against Women and Girls, November 2nd, 2018]

Madam Speaker, violence against women and girls is a terrible and tragic reality, and it is important to shine a light on this ongoing abuse.

This month marks the London Abused Women's Centre's ninth annual “Shine the Light” campaign. The London, Ontario, organization offers abused and sexually exploited women and girls counselling, advocacy and support in a safe setting. Its “Shine the Light” campaign aims to raise awareness of violence against women and girls by turning communities purple for the month of November.

Our government strongly supports gender equality and condemns any type of violence against women and girls. As Canadians, we need to do more to create a culture of non-violence and respect for women and girls. This month, let us stand in solidarity with victims, their families and loved ones and recognize their courage and survival.

[Brain Cancer, October 24th, 2018]

Mr. Speaker, today is the first-ever Brain Cancer Awareness Day in Canada.

While we have made significant progress and advancements in various forms of cancer treatment, there is still much left to be done. That is why our government is undertaking a series of measures to modernize our health care system so that we will be in a better position to provide greater access to new treatments for diseases like brain cancer.

With disease awareness comes hope and support for research. I would like to recognize the Brain Tumour Foundation of Canada, a national non-profit organization based in London, Ontario. This week they launched “Hats for Hope”, a nationwide brain cancer awareness campaign calling on all Canadians to show support for increased brain cancer research.

I extend my thoughts and support to all Canadians impacted by brain cancer. Together we can make a difference.

[Turner Drug Store, October 4th, 2018]

Mr. Speaker, small businesses make up 98% of Canadian businesses and employ over 10 million hard-working Canadians from coast to coast to coast.

One such small business is Turner Drug Store, an independent pharmacy located in my riding of London West, which recently celebrated its 80th anniversary. Jeffrey Robb, a pharmacist and the current owner, has worked at Turner Drug Store since 1974, when he was just 14 years old. This small business holds a special place in the hearts of many Londoners as it has provided pharmaceutical, vitamin and herbal remedies to the community for eight decades. Our government knows the fundamental role that small businesses play in our economy and we will continue to support their growth and success.

I would like to extend my sincerest congratulations to Turner Drug Store for reaching this astounding milestone.

[London West Youth Council, June 19th, 2018]

Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to work with the London West Youth Council, a group of brilliant and inspiring young people.

They volunteered their time collecting non-perishable food items for Anova, an organization that provides shelter for abused women and their children. They filled 23 large bags with breakfast items, which were then delivered.

I am excited to continue to work with my youth council, and to show them that there are many ways to be leaders of today.

Their passion and skill inspire me, as does the positive change they are making in our community.

[Criminal Code, June 7th, 2018]

Mr. Speaker, I am always interested to hear the comments of my hon. colleague from Whitby about laws and legislation, especially when they affect marginalized groups.

We often hear the opposition, the Conservatives especially, criticize this bill, saying it will mean somehow that criminals will be out on the streets. I know that the people in my community of London West are also concerned. When they hear this, it is fearmongering.

Could my colleague talk about what this really means so people will not be as fearful, as the Conservatives make them feel sometimes?