2024 15-2 April Politics

Message from the Honourable Mona Fortier

By the Honourable Mona Fortier, Member of Parliament (Ottawa-Vanier)

Dear residents, 

We are already in April and much work has been done in government. Here are highlights of the priorities that are being done in Ottawa-Vanier and the region. In February, the federal government announced an investment of $176.3 million in the City of Ottawa through the Housing Accelerator Fund. This investment will expedite the construction of 4,400 units and paves the way for 32,000 homes in the next decade. As we unveil the priorities of Budget 2024, we are announcing a new $6 billion Canada Housing Infrastructure Fund, with the goal of helping communities such as Ottawa-Vanier build the infrastructure needed to get more homes built faster. One billion dollars is readily available for communities and cities with the most pressing infrastructure and housing needs. The remaining $5 billion will be set aside for the yet-to-be-negotiated agreements with provinces and territories. The federal government will require provinces and territories to commit to a series of actions meant to increase Canada’s housing supply in order to access this funding.

While we have been focused on building more homes, we’ve also been committed to combatting climate change. This is why we introduced a price on pollution that works for everyone by fighting climate change while returning more money to Canadians, so they’re not stuck carrying the burden. That’s why families in Ontario can receive up to $1,120 through the Canada Carbon Rebate. The first payment for 2024 will be delivered by mid-April. 

We will continue to support the middle class by creating good jobs, building more housing, and preserving our clean air. We will also continue to provide targeted relief from inflation to families who need it most, including the implementation of $10-a-day childcare services and the Child Care Benefit which is indexed to consider inflation. Furthermore, we’re strengthening our commitment to children with a National School Food Program. With a $1 billion investment over the next five years, this program will provide meals to approximately 400,000 children annually, easing the minds of parents and ensuring no child goes hungry. This is a game changer for our schools in Ottawa-Vanier and will be rolled out starting next school year.

Finally, I invite you to join the Ottawa-Vanier Seniors Council, for those aged 50 and above. This is a great opportunity to play a role as an engaged citizen and to provide me with your insights and ideas on how the federal government can contribute to improving the quality of life for residents of Ottawa-Vanier and the surrounding region.

As always, if you need any assistance with any federal programs or services, contact the team at 613-998-1860, or send us an email at mona.fortier@parl.gc.ca.