Karina Gould
Hon. Karina Gould
Member of Parliament for Burlington
February 2020 Update
March 1, 2020

Dear Friends,

The first two months of 2020 have presented difficult challenges for our country; the downing of Flight 752, the Covid-19 outbreak, and the more recent rail blockades. Our government is working hard to address these important issues and ensure that our country is prepared and committed to protecting Canadians and working through some of our most difficult challenges. 

In regards to Covid-19, the risk for Canadians remains low, and our healthcare system is taking all necessary precautions to prevent the further spread of infection.

In circumstances such as this, it is imperative that you rely on reputable news sources to ensure you're getting the facts. I encourage you to consult Health Canada's website on Covid-19 for up to date and factual information on the ongoing situation and information on the virus and returning to Canada from areas affected by the outbreak. The best practices we can all implement in our daily lives to prevent the spread of colds and flus, including Covid-19, is frequent hand washing and coughing or sneezing into our sleeve. If you are planning to travel during March Break, for example, please visit the Government of Canada's travel section for the most up to date advice. 

I have heard from many of you about the ongoing situation resulting from the protests of the Wet'suwet'en hereditary chiefs of Northern British Columbia. I know the impact this situation is having on Canadian jobs and the economy. Our government has been working diligently and urgently for a peaceful resolution to the blockades and a long-term resolution to the grievances that are at the heart of the protests. 

Our government remains committed to the reconciliation agenda. In British Columbia, the RCMP have moved their operations as requested and temporarily closed their office. Minister Bennett has traveled to British Columbia to engage the Wet'suwet'en hereditary chiefs in talks and to come to a peaceful resolution. 

The new NAFTA agreement was introduced in the House on February 2nd, 2020 and is quickly moving through the Chamber. We are committed to a speedy ratification process to ensure stability and greater predictability in the North American market. 

On February 24th, our government introduced proposed changes to the Criminal Code to respond to the Superior Court of Quebec's September 2019 Truchon ruling, and to emerging societal consensus on specific issues related to Medical Assistance in Dying.

In recent months, I have heard from many constituents on this issue and heard both sides of the issue. Thank you to all those who participate in our government's consultations throughout January and February of this year. The proposed changes were informed by the concerns and issues raised in this period and as a result of careful consideration of the past four years' of experience with MAID in Canada. As this Bill moves through the Parliamentary process, do not hesitate to reach out with any thoughts or concerns you may have.  

Our government remains committed to protecting vulnerable individuals and the equality rights of all Canadians while supporting the autonomy of eligible persons to seek MAID. For full details on the legislation, please consult the link found here.

We have faced a number of challenges in the early months of 2020 as a country. Our government is responding in a measured way and placing the security and well-being of all Canadians at the heart of everything we do. 

As we enter March, I am looking forward to celebrating International Women's Day with many members of our community and am much looking forward to Spring. As a reminder, my office will be hosting our annual Community Volunteer Income Tax Program from March 3rd through until April 29th for low income residents. For further information, please scroll down. 

Sincerely.

Karina

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