Dear neighbour—

We wrapped up February with a major parliamentary milestone under our belts: the Budget Implementation Act (BIA), Bill c-15, having passed through the House of Commons. This is a significant achievement, and something I played a  role in seeing through as Chair of the Finance Committee. Since the beginning of the year, the Finance Committee has been hearing from experts and officials on the importance of passing this legislation quickly in order to safeguard our economy against the shocks of the trade actions coming from the United States.

I have to say, there were some important amendments put forward by the Conservatives on limiting the use of Ministerial powers that were included by the Government as part of the Red Tape Reduction Act. This was one aspect of the BIA on which I heard from lots of you. Other amendments, such as protecting Canada Post's ability to deliver low cost inter-library loans and free postage of books for the blind, were also passed. The BIA is now in the Senate for study.

Of course, we are ending this month with major military action in the Middle East. The Prime Minister has declared Canada's support of the intent of the action, acknowledging the brutal dictatorship that is in control of Iran at present; Canada has recognized Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism. Canada is not participating in this military campaign. I have certainly been vocal in support of the people of Iran who have been demonstrating (tens of thousands of whom have been killed in recent weeks) for freedom and democracy in Iran. As we watch this conflict unfold, the Government of Canada encourages Canadians across the region to follow local security advice, including sheltering in place where advised. If you or a loved one find yourself/themselves in the region, please register with Canada Abroad and check the Government of Canada's travel advisory frequently for any changes. My office is available to provide assistance as best we can.

There is a lot going on right now in the world. Despite everything, it is worthwhile to take a moment to reflect on how lucky we are to be Canadian and not to take anything we have here for granted. That doesn't mean we don't work hard to make our community and our country better, but it means we appreciate all we have as well. Top of which are peace, freedom, human rights and democracy. Rest assured, I remind myself of this daily, while I get up every day to fight for a better Canada.

This week kicks off a number of International Women's Day (IWD) festivities in our community and across the country. Let us take inspiration from the incredibly brave women from around the world who are standing up against oppression in some of the most dangerous circumstances every single day. So many women had to fight for equality, the right to vote, the right to own property, the right to run for office, before I and others could do what we're doing. I remember them and their allies who opened doors for women of the generations that came after them, I urge you to think about what doors you can open and hold open for the next generation of women here in Canada and around the world this IWD.

With gratitude,

Karina Gould