Oakville North-Burlington Newsletter February 13, 2026

February 13, 2026

Oakville North-Newsletter February 13, 2026



“Our government is continuing to take bold action to protect Ontario’s world-class health-care workforce now and for years to come. By increasing the number of nurse practitioners and physician assistants, while upskilling registered nurses, we are moving closer to ensuring everyone can connect to primary care.

To support recruitment and retention, Ontario is investing over $4.5 million in an innovative program to help more than 1,400 registered nurses gain advanced skills in chronic disease management, cancer screening, maternal and child care, and immunizations. Delivered with Conestoga, Lakehead, Trent and Western universities, the program launches this year and builds on recent government investments to expand team-based primary care across the province”. —MPP Effie Triantafilopoulos





An Inspiring Morning with Halton Food for Thought

It was an inspiring morning at St. Marguerite d’Youville Catholic Elementary School in support of the Feeduary campaign with Halton Food for Thought. I was pleased to join student volunteers and sponsors in preparing bins of fresh, nutritious food for students.
This initiative is a powerful reminder of how our community comes together to support more than 96,000 Halton students through 157 Student Nutrition Programs. Thank you to Halton Food for Thought for the important work you do to ensure students have the nourishment they need to learn, grow, and succeed.



Celebrating the Year of the Horse

It was a pleasure to join Redleaf Cultural Integration in celebrating the Year of the Horse at the Lunar New Year event held at the Burlington Performing Arts Centre. I was honoured to offer greetings on behalf of Premier Ford and participate in such a vibrant celebration of culture, tradition, and community spirit.
My sincere thanks to the dedicated organizers, talented performers, and hardworking volunteers who brought residents together for this special occasion. Wishing everyone a happy, healthy, and prosperous Lunar New Year.



Celebrating Black History Month

It was a meaningful way to mark Black History Month at the opening of STILL BLOOMING at the Art Gallery of Burlington.
This thoughtfully curated exhibition features the work of nine Afro Caribbean artists, exploring themes of resilience, identity, and hope through striking botanical imagery.
Thank you to Francesca Durham and Dennis Scott with the Halton Black History Awareness Society for their continued leadership in elevating diverse voices and celebrating culture within our community.



Celebrating Active Living for Seniors in Burlington

There was an incredible turnout at Burlington’s second annual Adult Active Living Fair, with more than 400 attendees surpassing last year’s record. I was pleased to deliver greetings on behalf of Premier Doug Ford and Seniors Minister Raymond Cho, and to spend time meeting residents while visiting the many outstanding booths promoting active and healthy living. Thank you to Mayor Marianne Meed Ward, Councillor Angelo Bentivegna, Councillor Lisa Kearns, and Councillor Paul Sharman for their continued leadership. I also extend my appreciation to the staff and volunteers at the City of Burlington for organizing such a successful event for seniors in our community.



Burlington’s Own Compete for Gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics

So proud to cheer on Burlington’s own Emma Maltais and Renata Fast as they represent Canada in women’s hockey at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games. Both returning gold medalists and Key to the City recipients, they continue to inspire our community. We’re also cheering on Chris Holmstead in men’s bobsleigh. Burlington is behind you all the way as you compete on the world stage.



Strengthening Autism Supports in the Region

It was a pleasure to connect with Am Badwall, Executive Director of Missing Links Filling the Gaps to Autism, to discuss ongoing autism supports in the region and to congratulate her on the release of her new book, Abandoning Traditional Autism Programming with a Modern Approach. We had a thoughtful discussion about evolving approaches to ABA programming and the importance of ensuring services remain compassionate, person centered, and responsive to the needs of families. Thank you for your continued leadership and advocacy on behalf of individuals with autism in our community.



Celebrated Investment in Ontario’s Music Industry

It was a pleasure to connect with Carlos Pineda of MCMXVI Inc. to announce their 20,000 dollar Ontario Music Investment Fund grant, supporting the development and release of new music from three Ontario artists. We also had a productive discussion about long term opportunities for the local hospitality and entertainment sector, and how a strong creative economy can drive jobs, tourism, and vibrant communities. Congratulations to Carlos and the MCMXVI team on this well deserved investment in Ontario talent.



A Meaningful Tribute to Black History Month in Burlington

Honoured to recognize Black History Month with the African Caribbean Council of Halton and the City of Burlington. This year’s theme, “Living History, Lasting Legacy,” reminds us of the importance of preserving stories, celebrating resilience, and uplifting the remarkable contributions of African, Caribbean, and Black communities in Halton and across Ontario.
Thank you to ACCH for your continued leadership and commitment to community.



Wear-Red Day

On February 13, our community marked Wear Red Canada Day in support of women’s heart health. Heart disease remains a leading cause of premature death among women in Canada, yet it is largely preventable through awareness, education, and early action.

Thank you to everyone who wore red and helped raise awareness.

To learn more about women’s heart health and how you can get involved, visit https://cwhha.ca/wearredcanada/





UK Parliamentary Delegation Visit Queens Park

As Deputy Speaker, it was an honour to welcome members of the UK Parliament to Queen’s Park on behalf of the Speaker Donna Skelly during their visit as part of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association.
Their delegation was led by Sharon Hodgson, MP for Washington and Gateshead South along with fellow parliamentarians from  the House of Commons and House of Lords.
Our discussions focused on strengthening democratic institutions, parliamentary modernization, evolving legislative practices, and reinforcing the long-standing economic and institutional ties between Ontario and the United Kingdom.


 
Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs

As a member of the Standing Committee on Finance and Economic Affairs, I was pleased to participate in a roundtable discussion with parliamentarians from the UK Parliament.
Highlights of our discussions included the importance of trade, economic policy, and the vital role parliamentary committees play in fiscal oversight and accountability.
Constructive dialogue like this strengthens democratic institutions and supports continued economic cooperation between Ontario, Canada and our international partners.




Ontario Secures Agreement to Advance World’s Largest Nuclear Generating Station

With more chaos coming from the White House, now is exactly the time to double down on Canada  putting our workers, technology, and supply chain first,” said Stephen Lecce, Minister of Energy and Mines. “This agreement is an important step forward as we build the world’s largest nuclear station, creating over 10,000 good-paying jobs and reliable power for up to 10 million homes. We express thanks to Port Hope for the partnership with OPG, as we work together to boost both the local and Canadian economy, with over 90 per cent of nuclear investment stamped with Made in Canada.

Learn more: Ontario Secures Agreement to Advance World’s Largest Nuclear Generating Station



Protecting Ontario’s Economy Amid U.S. Tariffs

Unjustified U.S. tariffs are disrupting the deeply integrated North American supply chains that have supported economic growth for generations. Lawmakers on both sides of the aisle have recognized that these tariffs act as a tax on American families and businesses.
Ontario remains the top export destination for 17 U.S. states, supporting millions of American jobs. We continue to urge the permanent removal of these tariffs so we can strengthen our shared prosperity and security.
In the face of economic uncertainty, Ontario is taking decisive action, delivering over $30 billion in tariff relief and supports to protect workers, businesses, and the progress we have made across our economy.



Ontario Investing $6.4 Billion to Support Postsecondary Sector’s Long-Term Success and Sustainability

In order to protect our province, it is imperative that we continue to train a strong, highly skilled workforce for Ontario for decades to come,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “Through these changes, including $6.4 billion in new funding for the postsecondary sector, our government is not only ensuring the sustainability of our colleges, universities and Indigenous Institutes, but also preparing our graduates with the in-demand skills they need to meaningfully find good-paying, rewarding careers, while continuing to keep education accessible and keep costs down for students and their families.
Learn more: Ontario Investing $6.4 Billion to Support Postsecondary Sector’s Long-Term Success and Sustainability



Take Advantage of Free Fishing This Family Day

Family Day weekend is a wonderful opportunity to spend meaningful time together outdoors.
From February 14–16, residents can enjoy free fishing across Ontario, offering a great chance to get out on the ice, unwind, and create lasting memories with family and friends.
Learn more: Ice fishing





Lace Up for Free Family Day Skating in Oakville!

Celebrate Family Day with a classic Canadian tradition!
Join me for FREE Family Day skating and hot chocolate right here in Oakville with your family!

Monday, Feb 16 from 2:30 to 3:30 PM
Sixteen Mile Sports Complex, 3070 Neyagawa Blvd, Oakville.

All are welcome!

Sign up/registration link: https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/1981005261063?aff=oddtdtcreator



Happy Valentine’s Day to everyone in Oakville North–Burlington.

February 14 is a wonderful reminder to celebrate love in all its forms, love for our families, our friends, our neighbours, and the community we are proud to call home. It’s also a chance to show appreciation for the small acts of kindness and generosity that strengthen our bonds every day.
Wishing you a day filled with warmth, gratitude, and time spent with those who matter most. 


Happy Lunar New Year

Happy Lunar New Year to all those celebrating in Oakville North–Burlington and across Ontario.
As we welcome the Year of the Horse, may the year ahead bring health, prosperity, and good fortune to you and your loved ones. Lunar New Year is a beautiful celebration of culture, family, and new beginnings, and our community is richer for it.
Wishing you joy and success in the year ahead.

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