Chow plans open house Jan. 28
Olivia Chow, NDP Member of Parliament in Trinity-Spadina, was unanimously acclaimed as the NDP’s candidate in the next election at a nomination meeting held on Jan. 21.
“Thanks to you, the NDP is alive and well in Trinity-Spadina. And the NDP is alive and well in Ottawa, with the leadership of Jack Layton and our strong and united team,” Chow said.
“On election night last January – I pledged to get results, and to work every day on behalf of every constituent. Canada needs strong and principled voices and leadership in Parliament – speaking out for fairness for today’s families, for immigrants, students and seniors – and, of course, for children.”
Chow noted that the NDP had forced and focused a national debate on Afghanistan and brought national attention to the environmental crisis and climate change while also making progress with childcare legislation, achieving second reading of Canada’s Early Learning and Child Care Act, against the odds in a minority Parliament.
“Here at home, we achieved long term funding Harbourfront Centre, and finally made progress with a waterfront revitalization,” Chow added.
“And of course – we fought for – and achieved – the long overdue apology for the Chinese Head Tax. That was a very proud day for me. The head tax apology is something the NDP stayed focused on for over 20 years – we never give up!”
Chow said that the NDP has a chance to make further progress on the environment and the new Children’s Health and Nutrition Initiative she unveiled last week in Ottawa. And she is working hard to gather support for this national children’s food program (www.childrensfood.ca).
As well, she pledged to maintain her focus on issues or particular concern in Trinity-Spadina, immigrant family reunification, foreign credentials, the scandal ridden Port Authority and Island Airport, support for the arts and culture, affordable housing, affordable tuition fees, public transit, smog and energy retrofit.
Riding Association President Alexandra Dodger said that the executive and association membership are actively gearing up for an election to ensure readiness whenever it is called.
“We will be ready – and our ranks of election volunteers has been growing as people of all political stripes in every community in the riding have experienced working with Olivia,” says Dodger. “She has made us all proud – she has worked tirelessly for all constituents, led the way with major national initiatives, and achieved results. This is a welcome change for everyone who lives in the riding after the thirteen years of neglect we suffered with the previous ‘no-show’ MP. Olivia Chow is a great MP, and we aim to ensure she represents this riding for many years to come!”
Chow is hosting an open house at the constituency office, 144 Augusta Ave Jan. 28 at 2 p.m.