to service clubs organizing toy drives and winter coat collec- tions, to neighbours checking in on one another — these acts of kindness define who we are. Even in challenging times, gen- erosity and compassion con- tinue to shine brightly. As we close out the year, I want to share a brief update on some of the work I’ve been doing on your behalf. Crime Crime remains a significant lo- cal issue, with a relatively small number of repeat offend- ers responsible for the major- ity of police calls. I’ve had nu- merous meetings with police eadership and front-line offi- cers about the problems with federal bail laws that have made it easier for people who belong
My colleagues and I have proposed some solutions gleaned from consultations with municipal leaders and law enforcement, and we hope to implement them as soon as possible. Affordability The cost of living remains one of the most pressing issues for people in our community and across the country. Anyone who goes into a grocery store knows how bad inflation has gotten. I have been calling on the government to scrap the hidden taxes that drive up the cost of food – including the industrial carbon tax and costly fuel standards that hit farmers hard, as well as the excessive federal regulations on food packaging. CN My office has been working on issues with CN infrastructure in St. Thomas since the summer, starting with the repair work done at the First Avenue crossing. The City of St. Thomas, CN, and I have had several meetings and calls about three main areas: the need for track upgrades at First Avenue, the need for an upgrade to the Barwick Street bridge, and the reconnection of the Port Stanley-London rail line. This work remains ongoing, but the City of St. Thomas and I have been glad to see acknowledgement from CN of its obligations. We will continue to press for firm timelines and, more importantly, results. It is a true honour to represent you and bring your voice to Ottawa. I look forward to continuing this work in 2026. My office remains available to help you with any issues you might be having with the federal government. I also welcome the opportunity to meet one-on-one, whether you have a question or suggestion about federal policy, or simply want to say hello. I hope this holiday season is safe, blessed, and enjoyable. From my family to yours, I wish you a very merry Christmas and a happy New Year. I look forward to seeing you in the community in the year ahead!
behind bars to get out on the street. I have been working closely on this issue as a member of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights, which undertook a large bail study this fall. I invited St. Thomas Police Chief Marc Roskamp to testify to ensure our local perspective would be heard, and I have also spoken extensively with Aylmer Police Chief Kyle Johnstone and London Police Chief Thai Truong.
Event Cancellations
As the Old St. Thomas Church undergoes restoration and renewal, our traditional Christmas Eve Services will take a pause this year. Let’s keep the spirit of Christmas alive, please give generously to the Salvation Army of St. Thomas. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from the Old St. Thomas Church Restoration Trust.
Hometown St. Thomas • December 2025 • Page 9
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