By: Hon. Lena Metlege Diab, Member of Parliament for Halifax West
On November 11, Canadians gather at Legions and cenotaphs to pay their respects to those who gave their lives to defend our country, and say thank you to all who serve and have served. I encourage everyone to attend a Remembrance Day ceremony this year and pause in reflection.
AFFORDABILITY
Affordability is top of mind for my constituents. Since we’ve been back in the House of Commons, I’ve taken every opportunity to share your worries about the cost of living. And those concerns are being heard loud and clear.
The Prime Minister recently announced a suite of new measures to help Nova Scotians save money this winter and in the years ahead. Here’s what you need to know:
- We’re pausing the price on pollution on home heating oil for three years to give people time to make the switch to a heat pump. This starts November 9.
- We are making the average heat pump free to low and median income Canadians. We are also offering a $250 up-front payment to these households to encourage switching over to a heat pump.
- Households above the median income will be able to access interest-free loans to help with the cost of installing a heat pump. Homeowners can save thousands of dollars a year by switching from oil to a heat pump. With these new measures, Atlantic Canadians will have the time and ability to make that switch— helping you save money and do more to help the environment.
HOUSING
In October, we announced the contribution of over $79 million to the Halifax Regional Municipality to fast-track the construction of 2,600 housing units over the next three years, and almost 9,000 units over the next decade. Our Housing Minister asked the city for a bold plan to deliver higher-density housing near transit and affordable homes for seniors, students, and families. They delivered, and now we’re providing the funds to get it done.
LEBANESE HERITAGE MONTH
This month, after years of hard work, Canada marks the first ever national Lebanese Heritage Month. This occasion holds great significance for hundreds of thousands of Canadians of Lebanese descent and for us all as a country. It honours our 140 years of history and contributions to Canada, and provides a platform to share and celebrate our culture and traditions with all Canadians. Stay tuned to my Facebook page this month for details on celebrations and events in our community!
