Hello Davenport Friends and Neighbours,

As of yesterday (December 1) eligible families with children under 12 are able to sign up for up to $650 in dental care benefits this year and next! This is a historic program and a very positive development that has come in part from our Supply and Confidence Agreement with the  federal NDP. More on how to apply in my update below.

An amazing program  for youth ages 13 to 35 that many don’t know about is International Experience Canada. This is a reciprocal program that allows Canadian and international youth to work and travel in each other’s countries. This program re-launched with a 20% increase in the number of applicants who will be able to apply. More information below.

Also this week, the federal government launched Canada’s Indo-Pacific Strategy with $2.3 billion in investments to advance our engagement with the region in the next decade. More below.

Here at home,  last year  our federal government committed to providing 10 days of paid sick leave for workers in the federally regulated private sector.  Starting  yesterday, the paid sick leave provisions, including the final regulations, are  in force for all federally-regulated private sector workplaces!

Locally this week, there was a troubling  incident at Dovercourt Park where swastikas were found spray painted on the playground. I want to be as clear as possible:  this was absolutely unacceptable. Hate and anti-semitism have no place in Davenport, or anywhere in Canada. I stand firmly against any act of discrimination, racism, and hatred of any kind.

I hope you have received my latest  communications piece – HERE TO SERVE YOU.  This piece outlines the services that my office provides. If you haven’t seen it; here it is.

Finally, you are invited to my Annual Festive Holiday Party on Saturday December 10th from 2pm – 4pm outside the Earlscourt Park Skating Rink! Santa has already RSVP’d a big YES and there will be hot drinks and food, and great music among other things. I hope to see you there for some festive fun!

If you want to read the whole Weekly Update, click here.

Stay warm and have a safe weekend. As always, It’s a true honour and privilege to serve you.

My very best regards,

Julie Dzerowicz
Member of Parliament, Davenport