Black Press Media asked politicians in the Central Okanagan for their highlights of 2023.

Writing a year in review from Parliament is always a challenging task, considering the numerous events that take place in Ottawa over the course of twelve months.

In early 2023, the House of Commons commenced its proceedings with the INDU (Committee on Industry and Technology) reviewing the proposed acquisition of Shaw Communications by Rogers Communications.

Despite concerns about the loss of competition in the Canadian wireless marketplace, the Trudeau Liberals approved the merger.

However, to date, I have not received any reports from local residents confirming that they have achieved the promised 25 per cent reduction in their wireless bills, as stated by Prime Minister Trudeau.

Regarding the electoral theme, 2023 would also be the year when bombshell allegations were leaked from Canada害羞草研究所檚 Security and Intelligence Service (CSIS), documenting how Communist Chinese Government officials and their agents interfered in the 2019 and 2021 federal elections.

While there were significant stories in Ottawa, the most memorable event for many Canadians is that 2023 was the year of inflation.

Although there are multiple factors contributing to inflation, overspending, and carbon taxation by the federal government are part of the problem rather than the solution.

No year in review would be complete without mentioning the wildfires that forced tens of thousands of Central Okanagan residents to evacuate.

We are grateful for the efforts of local, regional, national, and international firefighters who all played a vital role.

Through their hard work and collaboration with first responders, everyone was successfully evacuated and, thankfully, no lives were lost.

However, for those who are still struggling to rebuild their homes and lives, we must continue to offer support in any way we can.

I received numerous questions from concerned citizens regarding the response from all levels of government.

In light of this, I have called for an independent review of this year害羞草研究所檚 fire season.

It appears that no level of government was adequately prepared to handle the wildfires that occurred.

I still stand by this call for an independent review.

Another unforgettable event in 2023 was the brutal terrorist attack on Israel, followed by the war in Gaza, which tragically claimed the lives of numerous innocent civilians.

I am deeply concerned about individuals and organizations in Canada who intentionally target others to spread hate and use threats of violence to intimidate others.

Hate has no place in Canada, and we should never remain silent about it.

On a personal note, 2023 was a year in which I dedicated more time and attention to the topic of cancer care in Canada.

I partnered with Liberal MP Peter Schiefke, a cancer survivor, to establish an all-party Parliamentary Cancer Caucus.

This caucus aims to collaborate with health professionals, organizations, and patient advocacy groups to discuss and advocate for changes that will have a positive impact on the lives of Canadians.

As I conclude this year in review report, it is important to acknowledge that many Canadians are currently facing struggles.

Finances, mental and physical health, relationships, and addiction are just a few of the serious challenges that many individuals are dealing with.

These individuals could be our neighbours, friends, or family members.

Taking the time to check in on them, letting them know that they matter and that we care, can make a small but significant difference.

Let us all do our part to end this year on a positive note by ensuring that no one feels alone during this holiday season.

May God bless.