@I'm running as an independent to deliver real solutions; not promises. From affordable housing to healthcare, food security, small biz, and safer communities, my plan puts people first. It’s time for stability, accountability, and action that leaves no one behind.
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Elizabeth Benoit
Independent candidate for Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester
Affordability & Housing
Childcare
Creation of new childcare centres that are both accessible and inclusive, meeting the real needs of families no matter their circumstances.
Homelessness
Build social and affordable housing
Post-secondary costs and loans
Lower tuition fees, especially for essential fields like healthcare, education, and skilled trades.
Increased non-repayable grants over student loans; because financial aid shouldn’t come with a lifetime of interest.
Loan forgiveness for students who serve their communities; in healthcare, teaching, or rural development.
Better access to affordable housing and mental health supports on and off campus.
Fairer repayment terms, including income-based thresholds and interest-free grace periods.
Poverty
Index all income supports (EI, disability, maternity, pensions) to inflation permanently. When supports are indexed, people don’t fall further into poverty.
Guarantee access to healthy, affordable food through local food hubs, and fair pricing.
Minority Rights, Fair Government, & Democracy
2SLGBTQI+ rights and safety
Charter rights are the foundation of our democracy. No government should have the power to override them. Protecting LGBTQ2+ rights under the Charter; no compromises.
Funding safe spaces for LGBTQ2+ youth, seniors, and families.
Training first responders and frontline workers on inclusive and affirming practices.
Strengthening anti-hate crime responses through culturally competent policing and community partnerships.
Charter rights and the Supreme Court
Charter rights are the foundation of our democracy. No government should have the power to override them.
Elections and democratic engagement
Restoring trust in politics by refusing to toe the party line.
Promoting transparency, including launching a public request tracking system so residents can follow what’s being done in their name.
Engaging communities in both official languages; and others spoken in Ottawa–Vanier–Gloucester; so no one is left out.
Inspiring civic participation through programs like Life Ready, which teach youth how government works and how to engage with it effectively.
Hosting regular town halls and community drop-ins to ensure decisions reflect lived realities.
Foreign interference and transnational repression
Strengthening Canada’s laws and security systems to detect, prevent, and respond to foreign interference; especially targeting vulnerable communities.
Protecting whistleblowers, journalists, and activists from intimidation and coercion by foreign states.
Supporting diaspora communities; particularly those from authoritarian regimes; by creating safe channels to report threats and get support.
Enhancing transparency and accountability within Canadian institutions to ensure our democratic processes are protected at all levels.
French language and Québec culture
Providing dedicated funding to strengthen the Official Languages Act within the Federal Public Service, ensuring equitable access to services in both French and English.
Government budgets
Outcome-based budgeting; funding initiatives that clearly define their goals and track their progress.
Real-time accountability; regular public updates on what’s working, what’s not, and how funds are being adjusted accordingly.
Results that matter; measuring success by improved housing access, better healthcare outcomes, safer communities, and inclusive economic growth.
Transparency tools; like public dashboards that show residents exactly where their money is going; and what it’s achieving.
Government transparency and lobbying
Mandatory public reporting on how lobbyist influence is reflected in policy outcomes; not just who filed what.
Digital public access to budgets, contracts, and spending; so residents can follow the money, not just the headlines.
A culture of accountability where elected officials serve the public, not private interests.
Immigration
Reforming immigration pathways for internationally trained healthcare professionals to ease credential recognition and address healthcare shortages.
Supporting community-based services in multiple languages to improve access for newcomers.
Ensuring social benefits and public services are inclusive and culturally competent.
Multiculturalism and diversity
Employment Equity Reform: Implementing the recommendations of the Employment Equity Act Review Task Force to create more inclusive workplaces that reflect our diverse population.
Public service
I believe in protecting public service jobs, investing in modernization, and holding leadership accountable for results. It’s not about doing more with less; it’s about doing better with what we have.
Secularism
Public institutions serve everyone, regardless of faith or belief.
Laws and policies are made based on reason, evidence, and fairness; not religious doctrine.
No group is given special treatment, and no one is excluded.
Tax fairness
Closes tax loopholes used by billionaires and multinationals.
Cracks down on offshore tax evasion.
Protects middle- and low-income families from unfair tax hikes.
Ensures public funds go back into our communities; to improve healthcare, housing, mental health, and local infrastructure.
Transgender and non-binary people
Human rights are non-negotiable; and that includes gender identity and expression.
Access to gender-affirming healthcare, mental health support, and legal recognition must be protected and improved.
Workplaces, schools, and public institutions must be safe and inclusive for all; including gender-diverse people.
Hate and discrimination, in any form, must be addressed with real accountability and prevention strategies.
Women and gender equality
As your representative, I am committed to building a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Supporting the reinstatement of the Women and Gender Equality Canada Minister: advocating equal opportunities for all genders, addressing barriers related to sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, expression
Enhanced Parental Support: Improving maternity and parental leave benefits to financially support families.
Women's Safety: Funding for women's shelters and enhancing their accessibility to protect vulnerable individuals facing domestic violence.
Post-Secondary Education & Jobs Training
New workers and first jobs for young people
Expand access to paid training, internships, and apprenticeships, especially in high-demand sectors like tech, trades, health, and green jobs.
Support incentives for small businesses to hire first-time workers.
Champion the Life Ready Program; giving youth hands-on skills in financial literacy, resume building, legal rights at work, and professional communication.
Push for interprovincial credential recognition so youth can move freely for opportunity.
Invest in career mentorship and employment networks for marginalized youth.
Post-secondary costs and loans
Lower tuition fees, especially for essential fields like healthcare, education, and skilled trades.
Increased non-repayable grants over student loans; because financial aid shouldn’t come with a lifetime of interest.
Loan forgiveness for students who serve their communities; in healthcare, teaching, or rural development.
Better access to affordable housing and mental health supports on and off campus.
Fairer repayment terms, including income-based thresholds and interest-free grace periods.
Public Safety, Policing, & the Justice System
Access to bail
Protects the presumption of innocence while keeping communities safe.
Ensures timely bail hearings and fair treatment regardless of race, gender, or income.
Invests in community-based bail supervision and support, especially for those with mental health needs or no fixed address.
Keeps violent repeat offenders off the streets, while ensuring non-violent individuals aren’t unnecessarily detained.
Collects and publishes data on bail decisions to monitor bias and improve accountability in the justice system.
Border security
Stronger enforcement against illegal firearms and human trafficking.
Investment in modern detection technology and data-sharing tools to prevent crime before it reaches our streets.
Better inter-agency coordination across borders, ports, and airports to disrupt organized crime networks.
Fair and humane processing for asylum seekers and newcomers, with respect for international obligations.
Causes of crime
I will focus on prevention over punishment.
Investing in youth programs, mentorship, and after-school activities that keep kids engaged and on the right path.
Expanding access to mental health and addiction services, so people get help before a crisis leads to crime.
Supporting restorative justice programs that focus on accountability, healing, and reintegration.
Fixing housing insecurity, which often pushes people into survival-based offences.
Promoting job training and second-chance employment initiatives for those with criminal records.
Real safety starts with addressing the conditions that lead to crime; not just reacting when it’s too late.
Child safety
Digital safety education and protections, so children aren’t left vulnerable online.
Community investment in safe parks, after-school programs, and creative spaces, especially in underserved neighbourhoods.
Safe, affordable housing for families, so no child is forced to grow up in dangerous or unstable conditions.
Stronger safeguards in schools and childcare centres, including mental health supports and protections from abuse and neglect.
Criminal sentencing
Significantly increasing the representation of Indigenous and Black people across all levels of the judicial system; including judges, prosecutors, legal counsel, and correctional leadership.
Funding and expanding culturally-informed legal training programs and pathways to legal careers for underrepresented communities.
Establishing permanent advisory roles for Indigenous and Black legal experts in federal justice policy development.
Supporting restorative and community-led justice systems, particularly those rooted in Indigenous legal traditions and culturally appropriate conflict resolution models.
Tracking and publishing race-based data to monitor disparities in charging, sentencing, and incarceration; and holding the system accountable.
Gangs
Targeted youth outreach and mentorship programs; to prevent recruitment before it starts.
Community-based violence interruption models, led by people with lived experience.
Access to jobs, housing, and mental health care, because desperation fuels violence.
Support for families impacted by gang involvement, including trauma counselling and social services.
Strategic policing focused on disrupting gang leadership and illegal firearms trafficking; not racial profiling or over-policing neighborhoods.
Gender-based and intimate partner violence
Permanent, stable funding for shelters, transition homes, and sexual assault centres; especially in underserved areas.
Stronger legal protections and support for survivors, including access to trauma-informed legal aid and court accompaniment.
Mandatory education on consent, healthy relationships, and gender equity in schools.
Training for police, judges, and service providers on how to recognize, respond to, and prevent intimate partner violence; without bias.
Integrated wraparound services that include housing, childcare, counselling, and economic supports for survivors trying to rebuild their lives.
Guns
Stronger enforcement against gun trafficking and smuggling, especially at the border.
Tougher penalties for organized crime and repeat offenders using illegal firearms.
Community-based violence prevention programs that interrupt cycles of retaliation and support youth at risk.
Common-sense gun regulations that protect public safety while respecting responsible ownership.
Investments in mental health, housing, and education; because crime prevention starts long before a trigger is pulled.
Money laundering
Stronger enforcement and oversight of real estate transactions, casinos, and luxury goods; common avenues for laundering dirty money.
A national registry of beneficial ownership to expose shell companies and hidden assets.
Mandatory reporting and audits for financial institutions, lawyers, and real estate agents involved in high-risk transactions.
Increased funding for FINTRAC and RCMP financial crimes units, to ensure they can follow the money and hold offenders accountable.
International cooperation to tackle transnational crime and close loopholes exploited by organized networks.
Police and policing
Clear, independent accountability mechanisms for police misconduct, including civilian oversight bodies with real power.
Mandatory training in de-escalation, anti-bias practices, and mental health crisis response.
Investments in community-led safety programs; such as violence interruption, peer support, and mobile crisis units; that complement, not replace, policing.
Stronger data collection and public transparency on police stops, use of force, and outcomes by race, gender, and income level.
Better working conditions and support for officers, including mental health care and wellness programs; because public safety starts with stable, supported professionals.
Prisons
Expanding alternatives to prison for non-violent and low-risk offenders, such as restorative justice, community service, and supervised release.
Investing in mental health and addiction treatment; because jails should not be substitutes for care.
Ending solitary confinement as a routine practice, especially for youth and those with mental illness.
Creating real rehabilitation paths inside prisons, including education, job training, and culturally relevant programming.
Tackling racial disparities in incarceration through transparent data collection, equity-focused policy, and judicial reform.
La lutte contre les disparités raciales en matière d’incarcération grâce à une collecte de données transparente, à des politiques axées sur l’équité et à une réforme judiciaire.
Prosecution
Guidelines that prioritize public interest and fairness, not just conviction rates.
Eliminating overcharging practices that pressure people into guilty pleas, especially when they lack legal representation.
Diversion programs and restorative justice pathways, particularly for youth, non-violent offenders, and those with mental health or addiction challenges.
Data collection on prosecution outcomes by race, gender, and income; to identify and correct systemic disparities.
Support for victims and witnesses throughout the legal process, including trauma-informed communication and protection.
Threats against minorities
Stronger enforcement of anti-hate laws, including tools to investigate and prosecute threats motivated by racism, antisemitism, Islamophobia, homophobia, transphobia, and xenophobia.
Protection programs for targeted individuals and communities, including places of worship, cultural centers, and community leaders.
Support for victims of hate and targeted harassment, with trauma-informed services and legal resources.
Investment in education, civic dialogue, and community resilience, to prevent hate before it turns violent.
Seniors, Disabilities, & Retirement
Canada Disability Benefit
A minimum benefit amount that lifts recipients above the poverty line, with adjustments for regional costs and inflation.
Automatic enrollment for those already receiving provincial or federal disability supports; no unnecessary red tape.
Full benefit eligibility regardless of age, employment status, or relationship status, so people aren’t penalized for trying to work or live with a partner.
Meaningful consultation with the disability community, ensuring the benefit is shaped by those it’s meant to serve.
Integration with other supports, so people don’t lose provincial housing or healthcare benefits when federal income increases.
Caregivers
Direct financial support and tax relief for unpaid and low-income caregivers.
Stronger employment protections, including paid leave and flexible work arrangements for those balancing caregiving and jobs.
Access to respite services, mental health care, and community-based supports, so caregivers can care for themselves too.
Immigration reform for foreign caregivers, ensuring fair treatment, faster pathways to permanent residency, and protection from exploitation.
Integration of caregiver needs into health and social policy, so they’re not sidelined in decisions that affect them most.
Disabilities
Implementing and enhancing the Canada Disability Benefit (CDB) to provide a livable, inflation-indexed income that lifts recipients above the poverty line.
Streamlining access to federal and provincial disability supports, ensuring automatic eligibility for those approved for the Disability Tax Credit, and eliminating unnecessary bureaucratic hurdles.
Investing in accessible infrastructure and inclusive public services, guided by the principles of the Accessible Canada Act, to create barrier-free communities.
Promoting employment opportunities for persons with disabilities through inclusive hiring practices, workplace accommodations, and targeted support programs.
Engaging directly with the disability community in policy development, upholding the principle of “Nothing Without Us” to ensure that lived experiences inform decision-making.
Retirement savings and income
CPP & OAS: Inflation-Indexed Benefits
Seniors' housing
Increase funding for programs like the Affordable Housing Fund to support the construction and maintenance of affordable senior housing units across Canada.
Support and expand initiatives that assist seniors in modifying their homes to safely age in place, such as the Home Adaptations for Seniors Independence Program.
Bolster programs like the Canada Housing Benefit to provide direct financial support to low-income seniors struggling with housing costs.
Develop policies to prevent abrupt evictions and ensure that seniors have adequate notice and support when housing changes occur.
Housing is a fundamental right.
Sovereignty, Foreign Relations, & the United States
Foreign interference and transnational repression
Strengthening Canada’s laws and security systems to detect, prevent, and respond to foreign interference; especially targeting vulnerable communities.
Protecting whistleblowers, journalists, and activists from intimidation and coercion by foreign states.
Supporting diaspora communities; particularly those from authoritarian regimes; by creating safe channels to report threats and get support.
Enhancing transparency and accountability within Canadian institutions to ensure our democratic processes are protected at all levels.
Biography
submitted by the candidate or their team
Elizabeth is a bold public servant, policy expert, and mother with over a decade of government experience. She’s committed to breaking structural barriers for underrepresented communities. As an independent, she puts people before politics to deliver real, lasting results.
"I believe in creating systems that work for everyone, where diverse voices are not only heard but truly valued. My experience has shown me both the strength of our institutions and the areas they need change. Effective solutions require robust structures that encourage and support desired actions, because even the best intentions won't translate into real progress without them. As your independent candidate, I am committed to putting people before politics and working across divides to deliver tangible results for our district." - Elizabeth Benoit
Born and raised in the beautiful island nation of Mauritius, Elizabeth's journey to becoming a dedicated public servant began at the early age of 22. At the age of 11, her family moved to Canada, opening a new chapter of opportunities and challenges that would shape her perspective on life. Her parents instilled in her strong values of hard work, perseverance, and community service.
After settling in Canada, Elizabeth adapted quickly to her new home while maintaining a deep appreciation for her Mauritian heritage. Trilingual in French, English, and Creole, she navigates multicultural environments with natural ease.
Elizabeth went on to attend the Université du Québec en Outaouais, where she earned her degree in Business Administration. This education provided her with a strong foundation in organizational leadership, civil law, and strategic planning, skills she would later apply to both her professional career and personal life.
She is deeply committed to women's leadership, passionately empowering women to attain and succeed in leadership positions. Elizabeth champions Equality, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion by creating environments where all individuals feel seen, heard, and valued. Her dedication extends to mental health advocacy, promoting wellness and psychological safety in workplaces and communities.
Through mentorship, she guides young professionals and supports their career development. Elizabeth's commitment to community connection drives her work building stronger, more resilient communities through responsive governance.
In 2020, Elizabeth welcomed a beautiful boy into the world. Raising her son while pursuing her career ambitions taught her invaluable lessons about resilience, time management, and the importance of supportive communities. As a parent, Elizabeth navigates the challenges of balancing work responsibilities with family commitments, an experience that has deepened her understanding of the struggles many Canadian families face daily.
Drawing on extensive policy experience as a Programs Leader across the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) and other federal departments, Elizabeth has built a multifaceted career spanning equity initiatives and major infrastructure projects. As President of the Employment, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Accessibility and Official Languages committee at the Office of the Auditor General of Canada, she has shaped inclusive policy implementation. Her commitment to advancing policy reform extends to founding LeadingHerStory, a non-for-profit empowering visible minority women in Canadian leadership and serving as Communications Leader for the Women's Collaborative Network at the CRA. Elizabeth has extensive experience ensuring compliance with foundational Canadian legislation, including the Multiculturalism Act, Canadian Human Rights Act, Indian Act, Land Titles Act, Planning Act, and Environmental Protection Act. Her comprehensive understanding of both Common Law and the Civil Law has enabled her to effectively navigate complex legal frameworks while developing practical policy solutions. Her policy expertise is further evidenced through key contributions to significant infrastructure and public works initiatives, complex real property transactions and the Réseau Express Métropolitain portfolio.
Elizabeth's career highlights demonstrate her ability to deliver meaningful results across diverse areas of expertise. Through her Equity Initiative Leadership, she spearheaded Equality, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility (EEDIA) initiatives that measurably improved workforce representation and established more equitable hiring practices. She led the design and implementation of a National Black Employee Network that increased employee engagement and professional development opportunities. Her strategic framework implementation skills enabled her to develop and implement a framework for Official Languages compliance, securing executive support and ensuring timely regulatory adherence. As an HR Policy Leader, she directed high-impact policy initiatives that influenced executive decision-making and shaped organizational diversity strategies. In her airport authority management experience, she ensured effective lease management and monitoring between Transport Canada and various airport authorities across Canada.
WHY ELIZABETH?
As an independent voice, Elizabeth offers a fresh perspective, free from party constraints to represent Gloucester-Ottawa-Vanier residents' interests first and always. Her policy expertise provides a deep understanding of government systems and how to effect meaningful change, complemented by her proven leadership and track record of bringing diverse stakeholders together to solve complex problems. With a commitment to EEDIA, she has demonstrated a history of addressing organizational obstacles and promoting inclusion, while her results-oriented approach focuses on practical solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities. Elizabeth Benoit is ready to bring her expertise in policy development, strategic leadership, and EEDIA advocacy to Parliament, working tirelessly to build a more inclusive, responsive, and effective government for all Canadians. “Diversity means more than one thing. It can be overcoming injury. It can be the colour of your skin. It can be finding strength to stand up for yourself. As your independent candidate, I’m here to raise our voices, to demand that we be seen and heard. I know what it’s like to go unheard. That’s why I’ve chosen to stand up, to fight for change, and to work tirelessly so that no one is left behind.As an independent voice, Elizabeth offers a fresh perspective, free from party constraints to represent Gloucester-Ottawa-Vanier residents' interests first and always. Her policy expertise provides a deep understanding of government systems and how to effect meaningful change, complemented by her proven leadership and track record of bringing diverse stakeholders together to solve complex problems. With a commitment to EEDIA, she has demonstrated a history of addressing organizational obstacles and promoting inclusion, while her results-oriented approach focuses on practical solutions that improve lives and strengthen communities. Elizabeth Benoit is ready to bring her expertise in policy development, strategic leadership, and EEDIA advocacy to Parliament, working tirelessly to build a more inclusive, responsive, and effective government for all Canadians. “Diversity means more than one thing. It can be overcoming injury. It can be your social background. It can be finding strength to stand up for yourself. As your independent candidate, I’m here to raise our voices, to demand that we be seen and heard. I know what it’s like to go unheard. That’s why I’ve chosen to stand up, to fight for change, and to work tirelessly so that no one is left behind."
Reason for running
submitted by the candidate or their team
I'm running as an independent to deliver real solutions — not promises. From affordable housing to healthcare, food security, small businesses, and safer communities, my plan puts people first. It’s time for stability, accountability, and action that leaves no one behind.
A Clear Economic Vision for Canada
As an independent candidate in this federal election, I'm focused on delivering real economic solutions that put Canadians first, not partisan politics. I’ve seen firsthand how rising costs and economic uncertainty weigh on families in Gloucester-Ottawa-Vanier and across Canada. It’s time for a plan that prioritizes stability and opportunity for everyone.
Economic Growth and Stability
My vision is clear: drive sustainable Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth while maintaining a stable 2% inflation rate. This approach fosters prosperity without the economic swings that make life harder for Canadian families. Stability isn’t just a goal, it’s the foundation for long-term economic security, helping to lower grocery bills, support small businesses, and create jobs.
A Plan Built on Process
Every effective plan starts with understanding the problem. To create this economic roadmap, I have:
- Evaluated the challenges facing Canadians.
- Gathered comprehensive data, taking into account factors like the Trump Tariffs and their impact on Canadian families and businesses.
- Broken down the issues into manageable parts.
- Identified practical, results-driven solutions.
When elected, we will:
- Implement these carefully selected solutions.
- Continuously assess our progress with accountability and transparency, making updates available online to the public.
- Refine the plan to ensure it evolves with real-world needs.
This thoughtful, methodical approach ensures that every action is guided by what works, not by political ideology.
Accountability You Can Trust
Transparency is at the heart of my commitment to you. You’ll know exactly what we aim to accomplish, when it will happen, and who will make it happen. No empty promises, just clear goals and measurable outcomes.
Independence Means Better Decisions
As an independent candidate, I'm free to evaluate every policy based on its economic merit, not political gain. This independence allows me to champion solutions that truly benefit all Canadians, ensuring our economy grows stronger and fairer for everyone. Let’s build a future where stability, opportunity, and accountability are at the core of Canada’s economic success. Together, we can create a Canada where families thrive, businesses grow, and no one is left behind. If our voices come together, we will be heard.
EQUALITY, EQUITY, DIVERSITY, AND INCLUSION
As your representative, I am committed to building a more inclusive society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. My platform focuses on concrete actions to address structural obstacles and create meaningful change:
Gender Equality
- Advancing Equality: Supporting the reinstatement of the Women and Gender Equality Canada Minister to champion equal opportunities for all genders, addressing barriers related to sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression, and ensuring full inclusion in Canada’s economic, social, and political life.
- Enhanced Parental Support: Improving maternity and parental leave benefits to financially support families.
- Women's Safety: Funding for women's shelters and enhancing their accessibility to protect vulnerable individuals facing domestic violence.
Workplace Equity
- Employment Equity Reform: Implementing the recommendations of the Employment Equity Act Review Task Force to create more inclusive workplaces that reflect our diverse population.
Official Languages
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Bilingual Services: Providing dedicated funding to strengthen the Official Languages Act within the Federal Public Service, ensuring equitable access to services in both French and English.
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In 2024, racialized people made up over one-third of Canada's workforce
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Women are responsible for 75% to 80% of purchasing decisions
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According to the 2021 Census, 23% of Canada's population are immigrants and is projected to 31.8% in 2041
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In 2022, 27% of Canadians aged 15 and older reported having at least one disability, a 4.7% increase compared to 2017
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In 2021, about 10.5% youth aged 15-24 reported being part of the 2SLGBTQ+ community
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41.2% of Indigenous Peoples aged under 25, compared with 27.3% of the non-Indigenous population in 2021
COMMUNITY SAFETY, CRIME PREVENTION & BORDER SECURITY
As your representative, I am committed to tackling systemic issues, embracing technology, and promoting equitable justice through a phased strategy focused on five key areas:
Stronger Laws, Safer Neighbourhoods
- Incentivized Community Policing: Federal funding to provinces that choose to implement community policing models, respecting provincial autonomy, while encouraging best practices.
- Cultural Competency Training: Provide resources for training in cultural awareness and conflict resolution.
- Community Feedback: Create town halls and anonymous feedback systems for police accountability.
Restorative Justice for Real Change
- Equitable Justice Strategies: Funding for supporting and expanding Indigenous and Black justice strategies, working in partnership with communities to develop culturally relevant restorative justice initiatives that address systemic inequalities.
- Pilot Programs for Access: Focus initial efforts on launching pilot programs in underserved areas, prioritizing remote, Indigenous, and Black communities. These pilots will help build local partnerships, train facilitators, and establish infrastructure before wider implementation.
- Youth-Focused Initiatives: Funding for the development of restorative justice programs tailored for young offenders.
- Public Awareness: Promoting understanding of restorative justice through educational campaigns.
Protecting Our Borders, Securing Our Nation
- Interagency Collaboration: Increase the number of border agents and establish dedicated task forces that unite federal, provincial, and local law enforcement agencies to combat illegal activities and strengthen border integrity.
- Technology Upgrades: Deploy state-of-the-art scanning technologies at key border points to detect firearms, vehicles, and drugs in imported and exported containers, ensuring comprehensive screening before national implementation.
- Community Engagement: Launch targeted awareness programs that empower border communities to play an active role in reporting suspicious activities and strengthening border security efforts.
- Enhanced Training: Develop specialized training for border agents on recognizing human trafficking and working with vulnerable populations.
Support for At-Risk Youth
- Federal grant programs for youth mentorship and education initiatives
- Partnering with provinces to support job training programs through federal workforce development funding
- Integration with Justice System: Establish formal referral pathways between youth justice agencies and support programs, creating a seamless continuum of preventive and rehabilitative services.
Strengthening National Defence and Military Support
- Military Investment: Advocating for increased federal investment in the Canadian Armed Forces to enhance military readiness and support personnel.
- Agency Collaboration: Promoting collaboration between military and civilian agencies to improve emergency response and national security.
- Veterans Support: Championing adequate resources and mental health support for veterans and active service members, recognizing their crucial role in protecting our nation.
ECONOMIC GROWTH & SMALL BUSINESSES
As your representative, I am committed to building a stronger economy that works for everyone. My platform focuses on concrete actions that support small businesses while ensuring our economy grows in a sustainable and equitable way:
Balanced Taxation
- Corporate Tax Fairness: Raising corporate taxes on profits over $500 million to ensure large corporations pay their fair share while maintaining Canada's competitive advantage.
Supporting Small Business Growth
- Job Creation Incentives: Implementing a Small Business Job Creation Tax Credit providing a tax reduction for businesses with fewer than 100 employees that increase their workforce.
- Market Expansion Support: Providing funding to help small businesses enhance their advertising and delivery options, allowing them to reach new customers and compete in the digital marketplace.
Sustainable Resource Development
- Indigenous Partnerships: Champion sustainable pipeline projects in partnership with Indigenous communities, ensuring economic benefits are shared while respecting environmental stewardship and traditional knowledge.
Removing Barriers to Interprovincial Trade
- Unified Canadian Market: Leveraging federal authority under Section 91 of the Constitution, amending restrictive federal legislation, and collaborating with provinces through the Canadian Free Trade Agreement to eliminate barriers to the movement of goods, services, and labour across provincial boundaries.
Supporting Innovation for a Resilient Future
- Research and development: Leveraging federal research funding and innovation programs to help Canadian businesses compete globally.
- Education Partnerships: Working with provincial education systems through targeted federal grants to develop the workforce skills needed for tomorrow's economy.
HOUSING & HOMELESSNESS
•The housing crisis in Canada has reached critical levels, demanding urgent and coordinated action across all levels of government and community organizations. "Homelessness in Canada affects at least 35,000 people nightly and over 235,000 annually. Despite the National Housing Strategy's goals"* the situation continues to worsen for our most vulnerable populations. •
"Canada's opioid crisis has caused over 50,928 deaths between January 2016 and September 2024."* The federal approach on Canada's opioid crisis is ineffective.
•Research from the Hazelden Betty Ford Graduate School demonstrates effective approaches for treating opioid addiction based on a combination of scientifically supported treatment methods, and strong emphasis on long-term recovery. Canada needs more treatment centres based on this model.
•We don't lack understanding of effective solutions. Groundbreaking research by Canadian experts Stephen Gaetz, Fiona Scott, and Tanya Gulliver in "Housing First in Canada: Supporting Communities to End Homelessness" provides clear evidence for what works. We don't need more research to tell us what to do, we need effective implementation.
As your independent representative, I am committed to resolving the housing crisis in Canada and ending homelessness through immediate, practical solutions. My platform focuses on concrete actions to increase the supply of housing and make housing more affordable: The housing approval process is not the main issue.
Developers have confirmed that city approvals in Ottawa are quick, with some even starting construction before formal approval is granted. The real challenges lie in construction costs, land prices, and policies that directly impact housing affordability. Rather than just speeding up the approval process, we must focus on addressing these underlying factors to make housing more accessible and affordable for everyone.
Making housing more affordable
- Tax relief for first-time home buyers: GST removed on home purchases up to $1.5 million to make homeownership more accessible to middle-class families.
- Tax relief for all home buyers: Remove GST on home purchases to make homeownership and affordable housing more accessible for low-income families.
Fight against homelessness
- Social and Affordable Housing: We must build more social and affordable housing to meet the growing needs of our community. Adequate housing is not a privilege, it is a right protected by law. To uphold that right, we need to increase supply significantly and sustainably. This means investing in housing that is truly affordable, ensuring people are not left behind, and creating safe, stable communities for all. Everyone deserves a place to call home.
- Housing-centred approach: Increase the supply of affordable housing by accelerating development for low-income residents,
- Reforming restrictive zoning laws and moving people into stable housing immediately before tackling other challenges.
- Sustainable solutions: Advocate for a transition from current ineffective federal approaches to homelessness to more sustainable, evidence-based programs that provide real long-term solutions.
HEALTHCARE & MENTAL ILLNESS
''Mental illness indirectly affects all Canadians at some time either through their own experience, or that of a family member, friend or colleague. In any given year, 1 in 5 people in Canada will personally experience a mental health problem or illness. By age 40, about 50% of the population will have or have had a mental illness. Mental illness affects people of all ages, education, income levels, and cultures; however, systemic inequalities such as racism, poverty, homelessness, discrimination, colonial and gender-based violence, among others, can worsen mental health and symptoms of mental illness, especially if mental health supports are difficult to access."
As your representative, I am committed to strengthening our healthcare system and ensuring all Canadians have access to the care they need, including mental health services. My platform focuses on concrete actions to address current healthcare challenges:
Healthcare Workforce Solutions
- Immigration Pathway Reform: Addressing critical healthcare shortages through immigration reforms that support internationally trained medical professionals who face barriers to practicing in Canada. This program would provide pathways for credential recognition, access to training and exams, and opportunities for mentorship and employment, leveraging the skills of qualified professionals from diverse backgrounds.
- National Recruitment Strategy: Funding a comprehensive national strategy for healthcare human resources, focusing on recruitment and retention through meaningful consultations with healthcare professionals, provincial governments, and community organizations to develop practical, sustainable solutions.
Enhanced Federal Funding
- Targeted Health Transfers: Expanding the Canada Health Transfer with specific allocations for mental health services and pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) medications, ensuring these critical areas receive the dedicated funding they require.
SOCIAL SECURITY
As your representative, I am committed to strengthening our social safety net to protect our most vulnerable citizens and prepare our youth for success. By investing in comprehensive social security measures, we can build a more equitable society where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
Supporting Vulnerable Canadians
- Enhanced Support for Vulnerable Populations: Increasing benefits for seniors, Persons with disabilities, and children with disabilities to ensure dignified living standards and reduce economic inequality.
Investing in Our Future
- Life Ready Program for Youth: Implementing a comprehensive program to equip young people with essential financial literacy, employability skills, and social supports for successful transitions to adulthood and economic self-sufficiency.
POVERTY & FOOD SECURITY
''No one in Canada should be food insecure, not because of income, inflation, or broken systems. We fix this by guaranteeing two things: a livable income and access to healthy food."
I am committed to ending food insecurity in Canada by ensuring that no one is left behind; not because of income, inflation, or inaccessible systems. That’s why I will fight for a Canada Livable Income & Food Security Guarantee; a bold, practical policy that permanently indexes income supports like EI, disability, and maternity benefits to inflation, while also guaranteeing access to affordable, healthy food for every family.
This means real school meals for every child, support for local food producers, and community-based markets that bring prices down and dignity back. Because food is not a luxury, it’s a human right. And in a country as wealthy as Canada, no one should be choosing between rent and groceries.
Index all income supports (EI, disability, maternity, pensions) to inflation permanently:
People relying on fixed incomes are falling behind every year because their support doesn’t rise with the cost of living. That’s not sustainable — it’s cruel. When supports are indexed, people don’t fall further into poverty. They can actually plan, budget, and afford food.
Guarantee access to healthy, affordable food through local food hubs, and fair pricing:
Hunger is not a food shortage problem; it’s a distribution and access problem. And it’s solvable. Local markets lower prices. Food hubs and co-ops create resilience. This reduces healthcare costs and gives dignity back to families.
Why This Fixes the System:
- Attacks poverty and food insecurity at the root, income and access.
- Creates resilience to inflation, climate disruption, and supply shocks.
- Strengthens local economies and food producers.
- Provides dignity and prevention, not dependence on food banks.
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