The return of our local farmers’ markets is a sure sign that summer is on its way. I’m looking forward to seeing many familiar faces, meeting new neighbours, and hope you’ll say hello if you see me out and about.

Spring Economic Update

This week, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Finance and National Revenue, tabled the Spring Economic Update 2026 providing an update on our government’s plan to build the strongest economy in the G7.

The Spring Economic Update 2026 builds on the momentum of Budget 2025 with a clear focus on strengthening productivity, competitiveness, and long-term prosperity—benefits that will be felt here in Kanata and across our region. Investments in nation-building infrastructure, innovation, and defence will help drive growth in our local tech and research ecosystem, while new initiatives like the Canada Strong Fund and major projects will create jobs and attract investment. At the same time, measures to support workers, train the next generation of skilled trades, and reduce costs—from housing and groceries to fuel and banking fees—will make a meaningful difference for families in our community. With added support for safe, inclusive communities and continued fiscal responsibility, this plan helps ensure Kanata remains a great place to live, work, and innovate while contributing to a stronger Canada for all.

Renewed Momentum, Stronger Together

I want to congratulate Tatiana Auguste, Danielle Martin, and Doly Begum on their recent election to Parliament. With these by-election results, Canadians have once again placed their trust in our Liberal government, now strengthened by a majority, and in our plan for the country. This is a time to come together so we can build a Canada strong for all.

Gas Prices Reduced by 10 cents per Litre

As announced by Prime Minister Mark Carney on April 14, our federal government will temporarily suspend the fuel excise tax, reducing gasoline prices by 10 cents per litre and diesel by 4 cents per litre until September 7.

For residents across our community, this means immediate relief at the pump - whether you are commuting to work, driving kids to activities, or planning summer travel. This temporary measure is part of ongoing efforts to make everyday life more affordable for families here in Kanata and across the country.

Accelerating Homebuilding in Ottawa

Great news for our local communities as Prime Minister Mark Carney announced on April 23 that Build Canada Homes will support eight new affordable housing projects in Ottawa, delivering more than 1,100 new rental homes, the vast majority of which will be affordable.

This announcement builds on the housing agreement signed this past December between the Prime Minister and Mayor Mark Sutcliffe, and is part of a broader federal-municipal partnership to create up to 3,000 new mixed-income homes in our city. With most projects set to begin construction before year’s end, this is a meaningful step toward increasing supply, improving affordability, and supporting a stronger, more resilient Ottawa.

Industry Visits and Highlights

Big news for Canada’s marine future, right here in Kanata! Kongsberg partnered with Adaptive Marine Solutions (AMS) to help design the next generation of Canadian Coast Guard vessels, turning complex marine engineering concepts into real, buildable ships. Through the National Shipbuilding Strategy, our government is renewing the fleet, and I was pleased to congratulate these organizations on their joint contract award, strengthening the Coast Guard for decades to come.

It’s been an exciting visit to the Canadian Photonics Fabrication Centre (CPFC). We got an inside look at NRC’s cutting-edge photonics and quantum research, and toured the new Facility Renewal Project that will help Canadian companies turn innovative ideas into real-world solutions at scale.

It was a privilege to visit BluMetric and see their cutting-edge water purification systems in action, supporting the Canadian Armed Forces on the ground. This is exactly what it looks like when local expertise delivers real impact, strengthening Canada’s defence capabilities, supporting our troops, and creating high-quality jobs at home.

Great visit to Lumentum’s Ottawa office! It was impressive to see how their team is advancing optical and photonic technologies that power high-speed communications, next-generation sensing, and the growth of AI and cloud computing. As data demand rises, companies like Lumentum are helping build faster, more efficient digital infrastructure.

It was a great day at Nokia, hosting Finland’s President Alexander Stubb for a high-level forum on Arctic security, defence, and resilience. Canadian and Finnish leaders came together to advance shared priorities in innovation and cooperation, with President Stubb highlighting the strong “synergy” between our industries, from defence to satellites and quantum, and the real partnerships ahead.

It was great to visit Competition Composites Inc in Arnprior. CCI designs and manufactures advanced composite structures for defence, aerospace, and telecommunications, supporting partners like the RCMP and NavCanada. As Canada advances NORAD modernization and Arctic surveillance, companies like CCI are strengthening our domestic capacity, contributing to Canada’s security, and creating more good jobs here at home.

It’s been a pleasure to attend the recent TechTuesday and CEOTuesday events hosted by Wesley Clover International. Congratulations to Sir Terry Matthews on receiving the Key to the City in recognition of his contributions to business innovation, philanthropy, and the economic development of our community and city, as well as his impact on the national and international stage.

Food Assistance for Local Residents in Need

Thank you to everyone who supported the 3rd Annual Great Bridlewood Food Drive in support of the Kanata Food Cupboard, and to the many volunteers who made it possible. Events like this are a powerful reminder of the care and generosity that define our community.

If you missed it and would still like to contribute, or if you need support, visit the Kanata Food Cupboard website to learn how to help, find upcoming events, or access services.

Protecting Our Greenspace

I want to reiterate what I shared a few weeks ago: I will continue to support the works of Kanata North Councillor Cathy Curry, and all of Ottawa City Council as they oppose the development of the Kanata Lakes Golf Course lands.

I have heard directly from residents in our community who are deeply concerned about the potential environmental and public health risks associated with the planned mercury testing. These concerns are serious and well-founded, particularly given mercury’s well-documented toxicity and the long-term consequences of disturbing contaminated soils without robust safeguards in place.

Councillor Curry and I met with staff of the Minister of Environment and Climate Change team to discuss these concerns. Although there is currently no federal jurisdiction, I am working to ensure colleagues are briefed should the situation evolve.

Join me for Question Period

A reminder that visitors are welcome to watch live proceedings (including Question Period) in the House of Commons from the public galleries on a first-come first-served basis. Visit my website for details and to reserve seating.

Important Dates

Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit: June 5
Canada Child Benefit: May 21 and June 18
Canada Pension Plan: May 27 and June 26
Old Age Security: May 27 and June 26
View all available benefit dates at: JennaSuddsMP.ca/benefits

You can sign up for direct deposit to automatically receive benefits in your bank account. To do so, visit the Canada Revenue Agency website or call 1-800-959-8281.

Other Upcoming Dates

May: Asian Heritage Month, Jewish Heritage Month, Speech and Hearing Month
May 5: National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and Two-Spirit People (Red Dress Day)
May 10: Mother's Day
May 11-17: National Nursing Week
May 13-19: Citizenship Week
May 15: International Day of Families
May 17: International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia
May 18: Victoria Day
May 21: Global Accessibility Awareness Day
May 26-30: Eid al Adha
May 31-June 6: National AccessAbility Week

Please Keep in Touch!

In addition to these monthly newsletters, I also provide regular updates about my work in the House of Commons on my website.

Again, please don't hesitate to reach out by email Jenna.Sudds@parl.gc.ca or by phone (613) 592-3469. I'd welcome your input and look forward to continuing to work together.

Newsletter - April 2026

Spring Economic Update 2026