I’d like to begin today’s newsletter with an important reminder: you are not alone.

There is an immense amount of uncertainty in the world right now, and it’s okay to feel the weight of that. Please remember to lead with kindness, check in on those around you, and reach out for support if you need it. Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

I’ve shared a list of mental health resources on my website in case they may be helpful to you or someone you know.

Tumbler Ridge Tragedy

I am deeply saddened by the tragic events in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia.

My thoughts are with the victims, their families, and all members of the community affected by this devastating loss. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to the first responders and local authorities whose courage and professionalism have been vital during an immensely difficult time.

Update from Parliament Hill

It’s been a very busy month in the House of Commons! A few important updates include:

Our Government’s Budget Implementation legislation passed in Parliament on February 26th. This important step allows us to move forward on key priorities that will have a direct impact on our community, including investments in housing, health care, economic growth, and affordability supports for families. At a time of global uncertainty, we remain focused on building a stronger and more resilient Canada.
Canada has launched a new Defence Industrial Strategy to strengthen our security, grow Canadian industry, and create good jobs. Over the next decade, this strategy will create 125,000 high-paying careers, increase defence exports, and ensure more defence contracts are awarded to Canadian firms. It will support small and medium-sized businesses, strengthen domestic supply chains, and help Canadian companies grow here at home. For our community, home to more than 100 defence and security companies, this means real opportunity for local workers and innovators. It will also improve military readiness by strengthening land, air, and maritime capabilities to better protect Canada and our Allies. This is about supporting Canadian jobs, building at home, and reinforcing our sovereignty for the long term.
Launch of Canada’s New Auto Strategy: Canada’s auto sector supports over 500,000 workers and contributes more than $16 billion annually to our economy. Our new Automotive Strategy will protect Canadian jobs, attract investment, and position Canada as a global leader in electric vehicle manufacturing. By expanding EV production and making electric vehicles more affordable for Canadians, we are strengthening our economy and supporting cleaner transportation for the future.
Our government introduced the Build Canada Homes Act to accelerate the construction of affordable housing across Canada. Projects representing thousands of new homes, including in Ottawa, are already underway. This legislation will help build more homes faster and increase housing supply where it is needed most. The impact will be felt by families, seniors, and young people looking for an affordable place to call home.
Our government introduced Bill S-5, the Connected Care for Canadians Act, to modernize and better connect our health care system. Too many providers still cannot securely share patient information across systems. This legislation will improve secure information sharing, strengthen patient safety, and reduce administrative burden on frontline health workers. The result will be better care and improved outcomes for Canadians.
Legislation delivering the new Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit has received Royal Assent. This benefit will provide immediate support this spring, followed by increased quarterly payments beginning in July 2026. A family of four could receive up to $1,890 this year. This is direct support that will help offset rising groceries and essential costs and provide real relief at the checkout counter.

Mexico Travel Advisory

Ottawa has updated its travel advisory for Mexico after violent clashes erupted across parts of southwestern Mexico, triggering roadblocks, explosions and widespread transportation disruptions. This remains a very fluid situation. Canadians are encouraged to closely monitor official updates at: https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/mexico.

If you are a Canadian currently in Mexico, please register with the Government of Canada at: https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/registration to receive important updates and assistance if needed.

Iran Statement

As many continue to gather in solidarity with the people of Iran, I want to share a message of support for those who continue to peacefully stand up for freedom, dignity, and fundamental human rights.

Canada strongly condemns the continued killings of protesters in Iran. The reports of violence, lethal force, arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and repression by Iranian authorities are deeply distressing and profoundly troubling. Peaceful demonstrators have shown extraordinary courage in standing up for their fundamental rights, and the use of force against civilians who are exercising their right to peaceful protest must be unequivocally condemned. Please read my full statement here.

Congratulations, Team Canada!

We couldn’t be prouder of you, Team Canada! Bringing home 21 hard-fought Olympic medals is an incredible achievement but beyond the podium finishes, it was your determination, resilience, and sportsmanship that inspired an entire nation. I loved cheering you on, proudly wearing my maple leaf and celebrating every moment alongside Canadians from coast to coast.

Now, the excitement continues as we turn our attention to the Paralympic Games. Our Paralympic athletes begin competing on March 6, and we can’t wait to rally behind them with the same passion and pride. Let’s go, Canada! We’re with you every step of the way!

Black History Month

Each February, people across Canada participate in Black History Month events and celebrations that honour the legacy and contributions of Black people in Canada and their communities. I encourage everyone to take time to learn more about Black Canadian communities and the vital role they continue to play in shaping our shared future.

Stories of Resilience

Earlier this month on Parliament Hill, I joined colleagues to hear directly from Palestinian refugees from Gaza who arrived in Canada under the Temporary Resident Visa program in search of safety and security. We heard powerful stories of resilience and discussed challenges related to biometrics and student visas, alongside legal insights from Dr. Ardi Imseis of Queen’s University.

I am grateful to everyone who shared their experiences and helped make this important conversation possible.

Protecting Our Greenspace

As our fight continues, I want to reassure our community that 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.

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.

I’ve shared my recent letter of support on my website. Thank you Cathy for your leadership. I stand with you.

Community Events and Visits

I was proud to celebrate the Year of the Horse with our Chinese community at various Lunar New Year events. From beautiful calligraphy to traditional music and poetry, I got to attend many inspiring celebrations that served as wonderful reminders of the rich cultural traditions that strengthen our community. Wishing everyone good health, happiness, and prosperity in the year ahead!

I’d like to thank the Timberwalk retirement community for the warm welcome! It was a great pleasure to visit and share what my day-to-day in parliament looks like, discuss what our government is doing for members of our community, and exchange some stories and laughs. I’m very grateful to be able to connect with some truly incredible people! Thank you for the warmth, wisdom, and conversations.

The Family Day Skate was once again a big hit! I had a great afternoon at the Mlacak Centre’s skating rink, talking with friends and families in our community, and enjoying some sweet treats! Thank you to Councillor Curry and MPP McCrimmon for hosting and to everyone for coming out.

I enjoyed visiting Lee Valley’s Distribution Centre on Carp Road and learning more about the innovative work happening behind the scenes. I also had the opportunity to visit their manufacturing site and store in Ottawa. This almost 50 year old made in Ottawa success story is incredible! Their commitment to Canada and to our city is worthy of celebration.

Free Community Tax Clinic

I’m happy to share that registration is now live on my website for this year’s Community Volunteer Income Tax Program (CVITP), where volunteers will assist constituents, free of charge, with simple 2025 Income Tax Returns. For details and to register for mid-March appointments, visit: JennaSuddsMP.ca/taxclinic.

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 Child Benefit: March 19 and April 16
Canada Pension Plan: March 27 and April 28
Old Age Security: March 27 and April 28
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

March: Irish Heritage Month
March 1: Zero Discrimination Day
March 2-3: Purim
March 3: Lantern Festival
March 4: Holi
March 8: International Women's Day
March 15: International Day to Combat Islamophobia
March 17: St. Patrick's Day
March 19-20: Eid al-Fitr (sundown)
March 20: International Francophonie Day
March 20: Nowruz
March 21: World Down Syndrome Day
March 21: International Day for Elimination of Racial Discrimination
March 26: Purple Day - Epilepsy Awareness Day
March 29 - April 5: Holy Week
March 31: International Transgender Day of Visibility
March 31: Indigenous National Indigenous Languages Day

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 - February 2026

Iran Statement