Family Friendly February
More housing is on the way! We know that working well with other levels of government to create more housing will make a difference in the lives of British Columbians
Dear Friends and Neighbours,
This letter’s a little longer than usual with so much going on recently – read on! Good news! Current inflation has been wrestled down to 2.9% in January and we will continue to work to bring it down to a targeted 2%.
I hope you had a chance to spend quality time with your family over the Family Day long weekend. I spent mine enjoying the chance to catch up with my son and grandchildren visiting from New York. It’s the first time in too long that Dirk and I have all our children – plus our six grandchildren – together on the west coast at the same time!
With the House of Commons back in session since late January, Members of Parliament are back to debating and voting on legislation, Committee hearings and reports, and continuing to assist and advocate for their constituents.
Bill C-57, the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement Implementation Act, passed all stages and is now in the Senate for debate. This Bill not only supports Ukraine as they defend their citizens against Russia’s local – and global – military ambitions, but it also stimulates the Canadian economy by creating jobs in both countries. That’s why I’m mystified by the Conservative Leader’s requirement that his MPs vote against C-57.
Back in Vancouver, I attended a reception hosted by the US Consul General to Vancouver in partnership with the Pacific Salmon Foundation, to talk about BC and west coast USA’s mutual interest in Pacific Salmon. Wild salmon are vital to our Coastal and Interior ecosystems, cultures, and economies, so protecting and rebuilding wild salmon runs is of utmost importance to me and many British Columbians.
Pre-Budget Consultation
Thank you to all those who were able to attend my 2024 Pre-Budget consultation
Earlier this month at my ‘2024 Pre-Budget Consultation (PBC)’ many ideas were proposed by individual attendees for Budget 2024; thanks to all for joining me! Four common themes emerged from the discussions: Housing affordability; Climate change/green economy; Public transit extensions and improved schedules; and policies to improve Federal benefits and tax policies for disadvantaged Seniors.
A group of attendees used the PBC to individually voice concerns about violence and loss of life in the Middle East, and to suggest Canada increase funding for humanitarian supports in the region.
If you were unable to attend but sent ideas to my office in advance – thank you! Your comments were incorporated into the Vancouver Quadra PBC Report I submitted to the office of the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Finance.
Celebrating the Year of the Dragon
Snapshots of Lunar New Year: taking in the beautiful scenery at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Garden; engaging community conversations at my Open House; Handing out “lucky” red envelopes in Chinatown; and sampling LNY treats at Westbrook Community Centre
On February 9, my annual constituency office Lunar New Year (LNY) Open House was packed with guests of all ages. Between the yummy treats, red envelopes, photos, and socializing, we enjoyed musical performances by three outstanding artists: Amily Yao, David Yi Kai Yang, and Jianguo Gao – a big “thank you!”
February 11… another busy day. I started the day by catching up with friends, and speaking on behalf of the federal government, at Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Classical Chinese Garden’s LNY celebration.
Celebrating its 50th year, the Chinatown Spring Festival and parade happens rain or shine and this year we all got a good soaking! As we walked between lion dancers through the beautifully decorated streets of Chinatown I was amazed by the turnout – by all ages! After handing out over a thousand lucky envelopes my team and I found a warm café to dry off and warm up before continuing the day. I extend a big “thank you” to the organizers, volunteers, and the Vancouver Chinatown BIA who tirelessly work to organize this event every year.
My last visit of the day was to the Westbrook Community Centre, where the University Neighbourhood Association (UNA) invited me to speak at their Lunar New Year celebration. I loved watching the traditional Lion Dance, Korean drumming, bamboo weaving, and other cultural performances, as well as enjoying a few tasty traditional treats.
More Affordable Childcare Spaces
Speaking on the importance of affordable childcare with Carla Qualtrough, Federal Minister of Sport and Physical Activity, and Mitzi Dean, Provincial Minister of State for Child Care
As a mom who remembers the reality of parenting three children while building a business, I jumped at the opportunity to emcee a recent childcare announcement at the UBC Child Care Center. The federal government announced that over 700 more child care spaces, some right here at UBC, will move into the $10 a Day ChildCareBC program, supported by federal funding under the Canada-British Columbia Canada-wide Early Learning and Child Care Agreement.
Every $10 child care space significantly helps affordability for families – up to $10,000 per year in savings for one child’s care! In families where parents need or wish to pursue studies, jobs or careers outside the home, access to affordable child care options is vital, while also stimulating the Canadian economy as a whole.
Touring the TRIUMF science research lab and particle accelerator complex at UBC, a magnet for global scientific talent, and a hotbed for innovation and incubation of industrial and medical solutions
With the new UBC President and Vice Chancellor Benoit-Antoine Bacon, meeting to discuss his priorities for UBC, including the need for a SkyTrain station on campus
In Case You Missed It
Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau announced $2 billion in additional federal financing to British Columbia’s BC Builds program
Spoke at my mom Charlotte’s care home’s 55th Anniversary: families so appreciate the dedication and quality care provided by the amazing carers, staff and administration!
My team and I are always open to new ideas and opportunities to meet and/or serve Vancouver Quadra community members. If you or your organization has an event in the riding – and wishes to have me participate in some way – please contact my office.
Warm regards,
Joyce Murray, P.C., M.P.
Member of Parliament for Vancouver Quadra
| Mon: | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Tue: | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Wed: | 9:00AM - 1:00PM |
| Thu: | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Fri: | 9:00AM - 5:00PM |
| Sat: | Closed |
| Sun: | Closed |
