Jill Dunlop MPP

Fall is a wonderful time in Simcoe North. From the beautiful colours across our rural communities and waterfronts to fall fairs, community events and outdoor activities, October and November offer many opportunities to enjoy everything our region has to offer.

With another school year well underway, I want to recognize our students, teachers, education workers and families across Simcoe North. Our government remains focused on ensuring Ontario students have the skills, supports and opportunities they need to succeed in the classroom and prepare for their futures.

That focus on opportunity extends into our workforce. Recently, our government announced an investment of more than $4.8 million through the Skills Development Fund to support training programs in Simcoe County and surrounding communities. These investments are helping people gain practical, in-demand skills while connecting local employers with the workers they need and creating new pathways for young people and jobseekers close to home.

We also continue to make important investments in health care, including expanding access to primary care, strengthening our health-care workforce and supporting hospitals and community organizations. Here in Simcoe North, I continue to work closely with our local health-care partners to ensure the needs of our growing communities are heard at Queen’s Park.

As we move from the colourful days of October toward November, we also prepare to mark Remembrance Day. Across Simcoe North, residents will gather at cenotaphs and ceremonies to honour the brave Canadians who served and sacrificed for the freedoms we enjoy today. I encourage everyone, particularly our younger generations, to take part in a local ceremony, wear a poppy and take time to reflect on their service and sacrifice.

There is still plenty to enjoy outdoors before winter arrives. Whether you are exploring a local trail, visiting a farmers’ market, supporting a local business or simply enjoying the changing landscape along Georgian Bay and Lake Simcoe, I hope you have an opportunity to experience the season close to home.

As always, it is a privilege to represent the people and communities of Simcoe North at Queen’s Park. I look forward to seeing many of you throughout our communities this fall.