Speaker, as this is my first opportunity to make formal remarks in this House, I want to congratulate you and thank you for your continued service to all members in the province of Ontario. I also want to offer my sincere gratitude to the residents of beautiful Chatham-Kent–Leamington for placing their trust in me. I assure them that I’ll serve them and all of Ontario with honour and dignity.

Today I want to highlight a special community in my riding whose residents have demonstrated a unique strength, courage, and resilience in the face of adversity. Wheatley is located on the shores of Lake Erie in southwestern Ontario and is home to approximately 3,000 people. It’s known as the freshwater fishing capital of the world and is home to the iconic Omstead Foods, a pioneering fishery and processer of fresh foods. Wheatley is the current headquarters of Hike Metal Products, a successful ship-building company whose projects included world-class research and law enforcement vessels, as well as the large, specialized catamarans that tour Niagara Falls. Wheatley is home to many of my dear friends, like Jeff Bowman, the owner of Bowman Feed and Supply, whose family have delivered exceptional local products and exceptional customer service since 1952.

On August 26, 2021, a suspected hydrogen sulphide gas leak that was being monitored by officials in the downtown core suddenly indicated dangerous concentrations of the volatile gas. While emergency personnel worked to quickly evacuate the area, a massive explosion occurred. The blast actually injured 20 people and severely damaged businesses and homes in the area. The heroic actions of our local firefighters certainly prevented further injury and loss of life. For nearly a year, businesses have been shuttered, families displaced, and the heart of the town centre interrupted. Yet Wheatley remains positive, hopeful, patient and eager to rebuild.

Wheatley was the first community I campaigned in and the first community I visited after winning the election in June. The residents of Wheatley are an inspiration to us all. In the face of adversity here and elsewhere, I strive to be Wheatley strong.