Earlier this week, I had the opportunity to attend the Centre for Skills Development in Burlington, alongside Minister Williams, Minister Tangri and PA David Smith, to launch a call for applications for the Women’s Economic Security Program. Thanks to the Women’s Economic Security Program, more women have access to skills training, gaining the experience to embark on a career to good-paying jobs in the trades.

The Centre for Skills Development has provided their Enhanced General Carpentry program to women for over 20 years and has seen great success, with over 300 participants securing sustainable, financially rewarding and meaningful employment in the construction sector. Their 22-week program prepares participants to work in a variety of skilled trades within the construction industry, from residential builds to high-end renovations. Other services at the centre include one-on-one job search coaching, settlement services, LINC and ELT classes, academic upgrading and fully funded pre-apprenticeship skilled trade programs. Collectively, the centres serve around 20,000 people in Halton region and Mississauga.

Thank you to the Centre for Skills Development for delivering the programs that continue breaking down barriers for women, giving them the tools they need to earn bigger paycheques for themselves and their families.

My question is for the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport. Just recently, many of my constituents from Burlington joined fans from across the country to watch Canada’s biggest sporting and cultural event. This year’s Grey Cup did not disappoint, including the lively festivities following the game. Multiple outlets have reported it was a Grey Cup for the ages.

The Grey Cup is more than just a football game; it plays a critical role in fuelling Hamilton’s local economy and tourism sector, drawing over 28,000 people in attendance.

Speaker, can the minister please share how events like the Grey Cup unite communities and bring Ontario economic prosperity?

It’s encouraging to see the positive effects sporting events have on Ontario’s tourism sector. Our tourism sector attracts visitors to the area, boosts local businesses and creates jobs. Many people in my riding of Burlington rely on tourism for their jobs, and they have appreciated the various investments that saw them through times of lower attendance at their venues and activities.

As we see the ongoing strength in Ontario’s tourism, our government must continue to take the lead in supporting its development to unlock our province’s true economic potential.

Speaker, can the minister please elaborate on our government’s efforts in building the tourism industry?