Today, May 6, marks the beginning of Women’s Health Week. Women’s Health Week, anchored by Mother’s Day, is celebrated annually to raise awareness and engagement about lived experiences in women’s health.

I’m proud to be part of a government that this fall announced an expansion to Ontario Breast Screening Program. Beginning this October, women ages 40 to 49 will now be eligible for Ontario Breast Screening Program, improving the odds for early detection.

I would like to highlight the outstanding work of the Women’s Health Coalition in advancing a movement to speak openly, learn and engage, to address barriers, gaps and biases in menstrual, reproductive and sexual health through all the ages and stages of a woman’s health experience. The Women’s Health Coalition works tirelessly to advocate, communicate and connect on these very important issues.

I am proud to be an ally of the Women’s Health Coalition and women’s health in general, Speaker. The Women’s Health Coalition is a diverse network of women and families, health care professionals, community organizations and business leaders who have come together to advance women’s health. Women’s health matters to all of us, in our homes, our communities, and workplaces across Ontario.

Speaker, I encourage all my colleagues to join me in celebrating Women’s Health Week and the Women’s Health Coalition for their remarkable contributions to a healthier, more inclusive society.

Perth–Wellington is a place of vibrant energy and growth, and today, I want to celebrate an incredible success story of one of our small businesses.

Last Friday, I had the pleasure of attending the grand opening of GRIT Engineering’s brand new, expanded location in Stratford. GRIT Engineering, founded and led by Montana Wilson, is a shining example of what small businesses can achieve when they combine determination, dedication and vision. They offer a wide array of high-quality services, including geotechnical engineering, civil engineering, surveying and environmental services.

It’s no exaggeration to say that GRIT Engineering plays a vital role in building our great province. It was wonderful to walk through their state-of-the-art facility, witness the cutting-edge technology they employ and meet some of their dedicated team. What’s even more remarkable is that GRIT Engineering is one of the few female-led consulting engineering firms in Ontario. The company also provides 24 individuals in our local community with well-paying jobs, with the majority of employees being under the age of 40. They’re not just building infrastructure, Speaker; they’re building careers and opportunities in Perth–Wellington.

Montana’s recent recognition as the recipient of the Ontario Home Builders’ Association inaugural Service Professional of the Year award is a testament to the outstanding professionalism and integrity that she brings to everything she does. She is truly a role model for young women everywhere.

Speaker, it’s great to see the continued success of small businesses in our rural community. I want to wish Montana, Nick and their whole team much success.