Chak's Updates to RCM constituents and residents

Check here regularly for news, insights, and updates

5/8/202412 min read

November 16 - 24
Parliamentary Weekly Update:

  • Calling for Action on Drug Decriminalization - This week in Parliament, I raised urgent concerns about B.C.’s drug decriminalization policy. Premier David Eby has now admitted he was wrong, acknowledging the serious harm this experiment has caused. I called on the federal Liberal government to withdraw the federal exemption it granted to B.C. under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Federal leadership is needed to keep our communities safe.

  • The Liberal “Credit Card Budget” Passes by Two Votes - On Tuesday, the government’s budget passed by just 170–168. It contains a $78-billion deficit—one of the largest outside the pandemic years.

    Even more concerning:

    • Interest payments on Canada’s debt now exceed the total GST revenue, and

    • They exceed federal health transfers to provinces.

    Meanwhile, the Parliamentary Budget Officer has warned the fiscal plan is not sustainable, meaning future tax increases or service cuts will be unavoidable in future.

  • Holodomor Commemoration on Parliament Hill - On Wednesday, I attended the Holodomor Commemoration Ceremony, honouring the millions of Ukrainians who perished during the Soviet-engineered famine-genocide of 1932–33. With Ukraine still facing aggression today, remembering this history is vital to reaffirm Canada’s support for the Ukrainian people.

  • Cowichan Land Claim: Emergency Debate Denied - Shadow Minister Jamie Schmale requested an emergency debate on the Cowichan land claim ruling, which has caused deep anxiety for homeowners and businesses in Richmond and across Canada.

    The request was denied, but I will continue pushing the federal government for clarity, transparency, and meaningful action.

  • Meetings with Key National Stakeholders - This week, I met with:

    • Paramedic Chiefs of Canada — discussed emergency response challenges, staffing pressures, and federal support needs.

    • Aquaculture Industry Alliance — reviewed regulatory issues, sustainability, and economic opportunities in the sector.

November 3 - 7
Parliamentary Week in Review – Nov 3 – 7, 2025

Bill C-3 (Citizenship Act Amendments):Bill C-3 passed third reading this week despite Conservative opposition. Our caucus has consistently warned about the loopholes it will create and the serious long-term consequences it may bring for the integrity of Canada’s citizenship system.

Federal Budget Announcement:The Liberal government released its new budget—full of promises but offering little to ease the crushing cost of living. Conservatives continue to call for an affordable budget for an affordable life—one that limits reckless spending, reduces the deficit, and does not mortgage the future of the next generation.

In my budget speech, I shared what many Canadians feel every day:

  1. When you earn money, you’re taxed.

  2. When you spend money, you’re taxed.

  3. And when you save money, you’re still taxed.

Cowichan Land Claim Question:

I rose in the House for the third time to question this government’s silence and lack of leadership on the Cowichan land-claim ruling—an issue that has left homeowners and businesses in my riding deeply concerned about their property rights and economic stability.

Community Engagement in Ottawa:

I was pleased to meet with Richmond’s firefighters attending the Canadian Legislative Conference in Ottawa, and to welcome them on Parliament Hill. It was also a pleasure to meet Jennifer Jones, Rotary International President for 2022–23, together with Opposition Leader Pierre Poilievre and fellow parliamentarians at a special reception celebrating Rotary’s community leadership and global service.

Constituency Week Ahead:

Next week is a parliamentary break week. I will be back in Richmond Centre – Marpole meeting residents, attending local events, and engaging directly with the community on the issues that matter most.

As we head into Remembrance Day, let us pause to remember and honour those who made the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom and peace.

October 27 - 31
Standing Up for Public Safety - This week, I spoke in the House on Bill C-14, a government bill copied halfway from the Conservatives’ “Jail Not Bail” (Bill C-242). I emphasized that the Liberal version only goes partway—missing key reforms our caucus has long championed to keep violent repeat offenders off the streets and protect law-abiding Canadians.

Holding Elites Accountable - Parliament passed a motion ordering Mark Carney’s Chief of Staff and the CEO of Brookfield to appear before the Ethics Committee to answer questions about conflicts of interest and potential tax avoidance. Canadians deserve transparency and integrity from those seeking to influence public policy.

Engaging with Our Community

  • Richmond Cowichan Land Claim Information Session – On October 28, I attended the public meeting organized by the City of Richmond. Nearly 500 residents came to express deep concern about the court ruling’s impact on fee-simple property ownership and to call for government clarity and action.

  • BC Children’s Hospital – Young Ambassador Program (YAP) – Joined the celebration recognizing 16 years of youth volunteerism and fundraising success. The YAP has raised an incredible $3.5 million to support children’s health. Congratulations to all volunteers and supporters!

  • “Poppy Flag” Raising on Parliament Hill – Honoured to attend the first-ever ceremony marking remembrance of those who served and sacrificed for our freedom. Lest We Forget.

Looking Ahead – Next Week’s Federal Budget

Watch closely next week as the government tables its budget. Conservatives have called for an “affordable budget” that makes life more affordable for Canadians—by cutting hidden food taxes and other inflationary taxes, limiting reckless spending, and controlling deficits.

Be alert, as the Liberals might attempt to trigger a Christmas election to distract from their record of higher costs and broken promises.

October 20 - 24
This week, Parliament debated two key bills: Bill C-12 (Enhancing Public Safety Act) and Bill C-3 (Citizenship and Refugee Amendments).

  • Bill C-12 – Conservative Accountability in Action - Bill C-12 is a rebranded version of Bill C-2, which the Conservatives exposed for major flaws around privacy and unchecked ministerial power.

    Because of Conservative pressure, the Liberal government applied the brakes on Bill C-2 and brought it back in a revised form as Bill C-12.

    This demonstrates the effectiveness of the Opposition in defending Canadians’ rights.

  • Bill C-12 passed second reading and will now be closely scrutinized at Committee.

Protecting Property Rights - l raised serious concerns again in Parliament about the Cowichan land claim ruling, which threatens fee-simple property ownership in Richmond and across British Columbia.

Committee Accountability - At the Public Safety Committee, the government’s new Fentanyl Czar admitted he has no authority to carry out his mandate—raising serious concerns about the government’s handling of the overdose crisis. The Minister also acknowledged racism issues within the RCMP, adding to public concerns about accountability in our federal institutions.

Community Engagement - Welcomed two bright law students from Richmond to Parliament—their interest in public service reflects a strong future for Canada. Joined parliamentary colleagues in meeting with representatives from Hong Kong Pathway groups to listen to their concerns.

I will continue to defend property rights, hold the government accountable, and work for a safer and freer Canada.

October 6 - 10
It was a productive week in Ottawa, focused on public safety, international relations, and community engagement.

  • Jail Not Bail Motion Defeated - The Conservative Private Member’s Bill C-242, our “Jail Not Bail” proposal to keep repeat violent offenders off the streets, was unfortunately defeated by the Liberals and their allies on Monday. Despite this setback, we remain steadfast in our commitment to pursuing reforms that put the safety of Canadians first.

  • Accountability on the “Safe Supply” Crisis - During both the Public Safety and National Security Committee and Question Period, I pressed the Minister of Public Safety about the growing crisis linked to the so-called “safe supply” program and its diversion to the black market. The Liberals must take full responsibility for the damage their failed experiment has caused across British Columbia and beyond.

  • Meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye - I had a constructive meeting with the Ambassador of the Republic of Türkiye to discuss strengthening trade relations and exploring opportunities to expand direct flights between Canada and Türkiye.

  • Visitors from Richmond Centre–Marpole - It was always wonderful to see citizens from my riding in Ottawa. I was delighted to welcome two visitors from Richmond Centre–Marpole to Parliament Hill — a meaningful reminder of the trust and responsibility we carry on behalf of our community.

  • Constituency Office Opening - Last Saturday’s opening of our new Richmond Centre–Marpole Constituency Office was a tremendous success, with about 300 guests in attendance. My sincere thanks to everyone who joined and supported this milestone event.

  • Thanksgiving & Upcoming Constituency Week - Next week, Parliament will recess for a constituency week. I’ll be in the riding meeting with local residents and community organizations.

Wishing everyone a warm, joyful, and blessed Thanksgiving weekend filled with gratitude, family, and community spirit!

October 1 -3
Although it was a short week in Parliament, it was filled with important debates and decisions that matter to Canadians.

On October 1, Conservatives put forward a motion calling on the government to stop taxing food — by removing the carbon tax on farmers, scrapping the extra fuel tax, and ending costly new packaging rules. Unfortunately, the Liberals and their allies voted it down.

Bill C-9, the “Combatting Hate Act,” was also debated and approved at its second reading. It now goes to committee for further study. Conservatives will make sure it protects Canadians’ rights and freedoms while addressing hate-motivated crimes.

There was a heated debate on the Conservative “Jail Not Bail” Bill C-242, which I was proud to co-second and to speak in support of. This bill would make it harder for repeat violent offenders to be released on bail so that our communities can be safer. Debate is still ongoing, and no vote has been taken yet.

On Friday, I also rose in the House to challenge the Liberal government for putting politics ahead of protecting people’s property rights. During the Cowichan Tribes land-claim case, the government directed its lawyers to drop the legal argument that defends private homeownership (known as fee-simple title). That directive — given in the middle of the court process — has shaken Canadians’ confidence in their government’s commitment to defending homeowners’ rights.

Debates also continued on Bill C-8, dealing with Canada’s cyber-security and the protection of critical infrastructure.

Even in a short sitting week, there was no shortage of issues that affect Canadians’ daily lives. Conservatives will keep working for lower costs, safer communities, and stronger protection of property rights.

September 28
Parliament Hill Update – Week of Sept 22

It was another busy week in Ottawa:

Bill C-3 (Citizenship Act, 2025) passed second reading. Conservatives voted against it, warning of serious loopholes that could weaken the integrity of Canadian citizenship.

Two Conservative motions were unfortunately defeated:

  • One was our “Three Strikes and You’re Out” proposal — aimed at keeping violent repeat offenders behind bars and making parole no longer automatic.

  • The other, Opposition Motion No. 37 (Oil & Gas Emissions Cap), called on the government to repeal its cap on the oil and gas sector, which in practice would act as a production limit, threatening jobs and investment in Canada’s energy industry.

It is disappointing to see these common-sense proposals voted down.

At the SECU Committee, Canadians heard a shocking revelation: only 1–2% of incoming containers are scanned, and for outgoing containers, the percentage is even less. No wonder stolen cars, drugs, and illegal firearms are slipping through Canada’s borders so easily.

On Friday, I was pleased to rise once again on behalf of the people of Richmond Centre–Marpole to question the government’s Bill C-8 — a cybersecurity bill that requires telecom companies to tighten their networks against interference. As the successor to Bill C-26, it makes a step in the right direction on the issue of “secret evidence”, but it still leaves major gaps that fail to protect our communities.

Finally, I am pleased to announce that my riding office will officially open on October 4. Constituents are welcome to register and connect with my team — I look forward to serving you directly from our local office.

Conservatives will keep pressing the government to deliver real solutions, not just more bureaucracy and empty promises.

September 21
Back to Parliament – First Week Update

Parliament resumed after the summer break, and the House jumped straight back to work. Two major bills dominated debate:

  • Bill C-2 (Border Security) – Conservatives opposed it for granting the government too much unchecked power, risking privacy and due process.

  • Bill C-3 (Citizenship) – Would give Canadian citizenship to the third generation and beyond born abroad, even if they lack a real connection to Canada. Conservatives believe this would create loopholes.

Both bills are at second reading; no votes yet.

This week, I was delighted to meet a Richmond firefighter while he was visiting the Parliament Buildings. If you’re from our riding and find yourself in Ottawa, I encourage you to reach out — it’s always a pleasure to connect.

On Friday, I spoke in the House to question the government for downloading the housing crisis onto municipalities while creating a new federal housing bureaucracy instead of homes.

Looking ahead, Conservatives have put forward a proposal often called “Three Strikes and You’re Out” — aimed at tightening bail, keeping repeat violent offenders behind bars longer, and making parole no longer automatic. This proposal will be debated next week.

Back home in the riding, I was glad to attend several important events on Saturday, including the opening of Culture Days and the celebration of Richmond being named the most active community in Canada. Proud moments for our community!

September 15
Back to Parliament – Ready to Get to Work! I’m excited to be back in Ottawa this week as Parliament resumes today (Monday, September 15). It’s going to be a busy session, and I’ll be plunging right into work.

This summer wasn’t a vacation—it was action-packed in the riding, among many things:

  • I met with The Marpole Business Improvement Area.

  • I joined events at Marpole Neighbourhood House and Marpole Oakridge Family Place.

  • I attended numerous community events across the riding, including local festivals, cultural gatherings, and neighbourhood celebrations.

  • I hosted consultation meetings with local stakeholders.

  • I welcomed four fellow MPs and shadow ministers for community discussions on small business, employment, immigration, and international relations.

  • I accompanied Party Leader Pierre Poilievre to visit two key enterprises in Richmond.

These meetings and visits not only strengthened my connections with our community, but they also helped my colleagues and Party better understand the unique needs of Richmond Centre–Marpole. This will make them more supportive of the issues I bring forward in Parliament.

I also finalized the setup of my new constituency office—announcement coming soon! In the meantime, I’m proud of my dedicated staff who have already been hard at work helping constituents from our temporary space.

Now, back in Ottawa, I’m ready to push forward with energy and focus—holding the Liberal government accountable on the big issues:

  1. The crushing cost of living

  2. Threats to jobs and economic security

  3. Rising crime and public safety concerns

The people of Richmond Centre–Marpole sent me here to fight for them—and I’m more energized than ever to do just that. Let’s get to work!

June 15
Week Three on Parliament Hill:

  • I’ve been assigned an office on the Hill: Room 718, Confederation Building. Setup will begin next week. As for the constituency office in Richmond, I hope to confirm the location soon—stay tuned for updates.

  • I’m honoured to be appointed to the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security—a key responsibility during these challenging times.

  • This week, Conservatives called on the Liberal government to present a budget before summer, as food prices continue to soar. Families are expected to spend over $16,800 on groceries this year, up $800 from last year. Yet the Liberals and NDP voted down the motion, refusing to act on the cost-of-living crisis.

  • The Auditor General’s report exposed serious problems in federal contracting. From 2015 to 2024, the government awarded 106 contracts worth up to $92.7 million to GC Strategies, a two-person IT staffing company—$64.5 million was paid out. In many cases, there was no documentation of who did the work, what work was completed, or whether those hired had the required experience. This is yet another example of waste, mismanagement, and insider deals under this government.

  • I also had the honour of celebrating Philippine Independence Day on Parliament Hill and in my riding, joining members of the Filipino community, fellow MPs, and dignitaries to recognize the rich contributions of Filipino Canadians to our country.

More updates to come as I continue to advocate for Richmond Centre–Marpole.

June 8
Week 2 in Ottawa:

Earlier this week, a majority of MPs voted in favour of a motion urging the Liberal government to table a budget before the summer break. Yet the government refused. Canadians deserve better—more transparency, more accountability, and a real plan.

There was also an emergency debate in response to the devastating wildfires in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. I asked the government: What lessons have you learned from previous disasters, and what are you doing differently now to keep Canadians safe? We need action—not just sympathy repeated year after year.

To close the week, I had the honour of welcoming my first visitors to Parliament Hill: Howard Jampolsky, Chair of the Richmond Economic Advisory Committee, and his wife. A meaningful moment in a very full week.

June 2
An exciting and unforgettable first week in Ottawa!

  • Sworn in as your Member of Parliament

  • Attended the opening of the 45th Parliament

  • Met His Majesty the King

  • Asked my first question in the House

  • Cast my first vote

  • Delivered my maiden speech

Life here is full and the days are long—but every moment is meaningful. Thank you to my constituents back home for your trust and support. I carry your voices with me every step of the way.