Question Period for HoC Sitting No 6 14 41 11

credible learning more about all of the local organizations that give this region its unique spirit. I am committed to representing everyone in the riding to the best of my ability. CAFKA doesn’t just bring art into public spaces — it brings curiosity and connection into the everyday lives of people across this community. CAFKA creates an open invitation to pause, to reflect, and to see your surroundings — something we could all do more of in this busy world we live in. And in a world that can often feel isolating or fragmented, organizations like CAFKA help stitch us back together. What makes this even more remarkable is that CAFKA achieves all of this with a small but mighty team: one permanent staff member, a working board, and a network of collaborators, artists, and community partners. Your hard work and dedication are something to be truly proud of. As an organization that receives federal funding, CAFKA utilizes programs like Canada Summer Jobs and Young Canada Works — these lifelines for young artists, arts administrators, and curators help to build careers. I’ve also heard the concern loud and clear: Waterloo Region remains underrepresented when it comes to federal arts funding. That’s something I will raise and advocate for, because the cultural life of our communities deserves equity — not just in spirit, but in funding. So, to the artists, organizers, funders, community partners, and everyone who helps bring CAFKA’s vision to life: thank you. Your work strengthens community bonds and connection that are a major reason why Kitchener Centre is so unique. I look forward to experiencing this year’s installations, and I encourage everyone — whether you’ve seen every CAFKA since 2001 or this is your very first — to truly enjoy the experience and share it widely. Thank you, and congratulations on the launch of CAFKA.25.

one-third of Canadian small businesses have adjusted or paused their summer hiring plans, according to a survey by Merchant Growth. Kitchener businesses need a plan. A budget is a plan. Why does the government refuse to heed our calls and table a budget that reverses its inflationary spending?