Conservative Party of Canada

Your MP at Work

Posts, videos and speeches

Kelly DeRidder's posts, videos and House of Commons speeches about her work for Kitchener Centre. Search by topic, or browse by month.

Clear

25 items match your filters.

Facebook · September 28, 2025

Attended the Fallen Firefighter Memorial today, and it was profoundly moving. With deepest gratitude to the firefighters who risk everything to keep us safe, and to those whose lives were tragically cut short in the line of duty. We also honour the families of the fallen, w… Read more

hose strength and sacrifice echo through every siren and salute.

Facebook · September 27, 2025

After 20 Joyful Years, Victoria Party Store Is Saying Goodbye A beloved part of our community is retiring. For two decades, Victoria Party Store has been the heart of all our celebrations, from balloons and banners to unforgettable celebration magic. That big yellow sign on Vic… Read more

toria Street has always meant joy was just around the corner. Now, they’re closing their doors and heading into a well-deserved retirement. Let’s show our appreciation for all the memories they’ve helped create. 🎈 Everything is 50% off until their final day October 18th! 🛍️ Stock up, say thank you, and help send them off with love. We’ll miss you, Victoria Party Store. Thank you for making life more festive 💛

Facebook · September 25, 2025

Food bank usage has surged 142% since 2015. In just the first half of September, over 15,000 people in Waterloo Region turned to a food bank for help. The Prime Minister said to judge him by prices at the grocery store. The verdict is clear: costs are out of control. We want… Read more

to cut the federal deficit by reducing spending on bureaucracy, and consultants.

Facebook · September 25, 2025

September 25, 2025 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Ottawa, ON – Kelly DeRidder, Conservative Member of Parliament for Kitchener Centre, seconded by Conservative MP Todd Doherty, introduced Private Member’s Bill C-240: Bill C-240 aims to amend the Criminal Code to empower judges to prescr… Read more

ibe structured rehabilitation programs for individuals whose offences stem from circumstances that can be addressed through skill development, education and recovery as part of a holistic healing process. “Our justice system must do more than punish - it must also heal,” said MP DeRidder. “Bill C-240 empowers courts to prescribe structured rehabilitation measures, including education, skills training, and treatment programs, to be undertaken during custody. These are not soft-on-crime measures; they are smart-on-recovery interventions.” If passed, this legislation will: Allow court-ordered rehabilitation measures for offenders: The bill allows courts to order additional rehabilitative measures during an offender’s custodial sentence, such as participation in educational, training, or treatment programs. Permit stricter penalties for fentanyl traffickers: The bill introduces an aggravating factor in sentencing for individuals convicted of trafficking fentanyl in large quantities, leading to stricter penalties. Include rehabilitation progress in parole decisions: The bill further requires parole boards to consider an offender's progress in completing court-ordered rehabilitation programs when making parole decisions. “Bill C-240 strengthens the Corrections and Conditional Release Act, ensuring that rehabilitation objectives are considered during parole decisions. It amends the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to treat large-scale fentanyl trafficking as an aggravating factor, reflecting the gravity of the harm inflicted on our communities,” DeRidder concluded. “By integrating public health principles into our justice system, we can reduce recidivism, enhance community safety, and break the cycle of harm."

Facebook · September 24, 2025

🌺 Filipino Community Gathering Over the summer, I had the privilege of being invited to the Filipino Community Gathering. The food was fabulous, and I enjoyed the chance to connect and talk with the Filipino community here in Kitchener. Thank you to everyone who welcomed me so… Read more

warmly — it was a celebration of culture, friendship, and community spirit. 💙❤️💛 #CommunitySpirit #StrongerTogether #CanadaDiversity #kitchenercentre

Facebook · September 24, 2025

Great meeting with our leader Pierre Poilievre to discuss Kitchener Centre's priorities for the fall session. We’re focused on common-sense solutions to make life more affordable, strengthen our economy, make our streets safe, and my Private Members Bill focusing on rehabilitat… Read more

ion. Conservatives will keep fighting to put families and Canadians first.

YouTube · September 22, 2025

Introducing my Private Member's Bill, Bill C-240

Today, I was honoured to introduce Bill C-240, the Offender Rehabilitation Act — a bill that empowers our courts to prescribe structured rehabilitation programs for individuals whose offenses stem from circumstances that can be addressed through skill development, education, and … Read more

recovery as part of a holistic healing process. This bill is not about being soft on crime — it’s about being smart on recovery. By integrating public health principles into our justice system, we can reduce recidivism, enhance community safety, and break the cycle of harm. Bill C-240 will also strengthen our response to large-scale fentanyl trafficking, drawing a clear line between those who need support to rebuild their lives and those who profit from destruction.

House of Commons · September 22, 2025

House of Commons: Routine Proceedings — Offender Rehabilitation Act

moved for leave to introduce Bill C-240, An Act to amend the Criminal Code, to make related amendments to the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to introduce the proposed offender rehabilitation… Read more

act. The bill seeks to address one of the most urgent and heartbreaking crises facing Canadian families: the devastating impact of substance addiction. Canadians see the toll: lives are lost; families are shattered; and public safety is eroded. Our justice system must do more than punish. It must also heal. The bill would empower courts to prescribe structured rehabilitation measures, including education, skills training and treatment programs, to be undertaken during custody. These are not soft-on-crime measures. They are smart-on-recovery interventions. The bill would strength the Corrections and Conditional Release Act to ensure that rehabilitation objectives are considered during parole decisions, and it would amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act to treat large-scale fentanyl trafficking as an aggravating factor, reflecting the gravity of the harm inflicted in our communities. I look forward to working with all members of the House to restore dignity, health and hope to those caught in the cycle of addiction. (Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)

Facebook · September 17, 2025

Man, I Love What I Do. Over the past 10 weeks at home in Kitchener Centre, we’ve been on the move. I’ve had the chance to chat with, celebrate with, learn from, and connect with 149 community events, organizations, and local businesses. From street festivals to roundtables, fro… Read more

m small business visits to neighbourhood BBQs, every conversation added something valuable. And now, I’m heading back to Ottawa with all of it: your ideas, your concerns, your energy. This job is a privilege. And I can’t wait to bring everything we’ve learned this summer back to Parliament, for YOU. Let’s get to work.

House of Commons · September 17, 2025

House of Commons

Thank you for that. You mentioned the bureaucratic process. What I'm hearing from our community right now is that to receive funding, to be a part of funding, they have to get through a very bureaucratic process. Instead of going through the bureaucratic process, is there a way… Read more

that you think we should focus on being more industry-focused and monetization-focused for tech sectors like Kitchener?

House of Commons · September 17, 2025

House of Commons

Thank you, Chair. Thank you to everybody for coming today. Thank you for your expertise. I'm from Kitchener. We are home to world-class innovation. Our innovation ecosystem is unmatched. What I see within our ecosystem, though, is some cutting-edge technology not reaching mon… Read more

etization, number one, and number two, not staying within Canada when it does. To that end, $62 billion of net investment left Canada in the past five months. Mr. Doyle, my questions will be for you today. One of your SMART centres is located right in my community. Thank you for coming with your expertise today. First, how does the current spending support real technology adoption through monetization, which is vital in tech hubs like Kitchener?

Facebook · September 16, 2025

Getting to Work for Kitchener Centre This summer, I met with leaders from all levels of government to tackle the big questions: How do we grow our local economy? How do we keep our streets safe? How do we make life more affordable? These weren’t just check-ins, they were str… Read more

ategic conversations about how we align our efforts to deliver real results for Kitchener Centre. From housing and transit to small business support and community safety, we’re focused on practical solutions that make a difference. The work ahead is serious, and I’m ready to get to it. Let’s build a future that’s secure, affordable, and full of opportunity, together. Thank you to all, that took the time to meet. Aislinn Clancey - MPP Kitchener Centre Margaret Johnston - Councillor ward 8 Stephanie Stretch - Councillor ward 10 Debbie Chapman - Councillor ward 9 Colleen James - Regional councillor Berry Vrbanovic - Mayor of Kitchener Mike Harris - MPP Kitchener Conestoga Catherine Fife - MPP Waterloo Matthew Rodrigues - Regional councillor Karen Redman - Chair, Regional Municipality of Waterloo Jason Deneault - Councillor ward 3 Dorothy McCabe - Mayor of Waterloo Dave Schnider - Councillor ward 2 Sue Foxton - Mayor North Dumfries

Facebook · September 15, 2025

Back to Ottawa, with Your Voices in Mind Over the summer, I had the privilege of meeting with so many (56 to be exact) incredible people across Kitchener Centre, right here in our office. We had many conversations, some joyful, some difficult, all deeply meaningful. I heard your… Read more

hopes, your frustrations, and your ideas. And while some conversations were hard, we always found common ground. That’s the strength of our community: we listen, we care, and we work together. As Parliament returns to session, I’m bringing your voices with me. Your stories and concerns will guide my work in Ottawa. If you didn’t get a chance to connect this summer, my door is always open. Please reach out, whether you have a concern, an idea, or just want to chat. I’m here to listen. Let’s keep the conversation going

House of Commons · September 15, 2025

House of Commons

Thank you very much for your answer. Second, what improvements do you think can be made to ensure that our federal research funding programs are flexible enough to captivate community-focused research happening in local innovation hubs, such as mine in particular in Kitchener? H… Read more

ow do we not rely on publishing to fund and start to rely more on innovating to fund?

Facebook · September 12, 2025

📍 Recent tour of the Region with Pierre Poilievre Grateful to have spent Wednesday in our region with Pierre Poilievre and colleagues, meeting hardworking Canadians who keep our communities strong. We spoke with hard-working Canadians about the values that unite us: 🛠️ Afford… Read more

ability 🇨🇦 A self-reliant Canada 🚓 Safe streets 🏡 Reviving the Canadian Dream — where hard work means a good home in a safe neighbourhood, right here in the greatest country on Earth. Thank you to everyone who welcomed us and shared your stories. Your voices matter — and they’re shaping the future we’re building together. #BetterTogether #CanadianDream #PierrePoilievre #teamworkmakesthedreamwork

Facebook · September 11, 2025

📢 Reminder! I’m hosting a Community Town Hall tonight — a chance to share your priorities and what matters most for Kitchener Centre. 🗓️ Today 🕕 4:00 – 6:00 PM 📍 201–130 Weber Street West I hope you’ll join us for this important conversation. Your voice matters! #Kitchener… Read more

Centre #Community #TownHall

Facebook · September 9, 2025

It was great to connect with ISOW representatives, including Kyaw Zin Phyoe, Sharmaine Lichty, and Aung Kyaw Hlaing, to learn about their incredible student-led humanitarian work. 🌍 ISOW sponsors youth from conflict-affected countries to study safely at Laurier, helping them int… Read more

egrate into Canadian life and stay in our region to contribute in their fields. What makes this program truly remarkable is that it’s completely self-funded by students, for students. They also make regular trips to Ottawa to engage with IRCC and GAC, advocating for their program goals and the future of international students. I’m inspired by their dedication and the positive impact they’re making. Learn more here: www.isow.ca #KitchenerCentre #Community #StudentLeadership #InternationalStudents #Education #ISOW

Facebook · September 7, 2025

🌟 What an extraordinary conversation with youth in our community! At our Youth Mental Health Panel, we engaged in open and impactful dialogue about the challenges young people face — and the vital role that local, provincial, and federal governments can play in supporting them.… Read more

I’m bringing several key takeaways back to Ottawa, insights shared directly by youth about what they need most. I’m especially grateful for the honesty, courage, and thoughtful questions from everyone who joined the discussion. 💬✨ I look forward to hosting more events like this — keeping the conversation going and working together on real solutions. https://youtube.com/shorts/YfNFzWccl70 #YouthVoices #MentalHealth #KitchenerCentre #Community

Facebook · September 6, 2025

Recently in our constituency office, we presented an Appreciation Certificate in memory of Stephen Arthur Higgins (April 21, 1950 – January 6, 2025). It was a very moving moment for all of us ❤️ Steve’s life was dedicated to community, wellness, and the martial arts. Through Co… Read more

ld Mountain Internal Arts, he inspired generations in Kitchener-Waterloo with his teachings in Tai Chi, Qi Gong, and martial arts. His legacy lives on in the strength, peace, and unity he cultivated in others. 🕊️ “For a lifetime of dedication to community, movement, and mindfulness.” #KitchenerWaterloo #Community #Legacy #TaiChi #MartialArts

Facebook · September 5, 2025

🏸 What an incredible time at the ProSmashers Inaugural Badminton Tournament! Hosted by the ProSmashers Club right here in Kitchener Centre! This event was so much fun to attend — and I even had the chance to play alongside my colleague, @mattstraussksh which made it all the mor… Read more

e fun. It was an absolute honour to be part of this first tournament. This is what community is all about — coming together through sport, friendship, and shared passion. 👏✨ A big thank you to the organizers, volunteers, and athletes who made it such a success. #ProSmashers #Badminton #Community #KitchenerCentre #Sports

YouTube · September 5, 2025

Youth Mental Health Panel

🌟 What an extraordinary conversation with youth in our community! At our Youth Mental Health Panel, we engaged in open and impactful dialogue about the challenges young people face — and the vital role that local, provincial, and federal governments can play in supporting them.… Read more

I’m bringing several key takeaways back to Ottawa, insights shared directly by youth about what they need most. I’m especially grateful for the honesty, courage, and thoughtful questions from everyone who joined the discussion. 💬✨ I look forward to hosting more events like this — keeping the conversation going and working together on real solutions.

Facebook · September 4, 2025

My colleagues and I recently had the pleasure of visiting the University of Waterloo — such a great experience. 💡 We had thoughtful discussions on how the university and its partners are strengthening Canada’s tech sector and driving economic growth through forward-thinking pol… Read more

icy. From AI and deep tech to advanced manufacturing, the conversation reinforced why our region truly is Canada’s capital of innovation. For Kitchener Centre, tech isn’t just important — it’s vital. It drives local opportunity, attracts talent, and supports families right here at home. The visit even brought back memories of my own time in robotics during secondary school — building machines for final projects and learning hands-on. 🤖✨ I’m excited about the collaboration and policy development that will keep Kitchener Centre and our region a global leader in tech and innovation. #Innovation #KitchenerCentre #UWaterloo #FutureOfTech #AI #advancedmanufacturing @conniecodymp @mattstraussksh

Facebook · September 3, 2025

📣 Town Hall – Let’s Talk! Join us for an open and engaging Town Hall where community voices take centre stage. This topic is "Your Voice, Your Concerns for Ottawa" and will provide a great chance to share your priorities, ask questions, and connect with our team. 🗓 Date: Thu… Read more

rsday, September 11 🕓 Time: 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. 📍 Location: 201 – 130 Weber Street West Whether you have ideas, concerns, or just want to listen in, we’d love to see you there. Everyone is welcome! #TownHall #CommunityMatters #YourVoiceCounts #kitchenercentre

Facebook · September 2, 2025

🙌 We’re looking for amazing volunteers to join our team! We need all skill sets — from office and admin support, reception, and event help, to photography, social media, and so much more. Whether you’re a student looking for experience, a professional wanting to give back, or s… Read more

omeone with a few hours to spare, there’s a place for you on our team. 👉 Interested? Reach out to our office today and get involved! #Volunteers #Community #Teamwork #GiveBack #kitchenercentre

Help Kelly keep working for Kitchener Centre

Kelly's work in Ottawa is backed by volunteers and supporters here at home. A monthly donation of any size keeps the local team going, and political contributions earn a generous federal tax credit.