LONDON –Despite thousands of job losses in the past year, and tens of thousands of families struggling to make ends meet, the federal budget fails to provide any substantial help to everyday Canadians says MP Irene Mathyssen (London-Fanshawe, NDP)

“We cannot pretend the recession is over and all the problems have gone away. Thousands of London workers are still out of work, 1.5 million workers across Canada, and the prospect of finding permanent work any time in the immediate future is not good. We have 1.7 million seniors struggling to make ends meet on meager pension benefits which are $4000 a year below the poverty line. What does the Finance Minister deliver in the budget? More corporate welfare! Read more»

EVENT: London West New Democrats are inviting Londoners to sign a giant best wishes card for federal NDP leader Jack Layton, who announced February 5 he was about to begin treatment for prostrate cancer. While Layton continues to fulfill his duties as MP for Toronto Danforth and party leader, local New Democrats wish him continuing strength and a speedy recovery. The 60-foot-long scroll they have created is currently circulating among party workers in the London area. Read more»

by Peter Ferguson

In spite of the current worldwide recession, Canada is indeed a fortunate country. We are among the most prosperous in the world and Canadians rate high on longevity. However, it is always possible to do better and to do more. Our prosperity is very unequally distributed and too many Canadians live in poverty. Aside from the important issue of fairness, this has huge implications on the overall health of Canadians and the continued prosperity of our nation. Read more»

Please click here to take a look at the most recent London West NDP newsletter, featuring a letter from Peter Ferguson and a special Valentine's message.