Minister Hodgson highlights local optimism, major investments
As Canadians look ahead to 2026, Markham-Thornhill MP Tim Hodgson says the optimism he sees locally continues to shape his work in Ottawa.
He points to community spirit — seen at places like Joy Beyond Vision’s café and the Mosaic Interfaith Peace Meal. “I saw people investing in their neighbourhoods, supporting one another, and choosing compassion over cynicism. It’s a powerful reminder that, despite what some may say, this country is not broken,” Hodgson said. “Every day, I see a community that believes in itself and in Canada’s promise. And witnessing that spirit up close has been one of the greatest honours of this job.
“I am constantly inspired by the hard work, generosity, and drive I see in this community. It’s what motivates me to show up every day, both as the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources and in my capacity as your MP, to deliver results for the people who put their trust in me.”
Hodgson, sworn into cabinet just over eight months ago, says his ministry has travelled widely, made more than 40 investment announcements, and met with over 200 stakeholders. He highlights more than $500 million in federal funding supporting innovation in Canada’s natural resources and energy sectors, along with the creation of the new Major Projects Office, which has already advanced multiple projects to boost competitiveness and reliability.
“As the world races toward net-zero, the demand for the batteries and clean technologies that will power our future is only going to grow — which means Canada and the world need more critical minerals. Over the last eight months, I have visited mines across Canada and seen firsthand how we have the critical minerals the world wants and needs,” Hodgson said. “Our new government has made strategic, long-term investments in this sector through new tools like the Critical Minerals Sovereign Fund, the First and Last Mile Fund, the Critical Minerals Exploration Tax Credits, and the creation of the Critical Mineral Production Alliance, which will help Canada meet this moment, strengthen our energy security, and reach net-zero by 2050.”
Hodgson says his focus includes keeping energy bills low, accelerating major projects, scaling up clean technology and supporting workers.
“Climate action is not only a moral obligation, it is an economic necessity,” Hodgson said. “Canada’s plan to reach net-zero by 2050 is built on a simple idea: we can cut emissions while building a stronger, more competitive economy.
“A big part of this work is building an affordable, reliable, net-zero electricity grid, which is why we’re investing in new generation, transmission, and stronger interprovincial connections so clean power can get to communities across this country.”
Hodgson also emphasizes support for clean-tech companies, especially in tech-heavy Markham. Incentives like Clean Investment Tax Credits are designed to help firms scale and remain globally competitive.
Affordability remains a top priority for his government, he says, pointing to “the GST elimination on new homes for first-time buyers, a middle-class tax cut, and a review of bank fees. Key federal programs such as $10-a-day child care, the Canada Child Benefit, the Dental Care Plan, and the new Disability Benefit will support millions of households next year. The Build Canada Homes program aims to double homebuilding with a $13-billion investment.”
On public safety, he highlights the new Bail and Sentencing Reform Act, tougher measures against organized crime, and the hiring of 1,000 new CBSA officers and 1,000 new RCMP personnel. He says crime in York Region is trending down but insists that “one violent crime is one too many.”
Looking to 2026, Hodgson pledges to keep pushing for “a safer, more affordable, and more prosperous Canada” while bringing local voices to Ottawa — and federal benefits back to the community.
Photo: Markham-Thornhill MP Tim Hodgson says, “Canada’s plan to reach net-zero by 2050 is built on a simple idea: we can cut emissions while building a stronger, more competitive economy.”
*Story by Nicole Fletcher