Nirman: Nepean, the Prime Minister’s riding, calls for federal help and accountability

Canada’s Prime Minister and Liberal Leader Mark Carney, alongside his wife Diana Fox Carney, at an April 20, 2025 campaign rally in Nepean. The Ottawa riding is now represented by Carney as an MP. Photo by DAVE CHAN /AFP VIA GETTY IMAGESArticle content

I’ve lived in Nepean for 20 years, raised my family here, made trusted friendships and joined neighbours in helping our community grow and prosper.

THIS CONTENT IS RESERVED FOR SUBSCRIBERS ONLY

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

Exclusive articles from Elizabeth Payne, David Pugliese, Andrew Duffy, Bruce Deachman and others. Plus, food reviews and event listings in the weekly newsletter, Ottawa, Out of Office.Unlimited online access to Ottawa Citizen and 15 news sites with one account.Ottawa Citizen ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword.Support local journalism.SUBSCRIBE TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES

Subscribe now to read the latest news in your city and across Canada.

Exclusive articles from Elizabeth Payne, David Pugliese, Andrew Duffy, Bruce Deachman and others. Plus, food reviews and event listings in the weekly newsletter, Ottawa, Out of Office.Unlimited online access to Ottawa Citizen and 15 news sites with one account.Ottawa Citizen ePaper, an electronic replica of the print edition to view on any device, share and comment on.Daily puzzles, including the New York Times Crossword.Support local journalism.REGISTER / SIGN IN TO UNLOCK MORE ARTICLES

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Access articles from across Canada with one account.Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments.Enjoy additional articles per month.Get email updates from your favourite authors.THIS ARTICLE IS FREE TO READ REGISTER TO UNLOCK.

Create an account or sign in to continue with your reading experience.

Access articles from across Canada with one accountShare your thoughts and join the conversation in the commentsEnjoy additional articles per monthGet email updates from your favourite authorsSign In or Create an Accountor

Article content

Nepean has transformed into a vibrant, diverse neighbourhood, with various cultures, ambition and a common purpose. But with growth come new challenges — of which many are tied directly to federal responsibilities. Issues like healthcare, housing, immigration and infrastructure are no longer just policy discussions. There are everyday struggles affecting families across Nepean. Unfortunately, they’ve been ignored far too long.

Article content

Article content

Article content

As in many parts of the country, our healthcare system is stretched thin. It is difficult for some residents to locate a family doctor. Walk-in clinics are very busy and not accepting walk-ins, emergency rooms are full, and people must wait for hours to see a doctor. Many seniors, young families and new immigrants have shared their worries about what will happen if they require urgent care.

Article content

In 2018, I raised concerns about declining healthcare access. Provincial leaders from all political parties promised improvements. But the situation has only worsened. Yes, healthcare is managed by the province, but federal support and funding are crucial.

Article content

We also deal with the housing crisis. Nepean families must spend more than they can manage on housing. For younger people, the desire to own a home wanes and rent prices rise continually.

Article content

Article content

While federal housing programs have been announced, their impact here has been slow and limited. People need help now, not years from now.

Article content

Article content

Nepean is proud of its diversity. Immigration has brought a wealth of culture, talent, and energy to our community. I fully support Canada’s values of inclusion and opportunity. But for immigration to succeed, it must be supported by proper planning. New immigrants need access to housing, healthcare and services. Otherwise, even the most welcoming communities can become overwhelmed. Currently, our shelters and services are stretched to the limit.

Article content

Even the infrastructure has not received the attention it deserves. Six lives were lost in a terrible accident involving an OC Transpo bus and a Via Rail train near Fallowfield Road in 2013. It left many functioning families in grief and shocked the community. I raised public awareness and called for a bridge or underpass at that dangerous crossing. More than a decade later, no action has been taken. The risk is still there, unacceptably so.