Briefing on the Federal Electoral District of Pickering—Uxbridge

Pickering—Uxbridge is a federal electoral district located in the province of Ontario, Canada. The district is situated in the Greater Toronto Area and covers the eastern part of the Regional Municipality of Durham. It is bordered by the districts of Durham, Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock, Whitby, Ajax, and Scarborough—Guildwood.

Population Centres

The main population centres in the district are the city of Pickering and the Township of Uxbridge. Pickering is a suburban city located along the shores of Lake Ontario. It is home to several commercial and industrial areas, including the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station. The township of Uxbridge is a rural community located in the northern part of the district. It is known for its picturesque countryside, heritage buildings, and vibrant arts scene.

Issues and Events

Between 2019 and 2022, some key issues and events that impacted the district include:

• The development and expansion of a casino in Pickering, which generated some controversy and concerns over social and economic impacts.
• The impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, which led to significant challenges for local businesses, healthcare providers, and community organizations.
• Protests and debates over the construction of a new gas-fired power plant and transmission line in Clarington, which could potentially affect the natural environment and public health.

Economy

The economy of Pickering—Uxbridge is diverse and encompasses several industries. Major employers in the district include:

• Ontario Power Generation, which operates the Pickering Nuclear Generating Station and provides jobs to over 3,000 people.
• The automotive sector, including companies such as Volkswagen Group Canada, which has a parts distribution centre in Pickering.
• The healthcare sector, including Lakeridge Health's facilities in Oshawa and Whitby.

In recent years, one event that had a profound impact on the economy was the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic forced many businesses to close or reduce their operations, leading to significant job losses and economic uncertainty. However, some businesses were able to adapt to the pandemic by shifting to online and remote operations.

Important Landmarks

Pickering—Uxbridge boasts several landmarks and attractions. Some notable ones include:

• The Pickering Nuclear Generating Station, which offers public tours and is a significant source of energy for Ontario.
• The Seaton Hiking Trail, which offers over 12km of scenic trails through the local forest and wetlands.
• The Stouffville Country Market, which offers a variety of locally-made foods, crafts, and goods.

Arts and Culture

The district has a rich arts and culture scene, with several institutions and events that celebrate local talent and creativity. Some notable ones include:

• The Uxbridge Studio Tour, which showcases the work of local artists and artisans in various media, including painting, ceramics, and woodworking.
• The Pickering Artfest, which is an annual outdoor festival featuring live music, art exhibits, and workshops.
• The Wooden Sticks Golf Course, which features a unique course design inspired by famous holes from other golf courses, as well as a clubhouse that resembles a barn.

Electoral Issues

During the 2021 federal election, some of the key economic and social issues in Pickering—Uxbridge included:

• Job creation and economic recovery, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
• Infrastructure investments, including upgrades to transportation and healthcare facilities.
• Environmental protection and conservation, including concerns over the proposed gas plant in Clarington.

Community Organizations

Pickering—Uxbridge is home to several community organizations that play important roles in promoting social and economic well-being. Some notable ones include:

• The Pickering Public Library, which offers a diverse array of programs and resources for all ages, including a bookmobile that serves rural areas.
• The Uxbridge Chamber of Commerce, which advocates for local business interests and provides networking and learning opportunities.
• The Durham Region Health Department, which coordinates several public health initiatives, including immunization clinics and disease prevention programs.

Multicultural Groups

There is a range of cultural demographic groups in Pickering—Uxbridge, with significant populations of South Asian, Chinese, and Black communities. The district is home to several cultural organizations that promote inclusivity and diversity, such as the Pickering Islamic Centre, the Chinese Cultural Centre of Greater Toronto, and the Black Community Advisory Council.