NDP introduces Swim to Survive program to children in schools

QUEEN’S PARK – NDP Shadow Minister for Education MPP Chandra Pasma (Ottawa West – Nepean) will be tabling a motion calling on the Ontario government to immediately develop and fund a province-wide “Swim to Survive” public safety initiative to ensure every child in Ontario has access to basic water survival skills:

“Every child in Ontario should learn basic water survival skills, regardless of where they live or their family’s income. Too many families have experienced unimaginable loss because children did not have access to swimming and water safety education.

“The heartbreaking deaths of Joyclyn and Kayden are a painful reminder that this is not optional; it is a matter of public safety.

“A province-wide Swim to Survive program would help equip children with the skills and confidence they need to stay safe around water. By working with municipalities, school boards, and community partners, we can build a program that reflects local needs and ensures no child in Ontario grows up without these lifesaving skills.”

"Advocacy is how we are committed to honouring the memory of our grandchildren. Working together, there is a lot we can do to reduce the frequency of such tragedies. Ontario should aspire to become a world leader in drowning prevention. This is what we can do to protect Ontario's children.” Michael Williams, grandfather of Joyclyn and Kayden

ADDITIONAL QUOTES:

"Advocacy is how we are committed to honouring the memory of our grandchildren. Working together, there is a lot we can do to reduce the frequency of such tragedies. Ontario should aspire to become a world leader in drowning prevention. This is what we can do to protect Ontario's children.”

Michael Williams, grandfather of Joyclyn and Kayden