Local Conservative MP and Defence Minister Visit Brockville Rifles Reserve Infantry Regiment

Brockville – Michael Barrett, Member of Parliament for Leeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands—Rideau Lakes, visited the Brockville Rifles reserve infantry regiment yesterday alongside David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence.

The visit followed direct advocacy by MP Barrett to raise the operational needs and readiness requirements of local reserve units at a time of heightened global instability and growing pressure on Canadian sovereignty. Barrett emphasized the importance of ensuring Canada’s Armed Forces are properly equipped and prepared to defend the country’s land, waters, and skies without relying on foreign governments to do so.

“The Brockville Rifles reserve regiment, and units like it across the country, play a critical role in Canada’s defence and domestic readiness,” said Barrett. “At a time when global tensions are rising, it’s essential that Canada assert its sovereignty and ensure our military has what it needs to respond. That’s why I’ve been advocating directly to the government to raise the pressing operational needs facing our local soldiers.”

During the visit, MP Barrett and the Minister met with Brockville Rifles and Canadian Army 33rd Brigade leadership, received briefings on unit operations, toured the historic Brockville Armouries, and heard directly from serving members about readiness challenges and priorities.

“Strong local representation matters. I will always ensure our local units are heard directly and that government is held accountable for the decisions it makes.”

Barrett, who previously served in the Canadian Armed Forces and continues to work closely with veterans and serving members, stressed the importance of addressing long-overdue gaps in capability and recruitment.

“Conversations with soldiers here at home and with those deployed overseas reinforce the same message,” said Barrett. “Canada needs much-needed, long-delayed investments in readiness, equipment, and recruitment so our troops can do their jobs safely and effectively. We must be ready for the realities of modern warfare and ensure Canada can defend itself with confidence in its own capabilities.”

The Brockville Rifles are a longstanding part of the community and contribute both to domestic operations and to the broader readiness of the Canadian Army Reserve.