Debates of June 7th, 2000

Suzanne Tremblay Rimouski—Mitis, QC

We have learned that this budget is $5 million, but we have never been able to find out what the budget was for other provinces.

If the total budget for Canada Day is not a state secret, could the minister tell the House what it is, since her answer will certainly be of interest to members from other provinces, including her own colleagues?

Sheila Copps Minister of Canadian Heritage

Mr. Speaker, I am very happy that we can work together to organize celebrations for Canada's big birthday, as well as for Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day.

I read in the newspaper this week that the Government of Quebec has doubled its funding for the national holiday.

There is such a spirit of partnership that I myself received a cheque for $350 from Guy Bouthillier, the president of the Société Saint-Jean-Baptiste, in support of Canada Day. I thank Mr. Bouthillier.

Wendy Lill Dartmouth, NS

Mr. Speaker, my question is for the minister responsible for Canadians with disabilities. Currently if any recipient of CPP disability does limited volunteer work for any community agency, there is no action taken by CPP because volunteering is recognized as a useful and necessary experience. But if a recipient receives any payment of any kind for his or her efforts, CPP is immediately cut off.

Can the minister tell the House why her ministry encourages those with disabilities to volunteer, but punishes them for trying to work?

Jane Stewart Minister of Human Resources Development

Mr. Speaker, I would remind the hon. member that the CPP disability pension is like a pension. It is a pension of last resort as if a person is retired. Having said that, it is extraordinarily important for us to work with Canadians with disabilities to find effective ways of ensuring that they can participate in the Canadian economy and that they can contribute to their country and to their own needs.

I recognize the work of the hon. member and those on the standing committee, the suggestions and recommendations they make to me and the improvements that this government is making in support of Canadians with disabilities.

Art Eggleton Minister of National Defence

Mr. Speaker, the $30 million being referred to was in fact restored. There is nothing that is prejudicing the reserve restructuring. We want to revitalize the reserves. That is why I commissioned the report from Mr. Fraser and his team. I think he has come in with an excellent set of recommendations that will become the foundation for the revitalization program.