Debates of Oct. 24th, 2014

Canada Post

[Francine Raynault, NDP, Joliette, QC]

Mr. Speaker, door-to-door mail delivery is a local service that strengthens our communities and helps keeps seniors and people with reduced mobility involved in society.

Last Tuesday, Canadian Union of Postal Workers local 290 invited the people of Joliette to join them in expressing their displeasure at seeing this service disappear. Union members will deliver postcards to people, who can then return them to my office. I will be happy to accept them.

Cuts to home delivery have been announced for Joliette, Notre-Dame-des-Prairies, Saint-Charles-Borromée, Saint-Paul and Saint-Pierre. In a few months, these people will no longer have their mail delivered.

Events of October 22

[Cathy McLeod, Conservative, Kamloops—Thompson—Cariboo, BC]

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to talk about an event on Tuesday and how it links with the despicable act on Wednesday.

On Tuesday many of us gathered at Rideau Hall to celebrate 45 individuals who received the Medal of Bravery.

Following the ceremony, a Liberal colleague offered to drive me back to Parliament, and we both reflected upon those extraordinary acts. We talked about how few individuals get tested in this way and how it is hard to know how one would respond.

What a prescient conversation that turned out to be.

In the events that unfolded Wednesday, I want to recognize many heroes in Ottawa: the bystanders who came to the aid of Corporal Nathan Cirillo, all our agencies tasked with safety and security, colleagues who were ready to fight, and people who gave comfort. I want to acknowledge all the Hill staff, from the interpreters in our booth to the many hundreds who in lockdown remained professional and calm.

We are blessed to live in Canada where these incidents are not common. We witnessed that Canadians are ready to rise with courage and dignity.

Marystown Volunteer Fire Department

[Judy Foote, Liberal, Random—Burin—St. George's, NL]

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate the Marystown Volunteer Fire Department in my riding of Random—Burin—St. George's.

The department was recognized by Muscular Dystrophy Canada as its 2013-2014 Fire Department of the Year for the Atlantic region. This recognition was welcomed by a department that takes its commitment to help fight MD very seriously.

Approximately 145 fire departments in Atlantic Canada raise funds for muscular dystrophy. This past year, the Marystown Volunteer Fire Department held four fundraising events in support of MD patients, and since 1983 it has collected nearly $70,000 for this worthwhile cause.

Muscular Dystrophy Canada has 10,000 clients, 200 of whom are in Newfoundland and Labrador. However, the organization estimates there are approximately 50,000 people in Canada who suffer with MD.

I ask all members to join with me in thanking the Marystown Volunteer Fire Department for its work on behalf of Muscular Dystrophy Canada and in thanking all volunteer firefighters who raise money for this and other very worthwhile causes.

National Flag of Canada

[Eve Adams, Conservative, Mississauga—Brampton South, ON]

Mr. Speaker, Canada is home to the second-largest Hungarian diaspora in the western world next to the United States.

In October of 1956, inspired by hope and a deep desire for freedom, my family joined with thousands of others in Hungary in a revolution against the bonds of Communist oppression.

The revolution was extinguished by Soviet tanks. People were slaughtered, and justice was suppressed for decades.

It is a history I share with my son, Jeffrey.

Some of my family were imprisoned, owing to mistaken identity, for days; some fortunate members of my family were able to immediately flee to France, the United States, and Canada; some of my family members had to endure decades of Soviet oppression until they could get out.

I am so fortunate to have been born in Canada, where the values of human rights and the rule of law are deeply rooted in our country's foundation.

This Wednesday was also the fiftieth anniversary of the selection of our new Canadian flag. For my family, our flag is a proud symbol of freedom. Under this flag, may we reaffirm our love for this country and reflect upon the opportunities afforded equally to all Canadians in “the True North strong and free”.

Islamic New Year

[Djaouida Sellah, NDP, Saint-Bruno—Saint-Hubert, QC]

Mr. Speaker, as the Hijri new year is about to begin, I would like to wish all Muslims health, happiness and prosperity. In these difficult times, both at home and abroad, it is very important that we continue to spread messages of peace all around us.

I invite everyone to take this opportunity to spend some time with loved ones and think about how we can make our society fairer, more inclusive and more peaceful. Let us also keep Corporal Nathan Cirillo's loved ones in our thoughts. We must not forget the daily sacrifices made by members of the armed forces and their families on our behalf. We must continue working together to protect our institutions and improve our society.

[Member spoke in Arabic.]

Canadian Solidarity

[Parm Gill, Conservative, Brampton—Springdale, ON]

Mr. Speaker, yesterday was Diwali and Bandi Chhorh Divas, a day normally reserved for celebration by the South Asian community. Instead of celebration, we have seen an outpouring of grief and support from members of the South Asian community.

In an act of solidarity led by the Ontario Gurdwara Committee, the Guru Nanak Mission Centre and the Sikh Spiritual Centre Toronto held off their fireworks and celebrations.

Members from across Canada, but especially in my hometown of Brampton, have reached out with a clear and consistent message: the community stands shoulder to shoulder with Canadians and our government as we refuse to be intimidated.

Together we will fight against terrorism here at home and abroad.

Most importantly, we stand with the families of Patrice Vincent and Corporal Nathan Cirillo during this very difficult time.

Canadian Armed Forces

[Royal Galipeau, Conservative, Ottawa—Orléans, ON]

Mr. Speaker, for 200 years we have not had war on our soil. Without being a pacifist people, we have been a peaceful country.

People from all over the world come knocking on our door to become Canadian citizens.

However, in the past week, two radicalized young men born and raised in Canada violently denied our values and in separate incidents in two parts of our country cowardly mowed down Warrant Officer Vincent and Corporal Cirillo.

We sit in this chamber only temporarily and our merit is also limited. Rather, we owe this institution to selfless men and women in uniform who every day with vigour and determination put their lives in the line of fire in armed conflicts around the world and even in training.

Until this week, no one would have believed that someone standing guard over the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier or someone simply walking in a suburban parking lot would be at risk.

Let us honour those who courageously safeguard our freedom, democracy, human rights, and rule of law. That honour and support must persist for our veterans.

Post-Traumatic Stress

[Tyrone Benskin, NDP, Jeanne-Le Ber, QC]

Mr. Speaker, we went through a very upsetting experience this week. It serves as a reminder of the importance of taking care of the individuals who serve our country, including veterans and RCMP officers.

Unfortunately, there is not enough funding available to help them cope with post-traumatic stress. Every day, our forces deal with serious threats and put their lives at risk. They deserve our full support.

It is time to help those who live with the debilitating effects of PTSD. They have protected us. We need to protect them. We need to bear in mind the toll that being a serviceperson takes. We need to stand with our brave women and men in uniform. Do they not deserve our fullest support?

World Polio Day

[Lois Brown, Conservative, Newmarket—Aurora, ON]

Mr. Speaker, today as we observe World Polio Day, Canadians should take pride that Canada has been and remains a staunch ally in the global effort to eradicate polio. In 1988, when the year of the global polio eradication initiative was launched, polio was paralyzing 350,000 children, in 125 countries, every year. Canada was at the forefront of polio eradication efforts, being the first country to donate to this global initiative. We are 99% of the way there and the finish line is in sight.

Last year, the Prime Minister reaffirmed Canada's support at the Global Vaccine Summit by pledging $250 million over six years. Canada's deep commitment to eradicating polio means that literally hundreds of thousands of children have been immunized, often in remote, impoverished, and very insecure regions of the world.

Nobody should have to suffer from a disease for which a simple cure exists. Canada will continue to support efforts that will finally put an end to polio.

London InterCommunity Health Centre

[Irene Mathyssen, NDP, London—Fanshawe, ON]

Mr. Speaker, on November 6, London InterCommunity Health Centre is celebrating its 25th anniversary. This community health centre, in London, Ontario, provides inclusive and equitable health care and social services to a number of people who face barriers to care.

The health centre focuses on immigrants, people living in poverty, people with complex mental health issues, seniors, and youth. All of these members of our community can too often experience a very difficult time finding the health care that they need.

I want to take this opportunity to show my support for the good work that the London InterCommunity Health Centre does for some of the most vulnerable people in the city of London. We thank the dedicated staff of health professionals and the volunteers who give selflessly of their time for this work.

Please join with me and the citizens of London in this celebration of 25 successful years of caring for our community and helping people to break the barriers to that care.

Canadian Armed Forces

[Rob Clarke, Conservative, Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River, SK]

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to see that this House remains unshaken and steadfast through the recent attack on our institution. This resolve, strength, and perseverance is what makes our Canadian Forces who they are. It is seen in their complete dedication to duty and to defending the values we as Canadians hold dear.

Despite the recent attacks on our men and women in uniform, Canadians across this country stand in solidarity with the Canadian Forces. As the Prime Minister said, we will not be intimidated by the actions of cowards. This is not the Canadian way.

I thank these brave men and women on bases across Canada and abroad for their tremendous efforts, and for their commitment to freedom, democracy, and the rule of law.

While our Canadian Armed Forces are standing up for Canada, I am certain that we will all be standing right behind them.

Diwali

[Frank Valeriote, Liberal, Guelph, ON]

Mr. Speaker, over the next few days, families and friends will gather across the country to decorate their homes, light diyas, share meals, exchange gifts, and revel in all that Diwali, the festival of lights, has to offer.

They meet in one another's homes to mark a great occasion of kindness and peace, and come together to celebrate something so fundamental, the triumph of good over evil.

In times like these, when there are those who would threaten our freedom and security, never has it been so important to remember that light will prevail over darkness, good over evil, and intelligence over ignorance.

Canada stands squarely on the shoulders of our myriad cultures and heritages, festivals and traditions, and we are so much the richer for the joy of each celebration and its celebrants. Together, as more and more Canadians celebrate Diwali, we affirm our mutual values and celebrate the light.

On behalf of my liberal colleagues and all members in the House, I wish a very happy and joyous Diwali to all Canadians who are celebrating.

Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent

[Robert Goguen, Conservative, Moncton—Riverview—Dieppe, NB]

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to exercise my democratic right as the elected member for Moncton—Riverview—Dieppe. Our founding fathers, our veterans, and our brave men and women who wear our uniform fought and continue to fight for that right.

Tragedy struck Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu early this past week, resulting in the violent and sudden death of Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent, who was a dedicated member of our forces for 28 years. Warrant Officer Vincent served with dignity and valour.

Courageous men and women risk their lives every day to defend our freedoms.

They put on their uniforms knowing they are fighting to uphold the very values our predecessors fought for.

I think I speak for all Canadians, inside and outside the House, when I wish the Vincent family our condolences and our strength at this difficult time.

God bless the Canadian Forces and all they do each and every day to protect Canada.

Events of October 22, 2014

[Paul Dewar, NDP, Ottawa Centre, ON]

Mr. Speaker, on Wednesday, ordinary passersby rushed to Corporal Nathan Cirillo's wounded body, desperately pumping his chest and urging him to hold on. Ottawa lawyer Barbara Winters was telling him, “You are loved. Your family loves you. You’re a good man. You're a brave man”.

Our hearts are broken by this killing of a young father, standing unarmed, on ceremonial guard.

Nurse Margaret Lerhe also rushed to Corporal Cirillo's aid. As we grapple with this tragedy, let her words guide us. She said, “I just think it's doing what you should do in the time of crisis”.

“You can't let this bother you. You can't let this take control of who you are and what your fundamental beliefs are.”

On behalf of this House, I want to thank Margaret Lerhe, Barbara Winters, and all the ordinary people who at a time of crisis showed us the best in our community and in our country.

Patrice Vincent and Nathan Cirillo

[David Sweet, Conservative, Ancaster—Dundas—Flamborough—Westdale, ON]

Mr. Speaker, this has been a week like no other in Canadian history. We witnessed two attacks meant to terrorize us on Canadian soil, and our hearts are filled with incredible sadness for the two brave Canadians who were lost this week.

Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent, who was murdered in a calculated hit-and-run attack, served his country with distinction for 28 years. Then, on Wednesday, my fellow Hamiltonian, Corporal Nathan Cirillo, was murdered in the attack that took place in this building and at the National War Memorial. Corporal Cirillo was a fine young father who was slain in the very duty to our country the memorial is there to honour.

I would like to thank all Canadians for their outpouring of sentiments, particularly at the James Street armoury, where Corporal Cirillo's regiment is based, including the Hamilton Muslim community, which laid a wreath at the site yesterday afternoon.

Although our nation has been undeniably changed by the events of this past week, let us be mindful of the words the Prime Minister spoke on Wednesday evening. Let us be clear. We as Canadians will not be intimidated, ever. We will continue to be a role model for the world of freedom, democracy, and human rights. There is no greater legacy we can leave for Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent and Corporal Nathan Cirillo.

May God bless their families in this time of grief, and may God bless Canada.

Public Safety

[Peter Julian, NDP, Burnaby—New Westminster, BC]

Mr. Speaker, we were all affected by this week's tragic events.

In responding to those events, we must take an approach that protects both the civil liberties and the safety of Canadians. Those are our Parliament's two basic responsibilities.

What is the government's plan to deal with this challenge?

[Roxanne James, Conservative, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness]

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. member for that question. As we witnessed this past week, the attacks against our Canadian Armed Forces and against our institutions of government are a stark reminder that we are not immune to the threat of terrorism and that we face the same challenges as do our allies.

Is it also important to note that, as Canadians, we cherish certain things in this country: freedom, democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. That is why any legislation with respect to this, coming in future weeks, will make sure that we take into consideration and balance the appropriate measures on both sides.

[Peter Julian, NDP, Burnaby—New Westminster, BC]

Mr. Speaker, I thank the government for its response, but I would like to be clear. When it comes to responding to this week's tragic events, we have to proceed carefully and thoughtfully, and in the spirit of co-operation. We must take advice, of course, from security authorities, and we must engage Canadians, but we must ensure that our actions protect both public safety and civil liberties.

Will the government agree to meaningful consultation with all parties in the House, and will the government ensure that we preserve fundamental Canadian values?

[Roxanne James, Conservative, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness]

Mr. Speaker, as indicated by the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, our government is committing to ensuring that our national security agencies have the tools they need to be able to track terrorists, whether abroad or here in this country.

As we talk about these specific issues, it is important to note that this type of legislation will be tabled in the House very shortly. There will be robust debate from all sides and political parties on this particular issue.

The threat from terrorism, as you know, Mr. Speaker, is more complex and diffuse. Now, more than ever, a radical individual or group of motivated extremists with access to technology can do significant harm to Canada from thousands of miles away. That is why we are introducing that legislation.

[Peter Julian, NDP, Burnaby—New Westminster, BC]

Mr. Speaker, we are asking for consultation. We cannot let this event divide us. Canadians believe in our country, and we have built an inclusive country that finds its strength in tolerance and diversity.

Canada's Muslim community joins all Canadians in condemning the cowardly and despicable acts of this disturbed individual. We must ensure that no community or group in Canada is targeted with hate or violence.

Can the government inform the House about its efforts to reach out to our Muslim friends and neighbours across Canada?

[Roxanne James, Conservative, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness]

Mr. Speaker, it is important to note and respect the comments of the opposition member. As we know, hate in this country is something we do not want to spread, and we want to make sure, when we talk about terrorist attacks and so forth, that we are talking about the individuals who have committed these atrocities abroad and here in Canada.

I would like to thank the member for that question.

[Françoise Boivin, NDP, Gatineau, QC]

Mr. Speaker, soldiers in uniform were targeted in Ottawa and Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu. We are concerned about their safety both here and abroad.

As a result, Department of National Defence officials ordered members of the Canadian Armed Forces not to wear their uniforms in public.

Can the minister give us more information about the scope of that order?

[Erin O'Toole, Conservative, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Trade]

Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for that question. As someone who wore the uniform, I know the immense pride that our men and women have in the uniform.

Our government trusts the leadership of the Canadian Armed Forces to make decisions that are in the best interests of its members.

Foreign Affairs

[Françoise Boivin, NDP, Gatineau, QC]

Mr. Speaker, the Canadian Press is reporting that an employee of the Canadian consulate in Turkey was hospitalized after opening a suspicious package. Similar packages were allegedly sent to the consulates of Germany and Belgium.

Can the Minister of Foreign Affairs give us more information about this incident, which forced the closure of the consulate?

[John Baird, Conservative, Minister of Foreign Affairs]

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question. Before question period, I briefed both the Liberal and New Democratic foreign affairs critics. There was a package with some yellow powder, suspicious, sent to the Canadian mission in Istanbul. It was sent to a number of other foreign missions.

In an abundance of caution, the individual who opened it is receiving medical care. We are not sure if it is required, but it is with an abundance of caution. We have closed the mission until we can ensure the safety of all of our employees.

I would be very happy to provide any more information to the member opposite.