Debates of April 8th, 2024

Tartan Day

[John Barlow, Conservative, Foothills, AB]

Mr. Speaker, on April 6, I hope many Canadians had a wee dram to celebrate our Canadian Scottish heritage. It was happy Tartan Day.

It is a day to commemorate the Declaration of Arbroath, the Scottish declaration of Independence signed on April 6, 1320, signifying the independence of Scotland. It is a day to honour the strong bonds between Canada and Scotland, and the immense influence this relationship has had on our culture.

Like millions of Canadians, and as chair of the Canada-Scotland Friendship Group, I am immensely proud of my Scottish connections. My wife was born there and my kids were raised to honour their Scottish heritage.

It started in Nova Scotia more than 40 years ago, but now Tartan Day is recognized across Canada to celebrate our deep Scottish roots. Last weekend, many Canadians proudly donned their kilts, with their families' colourful tartans, listened to bagpipes, maybe did a Highland fling or tossed a caber at a Highland games.

I encourage all Canadians next year to join with friends and family to celebrate Tartan Day.

Sláinte.

Sikh Heritage Month

[Sukh Dhaliwal, Liberal, Surrey—Newton, BC]

[Member spoke in Punjabi]

[English]

Mr. Speaker, this month marks the fifth anniversary of Sikh Heritage Month. This act, which I introduced as a private members' bill, received royal assent on April 30, 2019.

Sikh Heritage Month allows us to celebrate and educate future generations about the inspirational role that Sikh Canadians have played and continue to play in communities across Canada.

On April 20, Khalsa Day and Vaisakhi will be celebrated in Surrey—Newton. The annual Nagar Kirtan will attract over half a million people of all faiths and backgrounds. The celebration signifies commitment to equality, while upholding the spirit of selfless service and unity.

I thank Sikh Canadians across our nation, who, over the past 125 years, have helped build Canada into the country it is today.

[Member spoke in Punjabi]

[English]

Sacred Heart School of Halifax

[Andy Fillmore, Liberal, Halifax, NS]

Mr. Speaker, it is widely acknowledged that schools play a fundamental role in assisting our youth in their intellectual and personal development.

Today, I rise to commemorate the 175th anniversary of the Sacred Heart School of Halifax. Throughout its history, Sacred Heart has remained committed to the mission of its founder St. Madeleine Sophie Barat and her conviction that education has the power to bring about societal change.

Over the years, Sacred Heart has provided generations of students with an exceptional experience, one focused on educational excellence, community and, of course, heart. It has demonstrated that their students can be the best in the world, all while still being the best for the world.

Sacred Heart alumni are making significant contributions to our country, notably in medicine, research and culture.

I congratulate Sacred Heart on its 175th anniversary. We thank it for the many contributions it makes to Halifax and to the world.

Public Services and Procurement

[Garnett Genuis, Conservative, Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan, AB]

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister used to say that no relationship was more important to him than Canada's relationship with indigenous peoples, and yet the NDP-Liberal government has been using indigenous contracting to funnel money to well-connected government insiders in ways that produce no actual benefit for indigenous communities. This is a gross betrayal of taxpayers and indigenous peoples.

David Yeo is the arrive scam contractor whose company made $8 million while, according to his own LinkedIn page, he was simultaneously a government employee. We still do not know what he actually did for the money. Yeo's two-person company benefited from an indigenous contracting set aside, even though no indigenous communities saw any of the money.

Indigenous leaders have warned that the Liberal approach to contracting is encouraging shell companies and other modes of obfuscation to gain an advantage in procurement processes, all to the detriment of legitimate indigenous peoples of Canada, communities and businesses.

It is time to end the corruption, to respect taxpayers and to insist that indigenous contracting policies actually benefit indigenous peoples, not well-connected NDP-Liberal insiders.

Sikh Heritage Month

[Sonia Sidhu, Liberal, Brampton South, ON]

[Member spoke in Punjabi]

[English]

Mr. Speaker, this week, Sikhs in Canada and around the world are celebrating Vaisakhi and Khalsa Diwas. That is why today Sikh Canadians from coast to coast to coast came together to celebrate this auspicious celebration on the Hill, where they attended a three-day long religious prayer, followed by a Kirtan and langar.

I want to welcome and thank everyone who took the time to celebrate with us today.

Vaisakhi is a time for Sikhs to reflect on their faith, history and values as they come together as a community to celebrate equality and the spirit of selfless service.

This April, we also celebrate the fifth anniversary of Sikh Heritage Month, a time to acknowledge the achievements of Sikhs, as they have been an integral part of Canada's history, and reflect on the teachings of Guru Gobind Singh Ji, who established Khalsa Panth in 1699.

On behalf of the residents of Brampton South, I wish everyone in Brampton and across the world a happy Sikh Heritage Month and a happy Vaisakhi.

Liberal Party of Canada

[Scot Davidson, Conservative, York—Simcoe, ON]

Mr. Speaker, can you hear that? It is the sound of stomachs rumbling from coast to coast to coast. It is no wonder, with millions of Canadians lining up outside of food banks every month, but the hunger does not stop there.

Every time Canadians see the skyrocketing price of meat, butter and vegetables they are hungry. Every time they see the numbers on the gas pump keep ticking up and up they are hungry. Every time they hear about another Liberal ethics scandal they are hungry. Every time they look to buy a home, pay rent or renew their mortgage they are hungry. Every time their car is stolen in broad view and crime rises in their community they are hungry. Every time they see the out-of-touch Prime Minister hike their taxes again they are hungry.

Canadians are hungry for new leadership from a Conservative government that will axe the tax, build the homes, fix the budget, stop the crime and bring home a Canada where Canadians are not going hungry anymore.

The Economy

[Tom Kmiec, Conservative, Calgary Shepard, AB]

Mr. Speaker, the Financial Post headline says it all. Scotiabank reports that the Bank of Canada rate cuts could be delayed due to high government spending.

Under the Prime Minister, our national debt has more than doubled, more than all other prime ministers combined. The consequences are spiralling inflation and skyrocketing interest rates hitting every single Canadian family. Rents and mortgages have doubled. Food banks see record visits in the millions. Where is the Liberal government? It is MIA, missing in action.

This year alone, Canada will spend $46.5 billion just to service the growing debt. That is more than we spend on health care annually in the entire country.

After eight years of the NDP-Liberal government, common-sense Conservatives demand a dollar-for-dollar rule, for every new dollar spent, a dollar has to be found and saved. It is common sense. We need to stop the reckless overspending, stop inflation and stop punishing Canadian families. After all, this is how Canadian families balance their own budgets every single month,

Enough is enough. My constituents know that the Prime Minister is just not worth the cost, and after the next carbon tax election, we will finally have a Conservative government.

Chemika Mamode and Patrick Rahimaly

[Élisabeth Brière, Liberal, Sherbrooke, QC]

Mr. Speaker, there are people whose light we hope will never be dimmed. Two of those people are Chemika Mamode and Patrick Rahimaly, a Sherbrooke couple I would like to pay tribute to today.

Originally from Madagascar, they worked hard to become pharmacy owners in Sherbrooke's east end, where they served our community for 28 years. They also made it their mission to give back to the community that welcomed them.

They've been involved with the Festival des traditions du monde, Sercovie, the Vitae Foundation, Maison Oxygène and several community kitchens. They provide financial support to a number of community initiatives and organizations. Passionate about the arts, they have also been active in the cultural sector, including with the Musée des beaux-arts de Sherbrooke. Together with their children Keven and Sarah, they founded Immeubles Kesar to help develop urban projects that promote residential, commercial and cultural diversity.

Sherbrooke is proud of this inspiring couple. I am deeply grateful to Patrick and Chemika for everything they do for our community. I wish them a happy retirement.

Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society

[Don Davies, NDP, Vancouver Kingsway, BC]

Mr. Speaker, I rise to bring to Parliament's attention the outstanding contributions of Progressive Intercultural Community Services Society of British Columbia and Canada. This superb social services society has been helping individuals in our communities for decades. I wish to congratulate it on the resounding success of its mega jobs fair, which was held recently in Vancouver Kingsway. This event matches the talents and energy of workers with the aspirations and needs of employers.

I want to recognize Satbir Singh Cheema, the CEO of PICS, whose extraordinary leadership steers this great organization. His vision, skills and compassion are key to its success. I also wish to recognize long-time Vancouver Kingsway resident Inderjeet Hundal, PICS' director of senior housing. Mr. Hundal's respect and care for our elders is a model for us all. Finally, we remember Charan Gill, the founder of PICS. His commitment to social justice inspires us to this day.

Let us celebrate all who work for PICS, which is committed to building an inclusive Canada where everybody's potential can flourish.

Jacob Flickinger

[Stéphane Bergeron, Bloc, Montarville, QC]

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Bloc Québécois, I want to offer our condolences to the family and friends of Jacob Flickinger, who died on April 1 in Gaza.

An aid worker for the World Central Kitchen, Mr. Flickinger grew up in Saint‑Georges, in Beauce, before moving to Stoneham and heading to the United States, where he lived with his wife and their one-year old baby.

He went to Gaza to help. Like thousands of aid workers, he risked his own life to go to Gaza to spread a bit of hope in a territory that has been devastated since the beginning of the conflict with Israel. In war time, often when the worst atrocities are committed, we must remember those who are ready to sacrifice their lives in the name of humanity and fraternity.

I thank Mr. Flickinger for his self-sacrifice and his generosity. May world leaders learn from his courage and his conviction and finally find a solution to this unending and intolerable conflict.

Carbon Tax

[Rosemarie Falk, Conservative, Battlefords—Lloydminster, SK]

Mr. Speaker, the costly and punishing carbon tax is hurting Canadians. Families are being forced to choose between filling up their tanks, heating their homes or feeding their families. Not only have Conservatives given this NDP-Liberal government several different opportunities to spike the hike and axe the carbon tax, but seven out of 10 provincial premiers, municipalities across the country and millions of Canadians have also came out in opposition to the April 1 hike. However, what was the Prime Minister's response? It was to let them eat cake.

Last week's 23% hike on gas, heat and groceries is another hit to Canadians who cannot afford it. Today, in Lloydminster and provincial border communities across the country, Canadians are protesting this devastating carbon tax. The Prime Minister cannot keep ignoring the pain and the suffering that this ineffective and costly carbon tax is causing them because, in the next election, Canadians will not let him.

Chebucto Links

[Lena Metlege Diab, Liberal, Halifax West, NS]

Mr. Speaker, seniors in my riding can count on Chebucto Links for help putting healthy food on their kitchen tables. Every two weeks, its team delivers 10-pound produce bundles directly to seniors' doors for just $5. With new support from the United Way, those bundles are now completely free, and double the number of seniors will receive them. This is great news for residents of Fairview and Clayton Park, and it has been made possible by the vision of the United Way and the selfless efforts of the volunteers at Chebucto Links.

Fighting food insecurity and supporting seniors are critical priorities. That is why our dental care plan is being rolled out to older Canadians now and why we are launching a national school food program. When we tackle issues alongside community organizations, big things get done. I thank Rachel and her entire team.

New Member

[The Deputy Speaker, Conservative, Chris d'Entremont]

I have the honour to inform the House that the Clerk of the House has received from the Chief Electoral Officer a certificate of the election and return of Mr. Jivani, member for the electoral district of Durham.

Jamil Jivani, member for the electoral district of Durham, introduced by the Hon. Pierre Poilievre and Mr. Colin Carrie.

Finance

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, while the common-sense Conservatives want to axe the tax, build the homes, fix the budget and stop the crime, the Prime Minister is not worth the cost.

When it comes to inflation, after eight years, the Prime Minister is like a pyromaniac firefighter who is spraying gas instead of water on the inflationary fire. Does the Prime Minister realize that his billions of dollars in spending are putting the heat and the costs on taxpayers?

[Jonathan Wilkinson, Liberal, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources]

Mr. Speaker, if the Conservatives want to talk about the economy, I am more than happy to do so.

I can say that 1.2 million more Canadians have a roof over their head today than before the pandemic, and 2.3 million Canadians have been lifted out of poverty since we took office. We will continue to invest in Canadians, rather than cut programs like the Conservatives would do.

Housing

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, while the common-sense Conservatives want to fix the budget to bring down inflation and interest rates, the Prime Minister is not worth the cost of mortgages.

According to Scotiabank's chief economist, this Prime Minister's inflationary deficits are increasing interest rates by 2% and preventing the Bank of Canada from lowering them. Canadians could lose their homes because of big multi-billion dollar announcements of inflationary spending. Will the Prime Minister acknowledge that this spending and these mortgages are not worth the cost?

[Jonathan Wilkinson, Liberal, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources]

Mr. Speaker, we are going to invest in Canadians. That is why we are going to help every generation move forward, especially young Canadians, by building more homes faster and by making life more affordable.

This Conservative leader does not understand affordability, does not understand housing, does not understand the economy and does not understand the environment. Everyone deserves a fair chance to succeed. We are putting fairness front and centre.

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, we do have a common-sense Conservative plan to axe the tax, build the homes, fix the budget and stop the crime while the Prime Minister is not worth the cost after eight years.

On inflation, with all of his multi-billion dollar announcements, he is like the pyromaniac pretending to be a fireman, except the hose is spraying gas on the inflationary fire, rather than water. According to Scotiabank's chief economist, the inflationary deficits are driving up mortgage payments.

Does the Prime Minister not realize that all of his spending is putting the heat and the costs on our homeowners?

[Jonathan Wilkinson, Liberal, Minister of Energy and Natural Resources]

Mr. Speaker, the government has a plan for an affordable and prosperous future. We have a plan that is focused on ensuring that we are building more homes faster, making life more affordable and growing an economy that works for all Canadians. The Conservative leader has no plan for affordability other than a bunch of tag lines. He has no plan for addressing the environment. He has no plan for the economy.

We believe in ensuring that Canadians have a fair chance to succeed, and we are acting on that.

Carbon Pricing

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, our plan is to axe the tax and cap the spending to bring down inflation and interest rates. We will have a carbon tax election, and people will choose whether they want to quadruple the tax to 61¢ with the NDP and the Prime Minister, or axe the tax under my common-sense leadership. In the meantime, people cannot afford to eat.

Will the Prime Minister show a little bit of compassion and accept my common-sense demand to axe the tax on farmers and food?

[Sean Fraser, Liberal, Minister of Housing]

Mr. Speaker, it is laughable when I hear the Conservative leader talk about affordability. He mentioned in a previous question some concerns he has around our housing policy. His plan to build more homes is to cut investments in homebuilding and to raise taxes on those who are building homes. When it comes to actually changing the ways cities build homes, his deputy leader held a press conference to explicitly declare that the Conservatives were siding with the NIMBYs when it comes to zoning reform.

We are going to do what is necessary to put money on the table to build more affordable housing, create market conditions to get more homes built and change the way that cities build homes so we can solve the housing crisis.

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, the minister caused the housing crisis. Under his role as housing minister, the amount of a paycheque necessary to make payments on an average mortgage has gone up to a record-smashing 64% from 38%. He is the only one, along with the Prime Minister, who wants to raise taxes on homebuilding with a massive carbon tax on the building materials that go into assembling homes.

Will the Prime Minister, instead of hiking the tax, accept my common-sense demand to axe the tax on farmers, food and houses at the same time?

[Sean Fraser, Liberal, Minister of Housing]

Mr. Speaker, it is interesting because he has actually put his plan on the record. His plan includes putting the GST back on apartment construction for hundreds of thousands of middle-class homes in this country.

He has one of the worst records of anyone in the past decade when it comes to getting homes built, from when he had the position responsible for housing in Parliament. While he was minister, they built exactly zero new apartments, zero co-operative units and only six affordable housing units across the entire country.

We are helping get hundreds of thousands of homes built in this country, and we will do what it takes to solve the crisis once and for all.

Housing

[Alain Therrien, Bloc, La Prairie, QC]

Mr. Speaker, after pharmacare, dental care and medical assistance in dying, we thought that the federal government was done interfering in areas under Quebec's jurisdiction, but that is not the case. The Liberals have announced that, now, they also want to tell Quebeckers how to build housing.

We are talking about the same government that lost control of immigration, that caused the ArriveCAN scandal, that cannot pay its own employees through Phoenix, that caused an unforgettable passport crisis and that cannot manage its own borders. Imagine. This same government wants to tell the provinces and Quebec how to do things.

Seriously, are the Liberals not even a little bit embarrassed about this?