House of Commons photoLost his last election, in 1997, with 37% of the vote.
Unemployment Insurance Act December 6th, 1994
I rise on a point of order, Mr. Speaker. I beg to differ. I do not want to challenge the Chair on that but the matter has already been referred to the resources development committee and it came back without amendment. I would say that the Reform Party is stalling for time with private members' business and I am very concerned with that.
Unemployment Insurance Act December 6th, 1994
moved that the bill be read the third time and passed.
Mr. Speaker it gives me pleasure to rise tonight to speak on third reading of this private member's bill.
I would like to commence by thanking all my colleagues from all parties who have supported me. It has been a four-year battle. It started four years ago in December and we are in December again looking at third reading.
I thank my hon. colleagues on this historic occasion. I am looking for their support at third reading. We hope to conclude third reading this evening.
I have the honour and the pleasure to rise in this House to speak on a private member's bill which I sponsored to amend the Unemployment Insurance Act.
As you know, section 14 of this act prevents unemployed people who have to do jury duty from collecting UI benefits.
I have spoken on this issue for the last four years. I could go on. Other members have spoken on the issue. I think we should put it to rest this evening. I will now rest my case to my colleagues and would ask for their unanimous consent to pass the bill at third reading.
Unemployment Insurance Act December 6th, 1994
moved that the bill be concurred in.
Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion?
Violence Against Women December 6th, 1994
Mr. Speaker, today, December 6, is Canada's national day of remembrance and action on violence against women.
We mark this day to remember the December 6, 1989 incident in which 14 young women were tragically killed at l'École polytechnique de Montreal.
Violence against women is a sad reality that we must change. However, we cannot change it without the combined efforts of everyone in our society. Statistics Canada recently reported that 51 per cent of women in Canada had been assaulted at least once in their adult life. The problem is very serious.
We have to remember the events of December 6, 1989 and ensure that this kind of tragedy never happens again. We should strive to create a Canada in which violence against women and against all individuals will not be tolerated.
The Economy December 1st, 1994
Mr. Speaker, my question is directed to the minister responsible for international financial institutions.
Our government has decided that the way to deal with the problem of the debt and the deficit is to put the economy back on track by stimulating job creation and economic growth.
Could the minister inform the House about the present state of the Canadian economy and tell this House whether the strategy to stimulate employment and growth has been successful?
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Computers For Schools November 16th, 1994
Mr. Speaker, the students of my riding of Restigouche-Chaleur have benefited from a unique partnership of the government and three of North America's multinational software firms.
Organized by Industry Canada the computers for schools program is allocating hundreds of pieces of used government computer equipment to schools all over Canada.
My riding of Restigouche-Chaleur has already received 20 new computers. This is recycling in the 1990s. In addition, the major computer companies allow old computer programs to be transferred in order to benefit students. This is understanding in the 1990s.
A partnership between the public and private sectors is benefiting New Brunswick students and helping nurture a culture of learning and innovation. I would like to congratulate all those involved.
Social Security Reform October 20th, 1994
Mr. Speaker, social security reform is a very serious issue for all Canadians. It offers alternatives to address the serious challenges we must face.
In Atlantic Canada social security reform left many unanswered questions in relation to seasonal employment. I commend the minister of human resources for responding to these concerns and for creating a special committee to study the question of seasonal workers.
The committee in question is addressing a serious concern of Atlantic Canada. Special attention must be given to seasonal workers. Social program reform is not only important, it is necessary. I encourage all Canadians to become involved in the consultation process and to express their opinion on the future of our social programs.
Apprenticeship Programs October 18th, 1994
Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 50th anniversary of success for apprenticeship programs in New Brunswick. Over those 50 years 50,000 diplomas and certificates have been granted to New Brunswick students in 65 different occupational areas.
New Brunswick is proud to offer its citizens new occupational programs in the field of high technology, thus preparing them to meet the challenges of the next century. The co-operative efforts of employers, unions, governments and students have had the effect of making occupational training an important element in the province's economy.
As the demand for highly skilled workers increases in Canada, the future for apprenticeship looks bright. The continued support of apprenticeship programs is not only an investment in youth and an investment in the New Brunswick economy but an investment in the Canadian economy.
Tourism October 5th, 1994
Mr. Speaker, tourism plays a very important role in the Canadian economy. Every year tourists from all over the world visit our country and discover its diversity and beauty.
More than half a million Canadians representing 5 per cent of our workforce are involved in the tourism sector. Tourism also represents about 4 per cent of Canada's gross domestic product.
I support the work done by our government and the Department of Industry to maximize the benefits derived from the tourism industry in Canada. In New Brunswick, for example, the tourism industry had a great summer, thus helping to improve and revive our provincial economy.
A healthy tourism industry will certainly help revitalize our economy.
Pearson International Airport Agreements Act September 28th, 1994
Mr. Speaker, I would like to point out that it is fine to call for quorum but we have many members in committees right now and doing House duty as do other parties. If we start these shenanigans about quorum, we are going to be spending taxpayers' money.