Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship  Mr. Speaker, Canada remains committed to upholding a fair and compassionate refugee protection system. With 100 million people displaced globally, the world is undergoing a global migration crisis, and Canada has a moral obligation to step up. Canada is not alone in facing a rising number of asylum claims.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship  Mr. Speaker, as the number of refugees worldwide grows, Canada continues to protect the world's most vulnerable and be a leader in refugee resettlement. In 2020, Canada resettled one-third of all refugees around the world. In addition, between January and July of 2023, Canada has resettled 27,400 refugees, which is over half of our 2023 target of 51,300.

Thanksgiving  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my warmest wishes to my constituents in Markham—Unionville on this special occasion of Thanksgiving. Across this great country, Canadians are bound together by our shared values of gratitude, unity and compassion. This Thanksgiving, let us reflect on the blessings we enjoy, the moments we cherish with loved ones and the prosperity that our great nation provides.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship  Madam Speaker, recent investigations of the Pretoria office determined that visa applications are not and cannot be filtered by race. Its diverse selection team has, in fact, been approving nearly nine in 10 temporary resident applications filed by South African nationals since 2018, with the exception of the pandemic years of 2020-21.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship  Madam Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to speak on this important issue. I want to make it clear that any instance of racism or discrimination at IRCC is absolutely unacceptable. Following the hon. member's question in June, we investigated the selection practices within the South African High Commission and determined that discrimination and racism should not be taking place as the filtering of visa applications by race does not occur.

Asian Heritage Month  Mr. Speaker, May is Asian Heritage Month, and as we celebrate Asian culture and heritage, we also recognize the incredible diversity and contributions of the Asian community to our great nation of Canada. The story of Canada has always been a story of immigration and, thanks to the many immigrants who have contributed to our economy, culture and social fabric, Asian Canadians have always played an important role in shaping Canada's history and identity.

Mother’s Day  Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to all mothers across Canada who will be celebrating Mother’s Day this weekend. As we celebrate this special occasion, I cannot help but reflect on the immense contributions of mothers across Canada. As a member of Parliament, I am privileged to represent the values and aspirations of my constituents, but today I want to take a moment to recognize the hard work and dedication of my wife, Monica, who is the mother of three and grandmother of six.

Eid al-Fitr  Mr. Speaker, this Friday, April 21, or Saturday, April 22, based on the moon sighting, Muslims across the world, including several members of the House and many of my constituents in Markham—Unionville, will celebrate Eid al-Fitr. Eid al-Fitr marks the end of the month of Ramadan, when Muslims fast daily from dawn to dusk, participate in communal prayers and give back to their communities.

Petitions  Mr. Speaker, today I rise to present a petition on behalf of 434 signatories from across Canada calling for new federal legislation that would require Canadian companies to prevent adverse human rights impacts and environmental damage throughout their global operations and supply chains.

Foundation for Black Communities  Mr. Speaker, as part of our government's plan to support Black Canadians across the country, we previously announced a $200-million Black-led philanthropical endowment fund to improve social and economic outcomes for Black Canadians. Last week, I was proud to stand with the Minister of Housing and Diversity and Inclusion and the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth to announce the recipient of this fund: the Foundation for Black Communities.

Black History Month  Madam Speaker, as we celebrate Black History Month, I want to take a moment to recognize and honour the contributions and achievements of Black Canadians. From trailblazers in politics, arts and science to everyday heroes who have made a difference in their communities, Black Canadians have played a vital role in shaping our country.

Coptic Churches Representatives  Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to rise in the House to welcome members of the Coptic churches from the great city of Markham to our nation's capital, and to thank them for their hard work and community services in my riding of Markham—Unionville. I would like to specifically acknowledge His Grace Bishop Boulos, His Grace Bishop Archilides and Father Pishoy, and thank them for their service to the less fortunate and their support of local charities, as well as their efforts to bring the community together.

Anti-Asian Racism  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address Motion No. 63, which calls upon our government to condemn anti-Asian hate and all forms of racism and racial discrimination. The proposed motion seeks to address the troubling rise in anti-Asian racism and hate that this country has seen over the past several years.

Anti-Asian Racism  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to address Motion No. 63, which calls upon our government to condemn anti-Asian hate and all forms of racism and racial discrimination. The motion seeks to address the troubling rise in anti-Asian racism and hate that this country has seen over the last several years.

Crime Prevention  Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to rise in the House and acknowledge the great work that is being done to keep communities safe in my riding of Markham—Unionville. In collaboration with the York Regional Police, I will be hosting my third crime prevention town hall, which provides essential safety tips and risk-management information to the residents of Markham.