House of Commons Hansard #251 of the 35th Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was magazines.
Excise Tax ActGovernment Orders
The Acting Speaker (Mr. Kilger)
During the last few hours I have been paying close attention to all interventions from both sides of the House. At the beginning of members' statements, whether on report stage of Bill C-103 or other matters we dealt with earlier, some members took a few moments to reflect on the historical event which took place yesterday.
With the greatest of respect and fairness which the Chair owes to all its members, I am certain the member for York-Simcoe will be dealing with the matter at hand.
Karen Kraft Sloan Liberal York—Simcoe, ON
Mr. Speaker, my introduction has tremendous relevance for the importance of the magazine industry in Canada. It is really unfortunate the members of the Reform Party do not understand how valuable the Canadian magazine industry is to the country.
Compared with the United States, Canada may be small in numbers, but Canadians everywhere have shown that they are big in heart and are capable of creating a mighty roar for Canada. The Canadian magazine industry is an important and vital contributor in defining us and explaining who we are. In comparison to the American industry it also is small in number in terms of its potential circulation but it is very important to Canadians. It represents a wide diversity of interest and must be supported.
Magazines have two clients, the reader and the advertiser. Over the past 30 years-
Excise Tax ActGovernment Orders
The Speaker
My colleague, you will have the floor when we resume debate after question period. It being 2 p.m., we will now proceed to Statements by Members.
John Richardson Liberal Perth—Wellington—Waterloo, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to talk about our great nation, Canada.
While the results were close last night, we as a nation have so much to build our future on. Canadians from coast to coast share many of the same values and priorities. We all care about finding and keeping good paying jobs, that our streets are safe from crime, and that future generations will inherit a compassionate and prosperous country.
The love for our country remains.
Last week the citizens of my riding organized a rally to demonstrate their desire for Quebec to remain a part of our great nation, and thousands upon thousands of Canadians travelled to Montreal to declare their love for this country.
These are the things that will hold us together. These are the things that we can build on in the weeks, months and years ahead.
Jay Hill Reform Prince George—Peace River, BC
Mr. Speaker, when it came to the WGTA payout, the unique concerns of Peace River farmers were ignored by the government.
To ensure this does not happen again with the impending sale of the federal fleet of 13,000 hopper cars, I would like assurances from the Minister of Transport that BC Rail will will be given an option to buy some of these cars.
As a grain farmer I am well aware that BC Rail has had serious problems getting timely and reliable access to these government owned but CN controlled cars for years. In the more competitive market created with the elimination of the Crow rate, it does not make sense the government would limit the sale of its fleet to a couple of select players and force BC Rail to lease cars from its main competitors.
On behalf of the farmers of the Peace, I believe BC Rail must get its fair share. Farmers need to know there will be sufficient cars to get their grain to market in the future.
Bill Blaikie NDP Winnipeg—Transcona, MB
Mr. Speaker, while celebrating the fact that we Canadians remain together in a single country, we must ask ourselves some very important questions. What is a country, really? How did we weaken our political attachment to our country in the past 15 years? How can we renew the values we uphold and our vision of Canadian society?
In this respect, on behalf of the NDP we do not see uncritical decentralization and the offloading of federal responsibilities as a panacea, particularly if it is just a cover for the further dismantling of the very Canada that both Quebecers and non-Quebecers lament the continuing destruction of.
A house divided against itself cannot stand, but even an apparently united house-
-without a foundation of social and economic justice, is a house built on sand.
Peter Adams Liberal Peterborough, ON
Mr. Speaker, the outcome of the referendum gave us all a glimpse of the consequences that would result from the breakup of our great country.
The tiny majority won by the no side gives us an opportunity to strengthen confederation from the inside. I think that Canada is a better country with Quebec, that Quebec's culture and economy make Canada stronger, and that Quebec is stronger within Canada.
Being part of a large entity is beneficial to Quebec's economy and culture, as they are supported by both francophone and non-francophone citizens across the country. I thank all Peterborough residents who travelled to Montreal last Friday and all the people who expressed their attachment to and support for Canada during the campaign.
Let us join forces to make Canada an even greater country.
Jean Augustine Liberal Etobicoke—Lakeshore, ON
Mr. Speaker, in a show of support for national unity, thousands of students and residents of Etobicoke-Lakeshore are holding out a friendly hand to Quebecers.
As a friendship offering, the vast majority of people in Etobicoke-Lakeshore have put their hand prints and signatures on huge banners that will be sent to the people of Quebec. This gesture shows that they have respect for Quebec and hope to see this province remain in the Canadian fold.
With "Here's My Hand", the community of Etobicoke-Lakeshore of all races, colour, creed and ethnicity asked Quebec to take pride as we do in what we have accomplished together. Now more than ever, we must extend our hands and continue to work together for our future as one strong and united Canada.
Geoff Regan Liberal Halifax West, NS
Mr. Speaker, I spent the last five days in the Quebec provincial riding of Labelle. I spoke to many Quebecers about their concerns and frustrations.
The day before yesterday, it was obvious that a majority of Quebecers do not want Quebec to separate from Canada but they do want changes. They have this profound desire to have their language and culture recognized and respected. They want renewed federalism. They want to live in an open and tolerant country.
We in the other provinces must live up to the promise of the past week. We have had on both sides a frightening failure to understand each other and a failure to understand the consequences of a yes vote.
Never again must Canada be allowed to come so close to the brink of destruction.
We must talk and take action.
Pauline Picard Bloc Drummond, QC
Mr. Speaker, the federal government has deliberately been cruising in neutral since the end of September while waiting for the Quebec referendum results. Major changes to unemployment insurance and old age pensions will soon be introduced, and they will hit people harder than ever before since the inception of these programs.
We are aware of the societal choice being made in Ottawa, thanks to secret documents leaked to the public. We know that this choice is totally inconsistent with Quebec's aspirations in terms of society. The wind of change coming from Ottawa is really a flurry of drastic cuts that has Quebec shivering.
Those who chose to hide the truth from Quebecers will have to take the blame for it.
Stephen Harper Reform Calgary West, AB
Mr. Speaker, the referendum result reflects two different visions of Quebec. One is that Quebec is an integral part of a united Canada. But it is more than that. Quebec is the founding province of Canada, the place where it was born, the cradle and champion of francophones across Canada.
The other is that Quebec is one of these world nations that, because of their history and destiny, must become independent, while of course recognizing its special ties with Canada.
What these two visions have in common are democratic values, tolerance, and recognition of the fact that Quebecers form the only predominantly francophone society in North America.
Quebec is now and forever a francophone society that is free and able to control its own destiny and development, as part of Canada and of the world at large.
Pierrette Ringuette-Maltais Liberal Madawaska—Victoria, NB
Mr. Speaker, Quebecers have spoken. Yesterday, they democratically chose to stay in Canada.
This referendum, the second in 15 years, clearly shows that Canada is still Quebecers' first choice. Obviously, given the numbers, there is no reason for anyone to go around bragging. Nevertheless, yesterday's vote is confirmation that Quebec does not want to separate from Canada.
In the coming weeks and months, people from all over the country, and particularly from Quebec, will ask for a Canada that better reflects who we are.
Last Sunday, in Hull, the Prime Minister said that we must never take our country for granted. We took heed of that message and we are determined to do everything to ensure the best possible future for our country.
Bernard Patry Liberal Pierrefonds—Dollard, QC
Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the great democratic tradition that prevails in Canada and in Quebec allowed for a referendum to be held on Quebec's constitutional future.
Ninety-four per cent of Quebecers voted. That, in itself, is an unprecedented democratic success, given the importance of the issue.
The very civilized campaign and consultation process show unequivocally that the principles of tolerance and freedom are valued by everyone in this country.
I want to congratulate all those who participated in the campaign. The responsible attitude and the respect displayed by both sides during that campaign reflect favourably on Canada and Quebec.
It is always reassuring to see that, in spite of the diverging views held on a given issue, the principles of democracy are shared by everyone in our country.
Paul Mercier Bloc Blainville—Deux-Montagnes, QC
My congratulations also to all of the men and women of Quebec who took part in yesterday's referendum. The issue presented to them was the choice of a country.
On both sides of the issue, our fellow Quebecers in all regions behaved with dignity and honesty, respecting others' opinions, and maintaining complete calm.
There is no doubt about it, the federal government and its crown corporations, the major Canadian carriers and the telephone companies in the anglophone provinces made major illegal contributions to the no side, illegally.
But the profoundly democratic character of the Quebec referendum process belongs to us all, to all Quebecers, and we should all be proud of this. No one can take away that pride. Building serenely upon that foundation we shall continue the struggle of the Quebec people toward sovereignty.
Bob Ringma Reform Nanaimo—Cowichan, BC
Mr. Speaker, most Canadians are breathing a sigh of relief today after the slim no victory. But while Canada remains united, what have we truly won?
The situation in which we find ourselves today is the same as the situation last night, last month, last year. It is obvious that all Canadians want changes at the federal level.
The referendum results are a clear indication that Quebecers have rejected the status quo, which has been the central element of this Prime Minister's political philosophy for the past 30 years.
We can only hope these results are enough to force our traditional leaders to leave behind their prehistoric ways and join all Canadians in the 21st century. If the overall results are not sufficient to do this, maybe the no leaders should take a long hard look at last night's results in ridings like Saint-Maurice and Sherbrooke.
Denis Paradis Liberal Brome—Missisquoi, QC
Mr. Speaker, after the referendum yesterday, the Prime Minister of Canada said, and I quote: "It is up to us in Ottawa and Quebec City to respond to their expectations. Mr. Premier of Quebec, I reach out to you, sir".
The people of Canada now echo what was said by the Prime Minister. After a week spent demonstrating their love and affection for Quebec, Canadians are ready to join Quebecers in responding to the pressing needs of our country.
I earnestly hope that the Premier of Quebec will respond to this gesture and thus send a genuine message of reconciliation to all Quebecers.
Nick Discepola Liberal Vaudreuil, QC
Mr. Speaker, we now know the verdict. Quebecers have said no to separation and have decided to stay within the Canadian federation. The results of the referendum have indicated very clearly that the people of Quebec are divided. Some wanted a new country where they believe everything would be possible. Others voted for the country they knew and loved, also in the belief that everything is possible.
It is now time to leave division and debate behind. It is time for reconciliation and solidarity. We all have to stick together and get back to work.
I extend my hand to all Quebecers and especially my Bloc Quebecois colleagues in the House of Commons, in the spirit of mutual respect, co-operation and understanding, in order to work collectively to defend the interests of all Quebecers, no matter how each one voted last night.
Canada and Quebec can look forward to an exceptional future. It is up to us to make it happen.
Pierrette Venne Bloc Saint-Hubert, QC
Mr. Speaker, democracy spoke yesterday in Quebec and, as great democrats, Quebecers intend to respect the verdict. Although today, half the population of Quebec is saddened by the results, our first duty is to accept these results with calm and dignity, although the majority of the No side is minimal.
For democracy is the very foundation of the sovereignist movement, and we have every reason to be proud of the democratic exercise that ended yesterday, because it reflects, more than ever before, the discipline and political maturity of Quebecers and their profound attachment to democratic values.
The sovereignist movement will gain in stature after last night. The roots of hope are firmly imbedded for the future, for the near future.
Chuck Strahl Reform Fraser Valley East, BC
Mr. Speaker, last night the people of Quebec demanded change from the federal government, sweeping change which has already been advocated by the Reform Party. By resisting change the rigid centralists of the Liberal Party brought this country to the brink of destruction.
Change must come and when it does, the government must deal with each province as an equal partner in Confederation. Whatever is offered to one province must be offered to all. The government may be tempted to grant special status to one province to retain a share of its traditional power, but the lesson we learned last night is this: If the federal government continues to clutch the power to its breast, it will lose the federation.
Only the broad devolution of powers to all provinces on an equal basis will allow us to address the concerns of the different regions of the country. In order that Canada can continue to prosper, the socialist dream of this overwhelming and intrusive central government must be permanently laid to rest.
Reformers will oppose special rights to any province because unity is based on equality.
Lucien Bouchard BlocLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, we know the government deliberately put off tabling its reform of social programs until after the referendum in order to keep the bad news awaiting the unemployed from them until then. There have been a number of leaks of late confirming that the reform has been ready for a number of weeks already. The CSN has even made public a bill setting out exactly how they would cut the unemployment insurance plan.
My question is for the Prime Minister. Now that Quebecers have voted no in the referendum, what is preventing him from unveiling his reform of social programs, under which he is once again to make cuts on the backs of the disadvantaged?
Jean Chrétien LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, I find it quite surprising that the CSN has a bill I have not yet seen.
The government is still looking at the problem, and we have not made a definitive decision. Furthermore, I am in contact with the provincial premiers, as I indicated two weeks ago in this House. The maritime premiers have made representation in this regard, and I have not finished consulting the other premiers. I hope to do so soon.
When we are ready, the government will approve a draft bill, which will be submitted to this House. The members will be able to make suggestions and amendments and, after it has been duly studied, the bill will be passed.
At this point, however, I have to say that cabinet has not yet approved any draft bill on the matter.
Lucien Bouchard BlocLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, up to now, the government cited the imminence of the referendum to explain why it was not governing. Now we wonder what pretext it will invent to justify its inaction.
How can the government still claim that the reform of social programs is not yet ready, when, in the case of unemployment insurance, everyone can read the bill in the paper announcing more radical cuts on the backs of the unemployed?
Jean Chrétien LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, I have just answered the question. I repeat that no draft bill has yet been approved by the government. No draft bill has been submitted to cabinet. When it is submitted, the ministers will consider it, and there will be a resolution. I have to say we are well
on the way, but I want to talk to one or two premiers who have made representations, before approving the final bill. No draft bill has been approved by the government to date.
So, we are waiting. When it is ready, we will table it in the House, and members can make suggestions or amendments, if they do not like it.
Lucien Bouchard BlocLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, given that the unemployment insurance fund will register a surplus this year of nearly $5 billion, does the Prime Minister plan to exempt the unemployed from further cuts and to reconsider his strategy of singling them out?
Lloyd Axworthy LiberalMinister of Human Resources Development and Minister of Western Economic Diversification
Mr. Speaker, I would suggest that the hon. leader of the opposition read the recommendations that were made by the House of Commons committee, which indicated that one of the serious problems in the past was that the government that preceded ours, of which he was a member, substantially cut unemployment insurance premiums. When a recession hit the country they had to suddenly and drastically raise those premiums, which only accelerated the recession. Therefore the House of Commons committee recommended that a reserve be established to ensure there could be a stable state of premiums established.
As the hon. member knows, right now we are still paying off the deficit that was incurred by the previous government in the UI fund. We want to make sure we establish enough of a reserve that we will not run into the same problems the government of which he was a member encountered when it had to deal with the unemployment insurance system.