House of Commons Hansard #2 of the 35th Parliament, 2nd Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was security.

Topics

2 p.m.

The Speaker

As is our custom, we will now sing O Canada, which will be led by the hon. member for Vancouver East.

Pleasant View Junior High SchoolStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Liberal

Sarkis Assadourian Liberal Don Valley North, ON

Mr. Speaker, on February 14, 1996 Pleasant View Junior High School in my riding of Don Valley North held a special Canadian citizenship week to celebrate National Citizenship Week and mark the 25th anniversary of the school.

I salute Pleasant View Junior High on its silver anniversary and commend the principal, staff and students in choosing the symbol of reaffirmation of their Canadian citizenship as a meaningful way to celebrate this significant milestone in Pleasant View's history.

Congratulations Pleasant View junior high school and happy 25th anniversary.

The Deficit And DebtStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Reform

Charlie Penson Reform Peace River, AB

Mr. Speaker, yesterday's throne speech touched on security for Canadians, yet this government continues to add to the debt at a rate of $90 million per day. One has to wonder how Canadians manage to sleep at night.

My province of Alberta has been able to balance its budget and enjoy strong economic growth. It did so by reducing spending by 14 per cent.

Just listen to this record of success: unemployment down; production up in both 1994 and 1995; continued diversification of its economy; and a budget surplus in 1995 with surpluses planned from now on.

This performance demonstrates that real growth can occur as governments get their finances in order. Believe me, Canadians will feel a whole lot more secure once the government puts a solid plan in place for deficit elimination and debt pay down.

Alberta has demonstrated how real long term jobs can be created by building confidence through a balanced budget.

Measurand Inc.Statements By Members

2 p.m.

Liberal

Andy Scott Liberal Fredericton—York—Sunbury, NB

Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Measurand Inc., a company from my riding of Fredericton-York-Sunbury that has been awarded a contract for a research and development project in strategic areas which will contribute to the advancement of new and enhanced space technology in Canada. The contract is part of the Space Technology Atlantic Initiative, a program jointly funded by the Canadian Space Agency and New Brunswick Canada Co-Operation Agreement on Economic Development.

Once again Fredericton is leading the way in the new economy. Measurand will be developing a high tech sensor actuator system that has numerous and varied space and terrestrial applications including tele-operations, robotics, smart structures, container level measurement and many others.

I wish Measurand the best of luck. With success stories in the high tech industry like Measurand, Fredericton, New Brunswick is fast becoming the silicon valley of the east.

Mirabel International AirportStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Bloc

Maurice Dumas Bloc Argenteuil—Papineau, QC

Mr. Speaker, on September 9, 1995 an article appeared in La Presse under the heading ``Mirabel, an airport appreciated only outside Canada''. According to a survey of 30,000 air travellers carried out by the International Air Transport Association, Mirabel ranked fifth among world airports for efficiency.

According to this article, Mirabel's problems were a result of the federal government's decision to authorize air connections directly

between Toronto and Europe, thus stripping Mirabel of its exclusive status as the Canadian point of entry for transatlantic flights.

On February 19, the new Minister of Transport blamed Quebec separatists for the failure of Mirabel. I wish to denounce the minister's statement on behalf of all Quebecers, especially the people of Mirabel. This was just one more proof of how easy it is to gratuitously blame the people of Quebec for the mistakes of one's own government.

Unemployment InsuranceStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Progressive Conservative

Elsie Wayne Progressive Conservative Saint John, NB

Mr. Speaker, after hitting Atlantic Canada the hardest in the last two budgets, the government proposed UI cuts near the end of the last Parliament that will tear the heart out of Atlantic Canada.

The Atlantic Canadian economy has a seasonal nature. We want the region's economy to grow and diversify. I also support programs that help Atlantic Canadian workers gain the skills they need to meet the challenges of the labour market.

Canadians across the country are worried about their jobs or the lack thereof. They want to be able to feed, clothe and shelter their families.

Even the premier of the province of New Brunswick said that he believes the government's proposed reforms will merely push people from UI to welfare.

I urge the government to reconsider. Do not put in place measures that discriminate against seasonal workers. People should not be punished for something they have no control over. We should be giving people a hand up so that they can help themselves. We do not need measures that drive more Canadians into poverty and take away their dignity.

The Late Sandy ScamurraStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Liberal

Albina Guarnieri Liberal Mississauga East, ON

Mr. Speaker, on February 12 Mississauga lost one of its finest citizens and early pioneers with the passing of Sandy Scamurra.

Sandy arrived in Mississauga more than 40 years ago equipped with the kind of work ethic, energy and generous spirit that paved the road to a better life for so many in our community.

At Sandy's funeral more than a thousand people said goodbye to a friend who somewhere, sometime, somehow had touched them all and made a difference in their lives.

Like so many Canadians, including my own father, Sandy Scamurra came to this country as an immigrant labourer with nothing more than a future. He leaves us with a long trail of achievements surrounded by family and friends who will always remain inspired by his memory and enduring spirit.

Jennifer RobinsonStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Shaughnessy Cohen Liberal Windsor—St. Clair, ON

Mr. Speaker, once again Windsor proves itself to be a city of champions, a city where first place finishes are the standard.

Our new Windsor hero is Canada's figure skating champion Jennifer Robinson. Her next accomplishment will be to represent Canada at the world figure skating championships in Edmonton.

I know all hon. members will join me in congratulating Jennifer on her success and in wishing her well in Edmonton.

Cardiovascular DiseasesStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Bloc

Pauline Picard Bloc Drummond, QC

Mr. Speaker, I wish to bring to the attention of this House that February is devoted to heart disease. Close to 40 per cent of deaths in Quebec are related to heart disease. Continued investment in research, prevention and actions relating to this major cause of death is therefore of vital importance.

Considerable progress has been made in the past forty years. The proportion of deaths attributable to cardiovascular diseases has dropped markedly and the downward trend continues. We are on the right path, but we must continue our efforts.

Smoking is one of the many factors affecting cardiovascular disease statistics. The Bloc intends to keep a very close eye on what the Minister of Health does in relation to smoking, in order to ensure that all steps taken are appropriate and effective. The health of Quebecers and Canadians alike deserves nothing less.

Distinct SocietyStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Reform

Lee Morrison Reform Swift Current—Maple Creek—Assiniboia, SK

Mr. Speaker, a nation's laws should be based on its values, goals and aspirations, not its genes. With that observation I wish to read some excerpts from a letter to the Western Producer by T. A. Howe of Regina.

The continuing tragic ethnic wars of our world attest to the folly of promoting societies and distinctions based on ethnic heritage.

A wise and just society builds on the equality, creativity and unity of all individuals without regard to birth or background-

Entrenching `distinct society' status based on the dominant group in a nation or province cannot be justified (either by history or by urgency) any more than granting or continuing special status for any historically dominant gender, colour or creed.

Bell Of BatocheStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Gordon Kirkby Liberal Prince Albert—Churchill River, SK

Mr. Speaker, the Metis people of Canada, the Metis Nation of Saskatchewan and in particular the Metis of Batoche suffered a great injustice in 1885 when the bell of Batoche was wrongfully removed from a Metis church, St. Antoine de Padoue, as a trophy of war. The bell is a symbol of Metis heritage and represents an important period in Metis history.

Since its removal from the church in 1885, the bell has been located first at the firehall in Millbrook and then moved to Millbrook Legion Hall in Millbrook, Ontario. However, the bell of Batoche disappeared from the legion hall about four and a half years ago and the current whereabouts of the bell are unknown. As a result, all Canadians are deprived of viewing this important Canadian cultural artefact which is a symbol of pride and hope of the Metis nation.

The resolution of this matter will take goodwill and a willingness to work together on the part of the Metis people and the Millbrook legion in order to ensure the bell's safe return to a location where once again all Canadians will be able to see an important part of Canada's cultural heritage.

Federal SystemStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Bernard Patry Liberal Pierrefonds—Dollard, QC

Mr. Speaker, our federal system is constantly evolving. Day after day, our government works on increasing efficiency while reducing operating costs. In the speech from the throne we heard yesterday, there is a constant that runs through every aspect of the action plan our government intends to carry out by the end of its term. At every step, our government emphasizes co-operation and partnership.

Our government listens to the people and will continue to work on developing a genuine climate of co-operation with its partners in the federation. The recent successes of Team Canada have proved that by emphasizing co-operation and setting common objectives, our country can continue to be the envy of the nations of this world.

Speech From The ThroneStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

Robert Bertrand Liberal Pontiac—Gatineau—Labelle, QC

Mr. Speaker, we are very proud of our record after these first two years. Since the election we created more than half a million jobs, and the economic growth rate of our country ranks among the highest in the industrialized world.

The speech from the throne we heard yesterday highlighted the three broad objectives we intend to pursue during the second half of our mandate. They are complementary and fully reflect the tenor of the red book. These objectives are: job creation and economic growth, security for Canadians and modernizing the Canadian federation to strengthen Canadian unity.

Canadians want a united, prosperous and secure country for themselves and their children. Our government fully shares these priorities as indicated to us by the Canadian people, and we will do everything in our power to give them the country they want.

Official OppositionStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Bloc

Claude Bachand Bloc Saint-Jean, QC

Mr. Speaker, a number of people on both sides of the House are saying that the Bloc Quebecois is not fulfilling its role as the official opposition.

However, a few weeks ago, Ed Broadbent wrote in the Globe and Mail that the strongest voice in Ottawa in defence of Canadians' social and economic rights was that of the Bloc Quebecois. I would like to read you the words of the Tsilhquot'in nation of British Columbia, who so warmly welcomed me:

"Never before has the Tsilhquot'in Nation-nor, we suspect, the other nations of Canada-been so well served by an opposition critic-The nations indigenous to British Columbia are proud of the work being done by the Bloc Quebecois in Ottawa-The speculation in the press. . . that it would focus exclusively on the affairs of Quebec has no foundation in fact".

To my colleagues in the Bloc Quebecois, who spend so much time and energy on work in this House and on its committees, I would say it is not only in Quebec that your work is appreciated.

Drunk DrivingStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Reform

Ed Harper Reform Simcoe Centre, ON

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to speak in support of the private member's bill initiated by my colleague from Prince George-Bulkley Valley on the subject of increasing the mandatory sentences of those convicted of drunk driving causing death.

Drunk driving claims hundreds of lives a year. It is responsible for more than half of the serious motor vehicle accidents that happen.

Canadians are furious when hearing about neighbours and loved ones who have been injured or killed by this irresponsible behaviour. It is time that the criminal justice system started coming down hard on these dangerous offenders, most of whom are repeat offenders who have not learned their lesson.

This bill asks for a seven year minimum sentence for those convicted of killing someone while drunk behind the wheel. This amendment will improve public safety and act as a stronger deterrent to irresponsible members of our society.

I call on all members of this House to join me in supporting the bill.

CorporationsStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

NDP

Nelson Riis NDP Kamloops, BC

Mr. Speaker, we hear a lot these days about the rights and responsibilities associated with Canadian citizenship. Increasingly Canadians are being called upon to take more responsibility for their lives, for creating their own employment, saving for their retirement and assuming more responsibility for their families' future.

While individual Canadians are doing just that, what about the corporate sector assuming more responsibility for our country's future? Corporate profits totalled a record $95.2 billion last year, up 19 per cent from the previous corporate profit record year.

Today a newspaper headline screams: "Bank of Montreal profit tops all forecasts". It is well beyond even the rosiest forecast, a profit of $296 million, up 29.5 per cent from last year.

Mr. Speaker and members of all parties of this House, is it not time that the banks and other profitable corporations assumed more responsibility to get Canada and Canadians working?

Black History MonthStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

Jean Augustine Liberal Etobicoke—Lakeshore, ON

Mr. Speaker, on December 14, 1995 the House of Commons declared February as Black History Month. From the earliest period of our history to the present, people of African origin have contributed toward making Canada one of the most envied nations in the world.

Black people, both as slaves and as free men and women, gave greatly of themselves in the development of our nation. As fishermen and domestics in New France, soldiers and labourers in early Nova Scotia, fur traders employed by the Hudson's Bay Company, prairie farmers at the turn of the century, skilled tradesmen, teachers, businessmen in pre-confederation British Columbia, black people have brought a wealth of skills to our country.

Canadians of African origin, both past and present, are as diverse as settlers from Europe and Asia but have been united by a common experience in history. With a desire to succeed in the face of adversity and weather hardship with an undaunted spirit, the history of black people will always be an integral part of Canada's history.

Shania TwainStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Peter Thalheimer Liberal Timmins—Chapleau, ON

Mr. Speaker, Shania Twain, the most recent singing sensation from Timmins, Ontario was acclaimed best new artist at the 23rd annual American Music Awards on January 29, 1996. She was also nominated in the country music category for best female artist, best album and best new country artist.

This is not the first time that Shania Twain has been honoured for her considerable musical talents. Members will remember that on September 18, 1995 Shania won a total of five awards at the Canadian Country Music Awards including female vocalist and album of the year.

Shania Twain's star is not destined to fade any time soon. All eyes will be on Shania Twain at tonight's Grammy Awards where Shania has four nominations, including best new artist, best country album, best country song and country female vocalist.

I would like to congratulate Shania Twain on her success at this year's American Music Awards and offer her this House's best wishes tonight at the Grammys.

Speech From The ThroneOral Question Period

2:15 p.m.

Some hon. members

Hear, hear.

Speech From The ThroneOral Question Period

2:15 p.m.

Bloc

Michel Gauthier Bloc Roberval, QC

Mr. Speaker, in yesterday's throne speech, the government spoke of the next referendum in Quebec saying, and I quote:

But as long as the prospect of another Quebec referendum exists, the Government will exercise its responsibility to ensure that the debate is conducted with all the facts on the table, that the rules of the process are fair, that the consequences are clear, and that Canadians, no matter where they live, will have their say in the future of their country.

My question is for the Prime Minister or rather the Deputy Prime Minister, since the Prime Minister is not here.

Will the Prime Minister acknowledge that the next referendum in Quebec will be held under the Quebec referendum act and thus the rules will be those set out in Quebec legislation and not those the Prime Minister might want to impose?

Speech From The ThroneOral Question Period

2:15 p.m.

Hamilton East Ontario

Liberal

Sheila Copps LiberalDeputy Prime Minister and Minister of Canadian Heritage

Mr. Speaker, first, I would like to congratulate the hon. member on his election as Leader of the Opposition. There are a lot of new people here today, including the new premier of Newfoundland.

Speech From The ThroneOral Question Period

2:15 p.m.

Some hon. members

Hear, hear.

Speech From The ThroneOral Question Period

2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Sheila Copps Liberal Hamilton East, ON

Mr. Speaker, I would like to say that we expect the new premier of Quebec to keep his word and try to work with the Prime Minister of Canada to expand Canada's economy, something Quebecers and Canadians want desperately.

Speech From The ThroneOral Question Period

2:15 p.m.

Bloc

Michel Gauthier Bloc Roberval, QC

Mr. Speaker, you will agree that this new session is off to a strange start.

My question is for the Deputy Prime Minister. Yesterday, the Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs said that the statement in the throne speech might even mean a cross-Canada referendum on the Quebec question. Today, however, the Deputy Prime Minister made some adjustments saying it was not a referendum. The minister himself backed down, saying it was not a referendum for the moment.

Probably someone is leading this government. I would like to know who, first, and I would also like to know who is telling the truth. Yes or no, is the government planning a cross-Canada referendum on the Quebec question?

Speech From The ThroneOral Question Period

2:20 p.m.

Hamilton East Ontario

Liberal

Sheila Copps LiberalDeputy Prime Minister and Minister of Canadian Heritage

Mr. Speaker, the unfortunate part about the approach of the Leader of the Opposition- I assume he heard what the mayor of Montreal had to say. When the mayor of Montreal came here, he asked us to stop talking about the referendum and to get to work on rebuilding the economy in Montreal and in Quebec.

I also assume he listens to commentators in Quebec, who are saying "Good Speech" and "Ambitious Program", in connection with our economic recovery program. That is what Michel Vastel said. The newspaper Le Soleil said: ``Finally, a government that governs''. Would the people across the way be so kind as to join us in working on the real issues: economic recovery in Montreal, in Quebec and in Canada?