House of Commons Hansard #100 of the 36th Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was association.
The Speaker
As is our practice on Wednesdays, we will now sing O Canada, and we will be led by the hon. member for Halton.
John Finlay Liberal Oxford, ON
Mr. Speaker, this week Canadians are celebrating National Forestry Week.
For over 70 years National Forestry Week has reminded us that our forests are vital to Canada's economy and way of life. We should all take the time over the next few days to learn more about the important role played by forests in our economy and in our environment.
It is our responsibility to ensure that our forests are managed responsibly so that future generations can enjoy the many benefits our forests provide.
At this time I would like to salute all those who work to protect our forests, including those in Oxford County who work in conservation and forestry. Special mention should be made of those who maintain the Leslie M. Dixon Memorial Arboretum, the Brick Ponds Wetlands complex and the Oxford County forest.
Werner Schmidt Reform Kelowna, BC
Mr. Speaker, more Liberal arrogance. The Prime Minister is rewarding his backbenchers for toeing the line on voting against hepatitis C victims last week. He is taking more than a dozen Liberal backbenchers with him on a trip to Italy.
I like Italy too. But a holiday is a holiday. He is paying them for denying their integrity. Tens of thousands of dollars are being spent to take Liberal backbenchers to sunny Italy, while hepatitis C victims and their families are suffering.
Ciao babies. Enjoy your Roman holiday. But arrivederci come the next election.
Paul Devillers Liberal Simcoe North, ON
Mr. Speaker, I take this opportunity to pay tribute Victor Koby, a constituent of my riding of Simcoe North, for his work as a volunteer with the Canadian Executive Services Organization. CESO is a non-profit, volunteer based organization which transfers Canadian expertise to businesses, communities and organizations in Canada and abroad.
As a volunteer with CESO International Services, Mr. Koby provided business consultation advice to a Polish company involved in the manufacture of water heating systems.
Mr. Koby assisted the company to develop a business plan encompassing marketing and professional development. He also organized a three-day management conference to involve senior employees in the planning and decision making process.
On behalf of all Canadians, I wish to congratulate Mr. Koby for his outstanding and selfless efforts to assist a company in coping with the new economic realities of the Polish economy.
Stan Dromisky Liberal Thunder Bay—Atikokan, ON
Mr. Speaker, recently the Catholic Women's League in my riding of Thunder Bay—Atikokan kicked-off a campaign entitled “Raise Values Above Violence”.
After much study of the issue of violence and its impact on society, the Catholic Women's League decided that positive and energetic actions were necessary in order to raise awareness regarding the importance of dealing with violence.
The ultimate goal of the Catholic Women's League is to achieve through kindness and caring for others, values that are shared by Canadians and are also reflected in this government's foreign policy.
I call upon all members to join in the efforts of the Catholic Women's League to spread love, tolerance, kindness, compassion and patience—all virtues leading to understanding.
Brenda Chamberlain Liberal Guelph—Wellington, ON
Mr. Speaker, my time working in Ottawa has taught me all about winter storms, but today it is my pleasure and privilege to stand on behalf of all the residents of Guelph—Wellington and offer congratulations to our own storm, the Guelph Storm hockey team.
The Storm recently defeated the Ottawa 67's, winning the J. Ross Robertson Cup. They will now be representing all of the Ontario Junior Hockey League at the Memorial Cup in Spokane.
Their hard work and dedication both on an off the ice have made all the residents of Guelph—Wellington extremely proud. The Storm serves as an example that great things can be accomplished when you work together as a team. This is the second time in three years that the Storm has made it to the Memorial Cup, but this time to win.
I know I speak for all of my constituents when I say “Go Storm!”
Jason Kenney Reform Calgary Southeast, AB
Mr. Speaker, the Mike Harris government is creating growth, opportunity and more and better jobs through tax relief. Having already reduced income taxes by 30%, yesterday's budget delivered a plan for 36 new tax cuts for families and businesses.
The Harris tax cuts are proof that it is possible to reduce the size of government while spending more on key priority programs such as education and health care.
Bravo, Ontario. By letting families and businesses keep more of their hard earned income, consumer spending is higher, confidence is up and economic growth is racing ahead of the national average. What a contrast to the tax and spend status quo at the federal level.
The Liberal government's $10 billion CPP tax hike, combined with huge personal income and capital gains taxes is undermining the economy, stifling the entrepreneurial spirit and hurting families.
But Ontario should take heart. Its efforts are not falling on deaf ears here in Ottawa. The official opposition is fighting for real tax relief at the federal level and we are going to give Canadians a chance at the next election to vote for Ontario style hope, growth and opportunity.
Reg Alcock Liberal Winnipeg South, MB
Mr. Speaker, as forest fires continue to rage in the Lesser Slave Lake region of Alberta we should take the time to remember the people of Swan Hills whose homes and livelihoods are threatened.
A little more than one year ago the rising waters of the Red River threatened both persons and property in my province. The people of Winnipeg South, in other words, know from experience the kind of havoc that nature can wreak. It is for this reason that I would like to say to the people of Swan Lake that they have our sympathy and support.
I am sure that the resilience and fortitude of the citizens of Swan Lake will see them through this crisis, but they should know that in their hour of need all Canadians, including those in this Chamber, are behind them.
John Richardson Liberal Perth—Middlesex, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute dedicated Canadians who serve with the Canadian Forces Reserves.
Reservists are the lifeblood of such illustrious units as the Rocky Mountain Rangers in Kamloops, the Fort Garry Horse in Winnipeg, the Queen's Own Rifles in Toronto, HMCS Montcalm in Quebec and the Royal Newfoundland Regiment.
Reservists have served on peacekeeping missions around the world and were instrumental in the disaster relief operations in Manitoba and during the ice storm.
Cadet instructors work year-round with young people and the rangers provide an essential military presence in the Canadian north and in isolated communities.
Today reservists can wear their uniforms to work to display the pride they have in serving their country and to allow their employers a chance to show their support for reservist employees.
On behalf of all members of parliament, I want to thank all reservists who don their uniform and serve Canada with dedication and pride.
Dave Chatters Reform Athabasca, AB
Mr. Speaker, for the past few days fires have raged out of control through northern Alberta.
I would like to express gratitude to all those who are working day and night, putting their lives on the line to try to save homes, farms and businesses.
Our hearts go out to the many residents who, for the third year in a row, have had to deal with devastating natural disaster.
The residents of Smith, Hondo, Swan Hills and High Prairie have had to leave their homes not knowing if they will have homes to return to.
Our most heartfelt sympathy goes out to those who have lost their homes, businesses or places of employment.
At times like these, in the Canadian spirit, we must be ready to help in any way we can.
Christiane Gagnon Bloc Québec, QC
Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada, and the 22nd for its carnation campaign, which will be held on May 7, 8 and 9.
To the association, the carnation is a symbol of determination, and this campaign reflects the unending battle against this degenerative neurological disease which most often strikes young adults.
Allow me to quote from an upsetting testimonial by Alain Ouellet, who writes:
I had just started up in business—I had to give it all up. Today I live in a tiny apartment in Sainte-Foy, the poorest part of the city.
There is hope, however, for Alain Ouellet and all the others whose quality of life has been affected. Research has cast more light on the disease, but there is much still to be done.
So let us give generously to the carnation campaign in order to overcome this terrible disease.
Walt Lastewka Liberal St. Catharines, ON
Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to stand in the House of Commons today to congratulate the St. Catharines Collegiate Institute and Vocational School on its 75th anniversary.
To celebrate this historic occasion the collegiate is hosting a reunion for the many thousands of students and teachers who are alumni of the school.
When the collegiate first opened its doors in 1923 it was the only secondary school in St. Catharines. Over the next 30 years everyone who attended high school in the city went to this school. More than 20,000 students have walked the halls of the collegiate and grown up in the classrooms of this historic place of learning.
On the weekend of May 15 to 17 several thousand of these alumni are expected to return to the collegiate to celebrate its anniversary at a huge three-day reunion.
This is a very important event for the school and indeed for the entire community. It is an opportunity to celebrate our youth, our past and our present, to celebrate the teachers whose work has inspired and guided our young people and to gather together to commemorate 75 years of education in St. Catharines.
I congratulate the St. Catharines Collegiate Institute and Vocational School and send best wishes on this special 75th anniversary.
Bev Desjarlais NDP Churchill, MB
Mr. Speaker, members of the Canadian Union of Postal Workers have a legitimate concern that the arbitration process set up to settle their contract dispute with Canada Post has been irredeemably damaged by the arbitrator himself. Remarks made by the arbitrator suggest that in advance of hearing the union's position he has already made up his mind on certain issues and leans heavily in favour of the corporation's position.
The Canadian Union of Postal Workers has asked the federal court to remove the arbitrator in view of its “reasonable apprehension of bias”. From the beginning of this contract dispute there have been serious concerns that bargaining in good faith had been compromised by a government holding the threat of back to work legislation over the heads of the union.
Given the fact that the recent remarks of the arbitrator, Justice Guy Richard, have totally undermined the credibility of the arbitration process, the NDP today urges the Minister of Labour to disqualify the arbitrator, give Canada Post a mandate to negotiate and allow the parties to get back to the table to negotiate a fair settlement through free collective bargaining.
Jocelyne Girard-Bujold Bloc Jonquière, QC
Mr. Speaker, we were pleased and proud to learn that Quebec now has the second highest number of ISO 9000 registrations among the ten most industrialized American states, the four most industrialized Canadian provinces, and Mexico.
This survey by the American company McGraw-Hill confirms that Quebec businesses have been resolute in meeting the challenge of quality and innovation, with the increasing originality of their goods and services and with their management methods which allow much scope for worker input.
I invite the people of Quebec to continue their quest for new ways of improving performance and developing criteria of excellence.
As the new millennium approaches, Quebec's economy is placing it in a highly competitive position on the international level.
Rick Borotsik Progressive Conservative Brandon—Souris, MB
Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great pride as Canada's official languages commissioner, Dr. Victor Goldbloom, presented a merit award to the host society for the Brandon 1997 Canada Summer Games in a ceremony this morning in Winnipeg. The commissioner presented the award for Brandon's excellent achievement in providing service in both official languages during the games.
English and French were both well represented at the Summer Games, starting with brochures and pamphlets and including interviews with participants.
Translation of the results was also completed in a quick and efficient manner in order to provide all who attended with the best possible services in both official languages.
I conclude by voicing my appreciation to more than 400 bilingual volunteers who made this possible and who are sharing in the pride of receiving this national award today.
Réginald Bélair Liberal Timmins—James Bay, ON
Mr. Speaker, forestry has always played a positive role in the lives of my constituents of Timmins—James Bay. The forest industry, through pulp and paper and lumber, has created some 4,000 jobs in the riding. It has helped to establish dynamic communities like Hearst, Kapuskasing and Smooth Rock Falls. It has secured economic growth in the whole area. Forests have also provided enjoyment through camping, hunting, fishing, hiking and snowmobiling.
The Canadian Forestry Association has proclaimed this week as National Forestry Week. It is a time for us to reflect on the vital role forests play in our daily lives and the great benefits we have inherited from our forests. However, is also a time for us to increase our awareness of the importance of preserving the health of our forests since they are equally important to the health of the local, national and global environment.
Canada is the top exporter of forestry products in the world. We therefore have a responsibility to protect this resource so that our forest may continue to meet the social, economic and environmental needs for future generations.
Preston Manning ReformLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, yesterday Premier Harris wrote to the Prime Minister and urged him to compensate hepatitis C victims infected before 1986. He wants health officials to discuss how victims can be compensated and not whether they should be compensated, and he has committed up to $200 million for pre-1986 victims.
Will the government follow the example of Premier Harris and provide funding for victims infected before 1986?
Jean Chrétien LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, as discussed and voted by the House yesterday, there will be a meeting of the ministers of health next week.
They will meet representatives of the people who have been affected. They will follow the instructions of the House of Commons. The Minister of Health will be there and will discuss with his colleagues the change of mind of the two governmentes that had signed the deal before, the Government of Ontario and the Government of Quebec.
Preston Manning ReformLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, the House wants to know whether the federal government is prepared to negotiate expanded compensation for hepatitis C victims before 1986.
First the government refuses to take responsibility. Then it refuses to put any more money on the table. After the caucus meeting this morning there are insults and attacks on the Government of Ontario for offering to do something in this very area.
Is it not true that the Prime Minister is deliberately trying to scuttle any further negotiations on this issue by his attacks on the Government of Ontario?
Jean Chrétien LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, it is not me who is changing my position every day. It is the Ontario government and the Quebec government. They are changing their point of view.
A few minutes ago I received a phone call from the president of the conference of the premiers of Canada at this moment, Mr. Romanow, who said that the venue was agreed upon yesterday, that there would be a meeting of ministers next week and that the meeting would be the one offered by the Minister of Health and demanded by the House of Commons.
Preston Manning ReformLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, did the Prime Minister even read Premier Harris' letter? Harris did not break the deal. He confirmed his commitment to compensation to victims between 1986 and 1990. Then he expanded that compensation to victims before 1986, and what kind of response does he get from the government? Insults.
Are the government's attacks on Premier Harris not really designed to scuttle these negotiations rather than to help the victims of hepatitis C?
Jean Chrétien LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, it is not a question of insults.
On Friday the ministers of health of all the provinces had a telephone conference. The president of that group, the minister of health from Saskatchewan, made a public statement on behalf of everybody, on behalf of everybody. It was within hours that the Premier of Ontario disavowed the minister of health of Ontario. I do not know how she can still remain the minister of health.
Here the government speaks with one voice, the Prime Minister and the Minister of Health.
Grant Hill Reform Macleod, AB
Mr. Speaker, it is interesting that during the conference call on Friday all the ministers said that they accept the old deal.
Premier Harris today is still accepting the old deal, but what he has done bravely is said that there must be a new deal for the other individuals.
I have a question for the Prime Minister. Does he accept that principle? Yes or no. Are they to negotiate or say no?
Jean Chrétien LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, in reply to the hon. member, on Friday they all said that there should be in the statement further compensation for the pre-1986 victims. Go and read the statement before opening your mouth.
