House of Commons Hansard #173 of the 41st Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was air.

Topics

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

The Speaker Conservative Andrew Scheer

It being Wednesday, we will now have the singing of our national anthem led by the hon. member for Mississauga East—Cooksville.

[Members sang the national anthem]

Official LanguagesStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

Royal Galipeau Conservative Ottawa—Orléans, ON

Mr. Speaker, my message today is not scary.

The summit of the États généraux de la francophonie d'Ottawa will be held on November 17 and 18.

It will be held at the University of Ottawa's brand new social sciences building. The summit will cap off the extensive public consultation of this capital's citizenry.

The objective of the estates general is to identify the priorities of francophones and francophiles in Ottawa, to ensure that the language of Rabelais remains alive and well in our nation's capital.

Over the past year, the estates general team has hosted more than 30 cafés across the city to allow residents to express their views on various issues relating to Ottawa's French language and culture.

I was honoured to participate in several of these cafés. I invite all of my fellow citizens to the University of Ottawa on November 17 and 18 to dream of Ottawa. To sign up, please visit jereveottawa.ca.

All Saints Anglican ChurchStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

NDP

Peter Julian NDP Burnaby—New Westminster, BC

Mr. Speaker, November 2 is a day of celebration in Burnaby. It marks 100 years of continuous presence of All Saints Anglican Church as a key member of our community and our faith community. Situated on the south slope of Burnaby since 1912, All Saints Anglican Church has provided 100 years of service to families, children and seniors, ministering to their spiritual and social needs and lovingly welcoming persons of all persuasions to its many programs.

I rise today to honour this important anniversary. Generation after generation, our community has had the good fortune to benefit from the parish of All Saints Anglican Church's leadership and guidance. We are very grateful for that and for it setting a high standard of service and dedication.

This week, the church will celebrate with a series of events that honour its past accomplishments and its service and commitment to the people for 100 years.

I say congratulations on behalf of my constituents of the rich and diverse community of Burnaby—New Westminster for 100 years of faith and fellowship in Burnaby.

South Shore—St. Margaret'sStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

Gerald Keddy Conservative South Shore—St. Margaret's, NS

Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to recognize two significant accomplishments in my riding of South Shore—St. Margaret's.

First, I want to recognize Bailey Cameron. Bailey is from Woods Harbour, Shelburne County, and she plays on the bantam girls baseball team. Bailey will be playing with the Canadian junior girls national team in Cuba this February and is the only Nova Scotian to make the team.

I say, “Way to go, Bailey”. Her hard work has paid off and her community is exceptionally proud of her achievement. On behalf of the Parliament of Canada, I say congratulations and wish her the best of luck in Cuba.

Second, I would like to recognize the relaunch of the Bluenose II. The Bluenose is steeped in Nova Scotia legend and is part of our nautical history. From the Lunenburg Shipyard Alliance, which did the refit, to the present captain and crew of the Bluenose II, I offer my congratulations to all who have been involved in this historic project, for truly the Bluenose is sailing once again.

UkraineStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Kevin Lamoureux Liberal Winnipeg North, MB

Mr. Speaker, with well over one million people living in Canada with Ukrainian heritage, it is easy to understand why so many have an interest in what happens in Ukraine. This past weekend I was in Lviv, Ukraine, and had the opportunity to visit political parties, the election commission and a polling station on election day.

Ukraine having an independent electoral commission is a good thing, however, I question its ability to enforce election law compliance. Based on some of the questions that I asked about the electoral process, it is clear that some rules are not being enforced.

Strong election laws and procedures for all stakeholders are critically important. Ensuring compliance to election laws is very complicated and expensive but it is an absolute must. Even Elections Canada needs to improve on this point.

All in all, from what I could see, the people of Ukraine are, at the very least, participating in the democratic election, but there is a need for a more powerful, independent election commission.

Building public confidence in an electoral process takes political goodwill, strong electoral laws and the knowledge that there is a consequence to those individuals or parties that try to cheat.

Events in St. PaulStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

Brian Storseth Conservative Westlock—St. Paul, AB

Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to speak about the tragic event that struck our community of St. Paul, Alberta, last Thursday when a van drove through a window of a grade six classroom of Racette Junior High, resulting in the death of one student and injuring several others.

I would like to extend my condolences to the Wolitski family who are suffering with the loss of their daughter, Megan. Our community's thoughts and prayers are with those still in hospital, as well as all the children, families and teachers who were affected by this tragedy.

It is important to also acknowledge the tremendous bravery demonstrated by the first responders. Whether they were teachers, paramedics or volunteer firefighters, they all placed themselves in harm's way without a thought to their own personal safety and deserve to be commended. I would also like to thank the superintendent of schools, Mr. Glen Brodziak, for his leadership throughout.

When senseless tragedies like this occur, they strike at the heart of each and every parent. Today, I encourage Canadians across our country to hold their children just a little bit tighter.

Employment Insurance ReformStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

NDP

Christine Moore NDP Abitibi—Témiscamingue, QC

Mr. Speaker, in my riding, workers in forestry, farming, tourism and many other industries are worried about the changes to EI and the negative impact of the working while on claim pilot project.

In La Sarre, the head of a forestry company told us that a number of workers were already preparing to change fields if the reform was implemented. It will become too difficult to earn a living in forestry with the new reform.

In Amos, the head of an animal shelter is wondering whether he will be able to find qualified guides for future seasons. A bus company in the region is wondering whether it will be able to find part-time drivers during off-peak times.

And in the agricultural sector, farmers are worried that the workers they have trained will find more stable jobs elsewhere come spring.

All of these businesses and workers will be directly affected by this reform. The minister is jeopardizing a region's economy, and in doing so is proving her incompetence.

Brantford Blast HockeyStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Phil McColeman Conservative Brant, ON

Mr. Speaker, constituents in my riding need look no further than the Brantford civic centre for a source of exciting entertainment to fill this year's NHL void.

The Brantford Blast has been providing my community with high-flying entertainment since 2002. People are excited about the depth of this year's team as it embarks on a journey toward the Allan Cup.

It was a pleasure to be at the Blast home opener this past Friday where Blast owner and cancer survivor Peter Ham launched his “Pink the Rink” fundraiser. Teaming up with the Brant-Norfolk cancer society, the Blast committed funds from pink merchandise and ticket sales to the fight against breast cancer. Fans came dressed in pink and were treated to a 7-3 Blast victory, led by the dynamic one-two tandem of Mike Ruberto and Jon Jankus.

I offer my congratulations to Peter Ham and the Brantford Blast for their commitment to our community. We wish them best of luck for another exciting season and their drive to hoist the Allan Cup.

Chief of Defence StaffStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Ray Boughen Conservative Palliser, SK

Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to announce in the House that the Prime Minister and the Governor General performed the change of command ceremony to install the Chief of Defence Staff of the Canadian Forces this past Monday.

I would like to congratulate General Thomas Lawson on his appointment to this role, while thanking the outgoing General Walt Natynczyk for his exemplary service to our country.

General Lawson is a former fighter pilot, with 37 years of experience, serving most recently as the deputy commander of the North American Aerospace Defense Command in Colorado. Looking at his background, I know that General Lawson's experience and military acumen will place the Canadian Forces in good hands for the future.

My riding is home to the famed Canadian Snowbirds, as well as NATO flying training in Canada. I know that the pilots and pilots-in-training will greatly benefit from the leadership of our new general.

The Glace Bay Miners' MuseumStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

NDP

Robert Chisholm NDP Dartmouth—Cole Harbour, NS

Mr. Speaker, the National Arts Centre recently opened its new season with a production called The Glace Bay Miners' Museum. Based on a novel by Sheldon Currie of Antigonish and set in beautiful Cape Breton, it is a fantastic show that I would recommend to every member in the House. It runs until November 3.

Not only is it entertaining, it was written by one our own, the former MP for Dartmouth and celebrated playwright Wendy Lill.

This show was first introduced to Nova Scotian audiences in 1995 to great acclaim and it was no different here in Ottawa. Paula and I were pleased and proud to be in the audience with Wendy and her husband, Richard, and to join the rest of the audience who gave the play and its performers a rousing standing ovation.

It is worth noting that, along with Wendy, there were several people from Dartmouth involved in the production: the director, Mary Vingoe; the music director, Paul Cram; and two of the actors, Jeff Schwager and Francine Deschepper.

I offer my congratulations to all and say thanks for a great show.

Canadian MunicipalitiesStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Jacques Gourde Conservative Lotbinière—Chutes-de-la-Chaudière, QC

Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes the importance of municipal governments because they represent communities across the country. That is why we are implementing measures to help them, for example, by making the gas tax transfer permanent.

We are proud that the municipalities support our positive measures in relation to the changes to the Navigable Waters Protection Act, saying that:

The changes...will allow local governments to spend less time processing paperwork for small...projects...that result in higher costs for property tax payers.

However, the Leader of the Opposition does not trust the municipalities on this issue and says that they merely want to expand their tax base. He said that they refer to local and municipal authorities. They have a direct interest in expanding their tax base, and they have a tendency to approve anything and everything.

While the leader of the NDP is insulting Canadian municipalities, the Conservative government continues to work with them to implement positive reforms that will create jobs and stimulate economic growth.

Status of WomenStatements By Members

October 31st, 2012 / 2:10 p.m.

NDP

Niki Ashton NDP Churchill, MB

Mr. Speaker, I rise in the House today to express the concern and outrage I am hearing from Canadian women across the country. They have raised their voices to say that when the member for Saskatoon—Wanuskewin awarded medals of honour to anti-choice activists he crossed the line.

In the Conservative Party of Canada, the anti-choice movement has found a powerful ally. Linda Gibbons and Mary Wagner, both convicted criminals, represent a major threat to our hard-won reproductive rights. Every time they violate the provincial injunctions to keep women safe, they give strength to those people who think women deserve to be harassed, assaulted and even physically harmed when they seek health care in Canada. For the member opposite to be honouring this kind of behaviour is nothing short of outrageous.

This is not the first instance of a Conservative war on women's rights, but the latest in a pattern of anti-choice actions. From Motion No. 312 to Motion No. 408, we are witnessing just how far the Prime Minister will allow his caucus to push back the clock on a woman's right to choose.

Thankfully, the New Democrats will not stand for it and neither will the women of Canada.

Member for FrederictonStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

John Williamson Conservative New Brunswick Southwest, NB

Mr. Speaker, I wish to report that the hon. member for Fredericton is resting and recovering after successful bypass heart surgery last week.

Our good friend from Fredericton is a dedicated public servant who has worked hard for New Brunswick and, indeed, our nation. Before being named to cabinet by the Prime Minister, the hon. gentleman served in the cabinet of New Brunswick.

I hope all members of Parliament will join me in expressing our hope that our colleague will have a smooth and speedy recovery and will soon rejoin us in this great chamber. He and his wife Judy are in our prayers.

Figure SkatingStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Judy Foote Liberal Random—Burin—St. George's, NL

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a talented and engaging young woman originally from Marystown in my riding of Random—Burin—St. George's.

This past weekend, 16-year-old Kaetlyn Osmond won the gold medal at Skate Canada International. Last month, Kaetlyn won another gold medal at the Nebelhorn Trophy competition in Germany. She won her first gold medal at a national figure skating competition when she was 10 years old.

Kaetlyn's next goal is to win the National Figure Skating Championships in Mississauga in January. That win could entitle her to represent Canada at the World Figure Skating Championships in March. Her ultimate goal is to be a member of the Canadian team at the 2014 Winter Olympics in Russia.

Kaetlyn's talent was obvious at an early age when she started skating before the age of two. Her parents, Jackie and Jeff, were determined to help their daughter realize her dreams by first moving to Montreal and then to Alberta where Kaetlyn was able to advance in the sport she loves.

I ask all members to join me in congratulating Kaetlyn, not only on her gold medal performance at Skate Canada International, but on all of her accomplishments as we wish her continued success.

New Democratic Party of CanadaStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

LaVar Payne Conservative Medicine Hat, AB

Mr. Speaker, this evening, ghosts, goblins, pirates and witches will haunt the streets in communities across the country. Children will go door to door hoping for delicious treats like candy, chips and chocolate. Some will scream at the haunts they see along their way, others will play funny tricks on one another. Halloween is a fun time for children and a great time for families as a whole.

Unfortunately, on Halloween, the NDP would threaten this spooky fun with its haunting $21 billion carbon tax and would raise the price on everything Canadians love this time of year.

Luckily, Canadians across the country can count on our Conservative government to keep taxes low and not impose higher prices on these festive things they love, like pumpkins, candies and costumes.

Why does the NDP leader want to play this terrible, expensive trick on hard-working Canadian families?

Conservative Party of CanadaStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

NDP

Nathan Cullen NDP Skeena—Bulkley Valley, BC

Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons stood in this House and had the audacity to complain about mistruths in members' statements. He was not even trying to be ironic.

The fact is clear to anyone watching that the Conservatives have been propagating outright mistruths in their statements. Propagating falsehoods is nothing new for them. They conveniently ignore their own record when it comes to putting a price on carbon. The Prime Minister himself promised a $65 a ton price. The Conservatives' election platform committed to a cap and trade system and yet the government House leader is content to watch his MPs stand day after day in the House and repeat statements known to be untrue.

The New Democrats miss hearing about the great events happening in Conservative ridings, so I will make a pledge today. If the Conservatives commit to throwing away their PMO talking points and the daily regurgitation of falsehoods, we will commit to stop doing their jobs for them by talking about the wonderful people and events in their ridings.

New Democratic Party of CanadaStatements By Members

2:20 p.m.

Conservative

Corneliu Chisu Conservative Pickering—Scarborough East, ON

Mr. Speaker, today, on Halloween, Canadians from coast to coast to coast are frightened by the spooky NDP and the very scary carbon tax. The $21 billion very scary carbon tax would raise the price of Halloween treats everywhere. Even Count Dracula himself is frightened by the very scary carbon tax proposed by the spooky NDP. The count himself says, “The carbon tax would result in costly candy and pumped-up pumpkin prices”.

While vampires suck blood from their victims, the NDP's very scary carbon tax would suck money from Canadians' pockets.

Mr. Speaker, I do not want to tax your carbon, but the NDP's Halloween trick is a terrifying tax. That is why Canadians are calling on us to put a stake through the heart of the horrendous hair-raising carbon tax.

Happy Halloween.

Foreign InvestmentOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Outremont Québec

NDP

Thomas Mulcair NDPLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, on the eve of the ratification of the Canada-China Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement, the Conservatives have failed to consult Parliament or Canadians. They are trying to tie the hands of Canadians for 31 years with no study, no debate and no consultation.

The Conservatives have brought to Parliament the trade deals with Costa Rica, Jordan and Panama, so why not this trade deal with China? Why will the Prime Minister not allow this constraining deal with China to even be debated in Parliament? Will he delay the ratification until this agreement with China has been properly studied here in the House?

Foreign InvestmentOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Calgary Southwest Alberta

Conservative

Stephen Harper ConservativePrime Minister

Mr. Speaker, for almost two decades, Canadian governments have been trying to get a foreign investment protection and promotion agreement with China for one very simple reason: Canadian investors have not had the kind of protection in China that Chinese investors have in Canada.

This agreement would allow us to move forward. That is why it has seen an almost entirely positive response from Canadian investors. They want to see this go forward and we are committed to giving them the kind of protection they need.

Foreign InvestmentOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Outremont Québec

NDP

Thomas Mulcair NDPLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister said:

It is a very fundamental constitutional principle that a previous government cannot bind the actions of a future government.

A year has not even passed since the Prime Minister said that and now he is trying to tie the hands of future governments for 31 years.

I want to be very clear. The Conservatives will not tie the hands of the NDP. We will revoke this agreement if it is not in the best interests of Canadians.

Why will the Prime Minister not allow the study of this deal? What does he have to hide?

Foreign InvestmentOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Calgary Southwest Alberta

Conservative

Stephen Harper ConservativePrime Minister

Mr. Speaker, the leader of the NDP says that he would revoke the hard-earned right of Canadian investors to be protected in a marketplace like China. That is precisely why Canadian investors, the Canadian business community and the Canadian public at large do not trust the NDP with economic policy.

We know that China is an important market. We know that Canadians need investment protection there. This agreement does that and we are very pleased to be moving it forward.

Foreign InvestmentOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Outremont Québec

NDP

Thomas Mulcair NDPLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, the New Democrats support trade. We just do not support selling out Canada.

This agreement with China will have a major impact on matters like the Nexen deal. I would remind the Prime Minister that the deadline is only 11 days away and that the criteria used to make a decision were never made public. This agreement with China raises many concerns. The arbitration process will be kept secret. Canadian investors will not have reciprocal access to Chinese markets.

It leaves the door wide open to lawsuits, and Canadians will pay the price. So why not consult them?

Foreign InvestmentOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

Calgary Southwest Alberta

Conservative

Stephen Harper ConservativePrime Minister

Mr. Speaker, that is completely false. For the first time, Canadian investors will have protection in China. That is why the business community is nearly 100% in favour of this agreement. We are committed to pursuing this objective.

The NDP says that it is for trade but it has opposed trade with anybody. The NDP even said that it was a sellout for Canada to have a free trade agreement with the United States. That kind of extremism on trade is why Canadians will never entrust economic policy to the NDP.

The BudgetOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

NDP

Peggy Nash NDP Parkdale—High Park, ON

Mr. Speaker, we will see.

There is also no transparency when it comes to the budget, considering the $8 billion error that occurred in calculating program expenses. The Conservatives refuse to give the Parliamentary Budget Officer the documents he needs to do his job.

Since the Conservatives do not know how to count and they refuse to provide details about the cuts and their impact on services, can they at least provide Kevin Page with the information he needs to do his job?

The BudgetOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

Whitby—Oshawa Ontario

Conservative

Jim Flaherty ConservativeMinister of Finance

Mr. Speaker, as the member opposite knows, this information has been provided to the House in various ways, through the budget, estimates and so on, with respect to the spending plans of the government.

The stimulus program that emanated from the budget in 2009 was always planned to come to an end and, in fact, it did come to an end. It was wound down. However, it was very effective. I note that the NDP voted against that stimulus plan.