Debates of March 27th, 2013

Aerospace Industry

[Hélène LeBlanc, NDP, LaSalle—Émard, QC]

Mr. Speaker, I would like to point out that urgent action is needed. The Emerson report shows that the government fell asleep at the wheel. We do not expect planes or aircraft, but we see that the government has been asleep at the wheel for a few years and that it has some catching up to do. Now is not the time to wait. Now is the time to act. The measures proposed in the budget will take effect in 2014-15.

What is more, we are wondering about the aerospace technology demonstration program. Will this program be enough? Will the government really take action? Once again, I would like to remind my colleague that neither the Minister of Industry nor the Prime Minister has sent a clear message saying that the aerospace industry is a strategic sector that must be included on the science and technology program list.

[Candice Bergen, Conservative, Portage—Lisgar, MB]

Mr. Speaker, Canada's aerospace industry is anchoring thousands of high-skill jobs across our country.

Our government knows that innovation, ideas and ingenuity are what will matter in tomorrow's economy. Innovation is the best way for high-wage economies like ours to compete with countries around the world and to create jobs here at home.

Economic action plan 2013 demonstrates the government's commitment to encouraging innovation in the aerospace and space industries, with stable funding of nearly $1 billion over five years to the strategic aerospace and defence initiative, the creation of an aerospace technology demonstration program and the launch of consultations for the creation of a national aerospace research and technology network.

We are supporting this important industry and we will continue to do so.

[The Acting Speaker, Conservative, Barry Devolin]

The motion to adjourn the House is now deemed to have been adopted. Accordingly, the House stands adjourned until tomorrow at 10 a.m. pursuant to Standing Order 24(1).

(The House adjourned at 9:33 p.m.)