Debates of May 30th, 2013

St. Lawrence River Week

[Jean-François Fortin, Bloc, Haute-Gaspésie—La Mitis—Matane—Matapédia, QC]

Mr. Speaker, on Monday, 22 partners working to raise awareness about the St. Lawrence River announced the first edition of Semaine du Saint-Laurent, which will be held from June 7 to 15.

This is a commendable initiative that deserves our support, as it is impossible to imagine Quebec without the St. Lawrence. Our majestic waterway is as big as a country. Given the growing number and complexity of the environmental, economic and social challenges facing this vital artery of the Quebec nation, the Bloc Québécois has made the St. Lawrence a priority.

In 2005, and then in 2010, we conducted two major consultations with all those living along the river, and we produced well-researched reports reflecting Quebec's vision, values and ways of doing things. The Bloc Québécois' 2010-15 report makes 31 recommendations.

During the Semaine du Saint-Laurent we will again stand with all those who are committed to defending and promoting our river. Hooray for the St. Lawrence.

Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer

[Kyle Seeback, Conservative, Brampton West, ON]

Mr. Speaker, on June 8 and 9, I will join with thousands of other riders to ride over 200 kilometres to raise money for cancer research, in my third Enbridge Ride to Conquer Cancer.

This year I will ride in memory of both my mother Patricia and my father Donald, who both passed away from cancer.

The money raised from the Ride to Conquer Cancer will benefit the Campbell Family Cancer Research Institute at the Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, one of the top five cancer research hospitals in the world.

In 2012, the Ride to Conquer Cancer raised $44.3 million, of which $18.1 million was raised in Ontario.

As my own family has proven, two in five Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. I want to thank everyone who has taken the time to support me on this ride.

Together we can conquer cancer in our lifetime.

Canadian Federation of Students

[Ryan Cleary, NDP, St. John's South—Mount Pearl, NL]

Mr. Speaker, the average student debt in this country, in terms of federal and provincial loans, stands at $28,000. That is how Canadian students are expected to begin their careers. I say “expected” because if the debt is not bad enough, the unemployment rate for young Canadians is 14.5%, more than double other age groups.

This is the first generation of young Canadians who will not live as well as their parents. For example, pensions and benefits are under constant attack.

Canadian students have much to talk about, and they will get the chance to do that this week during the annual general meeting of the Canadian Federation of Students, Canada's oldest and largest student organization.

On behalf of New Democrats, I welcome student representatives from across the country and say to them that their fight, the fight for affordable and accessible education for all Canadians, is our fight.

Cellular Towers

[Terence Young, Conservative, Oakville, ON]

Mr. Speaker, Citizens for Safe Technology, C4ST, is calling for caution with respect to cellular tower antennas that emit radio frequency radiation.

The World Health Organization says RF radiation is “possibly carcinogenic”, and some people suffer physical symptoms from it, including the former head of the World Health Organization, Dr. Gro Brundtland.

The children at West Wind Montessori Junior High, in Oakville, have researched the issue. They know that children are more at risk to RF radiation and decided to take Wi-Fi out of their own school.

The Federation of Canadian Municipalities template for public consultation is voluntary and leaves a gaping loophole, which is the existing structures.

In Oakville, Bell Canada has by stealth placed multiple antennas just 11 metres from a child's bedroom. Its business is booming, and legally it does not have to care. However, ethically, how can Bell callously ignore the legitimate health concerns of Canadians, many of whom are its own customers?

Today I call on Bell Canada, for the second time in this House, to listen to the children and move the Bell antennas away from homes and schools.

Emergency Medical Services Week

[Ralph Goodale, Liberal, Wascana, SK]

Mr. Speaker, this is Emergency Medical Services Week across Canada, and Canadian paramedics have a message that we should take to heart: defibrillators save lives. Every year, over 35,000 Canadians die of sudden cardiac arrest. Having quick access to a nearby defibrillator can help save them, and the chances of survival can go up by 75%.

The Government of Canada owns, operates or regulates a vast array of facilities. However, there is no consistent national policy on defibrillators. Some departments and agencies have them, but about half do not. The RCMP cannot say how many it has, and neither can Public Works Canada.

Paramedic Chiefs of Canada asks that all federal facilities be properly equipped with defibrillators, and The Heart and Stroke Foundation agrees.

Cardiac arrest can happen to anyone at any time. The Government of Canada should be a role model, adopting one consistent national policy and putting life-saving defibrillators in every facility under federal jurisdiction.

Iran

[James Bezan, Conservative, Selkirk—Interlake, MB]

Mr. Speaker, in the Islamic Republic of Iran, dissent has been horrifically suppressed. There are 2,600 political prisoners in Iran who are deprived of any form of due process. They are suffering through inhumane conditions. They are raped, tortured and secretly executed.

The member for Mount Royal has started the Iranian political prisoner global efficacy project, and I am speaking on behalf of Hamid Ghassemi-Shall. Hamid is an Iranian Canadian from Toronto, who was arrested in Iran in 2008. His brother, Alborz, was arrested just two weeks before. Hamid was sentenced to death in a show trial, on falsified charges of espionage. In prison, Hamid and Alborz were physically and psychologically tortured and spent 18 months in solitary confinement. Alborz eventually died.

There is no greater threat to international peace and security than the Iranian regime. We must not forget the daily atrocities going on inside Iran. This week is Iran accountability week, but it cannot stop here. We must hold the violent, sadistic and brutal leaders of Iran accountable on every single day of the year and continue to advocate for the release of all political prisoners, like Hamid Ghassemi-Shall.

Fairchild TV

[Don Davies, NDP, Vancouver Kingsway, BC]

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the founding of Fairchild TV in Canada. Since 1993, Fairchild Television has been offering high-quality, Canadian-produced, Chinese-language programming across our nation.

Canada is a vibrant nation with people from every country in the globe. It is important that all Canadians are reflected in our institutions, including the media. Fairchild TV offers Chinese Canadians news and entertainment in the Chinese language, and it is a vital source of communication that allows many citizens to more fully participate in Canadian life.

For those who are still learning Canada's official languages, Fairchild helps newcomers learn about Canada. For second and subsequent generations, Fairchild is a valuable link to their heritage and keeps the Chinese language vibrant and alive. For all viewers, Fairchild provides professional and excellent journalism that makes our democracy stronger.

Congratulations to Fairchild TV, and best wishes for continued success in the next 20 years and beyond.

International Trade

[Wai Young, Conservative, Vancouver South, BC]

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise on behalf of my constituents in Vancouver South who are proud to live in Canada's most Asian city. As such, Vancouver and B.C. are the gateway to the Asia–Pacific, where China is Canada's second-largest trading partner and where our Minister of International Trade has been working hard to expand trade with these growing economies.

Having been elected by my colleagues, I am honoured to represent Canada as the co-chair of the Canada–China Legislative Association. Recently, I met with my Chinese counterpart, Mr. Chi Wanchun, and travelled to a number of cities in China to identify opportunities and explore areas where both our countries can grow and prosper. It is a pleasure to witness the successes of Canadian companies working hard abroad, such as Vancouver-based Teekay Shipping, one of the world's largest marine energy transportation, storage and production companies.

Our government continues to build strong networks and economic ties in the Pacific sentry to benefit my constituents of Vancouver South as well as people across Canada.

Bilateral Trade with Chile

[Randy Hoback, Conservative, Prince Albert, SK]

Mr. Speaker, as chair of the Canadian section of ParlAmericas, I have had the honour of hosting a luncheon today for a delegation of Chilean deputados.

Canada has had a long-standing diplomatic relationship with Chile, since 1940. In 1997, the Canada–Chile free trade agreement came into force, eliminating tariffs on 75% of the goods traded between our two countries. This remains a historic moment, as it marked Canada's first bilateral free trade agreement in South America, and the first of many trade agreements for Chile.

Canada has maintained close diplomatic relations, as shown by the Prime Minister's two visits to Chile, the first of which was in 2007, when he announced the Canada–Chile partnership framework, and the most recent in 2012, to enhance Canada's Chile free trade agreement. The results are that bilateral trade has more than tripled, reaching almost $3 billion in 2011. Between 2002 and 2011, Canada was the largest source of new investment for Chile.

With the signing of the most recent FTA, our government is proudly demonstrating its resolve to keep developing relations with like-minded partners in the hemisphere.

World Oceans Day

[Megan Leslie, NDP, Halifax, NS]

Mr. Speaker, happy World Oceans Day. Our oceans play a hugely important role in keeping us healthy and happy, and they are vital to our economy, particularly for our coastal regions. World Oceans Day, originally proposed by Canada in 1992, will be celebrated this year on June 8, and preceded by a week of events.

Next week I hope the government will finally table a credible plan to protect our oceans. A credible plan would address the impacts of climate change, rising sea level and air pollutants; preventing ocean acidification and its impact on marine ecosystems; declining fish stocks, worth billions of dollars to Canada's economy; and the increase in Canada's marine-protected areas, from the current 1% to our international obligation of 10%. I am hopeful for this plan, but under the Conservatives with their track record on environment, I am not optimistic.

The reality is that climate change does not respect borders. Damage to our oceans has international repercussions. World Oceans Day offers the opportunity to reflect on how Canada can take that necessary leadership to effect positive change at the global level.

Members of the New Democratic Party

[Chris Alexander, Conservative, Ajax—Pickering, ON]

Mr. Speaker, unpaid taxes hurt every honest worker and taxpayer. The Auditor General was clear: billions of dollars are slipping through our collective hands.

We thought that the NDP was on board. In fact, the hon. member for Brossard—La Prairie and former NDP revenue critic had this to say about the subject: “We are talking about revenue that Canada is losing through fraudulent means. I cannot see why we would not address these problems.”

To the astonishment of Canadians, that same member and his colleague, the hon. member for Jeanne-Le Ber, owe tens of thousands of dollars in unpaid taxes.

If the NDP wants to lecture anyone on the importance of following the rules and paying one's fair share, then the Leader of the Opposition should start with his own caucus.

We stand united on this side in saying to our colleagues across the way: “Pay your taxes.”

Volunteerism

[Pierre Jacob, NDP, Brome—Missisquoi, QC]

Mr. Speaker, the city of Magog's 28th volunteer gala was held in my riding on May 25, and it was attended by 625 people representing 79 organizations.

We are proud to have such a large number of dedicated volunteers. Areas as diverse as sport, family support and the environment benefit from the contributions of volunteers, who are an essential part of the fabric of every community.

As the MP for Brome—Missisquoi, I would like to thank them for their dedication and the excellent work they do.

Brome—Missisquoi is a vibrant region thanks to the efforts of volunteers. I am proud to represent them in the House of Commons.

I would also like to draw members' attention to the presence of Jean Pierre Lefebvre, a filmmaker and resident of Brome—Missisquoi who has received the Governor General's Performing Arts Award.

Once again, congratulations and thank you.

Leader of the Liberal Party of Canada

[Cheryl Gallant, Conservative, Renfrew—Nipissing—Pembroke, ON]

Mr. Speaker, the leader of the Liberal Party has withheld for weeks that one of his senators, Senator Merchant, has millions of dollars in an offshore account. He still has not addressed the matter.

Clearly the Liberal leader is in over his head when it comes to tackling the Senate problems. In fact, he came out over the weekend saying he believes that the Senate should not change at all because as it stands now it benefits Quebec.

He also made it clear, time and time again, that he thinks some Canadians are better than others. Those who speak just one of our national languages, he called “lazy”. He says our country is better served when Quebeckers are in charge than Albertans. He even says he would separate our great nation if given the chance.

However, Canadians will not give him the chance to divide and destroy Canada's national interests. Canadians know it is our Conservative government that will defend the interests of all Canadians at home and abroad no matter what part of the country they are from.

The leader of the Liberal Party is in over his head when it comes to understanding the Senate and Canada's national interests.

Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute

[Frank Valeriote, Liberal, Guelph, ON]

Mr. Speaker, it was famously said, “if music be the food of love, play on; Give me excess of it...”. In the creative capital of Guelph, no one goes hungry for good music.

After an outstanding second place finish at Musicfest, Canada's national competition in Ottawa last year, Guelph Collegiate Vocational Institute's symphonic band came back home more determined than ever, and this year it brought home the gold.

Along with its conductor and GCVI teacher Dan Austin, the band blew away judges with its performances of Gale Force, Grasp the Dream and A Scottish Ballade, securing the top spot with its extraordinary musical display.

Everyone involved has my deepest admiration. It took a lot of practice, dedication, talent and much sacrifice to put together a first-place winning band.

On behalf of all members in the House, I would like to extend our sincerest congratulations to GCVI's symphonic band. We look forward to all of its future successes.

Democratic Reform

[David Wilks, Conservative, Kootenay—Columbia, BC]

Mr. Speaker, we made a promise to Canadians to fix Senate expense rules, and we have delivered. The Senate adopted our Conservative government's 11 tough new rules governing Senate travel and expenses proposed by Conservative senators.

Our government is focused on reforming the Senate, including elections, term limits and tough spending oversight.

While we are ensuring that the Senate is more accountable to taxpayers, the Liberal leader is defending the status quo, demanding that the Senate remain unelected and unaccountable because it is an advantage for Quebec.

Furthermore, the Liberal leader has known for weeks that Liberal Senator Pana Merchant is hiding $1.7 million in an offshore bank account. It is time for the Liberal leader to tell Canadians why she still sits in his caucus.

Prime Minister of Canada

[Lysane Blanchette-Lamothe, NDP, Pierrefonds—Dollard, QC]

Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the leader of the NDP asked the Prime Minister the following question: “...in a typical day, how many times does the Prime Minister speak with his chief of staff?” The question was simple. The Prime Minister could have said two times, three times, five times or 10 times, but no. The Prime Minister said, and I quote, “Mr. Speaker, I do not understand the question.”

When a prime minister does not understand such a simple question—how many times did he meet with his chief of staff over the course of a day—we are in trouble. He is supposed to be running this country.

Canadians deserve better. They deserve a prime minister who is on top of things, a prime minister who knows what is going on in his own office, a prime minister who understands a simple question about how many times he met with his chief of staff.

Unfortunately, Canadians will have to wait, but in 2015 we will be there to put an end to this nonsense.

Ethics

[David Anderson, Conservative, Cypress Hills—Grasslands, SK]

Mr. Speaker, it has been over a month since media revealed that a Liberal senator was the beneficiary of an offshore account set up in the South Pacific. Yet this tax-evading senator refuses to answer questions and she remains a member of the Liberal caucus despite an ongoing investigation.

The Liberal leader here and the Liberal opposition leader in the Senate know the details, but they have done nothing to hold her to account. They even let her remain in their caucus despite the investigation. This do nothing, defend the status quo approach to the Senate is unacceptable.

Frankly, this poor judgment from the Liberal leader is not surprising. He is, after all, the same leader who said that the Senate should not change because it was set up to Quebec's advantage.

The Liberal leader and his Liberal senators should stop defending the Senate status quo and hold the senator to account. When will he stand and prove that he is not just in over his head?

[Megan Leslie, NDP, Halifax, NS]

Mr. Speaker, the New Democrats have asked straightforward questions, but we have not received straight answers from the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister went from full support of Mr. Wright to accepting his resignation. He declared Mr. Wright's actions honourable and then said that he should have told him sooner.

Could the Prime Minister now tell us why, in his opinion, Nigel Wright was wrong?

[James Moore, Conservative, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages]

Mr. Speaker, indeed, it was inappropriate for Nigel Wright to do what he did, which is why he took sole responsibility for his actions and resigned. That is the view of the Prime Minister. It is the view I think of all Canadians.

What is equally the view of all Canadians is that the leader of the NDP come forward with what he knew about corruption in the city of Montreal. In 1994, he was offered a bribe. In 2010, he said that it did not happen. In 2011, he met with police. Just two weeks ago that he came clean and said that the whole affair happened.

What is it about corruption in Montreal that the NDP leader is trying to hide?

[Megan Leslie, NDP, Halifax, NS]

Mr. Speaker, the Conservatives are still refusing to answer questions about a possible cover-up directed by the PMO. They can spin all they want, but all they are showing is that they cannot answer basic questions.

This morning we learned that Senator Bert Brown claimed $43,000 in travel expenses for the quarter in which the last federal election was held. Do the Conservatives consider it appropriate for a senator to use taxpayers' money to travel during an election?

[James Moore, Conservative, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages]

Mr. Speaker, the money used to pay for all Conservative campaign expenditures during the 2004, 2006, 2008 and 2011 elections was our money. No taxpayers' money was used. This was made very clear in all of our submissions to Elections Canada. That is the truth.

As the Prime Minister said on Tuesday, anyone who holds public office, whether in the House of Commons or the Senate, must respect taxpayers' money.

[Megan Leslie, NDP, Halifax, NS]

Mr. Speaker, does the government believe it is appropriate to pay severance to a disgraced employee who resigned from the Prime Minister's Office?

[James Moore, Conservative, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages]

Mr. Speaker, Mr. Wright will receive only what is required by law and nothing more.

[David Christopherson, NDP, Hamilton Centre, ON]

Mr. Speaker, in October 2005, the current Prime Minister asked the Liberal government of the day about the severance package for David Dingwall. He said, “not a single expert has come forward to say that there is an entitlement to severance when one quits a job”.

What made the Prime Minister change his mind?

[James Moore, Conservative, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages]

Mr. Speaker, as I just finished saying for the member for Halifax in French, Mr. Wright will receive only what is required by law and nothing more. It is quite simple.

What is equally required in our country for accountability and responsibility is again for the leader of the New Democratic Party to come forward on this issue of corruption in the city of Montreal. He met in 1994, and said that it did not happen 10 years later. In 2011, he met with police. Only two weeks ago he came clean about this.

What is it about corruption in Montreal that the NDP leader is trying to cover up and who is he trying to cover up for his advantage?