House of Commons Hansard #208 of the 41st Parliament, 2nd Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was pipelines.

Topics

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

The Speaker Conservative Andrew Scheer

It being Wednesday, we will now have the singing of the national anthem, led by the hon. member for Langley.

[Members sang the national anthem]

Claude DagenaisStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Forces et Démocratie

Jean-François Larose Forces et Démocratie Repentigny, QC

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to congratulate Claude Dagenais, who spent the last 25 years building Auto-Chem in Repentigny despite the many roadblocks that financial institutions set up to thwart him.

Mr. Dagenais was recognized as exporter of the year by Lanaudière's international development association. I would especially like to congratulate him on a number of major achievements. He has passed on his know-how and business sense to his son, Jean, who now runs the company, and to the community through his mentoring work.

Despite several offers from competitors, he was committed to keeping that expertise in Repentigny and keeping his jobs in our community. Among many other things, he helped ensure that all children in the riding whose parents struggle to provide them with breakfast have a full belly before starting their school day.

Mr. Dagenais, on behalf of the people of our community, I thank you.

Sri LankaStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

Patrick Brown Conservative Barrie, ON

Mr. Speaker, this year marks the sixth anniversary of the battle of Mullivaikkal, in the Sri Lankan war, in May 2009.

I stand with the thousands of Tamils who lost family members in the final stages of the Sri Lankan genocide. This humanitarian catastrophe saw thousands of civilians shelled by the Sri Lanka government as they escaped the no-fire zone. According to the United Nations, between 40,000 and 70,000 Tamil civilians were killed during the final phase of the war in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lankan government has still failed to show progress in ensuring justice for the victims of these terrible human rights crimes.

During the month of May, Tamil Canadians from coast to coast to coast will gather to participate in multi-faith memorial services to honour their loved ones. It is also a time to reflect on the principles of peace, democracy, and equality that we are able to enjoy here in Canada.

I am proud of the many contributions Tamil Canadians have made in our country. They have embraced our cultural landscape, exemplifying the very best of the Canadian community spirit.

Multiple SclerosisStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

NDP

Kennedy Stewart NDP Burnaby—Douglas, BC

Mr. Speaker, in Canada citizens have a greater risk of developing multiple sclerosis than they do anywhere else in the world. As someone who comes from a family that has been directly impacted by this disease, I know first hand the important role we, as members of Parliament, play in supporting those affected by MS.

We must ensure that the 100,000 Canadians living with MS receive quality life-long care and support and that we continue to advocate for the hard-working caregivers who help their loved ones get through the daily challenges of life with MS. Above all, we must accelerate our research efforts for Canadians living with severe forms of this disease, for which there is no treatment or cure.

Today I am wearing a carnation to show my solidarity with the MS community. I encourage constituents in my riding to join with me by sharing this message on social media and by getting involved in a local MS event, such as an MS walk or bike tour. This statement is dedicated to my sister, Julia Stewart. I urge each of us to join the fight to end MS.

Volunteer FirefightersStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

Scott Armstrong Conservative Cumberland—Colchester—Musquodoboit Valley, NS

Mr. Speaker, late last night, in the community of Joggins, 10 Cumberland County fire departments responded to a massive fire. Seven buildings were burning, including homes, a church, and the Masonic Hall.

The responding fire departments included Joggins, River Hebert, Advocate, Port Greville, Parrsboro, Southampton, Amherst, Springhill, Leicester, and Truemanville. The Oxford department provided coverage in the Springhill area during the fire.

The vast majority of these firefighters were volunteers who left the comfort of their own homes and their families to protect the lives and property of others. Thanks to their efforts, the fire was contained and no lives were lost. It should never be lost on those of us who live in the rural parts of this country the contribution our first responders, including our firefighters, police, emergency service personal, and others make on our behalf. They spend hundreds of volunteer hours training to fight disasters just like what we saw in Joggins last night.

Our hearts and prayers go out to the community members, particularly those who lost their property.

National Police WeekStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Wayne Easter Liberal Malpeque, PE

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Liberal Party, I want to acknowledge our front-line law-enforcement officers across Canada for the commitment they make each and every day to our safety and to the security of our neighbourhoods and communities.

This being National Police Week, it is important that Canadians take this opportunity to reflect on the work the men and women in uniform do, which at times places them in harm's way. Across the country, police officers and police services are present within our communities and take direct action in response to criminal activities, social unrest, and even mental health issues. As well, they contribute to public confidence in safe communities.

Throughout National Police Week, I ask all members to reflect on the contribution made not only by front-line officers but also by the members of their families. It is the families that share most directly the risks and challenges faced by those serving in police services across Canada. We thank them.

Donald SavoieStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Robert Goguen Conservative Moncton—Riverview—Dieppe, NB

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Donald Savoie, one of the laureates of the 2015 Killam Prize. These honours are awarded every year to Canadian researchers who have made outstanding contributions to research over the years.

I cannot think of a more deserving recipient than Mr. Donald Savoie, a leading expert on public policy and federalism. Professor Savoie holds the Canada Research Chair in Public Administration and Governance and is the founder of the Canadian Institute for Research on Regional Development at I'Université de Moncton.

Mr. Savoie is also an Officer of the Order of Canada, a member of the Order of New Brunswick, and a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. His published research can be widely found in bookshops from coast to coast. He is truly an expert in Canadian governance.

Congratulations, Mr. Savoie.

TributeStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

NDP

Carol Hughes NDP Algoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing, ON

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Peter Chalykoff from Wawa, who is celebrating 25 years as a deacon. Those who know Peter will attest to his eternally positive attitude and infectious engagement in the communities he serves as deacon in Wawa and Hawk Junction. His friends say he seems to know everyone and is always ready to help.

Born into a large family, Peter grew up active in the church, but his path toward becoming a deacon was not a straight line. In fact, Peter drifted away from the church as a young adult but found his way back, ultimately becoming part of a group of parishioners who wanted to serve in a larger role. Under the guidance of Fathers Randy Thomas, Jim Kessler, and Mark Vaulk, Peter studied diligently and was ordained as a permanent deacon on May 6, 1990.

A special mass to celebrate Peter's silver anniversary will be held this Saturday at St. Monica's Catholic Church where friends, family, and the congregation will show their appreciation for Peter Chalykoff and his 25 years of faithful service to the community.

Congratulations, Peter.

Multiple SclerosisStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Laurie Hawn Conservative Edmonton Centre, AB

Mr. Speaker, Canada has the highest rate of multiple sclerosis in the world. Not only do 100,000 Canadians live with the disease, but their families, friends, and communities do as well.

As Canadians, we have a two times greater risk of developing MS than if we lived in France, a 13 times greater risk than if we lived in Argentina, and a 27 times greater risk than if we lived in Pakistan. MS is Canada's disease, and we have to join to fight across the nation.

The unpredictability and sometimes invisible nature of this disease creates a challenge for Canadians living with MS and their caregivers, as it affects their employment and financial security as a result. Canadians with MS need our support to ensure continued employment, while respecting the daily challenges they face.

Today and for the month of May, MS Awareness Month, Canadians are wearing carnations to show solidarity with the MS community in the fight against MS. I urge each of us to join this fight to end MS in our lifetime and to affect positive change in the lives of those impacted by the disease today.

Member for Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—BrockStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Barry Devolin Conservative Haliburton—Kawartha Lakes—Brock, ON

Mr. Speaker, about six weeks from now, this House will rise for the last time in the 41st Parliament, and I will be one of the more than 35 MPs who have decided to leave this place, by choice.

I have enjoyed the 11 years I have spent here, but like all hon. members, I can only do my job because of the support I get from my staff. Therefore, I would like to thank my staff both here in Ottawa and back in Lindsay in my constituency office.

Beyond my staff, also like all members, I can only do this job because of the support I get from my family. As we approach Mother's Day, I would like to speak to the two most important women in my life, my mother, June Devolin, and my wife, Ursula Devolin. I thank them for the support they have given me over the years that allowed me to do my job in this place.

Portneuf Women's CentreStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

NDP

Élaine Michaud NDP Portneuf—Jacques-Cartier, QC

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to recognize the first anniversary of the founding of the board of directors of the Centre Femmes de Portneuf.

Created on May 8, 2014, this community organization is dedicated to providing women with a place to meet new people and talk to each other, as well as sharing information and taking concrete action to improve the conditions and quality of life of the women in the greater Portneuf area.

The staff at the Centre Femmes de Portneuf has worked very hard to make a difference and become a strong voice for the women of Portneuf.

After just one year, this centre has a number of important achievements to its credit, including establishing a women's exhibition, hosting coffee hours, creating community engagement groups, as well as promoting the services available to women in the region.

All of the work done by Julie Blackburn, chair of the board, and her entire team is quite impressive. I want to thank each and every one of those women who invest so much in making the Portneuf RCM a great place to live, where everyone is treated equally and with respect.

TaxationStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

Bryan Hayes Conservative Sault Ste. Marie, ON

Mr. Speaker, our government makes no apologies for ensuring middle class Canadians are aware of the measures that put more money back in their pockets.

For example, we want Canadians to know about the new family tax cut and enhanced universal child care benefit, which will benefit 100% of families with children, the vast majority of benefits going to low and middle-income families

The Liberal leader's plan will do the exact opposite. Instead of a family tax cut, he will bring in a family tax hike.

Unlike the NDP or the Liberals, Canadians like those in my riding of Sault Ste. Marie can depend upon this government to leave more money in their pockets.

Alberta ElectionStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

NDP

Linda Duncan NDP Edmonton Strathcona, AB

Mr. Speaker, to quote Alberta's premier-elect, “This is what change looks like”.

I think we made a bit of history last night. An early spring blizzard hit Alberta, but it did not dampen our spirits because we also experienced an orange chinook.

Albertans looked in the mirror and decided it was time for change, a monumental change. Albertans embraced Notley's message that they did not need to repeat history, instead they could make history, and make it they did, electing the first strong majority NDP government for Alberta.

The NDP ran on a platform of hope, putting families first and ensuring a genuinely sustainable resource development for Alberta.

I look forward to working with my constituent, Rachel Notley, premier-elect of Alberta.

As the media have said about Rachel Notley, “This is what a political phenomena looks like”. Indeed.

TaxationStatements By Members

May 6th, 2015 / 2:15 p.m.

Conservative

Susan Truppe Conservative London North Centre, ON

Mr. Speaker, the leader of the Liberal Party has shown his priority for middle class families, high taxes.

Instead of a family tax cut, he introduced a family tax hike. The Liberal leader will raise taxes on families earning less than $60,000, who use tax free savings accounts. The Liberal leader admitted that he needs to raise taxes to fill the $2 billion hole in his plan.

The Liberal leader will have no choice but to raise taxes, including taking away income-splitting for pensioners and taking away the tax free savings accounts entirely.

Multiple SclerosisStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Hedy Fry Liberal Vancouver Centre, BC

Mr. Speaker, May is MS Awareness Month.

In what has become a tradition in this place, the MS Society is here to pin carnations on MPs to bring attention to this challenging disease.

Canada is famous for hockey in the world, but we are infamous because we have the largest number of MS sufferers globally.

While there is no defined cause for multiple sclerosis, new research tells us that there are many factors: lifestyle, environmental, genetic and biological. We must do more research. There is no cure for MS. New treatments continue to evolve, allowing people to be able to work and live better lives, although there is still workplace discrimination.

Those with MS and their families face financial challenges, the stress of caregiving and the need for home retrofits.

I encourage all members to reach out to local MS chapters in their regions, learn about MS and the needs of these Canadians, and commit to funding research into causes and finding a cure.

TaxationStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

Parm Gill Conservative Brampton—Springdale, ON

Mr. Speaker, our government designed our family tax cut and the universal child care benefit to ensure that every Canadian family with children will have more money in their pockets to help make ends meet.

That is because we know that Canadian families know how best to spend their hard-earned money. The Liberal leader does not want a family tax cut, he plans to bring in a family tax hike. Liberals do not like our Conservative plan to give money back to Canadian families because they think Canadians will spend it on beer and popcorn.

In fact, I think the member for Toronto Centre spoke for all Liberals when she said, “Amen to raising taxes”.

Alberta ElectionStatements By Members

2:20 p.m.

NDP

Peter Julian NDP Burnaby—New Westminster, BC

Mr. Speaker, history was made in Alberta last night.

The Prime Minister and most of his Alberta cabinet colleagues and MPS woke up today to an NDP MLA and an NDP premier.

Indeed, the good folks of Alberta voted for change, and a fresh start. They voted to end 44 years of Conservative rule and reject the ways of the old-style parties.

They voted to elect Rachel Notley and the Alberta NDP to be their strong, stable majority government. Albertans proved that you can vote for the change they want and actually get it. Albertans voted to build a more diversified and resilient economy. They voted for better health care and a good education for their children. They voted for good jobs and a new sustainable approach.

We want to extend our hearty congratulations to premier-elect Rachel Notley. Her campaign was optimistic, forward thinking, and respectful.

As we approach October 19, 2015 we are again reminded of what the late Jack Layton said so often, “Don't let them tell you it can't be done”.

Congratulations Alberta NDP.

TaxationStatements By Members

2:20 p.m.

Conservative

Robert Sopuck Conservative Dauphin—Swan River—Marquette, MB

Mr. Speaker, the leader of the Liberal Party admitted that his plan for higher taxes has a $2 billion hole in it. The Liberal leader admitted that he will have to raise taxes on people earning less than $60,000 a year by cancelling their expanded tax free savings accounts.

He admitted that he would replace the Conservative family tax cut with a Liberal family tax hike. He admitted that he would get rid of the universal child care benefit, yet he also admitted that after all those tax hikes, he would still have a $2 billion hole.

We know how the Liberal leader will fill this $2 billion hole. He will have to raise taxes. With the Liberal leader's opposition to income-splitting for families, we can be sure he will also cancel income-splitting for seniors.

Middle class Canadian families know they can trust the Prime Minister and our Conservative government to keep their taxes low and to protect the benefits they already receive.

National DefenceOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Outremont Québec

NDP

Thomas Mulcair NDPLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, the Deschamps report describes an alarming number of cases of harassment and sexual assault within the Canadian Armed Forces. The report also shows that military and civilian leaders have failed miserably when it comes to finding a solution to these problems.

Despite these appalling revelations, the Minister of National Defence has said that he is going to ignore eight of the 10 recommendations made in the report.

Does the Prime Minister think it is acceptable to ignore eight out of 10 recommendations?

National DefenceOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Calgary Southeast Alberta

Conservative

Jason Kenney ConservativeMinister of National Defence and Minister for Multiculturalism

Mr. Speaker, what the hon. Leader of the Opposition just said is completely and 100% false. The Chief of the Defence Staff was clear last week: the Canadian Armed Forces accept the 10 recommendations set out in the report and are taking this matter very seriously.

Sexual misconduct of any kind has no place in the Canadian Armed Forces. The military has already begun to implement two of the recommendations. It accepts the other eight and has appointed Major-General Whitecross to implement them.

National DefenceOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Outremont Québec

NDP

Thomas Mulcair NDPLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, the Deschamps report says very clearly that military leadership turned a blind eye to rampant harassment and sexual assault.

Another brave soldier has just come forward to report sexual assault, Corporal Esther Wolki. Corporal Wolki had to go to the media because commanders refused to take her reports seriously.

These soldiers have fought for us. It is time we fight for them. This is the Prime Minister's responsibility.

Will he stand up and tell his minister that two out ten is not a passing grade when it comes to ensuring that women in our military are not subject to sexual harassment? His mark is 20%.

National DefenceOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Calgary Southeast Alberta

Conservative

Jason Kenney ConservativeMinister of National Defence and Minister for Multiculturalism

Mr. Speaker, the government and Canadian Armed Forces agree with the leader of the opposition. I believe all Canadians believe that any form of sexual aggression is totally inappropriate in the Canadian Armed Forces and must be dealt with in the severest way possible.

It is why the Chief of the Defence Staff appointed Madam Justice Deschamps to lead this inquiry. It is why he has accepted all 10 recommendations. It is why he has appointed General Whitecross to implement those recommendations, and not 2 of the 10, but 10 of the 10.

EthicsOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

Outremont Québec

NDP

Thomas Mulcair NDPLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, on April 22, the Prime Minister claimed that, as head of government, he knew that Mike Duffy was a resident of P.E.I. because Duffy signed a declaration stating that he was a resident of P.E.I. before he was sworn in. Those are the Prime Minister's nominations.

Will the Prime Minister provide that declaration, which he said existed prior to the nomination, to Canadians? He said that Duffy signed it before being named. Canadians have a right to see it.

EthicsOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

Oak Ridges—Markham Ontario

Conservative

Paul Calandra ConservativeParliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and for Intergovernmental Affairs

Mr. Speaker, the constitutional principle on this has been clear for almost 150 years. As members know, the case is before the courts. It would be inappropriate to comment on evidence before the court.

At the same time, we know that the leader of the opposition is just one of 68 members of the NDP caucus who owe $2.7 million. The leader of the opposition himself owes taxpayers $400,000.

I would encourage him to actually pay that $400,000 and encourage the rest of the members to do the same.

EthicsOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

Outremont Québec

NDP

Thomas Mulcair NDPLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, the problem is that this evidence is not before the courts, contrary to what the member just said. The problem is that evidence does not exist.

What the Prime Minister said here in the House was that he had a document signed by Duffy prior to the nomination. In the same way, he said that he accepted, with regret, the resignation of Nigel Wright and then boasted on radio in Atlantic Canada that he had fired the sorry son of a gun.

That is the difference. One cannot say one thing and its opposite day after day and expect Canadians to believe it.

Where is the document? Where is the declaration that the Prime Minister of Canada told Canadians existed, which was signed by Duffy prior to his being named to the Senate?