Debates of Oct. 28th, 2016

Budget Implementation Act, 2016, No. 2

[Guy Caron, NDP, Rimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les Basques, QC]

Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague from Louis-Saint-Laurent for his entertaining speech. I now have the pleasure of sitting with him on the Standing Committee on Finance.

I would like to tell him about yesterday morning's meeting of the Standing Committee on Finance where we heard from Dominic Barton, who chairs the Advisory Council on Economic Growth. We heard some very interesting things, including the fact that the so-called infrastructure development bank being considered by the Liberal government will attract about $40 billion.

We do not know where this money will come from, but it will probably be taken from the current infrastructure program. The bank will be given $40 billion in public money in order to attract $160 billion from the private sector, either from public pension funds or private equity funds. This is about privatization. The Conservatives are not necessarily against this. The NDP obviously does not support it. However, if there is one thing we agree on, it is that this was never promised during the election campaign.

I would like the member for Louis-Saint-Laurent, who is the Conservative finance critic, to comment on this very controversial idea of creating an infrastructure development bank. With people like Dominic Barton, Michael Sabia, and Mark Wiseman, this could result, sooner than later, in the privatization of public assets in Canada.

[Gérard Deltell, Conservative, Louis-Saint-Laurent, QC]

Madam Speaker, first, I would like to commend my colleague. What I like about him and his party is that, at least, their positions are clear and definitive. We know where they stand. They are on the left and we are on the right. That is obvious. They took quite a hit during the last election, but I commend this party for its honesty and its intellectual and political integrity. I share maybe 3% or 4% of their opinions. That is democracy. That is what makes our country so beautiful and great.

We are certainly not against private investment or the idea that private corporations contribute to Canada's development. That is why we are always saying that entrepreneurs are the backbone of the Canadian economy. They are the ones who create jobs and wealth. The government needs to do everything it can to help them.

The investment bank in question is a proposal that was made by an advisory committee. It is not a public policy. We will see what the government plans to do with that proposal. Not to make any assumptions, but we will more than likely find out where the government stands on this idea on Tuesday when we get the November 1 update.

Yesterday evening, after hearing some of the questions posed by my NDP colleague, I reread the election platform and there is no mention of this proposal.

[Marilyn Gladu, Conservative, Sarnia—Lambton, ON]

Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for his passionate speech.

I want to talk about jobs. The government always talks about creating jobs, but if we want to be fact and evidence-based, the data says we have fewer jobs now than when the Liberals came into government. Hundreds of thousands of people in the oil and gas sector have lost their jobs. The government had a chance to help Bombardier, but did not, and 2,000 more jobs were lost. It made a deal with Air Canada and more jobs were lost. In my riding, the infrastructure minister has not given me $12 million to create 3,000 jobs. The government has not done anything about softwood lumber, the TPP, and CETA. It goes on and on.

Maybe there is a plan that I have not seen. I know my colleague sits on the committee, so I will ask him the question. Has he seen any plan to create jobs?

[Gérard Deltell, Conservative, Louis-Saint-Laurent, QC]

Madam Speaker, I have great respect for my colleague. I miss her, because we were neighbours until a few weeks ago for our first year in the House, and I had the privilege of working with her. By the way, she is a very good singer, especially when she sings O Canada. The first time I met her, we were in caucus, and we sang O Canada. I was very impressed. She was behind me, so I clearly heard her.

The real problem is that the government is not a friend of the private sector, the backbone of the economy, particularly small and medium-sized businesses. The Liberal carbon tax will not be good for the economy. There will be huge compensation paid by workers, businesses, and business owners for the Canada pension plan.

Also, the Liberals are not doing what they said they would do in their electoral platform. The small business tax rate is staying at 11% instead of being reduced to 9%, as they were supposed to do, according to what they said during their campaign. Those three elements are not good for the economy and not good for creating jobs, because it is not the government that creates jobs, but the private sector with the help of the government.

Unfortunately, the government is not doing anything to help those who create jobs and wealth in Canada.

Gilles Cormier

[Serge Cormier, Liberal, Acadie—Bathurst, NB]

Madam Speaker, I am very pleased to rise to celebrate an extraordinary person and one of my very good friends, Mr. Gilles Cormier.

Gilles, from Shippagan in my riding of Acadie-Bathurst, has been awarded the Outstanding Volunteer Award 2016 from Hockey Canada. Gilles has been awarded this title for his exceptional work over nearly 30 years in multiple levels of minor and senior hockey.

He is best known for coaching pee-wee and bantam AAA teams on the Acadian peninsula, for his involvement in the Luc-Bourdon Classic, and also for managing the Shippagan arena for a number of years.

Gilles is also a senior level representative for Hockey New Brunswick and an excellent hockey player. All he has ever wanted is to help young players develop in this sport

As the chair of Hockey Canada’s board of directors said, “Canadian hockey is healthy and thriving, thanks in large part to the work of volunteers [like Gilles Cormier], guided by their love for our sport.”

Congratulations, Gilles. I look forward to sharing the blue line with you for many years to come on our Cormier family team.

David Wynn

[Michael Cooper, Conservative, St. Albert—Edmonton, AB]

Madam Speaker, the city of St. Albert has spearheaded a project to construct a memorial to honour the late Constable David Wynn, who was killed in the line of duty. The city has committed significant funding but federal support is needed.

I first wrote to the government in March about the project. Six months later, the Minister of Public Safety advised that his officials would be in contact with the mayor to seek additional information about the project. Two more months have gone by and no phone call has been made.

Constable Wynn paid the ultimate sacrifice and deserves to be honoured. It is time for the Minister of Public Safety to have his officials pick up the phone, call the mayor of St. Albert, and make this project a reality.

Agriculture

[Bobby Morrissey, Liberal, Egmont, PE]

Madam Speaker, earlier this month, I spent some time harvesting potatoes at a large farm in my riding, owned and operated by Winston and Harris Callaghan of Miminegash.

I was amazed at the technology involved. Today's farmers are employing advanced technologies and farming practices to produce quality food for Canadians. It is farms like these that earn Prince Edward Island its reputation as "Canada's food island".

When farmers plant their crops, they are undertaking an extraordinary risk on our behalf. They will not see a paycheque until the next year, and it will be subject to unpredictable environmental conditions, crop yield, and market prices.

It is essential that we, as lawmakers, appreciate the experiences and concerns of our farmers in order to create agricultural policy that works for all Canadians

Canwood

[Georgina Jolibois, NDP, Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River, SK]

Madam Speaker, from July 29 to 31, the rural municipality and village of Canwood in my riding celebrated its l00th anniversary. The three day celebration was a blend of narrations, exhibitions of rarely seen photographs, music, multicultural dances, and historic and comedic skills. Residents, past and present, from across Saskatchewan, gathered to celebrate this once in a lifetime event.

I had the pleasure to join the festivities in Canwood, as the community inaugurated its centennial monument. Ideas and design for the monument came from local people. The commissioned metal artist for the monument was Doug Reimer from Carrot River Saskatchewan. Working with Doug was his wife Carmen, his brother Steve and Steve's wife, Jen. Senior President Doris and Hilda gave me a tour of the local museum.

I congratulate all the volunteers and organizing committee on the success of the festivities. I wish Canwood another 100 strong and many more.

Let's Talk Science

[Kate Young, Liberal, London West, ON]

Madam Speaker, as we move toward the end of Women's History Month, I would like to share the good work of a national organization in my riding of London West that is helping to inspire the next generation of female scientists.

Let's Talk Science is dedicated to preparing youth for their future careers as citizens in a world that is shaped by science, technology, engineering and math innovation, or as it is commonly referred to, STEM. The organization has over 2,000 female post-secondary volunteers who are actively making a difference as role models across the country.

This week, Let's Talk Science launched Canada 2067, a bold nation-building initiative to shape the next 50 years of STEM learning. By engaging educators, business and government leaders, community groups, parents and youth, it will develop and implement an innovative framework for STEM learning.

Let's Talk Science continues to emphasize the importance of girls and women, and all people, as Canada builds its innovation strategy.

Sébastien Grimard

[Gérard Deltell, Conservative, Louis-Saint-Laurent, QC]

Madam Speaker, yesterday, the National Defence Ombudsman presented the Liz Hoffman memorial commendation to Master Corporal Sébastien Grimard, a citizen of Louis-Saint-Laurent.

Master Corporal Grimard is the Deputy Commandant on assignment with the Valcartier Deployment Support Group. Every day for 18 months, he handled many critical situations involving families of deployed Canadian Armed Forces members and did so with compassion, diligence and professionalism. He answered more than 100 calls for help and intervened directly in cases of family violence, suicide attempts, and medical emergencies. He had a direct positive impact on the lives of many serving members, dispelling the stigmas attached to mental health problems, sexual orientation, and suicidal thoughts.

Now more than ever, Canadian Forces members face grave danger. We are proud and pleased to be able to count on a man as good and committed as Master Corporal Sébastien Grimard.

Jim Prentice

[Joyce Murray, Liberal, Vancouver Quadra, BC]

Madam Speaker, today we remember the legacy of a great Canadian whose life was taken away tragically and too soon.

Members past and present stand with those celebrating the life of a man who dedicated his life to public service. Jim Prentice will be missed by his colleagues on both sides of the aisle. He served our country dutifully throughout his life, and his devotion to Albertans and to all Canadians will inspire us for many years to come.

Jim will be remembered for his generosity, compassion, and his willingness to take a stand on some of the toughest challenges of his day. He was a good friend and principled leader, and his loss will be felt in the House and across the country.

On behalf of all members, I offer our deepest condolences to Jim's family and friends.

Hockey

[Don Rusnak, Liberal, Thunder Bay—Rainy River, ON]

Madam Speaker, my riding of Thunder Bay—Rainy River is heavily represented by tremendously skilled National Hockey League players. Eric, Jordan, Marc Staal, Carter Hutton, Robert Bortuzzo, and Patrick Sharp all hail from Thunder Bay. Of course there is Duncan Keith from Fort Frances, Ontario. These players all have God-given talent, passion, and determination; and an unrelenting persistence. However, what inspires me most about these athletes is their dedication to our community.

Most recently, Matt Murray, goaltender for the Pittsburgh Penguins, became one of the youngest goalies, at the age of 22, to lead his team to the Stanley Cup. When Murray brought the cup to Thunder Bay, he made it a priority to visit the Westfort Rangers minor hockey team and the Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre. His actions show that it is possible to not only be successful, but also to remember where one comes from and always to inspire and help those around one.

I am proud he has represented our riding so well on the international stage. I expect we have not heard the last of his successes, both on and off the ice. I congratulate Matt Murray.

Palliative Care

[Marilyn Gladu, Conservative, Sarnia—Lambton, ON]

Madam Speaker,

There once was a palliative care bill
For those who were terminally ill
It determined the plan,
For Canada and
The services it would fulfill.
It talked about training for all
Who provide care for those big and small
The data we need
For the research we lead
To ensure that we're right on the ball.
The elements of palliative care
At home, hospice, and everywhere
Will be standard we boast
In this land coast to coast
With the specialists needed so rare.
The Minister of Health has implied
That three billion be applied
To home and palliative care
So that people will dare
To live well long before they have died.
So support C-277 today
My PMB's coming your way
In November 3rd week
Your approval I'll seek
And together we will save the day.
For Canadians want to have choice
To live or to die, give them voice
And we'll humanely give
A good way they can live
And end their days full of great joys.

Lakeshore Public School Baseball Diamond

[Karina Gould, Liberal, Burlington, ON]

Madam Speaker, on October 15, I had the opportunity to celebrate one young boy's determination in revitalizing an important space in his community.

Eleven-year-old Griffin Gervais was disappointed that his baseball diamond at Lakeshore Public School was in rough shape and not scheduled for an update. Rather than just accept the fact, Griffin decided he would lead the effort to repair the diamond.

Starting last January, Griffin with the help of his family, classmates, his community, and the city of Burlington's neighbourhood community matching fund, raised a total of $12,000. Today, with two updated benches, new chain-link fencing, and a freshly mowed field, the Lakeshore Public School baseball diamond now looks better than ever.

Griffin's story is one that is truly inspiring and shows that individuals can make a impact on their community if they set their mind to it. I thank Griffin for all of his hard work. I was proud to attend the grand opening and to see him throw the first pitch on the field.

Wendell Fulton

[Matt DeCourcey, Liberal, Fredericton, NB]

Madam Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life of Wendell Fulton, a well-respected community leader.

Wendell passed away peacefully on September 18, at the age of 84, in the same home in which he was born in Lakeville Corner, New Brunswick. An avid international traveller, Wendell maintained strong connections with New Brunswick throughout his life.

Politics always remained a passion of his, having been influenced by Louis Robichaud's program of equal opportunity. In the 1973 Saint John River flood, Wendell rescued Robichaud's papers from the Liberal Party headquarters basement and arranged for a refrigerated truck to freeze and then dry them out.

Wendell's political passions later led him to work closely with several premiers, Liberal caucus members, and to an appointment as the principal secretary to the lieutenant governor of New Brunswick.

Wendell's dedication to community, and the advice and counsel he shared with so many will be dearly missed. We extend our thoughts to Pamela, Duncan, Hannah, and his entire family.

Honour Ranch

[Cathy McLeod, Conservative, Kamloops—Thompson—Cariboo, BC]

Madam Speaker, it is a distinct honour to pay tribute Rick and Donna Wanless of Kamloops, and Allan De Genova, president of Honour House Society. Combined they have created a unique retreat called Honour Ranch.

This facility will be used to help armed forces members and emergency first responders who suffer from post-traumatic stress disorder. Honour Ranch will offer free of charge specialized treatment programs, but also a place to escape from the rigours of everyday life; a place to camp, fish and a little boating.

Through the generosity of the Wanless, who are sharing the majority of their 25 acre hobby farm, much needed help will be offered to those who are suffering with PTSD and other occupational stress injuries that come from being on the front lines of helping others.

I look forward to the opening of the facility next spring and recognizing the important contribution by Mr. and Mrs. Wanless.

Grand défi Pierre Lavoie Challenge

[Stéphane Lauzon, Liberal, Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, QC]

Madam Speaker, last Sunday in Montreal, along with close to 5,000 participants, I had the pleasure of taking part in the Grand défi Pierre Lavoie Challenge. This event seeks to promote healthy living among Canadians.

Since 1999, Pierre has been challenging us to get involved in sports and teaching kids that anything is possible with determination and a positive attitude.

Physical activity contributes not only to physical well-being, but also to mental health. It helps prevent disease and combat stress and anxiety.

I urge all my colleagues in the House to participate in similar events that promote physical activity, a major determinant of health.

Marine Science

[Guy Caron, NDP, Rimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les Basques, QC]

Madam Speaker, I am extremely pleased to mark the return of Quebec's delegation from the 2016 BioMarine Business Convention, that was held in Oslo, Norway.

This trip was organized by Technopole maritime du Québec, in Rimouski, with the participation of the Société de promotion économique de Rimouski. My riding boasts institutions and organizations that work in education, science, research, and technology, and that make Rimouski the largest francophone hub for science in North America in the field of marine science.

More importantly, I want to draw the attention of the House to the fact that the next BioMarine Business Convention will be held in Rimouski from October 1 to 3, 2017. The only problem with hosting this major maritime convention is having to do it from a crumbling port. The west pier, which was used to moor the ISMER ship the Coriolis II, was closed last year and the vessel now has to be moored in Quebec City and Halifax.

If the government believes in science, research, and development, then it must invest in those things immediately.

Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas

[Bob Saroya, Conservative, Markham—Unionville, ON]

Madam Speaker, namaskar. Sat Sri Akal.

As the world celebrates the festival of Diwali, I would like to wish all Canadians Diwali mubarak.

The Festival of Lights is celebrated by different communities, notably by Hindus and Sikhs. The festival of Diwali brings people together from all walks of life.

Sikhs also celebrate Bandi Chhor Divas, the day of liberation, which liberates us from prejudices and ill feelings towards others. They celebrate by giving gifts, eating sweets and watching fireworks.

I was pleased to take part in celebrations at the Vedic Cultural Centre and Sanatan Mandir Cultural Centre this past weekend in Markham. I will also be visiting Gursikh Sabha Centre in Scarborough this Sunday for Bandi Chhor Divas.

This occasion also presents an opportunity to acknowledge the immense contributions made by South Asian Canadians to Canada. I hope the coming year brings good health, wealth and happiness. Happy Diwali and Bandi Chhor Divas.

Foreign Affairs

[Pam Goldsmith-Jones, Liberal, West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country, BC]

Madam Speaker, this government's policy of engagement is making a significant difference.

Last week, the Minister of Foreign Affairs mobilized 70 countries at the UN General Assembly to focus on getting humanitarian aid through to Aleppo.

Last night, the minister led the international community once more in securing a resolution to establish a high-level group that will move forward on a treaty to ban the production of fissile material. This is a critical, tangible step toward our ultimate goal of a world free from nuclear weapons.

The resolution, which passed with the overwhelming support of 177 United Nations member states, will restrict production and access to the material necessary to create nuclear weapons. This is universally regarded as the next logical move toward nuclear disarmament. Both nuclear states, such as China and Russia, as well as non-nuclear states are on board.

Canada's policy of engagement is welcomed, it is needed, and we are producing results.

Employment

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Carleton, ON]

Madam Speaker, the Prime Minister promised that his deficit spending would be like an amphetamine to stimulate jobs, but yesterday's PBO report on jobs showed that while the economy was cranking out 200,000 net new full-time jobs during the previous Harper government, over the last year we have lost 6,000 net full-time jobs under the Liberals.

When will the government realize that deficit spending is not a stimulant to our economy, it is a sedative?

[MaryAnn Mihychuk, Liberal, Minister of Employment]

Madam Speaker, I am pleased to tell the House that not only is the responsibility of government to provide a skilled workforce, but it is to work with industry to ensure that we meet their needs.

One of the most important things that businesses have told us is that they need a skilled workforce, and that is exactly what the Government of Canada is doing by investing in young people and all Canadians so that they can meet the challenges ahead. We are working hard to build a strong and engaged workforce.

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Carleton, ON]

Madam Speaker, with the low dollar, manufacturing should be booming, but yesterday's PBO report showed that there are 20,000 fewer manufacturing jobs than when the Liberals took office. The low dollar has not been enough to relieve the burden of taxes, electricity costs, red tape, and debt that Ontario and federal Liberals have heaped on our factories. The Liberal solution is yet more taxes.

Does the government realize that the definition of insanity is doing the same thing over and over and expecting a different result?

[François-Philippe Champagne, Liberal, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance]

Madam Speaker, what we promised to Canadians is to help them throughout their lives. The first thing we did was to reduce taxes for the middle class, to introduce the Canada child benefit, to make sure that we would work for our seniors, that we would increase the guaranteed income supplement, that we would increase the CPP, and that we would make a historic investment in our infrastructure of $120 billion over 10 years.

Let me just remind the member, this morning The Economist said Canada is an example to the world. Our plan is understood around the world and it is applauded. We will continue to do just that.

[The Assistant Deputy Speaker, NDP, Carol Hughes]

I just remind the member that he is not to use props in the House.

The hon. member for Carleton.