House of Commons Hansard #195 of the 42nd Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was consent.

Topics

Canada Elections ActGovernment Orders

1:55 p.m.

Some hon. members

Nay.

Canada Elections ActGovernment Orders

1:55 p.m.

Liberal

The Assistant Deputy Speaker Liberal Anthony Rota

In my opinion the yeas have it.

And five or more members having risen:

Pursuant to order made on Tuesday, May 30, the division stands deferred until later this day at the expiry of the time provided for oral questions.

Official LanguagesStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Bloc

Mario Beaulieu Bloc La Pointe-de-l'Île, QC

Mr. Speaker, there is an elephant in the room here in the House of Commons, and that is the assimilation of francophones and the anglicization of Quebec.

Minority languages are being assimilated in systems like Canada's around the world, systems that are based on institutional bilingualism and individual rights. What is the Minister of Canadian Heritage doing? She is on a tour to promote the same old model. That is why I am going on a tour of my own to promote French, the common language. We will promote a model based on collective rights that has proven its worth in order to secure a future for our national languages.

I invite everyone to participate. We will start with Quebec. Securing the future of French is not just our right; it is our duty to cultural and linguistic diversity. The best way to achieve that is to make Quebec a country.

Mental HealthStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Independent

Hunter Tootoo Independent Nunavut, NU

Mr. Speaker, the lack of mental health services in Nunavut continues to have a profound and tragic effect on Nunavummiut. Years of societal and cultural disruption have led to increased multi-generational trauma among Inuit.

As a result, many have turned to alcohol and other substances. Sadly, this reality has led to a suicide rate that is 10 times the national average, a statistic that has not changed since it was declared a crisis in 2015.

I do not think there is a family in Nunavut that has not been affected by suicide, or alcohol and substance abuse. I know mine certainly has. I know all too well the forceful, lasting impact it can have.

This is unacceptable in Canada in 2017. The Government of Nunavut urgently requires adequate federal funding to provide the mental health services needed to break this cycle and ensure a brighter future for Nunavummiut.

Softwood Lumber IndustryStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Liberal

Karen Ludwig Liberal New Brunswick Southwest, NB

Mr. Speaker, as we prepare to return to our home communities this summer, I encourage all members of the House to look at how trade supports jobs and growth in their ridings.

Thanks to the Canadian softwood lumber industry, North American home and cottage owners will again have the unique pleasure of backyard projects, such as building that new deck, staining a fence, building a dock at the cottage, and so many other wood related projects, all thanks to the Canadian softwood lumber industry.

The Canadian softwood lumber industry has been ground zero for the infamous “honey do” list. All around the House, we can see many softwood products: Kleenex in the lobby; the labels on the envelope, and the envelope itself; even the occasional child's diaper. Softwood lumber products can be found everywhere.

What else do these products have in common? They were produced in my province of New Brunswick and are shipped across Canada and internationally.

Foremost Unmanned Air Systems Test RangeStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Conservative

Glen Motz Conservative Medicine Hat—Cardston—Warner, AB

Mr. Speaker, southern Alberta is home to the Foremost unmanned air systems test range.

The Foremost test range is 2,400 square kilometres of restricted airspace up to an altitude of 18,000 feet, set aside for drone research and testing. It is the only location in Canada to receive Transport Canada's authorization, and is one of a handful worldwide with comparable capabilities.

Although started as an economic development initiative by the Village of Foremost, the test range is now a national asset that benefits Canada's large and small companies alike. It enables the next generation of civil and commercial drone applications in agriculture, forestry, oil and gas, and the environment, where drone use will improve soil and water quality and create low-cost methods for monitoring pipelines and power lines.

The Foremost unmanned air systems test range gives Canadian companies a home to develop their technology in order to meet domestic requirements and those of the rapidly expanding global marketplace.

Denis RollandStatements By Members

2 p.m.

Liberal

Jean Rioux Liberal Saint-Jean, QC

Mr. Speaker, communities of tomorrow are built on the strength and dedication of today's municipal officials. I would like to acknowledge the contribution of the mayor of Sainte-Anne-de-Sabrevois, Denis Rolland, a former colleague on the Haut-Richelieu RCM municipal council.

Mr. Rolland has dedicated nearly 45 years of his life to public office, including over 25 as mayor of Sainte-Anne-de-Sabrevois. Thanks to his approach, the municipality became one of the first in Quebec to have a city plan involving the construction of modern infrastructure. He was able to help the region change with the times and he instilled in its residents a feeling of belonging that has helped forge a strong community.

One example of Mr. Rolland's commitment to the community is the creation of the Musée Honoré-Mercier in that premier's birthplace. Mr. Rolland is a community builder who is helping the riding of Saint-Jean to grow and flourish.

Festivities in Algoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

NDP

Carol Hughes NDP Algoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing, ON

Mr. Speaker, summer is just around the corner, and I invite everyone to visit my beautiful riding, Algoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing. This weekend, we will be throwing Ontario's biggest Saint-Jean party in Kapuskasing.

On June 21, National Aboriginal Day celebrations are taking place in communities across the riding.

To celebrate Canada 150, there are hundreds of activities taking place.

Wawa will reveal its new Wawa goose, the largest landmark of its kind in Canada and one of the most photographed landmarks in North America. Echo Bay celebrates the 30th anniversary of the circulation of the loonie, a coin that has become a national symbol, and the 25th anniversary of the big loonie monument, built to honour the loonie's artist, Robert-Ralph Carmichael. If this is not enough, on August 10, Lester B. Pearson's granddaughter will be in Kagawong for the official launch of the Old Mill Heritage Centre's exhibit of the Lester B. Pearson collection. We hope the Prime Minister will attend to celebrate the life of a close family friend.

All this and so much more is happening in AMK this summer. I hope to see everyone there.

Speakers' Speech Writing Contest WinnersStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Darrell Samson Liberal Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook, NS

Mr. Speaker, “I see Parliament as a stunning tribute to the Canadian values of peace, freedom, equality, respect for cultural differences and law and order”. Those are the words of Braden Marshall, a student in grade 8 from Fall River, Nova Scotia, in my riding. He is here today with his dad, Mark, and five other finalists in the national Speakers' Speech Writing Contest.

Braden has been in French immersion since kindergarten and is here to be recognized for his contribution.

I would ask all members to join me in welcoming Braden Marshall and the five other finalists—Charlotte, Lindsay, Arman, Asha, and Ophélie—to Parliament today and thank them for their--

Speakers' Speech Writing Contest WinnersStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

The Speaker Liberal Geoff Regan

While I appreciate the intention of the hon. member for Sackville—Preston—Chezzetcook, he should know that only the Speaker can recognize people in the gallery. Members must not do so. I hope he will comply with that practice in the future.

Stephen Leacock MedalStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

Bruce Stanton Conservative Simcoe North, ON

Mr. Speaker, last week Heather and I attended the 70th annual Stephen Leacock Memorial Medal for Humour awards in Orillia, Ontario. Orillia, after all, is Leacock's fictional Mariposa, from his famous novel, Sunshine Sketches of a Little Town.

The Stephen Leacock medal is awarded to the best literary work of humour by a Canadian author, and some of Canada's best have received it: Mordecai Richler, W.O. Mitchell, Will Ferguson, and Terry Fallis, to name a few.

This year the Leacock Associates have awarded the medal to Gary Barwin, of Hamilton, Ontario, for his novel Yiddish for Pirates, the same work that put him with the finalists for last year's Governor General's Literary Award and the Giller Prize.

I would like to thank the Leacock Associates and TD Financial Group for recognizing another outstanding contribution to Canadian literature. I invite all hon. members to join me in congratulating the 2017 winner of the Leacock medal for humour, Gary Barwin.

Canada's 150th AnniversaryStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

John Aldag Liberal Cloverdale—Langley City, BC

Mr. Speaker, we are in the midst of one of the most significant celebrations in our history, Canada 150. Festivities are ramping up in all corners of the country. My riding of Cloverdale--Langley City is no different, with significant celebrations planned for Canada Day and throughout the rest of the summer.

As we celebrate 150 years of Canadian Confederation, we must also remember that the history of this land goes back well beyond 1867. Long before Sir John A. Macdonald became our country's first prime minister, indigenous peoples lived on the territory that would one day become Canada. It is this rich history that reminds us that just as this is a time of celebration, it is also a time of reconciliation.

I also remind Canadians that all Parks Canada national parks and national historic sites are free throughout 2017. These parks and sites are national treasures, set out for the enjoyment of all Canadians. I encourage everyone to take advantage of our country's natural and cultural marvels.

From everyone in Cloverdale--Langley City to all Canadians and everyone in the House, happy Canada 150.

Canada's 150th AnniversaryStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

Sonia Sidhu Liberal Brampton South, ON

Mr. Speaker, this is a great year for all Canadians. On July 1, we will mark 150 years of Canada's Confederation.

Canada is known around the world for many things that make us such a special country: the brave soldiers and peacekeepers who protect our values around the world; the image of a maple leaf waved and worn proudly around the world; the indigenous communities with a deep history; and multiculturalism that enriches each of our lives. We are a country of open arms, welcoming people from around the world.

In Brampton South, we are also celebrating the 150th anniversary of Brampton's Grace United Church, Alderlea historic home, and the PAMA courthouse.

Canada Day speaks to all Canadians. I want to encourage all Canadians to connect with neighbours, family, and friends and celebrate what it means to be Canadian. In Brampton South, that can mean spending time at Gage Park, learning about our heritage at PAMA, or enjoying an evening at the Rose Theatre or Garden Square downtown.

As we approach July 1, I would like to wish—

Canada's 150th AnniversaryStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

The Speaker Liberal Geoff Regan

The hon. member for Calgary Confederation.

Stroke MonthStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Len Webber Conservative Calgary Confederation, AB

Mr. Speaker, June is Stroke Month in Canada. More than 400,000 Canadians live with long-term disability from stroke. That number is expected to double in the next 20 years. Due to increased awareness of the signs of stroke and improvements in early stroke management, most people, 80% in fact, now survive a stroke. Recovery can take months or years, even for milder strokes, and many people never fully recover. It is a long, costly, and difficult road.

Acute care has improved dramatically. Unfortunately, the system has not kept pace. There are gaps in rehabilitation, community services, and support. Family caregivers play a critical role in rehabilitation, and it is stressful and exhausting.

The Heart and Stroke Foundation is ready to help, but it needs our support, support for both patients and caregivers. Together with stakeholders, we can raise awareness and improve stroke outcomes for thousands of Canadians.

UV IndexStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

Nathaniel Erskine-Smith Liberal Beaches—East York, ON

Mr. Speaker, it is critical that we trust in science and in our scientists. Despite recent challenges, I remain hopeful about global efforts to tackle climate change because of our history of innovation and leadership in science.

With that history in mind, I rise to recognize the 25th anniversary of the UV index, a scale invented here in Canada and adopted by the WHO and the UN Environment program internationally. In particular, I want to recognize the three Toronto-based Environment Canada scientists who invented the index: Jim Kerr, David Wardle, and Beaches-East York constituent Tom McElroy, now a professor at York's department of earth and space science and engineering.

“In a sense, we managed to put a hat on everybody in the world.” That is Tom's modest way of describing an incredible accomplishment, an accomplishment that has not only improved public health awareness but serves as a reminder of the progress we can achieve when we put our trust in science and give our scientists both freedom and funding to do their work.

Attack in VirginiaStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

Andrew Leslie Liberal Orléans, ON

Mr. Speaker, Canada has no closer friend, partner, and ally than the United States of America. Canadians were deeply concerned to hear about an attack in Alexandria, Virginia, yesterday that targeted a Republican congressional baseball practice. This was a cruel and heinous attack, and we condemn it in the strongest possible terms.

Every year, Republican and Democratic Senate and House members get together for the annual congressional baseball game, where they solidify friendships and raise money for charity.

Following this attack, Democrats and Republicans got together and called for bipartisan unity, and today the congressional baseball game for charity will be played as scheduled. We commend their bravery and their determination not to let this attack cause rifts. We wish all those injured in the attack a complete and speedy recovery.

On behalf of all Canadians who value our friendship with our American friends and neighbours so dearly, we wish the best of luck to both teams as they stand fast against this act of hate and play their annual game.

Rick PlaisierStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

Larry Maguire Conservative Brandon—Souris, MB

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in the House of Commons to recognize the life of Rick Plaisier. Rick was a husband, a father, a friend, and a teacher. My heart goes out to his wife, Marie, their three sons, Kent, Todd, and Shawn, and their families.

Through his career, he inspired generations of students as a teacher and then later as principal of Virden Junior High School. After retirement, Rick began evaluating educational programs on first nation reserves in an effort to improve learning outcomes in these areas.

Rick defined what it means to be an advocate for his community through his work as mayor of Rossburn, as mayor of Virden, as reeve of the Rural Municipality of Sifton, and finally, as western Manitoba's representative on the Association of Manitoba Municipalities. He was concerned about regional flooding and the very existence of Oak Lake as a water sport and fishing mecca. As a Lions Club member, he rose to district governor.

I am proud to have known this man and to have called him a friend. I thank Rick for his tireless work. Westman is undoubtedly a better place because of him.

RCAF Golden HawksStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Pat Finnigan Liberal Miramichi—Grand Lake, NB

Mr. Speaker, today, June 15, the Golden Hawks, Canada's first national aerobatic team, will be inducted into the Canadian Aviation Hall of Fame.

In 1959, the Royal Canadian Air Force Base Chatham was chosen to be the home of Canada's first official national aerobatic team. The program was then established as a permanent unit of the RCAF, thanks to the tremendous success of the Golden Hawks. In 1967, RCAF Chatham honoured the Golden Hawks by dedicating an F-86 Sabre in front of the base's recreation centre, where it stood until it was moved to the Atlantic Canada Aviation Museum. This monument not only honoured the members of the team but also all the men who flew that same aircraft during the Cold War.

I invite all members to my beautiful riding of Miramichi—Grand Lake this summer, where there will be a community celebration honouring the RCAF Golden Hawks and their significant role in Canada's aviation history.

Northern ManitobaStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

NDP

Niki Ashton NDP Churchill—Keewatinook Aski, MB

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to share the sense of frustration and abandonment that many face in our region of northern Manitoba, frustration that the federal government is nowhere to be found in these tough times.

Churchill and the Bay Line communities are devastated. The American billionaire that owns the rail line and the port has left people completely stranded. Fishers in Norway House, Wabowden, and Fisher River, as well as many others, are fighting the dismantling of the Freshwater Fish Marketing Corporation. Workers and families in Thompson and Flin Flon are worried as they receive news of major job losses, including the loss of value-added processing jobs. First nations are not seeing the commitment to increased funding for education, housing, and child welfare or to treaty land entitlement.

Northern Manitoba has given a great deal to Canada. It is time for the federal government to step up, to nationalize the port and rail line, to protect FFMC, to stand up for good jobs, and to live up to its commitment to first nations. We demand that the Prime Minister act. It is time to stand up for our north and our Canada.

Freedom ChallengeStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

Kelly Block Conservative Carlton Trail—Eagle Creek, SK

Mr. Speaker, earlier this month in my riding I was honoured to attend the Long Table Feast: Hope, hosted by Denise Heppner and Brenda Wiens. This event was a fundraiser in support of Freedom Challenge.

Freedom Challenge is a movement of passionate women who participate in physical challenges dedicated to raising funds and awareness to combat the injustice of human trafficking, which affects hundreds of thousands of women and children worldwide. Freedom Challenge has led women to climb the Rockies, the Alps, Kilimanjaro, and to the Everest base camp. More importantly, Freedom Challenge has raised millions of dollars to support the work of combatting human trafficking.

I want to recognize and thank the hosts and volunteers of this fundraiser, as well as all those who attended to support the important work of Freedom Challenge. I wish everyone who participated in addressing this struggle all the best as they strive to set women and children on the pathway to freedom.

CommencementsStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Serge Cormier Liberal Acadie—Bathurst, NB

Mr. Speaker, as the member of Parliament for Acadie—Bathurst, I would like to rise to congratulate all those receiving their diploma this spring.

Graduating is a major accomplishment, and I am extremely proud of all the graduates from the five high schools, the two community colleges, and the university in my riding. I hope this will serve as an opportunity for them to take everything they have learned in the course of their studies and use it to set goals for a promising future. I encourage them to nurture their desire to learn and find ways to use their unique talents to contribute to our society. We are counting on them to make sure Canada remains a great place to live where people can enjoy freedom and security.

A new phase of life is about to start for these graduates. Whatever path they choose, I want them to know that each of them will shape the future of tomorrow.

I congratulate you on this tremendous achievement, and I urge you all to stay safe at your graduation parties.

Foreign InvestmentOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Conservative

Candice Bergen Conservative Portage—Lisgar, MB

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister has already misled Canadians once when he said that our allies were A-okay with us pulling out of the fight against ISIS. We know now that just was not true. It is clear he is doing it again when he says that the U.S. was consulted and gave the green light to Canada selling defence technology to the Chinese.

Will the Prime Minister just admit the U.S. was not happy about this sale, but he did not care and so he approved it anyway?

Foreign InvestmentOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Mississauga—Malton Ontario

Liberal

Navdeep Bains LiberalMinister of Innovation

Mr. Speaker, we have enormous confidence in our national security agencies to do their work properly. They examine all the relevant facts, follow the process, and make thoughtful recommendations. They made a recommendation and we followed that recommendation. We followed their advice.

This is exactly the multi-step review process that exists under the Investment Canada Act. We never have and we never will compromise on national security.

Foreign InvestmentOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Conservative

Candice Bergen Conservative Portage—Lisgar, MB

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister said that the U.S. had been consulted, but if it had been consulted, would our ambassador on the ground in Washington not have known about it? He did not seem to know about it and now the Prime Minister has put our ambassador in a very difficult situation.

Why is the Prime Minister so intent on appeasing China that he is willing to not only put the safety and security of Canadians at risk, but also jeopardize the important relationship we have with our closest ally, friend, and trading partner, the United States?