Debates of June 16th, 2017

Constitutional Debate

[Michel Boudrias, Bloc, Terrebonne, QC]

Mr. Speaker, the Meech Lake accord died on June 22, 1990. Canada told Quebec to suck it up because it is the same as all the other provinces.

Brian Mulroney's vision of Quebec's glorious return to the Canadian fold went up in smoke.

The Prime Minister's statements make it clear that the government is not prepared to give Quebec the respect it deserves in terms of the Constitution.

That is what the 150th anniversary represents: Ottawa's rejection of Quebec. Ottawa wants us to not bother anyone, do like everyone else, and quietly fade away and be forgotten. Ottawa says Quebec is no different from any other province.

I would like to remind everyone what then-premier Robert Bourassa said, “English Canada must clearly understand that no matter what anyone says or does, Quebec is and always will be a distinct and free society capable of taking charge of its own destiny and its own development.”

That was true 27 years ago, and it is still true today. Je me souviens. I remember.

Richmond Youth Honour Choir

[Joe Peschisolido, Liberal, Steveston—Richmond East, BC]

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to give a shout-out to the Richmond Youth Honour Choir, which represents some of the best young singers in British Columbia.

Under the direction of Heidi Epp, with the assistance of Molly Bushell, the Richmond Youth Honour Choir sings all styles of music from Bach to Broadway musicals. It recently premiered its own commission, “Listen to the Music”, which it was very excited to share with Canadians in Ottawa in honour of Canada's birthday and the 150th anniversary celebrations.

They recently toured Japan where they performed for the Emperor, and in Richmond's sister city, Wakayama. They also performed at the 2010 Winter Olympics. Their holiday harmonies concert is an annual favourite for locals.

I wish to congratulate the Richmond Youth Honour Choir on their 15th anniversary and wish them continuing success.

Father's Day

[Arnold Viersen, Conservative, Peace River—Westlock, AB]

Mr. Speaker, Sunday is Father's Day, and I would like to take a moment to thank all fathers who have done so much for their children.

Typically we think of fathers as the go-to people if something needs to be fixed or put together, but fathers are so much more than that. Their love and selfless giving helps mould our young citizens. A father's dedication to his job as a father helps shape our young people into responsible, caring individuals.

In my own life, it was my father's wisdom and guidance that helped make me into the person I am today. Fathers provide a moral compass that children look up to and emulate when they themselves become fathers. Strong role models create strong, healthy societies.

I am honoured to stand here today to acknowledge all the fathers who help their children face life's challenges, from tying their shoes to riding their first bike. The greatest thing a father can be is present.

To my father, and to all fathers across the nation, I give my thanks for being there when we needed it. Happy Father's Day.

Canada–Ukraine Relations

[Borys Wrzesnewskyj, Liberal, Etobicoke Centre, ON]

Mr. Speaker, this week, the European Union introduced visa-free travel for citizens of Ukraine. Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko hailed this historic milestone, calling it the fall of the paper curtain between Ukraine and the liberal democratic west, and Business Ukraine magazine referred to this day as “Ukraine's Berlin Wall moment”.

Since Ukraine's revolution of dignity in 2014, walls and obstacles to Ukraine's transition into a strong, consolidated western liberal democracy continue to fall. It is time for Canada to study the removal of visa restrictions between Canada and Ukraine, the last Soviet legacy dividing our two countries.

In the meantime, let us work with Ukraine to reinstate the youth mobility agreement between Canada and Ukraine to allow young Ukrainians and young Canadians to travel to our respective countries and enrich their professional and personal lives by experiencing all the benefits that each of our countries has to offer.

Filipino–Canadian Week

[Sheri Benson, NDP, Saskatoon West, SK]

Mr. Speaker, the City of Saskatoon proclaimed June 10 to 17 as Filipino-Canadian Week. Do not get me wrong, I am glad I am here in Ottawa, but I wish I could have joined the Filipino-Canadian community of Saskatoon at the city hall flag-raising ceremony commemorating the independence of the Philippines.

My riding of Saskatoon West is home to over 7,000 Filipino Canadians, a growing community of vibrant and dynamic Filipinos and Filipinas.

We are proud to honour the many contributions of Filipino Canadians in Saskatoon. They are our neighbours, our friends, our colleagues, and our teammates. We are all richer for having them in our midst.

I would especially like to thank the Filipino-Canadian Association of Saskatoon for promoting Filipino heritage for all of us to enjoy.

Please join me in congratulating the nominees for this year's most outstanding Pinoy of the Year: Hilbert Macadaeg, Mike San Miguel, and Vanessa Spencer.

To all our Filipino-Canadian friends in Saskatoon, salamat

Arts and Culture in Davenport

[Julie Dzerowicz, Liberal, Davenport, ON]

Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure for me to rise in the House today to promote and pay tribute to the rich arts and culture community in Davenport. From theatre, film, dance, publishing, visual arts, song writing, musicians, designers, writers, to gaming, we have it in Davenport.

Earlier this year, I welcomed the Minister of Heritage in my riding. She announced funding for the new museum of modern art that will not only showcase modern art to Canadians, but also showcase our very best to the world. They say that great artists provide a glimpse into the soul of the nation. Indeed, it was the artists in Davenport who saw the enormous potential of abandoned industrial segments in my riding, and through their art transformed them into vibrant hotbeds of creativity, innovation, and life.

I want to give a shout-out to Theatre Centre, Roseneath Theatre, Theatre Gargantua, Xpace, Akin Collective, Mercer Union, Clay & Paper Theatre, Arts & Crafts, House of Anansi, LIFT, DAREarts, and the following dance companies: Dreamwalker, Janak Khendry, and Lua Shayenne.

As we celebrate Canada's 150, I invite my fellow members to go out and support local artists, their inspiring work, and transformative contributions to their communities, and notably this great country we are blessed to call our home.

Interprovincial Trade

[John Barlow, Conservative, Foothills, AB]

Mr. Speaker, there is an incredible opportunity to unleash Canada's economy, and we cannot afford to let it pass us by. A Senate study states that a truly Canadian free trade agreement would add $150 billion to Canada's GDP. That would mean an additional 78,000 jobs in Alberta and B.C. alone.

In a few short months, the Supreme Court will hear the Gerard Comeau Case. The fact that Mr. Comeau was charged for buying alcohol in Quebec and bringing it home to New Brunswick shows that our current system in Canada is outdated and unconstitutional.

Free trade in Canada is a constitutional right, and we are calling on the Liberals to act as an intervenor in this case and defend the lower court's decision. Eliminating trade barriers between the provinces is good for our economy, good for our businesses, and it is good for Canada.

This is not a partisan issue, it is right versus wrong. I hope the Liberals will do the right thing to help free the beer and help unleash Canada's economy.

Chief of Protocol

[Rodger Cuzner, Liberal, Cape Breton—Canso, NS]

Mr. Speaker, later this summer, the parliamentary community will bid farewell to one of its own, Elizabeth Rody, chief of protocol for the Parliament of Canada. For more than 30 years, and may I note, 14 of them as only the third chief of protocol of Parliament, Ms. Rody has placed her talents and expertise at the service of several Speakers of the Senate and of the House of Commons, coordinating a vast array of parliamentary events in Ottawa and across Canada.

She has welcomed dignitaries from all over the world, from Margaret Thatcher, to former President of the United States Barack Obama, who during his visit told her admiringly, “You run a tight ship.”

Ms. Rody will cap her remarkable parliamentary career with the upcoming visit of the President of Italy, and then embark on the next chapter in her life. On behalf of all members in this chamber, I would like to thank her for her exemplary service and wish her all the best.

Proposed Women Council

[Iqra Khalid, Liberal, Mississauga—Erin Mills, ON]

Mr. Speaker, women empowerment is not about making women strong; women are already strong. It is about changing the way the world perceives that strength. It is about using that strength to build better economies, to have sound justice, to govern ourselves better.

Our government continues to empower women through the gender-based analysis plus, our feminist international development policy, and having more women at the decision-making table. That female perspective, that voice, must be heard as we aim to empower.

That is why I have put out a call to women in Mississauga—Erin Mills to establish a women council. Through this women council, I aim to give women a platform to engage in policy, to harness that strength. Through this council, I aim to give women in my riding a voice, because a woman with a voice is by definition an empowered woman.

Thetford Mines and Asbestos

[Luc Berthold, Conservative, Mégantic—L'Érable, QC]

Mr. Speaker, for over 100 years, two towns in Quebec have been contributing more than their fair share to the Canadian economy.

Thetford Mines and Asbestos are two mining towns where the gold was white, where labour movements took off, and where no dreams were too big. Over time, this white gold took on a dark sheen, and some do-gooders chose to ban it rather than learn how to use it properly. This white gold left traces over time, but those traces, called mine tailings, are full of minerals just waiting to be transformed into cold hard cash. At the very heart of this country, in a capital called Ottawa, the do-gooders hold in their hands the key to a new white gold rush. Ministers, as well-intentioned as they may be, to this day refuse to honour the promise made to the mayors of those two towns who want to meet with them.

Thetford Mines and Asbestos are not looking for a handout; they simply want to be allowed to take control of their own destiny. In closing, Thetford Mines is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year because those who live there are proud of their history and determined to overcome adversity.

Robert Heitshu

[Andrew Leslie, Liberal, Orléans, ON]

Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to mark the passing of Brigadier-General Robert Heitshu, a decorated veteran, a family friend, and a fellow gunner.

Bob joined the army reserves in 1944, served the guns honourably and well, and received his commission as an officer in 1950, thus serving his nation in uniform for over 39 years. Throughout his career, General Heitshu became an army pilot, and, as mentioned, served on the gun lines, was an air observer, and was later president of Canadian AirOP Association.

Following his retirement from the military, Bob joined a variety of organizations and remained very active in the Ottawa community. He joined the Corps of Commissionaires, as well as the Gloucester police commission.

I and all successive generations of officers who followed are greatly indebted to General Heitshu for his enormous contribution to the Canadian Armed Forces and the Royal Regiment of Canadian Artillery. Being a soldier was his lifelong dream.

I extend my deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

Men's Health

[Sherry Romanado, Liberal, Longueuil—Charles-LeMoyne, QC]

Mr. Speaker, in this week leading up to Father's Day, we are reminded of the importance of protecting the health of men in Canada. We know that 70% of the health problems affecting men can be prevented with healthier lifestyle choices. Even small, positive changes can have a significant impact on men's health and well-being.

We also know that to improve the health of Canada's men is to improve the health of our families, our communities, and our nation.

Today, I am proud to be showing my support for Men's Health Week by wearing plaid for Dad to help raise awareness about prostate cancer.

I urge the men of my riding of Longueuil—Charles-LeMoyne, and everywhere, to take the time to learn about the lifestyle changes they can make to enjoy a longer and healthier life with their families. Happy Father's Day.

Don Matthews

[Robert Gordon Kitchen, Conservative, Souris—Moose Mountain, SK]

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a great contributor to Canada, CFL coaching legend Don Matthews, who sadly passed away on Wednesday.

“The Don”, was one of the best coaches that the CFL has ever seen. He won 231 games in the CFL, the second-highest win total in league history. The Don was the head coach for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Edmonton Eskimos, Montreal Alouettes, Toronto Argonauts, BC Lions, and Baltimore Stallions, making nine Grey Cups and winning five in that role, and winning another five Grey Cups as a defensive coordinator.

The Don was chosen CFL Coach of the Year five times, and was inducted into the Canadian Football Hall of Fame in 2011.

As the official opposition critic for sport and a diehard CFL fan, it is an honour for me to stand in this House and pay tribute to such an accomplished individual. I would like to extend our sincere condolences to Don's wife, Stephanie, their sons, and their grandchildren. The whole CFL nation mourns with them.

Don's legacy will live on for generations to come.

Early Childhood Educators

[Geng Tan, Liberal, Don Valley North, ON]

Mr. Speaker, all children deserve a good start in life, something that we depend on our teachers and early childhood educators to make happen.

Ms. Tanya Farzaneh, at Seneca College Early Childhood Education Lab School in my riding, recently received a Prime Minister's Award for Excellence in Early Childhood Education.

Tanya's achievement and dedication shines through in her work to cultivate a creative learning environment for her students. She is committed to their success. Tanya embodies the best of the critical work that our educators do every day, giving our children the skills to succeed, and opening the doors to a brighter future for everyone.

VETS Canada

[Rachel Blaney, NDP, North Island—Powell River, BC]

Mr. Speaker, last weekend, hundreds of volunteers joined VETS Canada, also known as Veterans Emergency Transition Services Canada, for their second annual coast to coast Tour of Duty.

The Tour of Duty is a national walk to raise awareness of veteran homelessness, and to locate veterans on the streets or in shelters in need of help. I would like to applaud the hundreds of volunteers in 17 cities for their dedication to the men and women who have served our country so very well.

Since 2010, VETS Canada, a national charity and service provider of Veterans Affairs Canada, has assisted more than 1,600 homeless and in-crisis veterans. Across my riding of North Island—Powell River, my team and I work with vets who are facing housing challenges, high costs of medication, and post-traumatic stress disorder.

In a country as rich as Canada, our veterans should never be faced with this neglect. We must do better.

Turkey

[Tom Kmiec, Conservative, Calgary Shepard, AB]

Mr. Speaker, Canadians of Turkish heritage who disagree with the domestic policies of Ankara are worried. The Turkish government has broadened its crackdown against the coup plotters to include all those who dissent with the policies of the AKP. I am concerned that peaceful support for the Turkish opposition by Canadians of Turkish heritage in Canada is becoming the target of surveillance and intimidation.

Across our border to the south, on May 16 in Washington, members of the Turkish president's security entourage, joined by civilian supporters, physically assaulted peaceful protesters, a moment caught on video and shared worldwide. Justly concerned about this violation of our shared value of freedom to dissent, the U.S. House of Representatives foreign affairs subcommittee held a hearing on May 25 to investigate the circumstances surrounding this altercation. Now we learn that arrest warrants have been issued for two Canadians who assaulted protesters during that May 16 altercation.

Differing opinions, dissent, and debate are welcome and encouraged in Canada. Intimidation of Canadians, regardless of their country of origin, by foreign powers is a violation of our rights, and we should guard against such illegal activity at home.

Canadian Public Service

[David McGuinty, Liberal, Ottawa South, ON]

Mr. Speaker, today is the end of National Public Service Week in Canada. I would like to take a moment on behalf of all MPs to thank all of our dedicated and committed public servants in the House, in the national capital region, and across our entire country.

All governments stand on the shoulders of competent and talented public servants. They administer our programs, keep us safe, conduct our research, help keep our environment clean, and do so much more.

Once again, we sincerely thank all public servants who are there for us every day.

I would be remiss as well if I did not take an opportunity to wish happy Father's Day to all the fathers in our public service and to every other father across this beautiful country.

Foreign Investment

[Alain Rayes, Conservative, Richmond—Arthabaska, QC]

Mr. Speaker, before I ask my first question, I would like to recognize and sincerely thank Marc Bosc for his work as Acting Clerk of the House.

By approving the sale to China of a firm that manufactures equipment used to keep us and the Americans safe, the Prime Minister showed us two things this week.

First, the Prime Minister acted irresponsibly with regard to our national security. Second, the Liberals are damaging our relationship with our main ally, the United States.

When will the Prime Minister finally get his priorities straight and tell Canadians what really happened here?

[David Lametti, Liberal, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation]

Mr. Speaker, national security is a top priority for our government. All transactions reviewed under the Investment Canada Act are subject to a multi-stage security review process. We can confirm that the process set out in the act was followed to the letter and it was determined that there was no threat to national security. Our security agencies had access to all of the information they needed throughout the process.

We never have and we never will compromise on national security.

[Alain Rayes, Conservative, Richmond—Arthabaska, QC]

Mr. Speaker, we are fed up with all the rhetoric. It is not simply not true. This is serious. We just do not sell a Canadian company that makes equipment and satellites and protects our national security from foreigners without a full security review.

Will the Liberals cut the rhetoric and immediately put in place a full national security review?

[David Lametti, Liberal, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation]

Mr. Speaker, we have listened to our national security experts. We listened to their advice. National security was reviewed as part of this transaction by people who have the knowledge.

It is based on their advice and recommendations that we authorized this transaction. I want to reassure the House and all Canadians that we will never compromise on national security and we will always work to advance our national interests.

Infrastructure

[Alain Rayes, Conservative, Richmond—Arthabaska, QC]

Mr. Speaker, listening is one thing, acting is another. That is not what the Liberals are doing right now.

Let us talk about the proposed infrastructure bank. We had just one hour and a half to discuss it in parliamentary committee and the Senate also requires an in-depth study before going any further.

Now we find out that after choosing the location for the bank, the Liberals have even chosen the CEO. If that is not arrogance, then I would like to know what word they want us to use to describe them.

When are the Liberals going to respect this institution and allow us to thoroughly review this bank?

[Amarjeet Sohi, Liberal, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities]

Mr. Speaker, we have been very clear that no appointments will be confirmed and made until we have the legislation passed through Parliament. That is exactly what we said earlier and that is exactly what we will follow.

Our goal to establish the Canada infrastructure bank is to allow our municipalities and provinces to build more infrastructure and create jobs and opportunities as well as to make sure that we are working with them in partnership to allow them to bring forward projects that they think are necessary for them to build.

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Carleton, ON]

Mr. Speaker, we already knew that the new Liberal infrastructure bank will offer taxpayer-backed loans and loan guarantees to cover the losses of wealthy foreign investors who build megaprojects in Canada, but who will be on the bank's board? Let me quote the Minister of Finance: “I will say that it's not clear that the people on the board will necessarily be Canadians.”

That means foreign financiers could help foreign financiers access $35 billion in taxpayer-backed loans and loan guarantees here in Canada.

Who is standing up for taxpayers in this country?

[Amarjeet Sohi, Liberal, Minister of Infrastructure and Communities]

Mr. Speaker, unlike the hon. member, we have confidence that we will be able to attract Canadians who have the talent and expertise, and we will make sure that we reflect the regional diversity of our country and the gender parity of our country. We also attract people from diverse backgrounds.

We want to make sure that the board of the infrastructure bank reflects who we are as Canadians, and that is exactly what we will achieve.