House of Commons Hansard #199 of the 42nd Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was preclearance.

Topics

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

The Speaker Liberal Geoff Regan

It being Wednesday, we will now have the singing of the national anthem, led by the hon. member Cariboo—Prince George.

[Members sang the national anthem]

National Aboriginal DayStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Bloc

Marilène Gill Bloc Manicouagan, QC

Mr. Speaker, on this National Aboriginal Day, the Bloc Québécois and I want to pay homage to the Métis, first nations, and Inuit peoples. This is also a day when my thoughts turn to my own Abenaki roots.

The indigenous peoples did not need Quebec, but Quebec certainly needed them. Our debt to them is immeasurable. From Notakwanon to Waswanipi, their presence defined and enabled our own. Our infinite gratitude for everything our indigenous brothers and sisters have done for us was humbly embodied in the peace of the braves.

Can the same be said of Ottawa when indigenous languages are not even respected here in the House? When communities are struggling with catastrophic rates of violence and suicide, when children still do not have access to safe drinking water or equitable education, and when women are still discriminated against, we certainly have to wonder.

Today is also an opportunity to remember everything we owe to indigenous peoples and to demand that the government follow through on everything that still needs to be done now.

Thank you. Tshinashkumitin. Meegwetch.

Alfred-PellanStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Angelo Iacono Liberal Alfred-Pellan, QC

Mr. Speaker, as the parliamentary session winds down, I would like to thank everyone I have met since January at the hundreds of meetings and events I have attended in my riding.

I have spoken with some amazing individuals who are very dedicated to their respective causes. Since January, I have risen to speak in the House on behalf of my constituents 21 times, whether on debate, during members' statements, or to ask questions, and I have voted 150 times. I also attended 27 committee meetings and made more than 180 interventions as part of seven different studies. I contributed to the drafting of three reports on topics that affect people right across the country.

I am grateful to have done this work on behalf of the people of Laval and the riding of Alfred-Pellan, and I look forward to meeting many more people this summer as we proudly celebrate Canada's 150th birthday.

Happy national holiday and happy Canada Day.

Victory FoundationStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

Tom Kmiec Conservative Calgary Shepard, AB

Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 25th anniversary of the Victory Foundation, an organization in my riding that works with Calgary's homeless. Its Ogden location offers housing, food, support programs, and a social environment that allows people to overcome life's obstacles and integrate into the community.

The foundation has reached incredible milestones. In 2015 alone it provided 82,000 meals and housed more than 100 people without a place to call home. As of this year, it has raised over $700,000 towards a new women's affordable housing unit.

To mark its anniversary, next week the foundation is holding an art show with artist Lloyd Hall, one of its residents, who serves as a symbol of what people can achieve when support is available.

I want to recognize Victory Foundation's CEO, Pastor Don Delaney, for his continued commitment to helping Calgary's less fortunate. I thank him for his leadership and encourage fellow Calgarians to support the Victory Foundation's ongoing efforts in Ogden. Its goal should be our goal: put up a fence to keep people from falling into the ditch of homelessness.

Canadian Coast GuardStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Joe Peschisolido Liberal Steveston—Richmond East, BC

Mr. Speaker, the men and women of the Canadian Coast Guard work hard every day to ensure the safety of Canadians, mariners, and the marine environment. Our government knows how much British Columbians value the Sea Island dive team, and I am extremely pleased that it will remain in Richmond at the Sea Island base.

With last summer's reopening of the Kitsilano coast guard station and the announcement of the historic oceans protection plan, the waters in and around Metro Vancouver are safer than ever. With new investments of nearly $3 billion in its core operations, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard will continue delivering critical services to Canadians, services that save lives, protect the marine environment, create jobs, and drive sustainable economic growth.

National Aboriginal DayStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

NDP

Rachel Blaney NDP North Island—Powell River, BC

Mr. Speaker, in my riding of North Island—Powell River, National Aboriginal Day celebrations are happening everywhere across the region. For example, there are multiple activities at the Comox Bighouse to share cultural practices and art. In Port Hardy, the municipality and Kwakiutl, Gwa'sala-Nakwaxda'xw, and Quatisino first nations will be unveiling murals addressing 150 years of Canada. There will be the opening of the day in the Big House in Campbell River, followed by multiple activities at Spirit Square, and in Powell River, the Métis Society will have events at Willingdon Beach, with a barbeque to honour Auntie Elsie Paul, a Tla'amin elder.

Most importantly, today I hope all members in the House remember that today we celebrate, but reconciliation does not truly start until the harm ends. It does not start until the story of aboriginal people becomes a story all Canadians know.

As Lee Maracle wrote so wisely, “The stories that really need to be told are those that shake the very soul of you.”

St. Andrew's Presbyterian ChurchStatements By Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Salma Zahid Liberal Scarborough Centre, ON

Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church in my riding of Scarborough Centre, which recently celebrated its 199th anniversary. This is a big year, as Canada celebrates its 150th birthday. It is quite something to think that this church predates Confederation by 49 years.

In the 1800s, the area that today is Scarborough had only recently had its first European settlers and was largely a collection of small rural villages and farms. From village to borough, from horse and buggy to steam train to subway, St. Andrew's has been there. Through it all, it has been tending to the spiritual needs of the community through weddings and funerals, baptisms and Sunday school, feeding the hungry and comforting the grieving. It is a remarkable history of service.

I congratulate St. Andrew's Presbyterian Church on 199 years of worship, service, and fellowship.

House of Commons PagesStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Karen Vecchio Conservative Elgin—Middlesex—London, ON

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take a moment to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of 40 incredible young individuals, the House of Commons pages. They have been hard at work all year making our time in this place run smoothly. They have supported all members in the House in carrying out the important tasks that allow us as members of Parliament to represent our constituents as best as possible. The pages' hard work, devotion, and enthusiasm during busy question periods or late night debates is especially impressive, considering that the pages have had to balance a full academic schedule along with their duties here.

Being a page is an extraordinary and special experience. To be able to spend a year in this distinguished institution at this time in their young lives is indeed a rare and special opportunity. As their time as pages comes to an end, I know they will have fond memories and new friends for life.

On behalf of my colleagues, I would like to thank the pages for their dedication, loyalty, and hard work, and I wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

Indigenous LanguagesStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

William Amos Liberal Pontiac, QC

Mr. Speaker, on National Aboriginal Day, it is essential that we focus on the beauty and preservation of those indigenous languages that are critically endangered.

The Algonquin people of the Pontiac are working hard to preserve their language and its dialects. I want them to know that all Canadians are behind them.

[Member spoke in aboriginal language]

[Translation]

Celebrations in Thérèse-De BlainvilleStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

Ramez Ayoub Liberal Thérèse-De Blainville, QC

Mr. Speaker, the 150th anniversary of the Confederation of Canada is a good reason to celebrate with friends and family, but it also offers a prime opportunity to discover Canada's heritage and traditions.

That is what we in Thérèse-De Blainville will be fortunate enough to experience at the Blainville Equestrian Park on July 6, when the Royal Canadian Mounted Police Musical Ride passes through. The musical ride both expresses the heritage and tradition of the RCMP and raises money for local charities.

I very much look forward to watching these highly skilled horsemen. I invite everyone in Thérèse-De Blainville and the surrounding area to take in this show that celebrates the history of the mounted police. I am sure will it leave us inspired and impressed. Let us get together on July 6 in Blainville.

Summer RodeosStatements By Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Todd Doherty Conservative Cariboo—Prince George, BC

Mr. Speaker, it is the first day of summer, and I am pleased to announce that my second favourite season is once again upon us. That is rodeo season. Whether it is roping, saddle bronc, bull riding, or the wild horse races, rodeo is in my blood and gets us all excited at this time every year.

It just so happens that we have some world-class events taking place right in my riding: the 91st annual world famous Williams Lake Stampede, the 44th annual Billy Barker Days and 52nd annual Quesnel Rodeo, and the Anahim Lake Stampede. The Cariboo puts on some of the finest rodeo events in North America.

Visitors come from far and wide to enjoy the fast-paced, exciting action, witness the true can-do, never-say-no, pioneering spirit, and experience the good old-fashioned but world-class hospitality of the Cariboo.

From our crystal clear lakes, rivers, and streams to incredible mountain and outdoor adventures and fast-paced rodeo activities, my riding has it all. I am so proud to live in and represent the good old riding of Cariboo—Prince George.

Let us saddle up and ride into the summer. Yeehaw!

Quebec's National HolidayStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Sherry Romanado Liberal Longueuil—Charles-LeMoyne, QC

Mr. Speaker, on June 24, Quebeckers celebrate Quebec's national holiday. This annual holiday has been celebrated for 183 years and symbolizes the great pride of a people whose language and culture continue to enrich Canada's social fabric.

It also symbolizes the great openness and inclusiveness of the Quebec society that we know today. Indeed, 40 years ago, this day, which was once earmarked to celebrate Saint-Jean-Baptiste, was declared the national holiday of all Quebeckers regardless of their origins or beliefs.

Whether we were born into it or chose to be part of it, Quebec's culture enriches us all. Let us celebrate it. Happy national holiday.

National Aboriginal DayStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Michael McLeod Liberal Northwest Territories, NT

Mr. Speaker,

[member spoke in Gwich'in]

[English]

It is also true that we are stronger and more successful when we work together as partners. Our commitment to building a new relationship, and supporting and improving outcomes for indigenous peoples and promoting reconciliation in Canada, is something we should all be proud of and be dedicated to seeing succeed.

National indigenous peoples day is an opportunity for all Canadians to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of aboriginal people, and the wealth of traditions, lifestyles, and languages they bring to our country.

The Northwest Territories, NWT, has recognized National Aboriginal Day as a statutory holiday since 2001. This year Yukon will be joining us to celebrate national indigenous peoples day.

Happy national indigenous peoples Day to everyone.

National Aboriginal DayStatements By Members

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

Cathy McLeod Conservative Kamloops—Thompson—Cariboo, BC

Mr. Speaker, today is the 21st annual National Aboriginal Day, which next year will be called “National Indigenous Peoples Day”. It is an opportunity to honour the rich traditions, heritage, and diverse cultures of the Inuit, Métis, and first nations peoples in Canada.

Growing every year, celebrations will be held across Canada. For many, including in Ottawa, it started with a sunrise ceremony on this summer solstice. As the sun came up, there was a smudging ceremony, prayers, and then an opportunity to enjoy the dancing, drumming, and singing. It was a very special start to the day.

I encourage all Canadians to participate in the celebrations today and to learn more about the immense contributions of indigenous peoples to Canada.

In 1910, the chiefs from the B.C. Interior wrote then Prime Minister Wilfrid Laurier. In their words, they stated, “What is ours will be theirs, and what is theirs will be ours. We will help each other to be great and good.“

May we all inspire to reach their vision for Canada as we move forward together.

House of Commons StaffStatements By Members

June 21st, 2017 / 2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Ginette Petitpas Taylor Liberal Moncton—Riverview—Dieppe, NB

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Parliament Hill. It is more than just brick and mortar, wood and nails.

I rise in recognition of the admirable work and the services that the House of Commons staff provide to parliamentarians and to Canadians.

To the researchers, cooks, servers, Parliamentary Protective Service employees, tour guides, landscapers, technicians, and all the employees who make sure that this institution functions despite the occasional madness, a big thank you.

To our office staff here and in the ridings, thank you for your service to your community, your neighbours, and democracy.

Lastly, I wish to thank the pages, who come from across Canada to be here and to participate in their democracy like few other Canadians have had the opportunity and the privilege to do so.

On behalf of my colleagues, I thank them for their time, energy, professionalism, and service. Thank you, and I wish everyone a wonderful Canada Day.

National Aboriginal DayStatements By Members

2:20 p.m.

NDP

Cheryl Hardcastle NDP Windsor—Tecumseh, ON

Mr. Speaker, I rise on this national indigenous peoples day to honour the impact of indigenous women as nurturers, protectors of the great turtle that lets us live on her back, nurturers who relentlessly seek reconciliation through social justice.

This fiery spirit was captured in the life and achievements of Shannen Koostachin of Attawapiskat First Nation. I celebrate her today and those who continue her fight.

At 13 years of age, Shannen confronted the shabby conditions of her school: the mould, the rodents, the poisoned drinking water. She said enough, and lead what became a national campaign on social and print media and in front of Parliament to pressure the federal government into building a new school in her community, and it did.

Shannen's life ended two years later in an automobile accident. She was 15, and by then she was renowned across North America as a passionate fighter for the rights of native children.

On this day, may her spirit sing in this chamber, even as it rebukes the false promises of the past. Let it instill a new resolve.

Member for Cariboo—Prince GeorgeStatements By Members

2:20 p.m.

Conservative

Bob Zimmer Conservative Prince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies, BC

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an individual and friend from Prince George. This individual and former hockey coach was on his way home to Prince George when he noticed a fellow passenger was in distress and fell unconscious. The former hockey coach sprung into action and performed live-saving chest compressions, saving the person's life. The passenger, once back in Vancouver, had to be defibrillated twice more.

Due to his quick thinking and this Prince George resident's actions, a person is alive today.

We cannot thank individuals like him enough. As he said, “I don't think we did anything different than anyone else would have done.” The individual I am recognizing today is our friend and life-saving colleague, the member for Cariboo—Prince George.

Parliament Hill StaffStatements By Members

2:20 p.m.

Liberal

Darren Fisher Liberal Dartmouth—Cole Harbour, NS

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Parliament Hill. More than a collection of stone, mortar, wood, and nails, I rise on behalf of all Canadians to give thanks to those who do far too much on our behalf.

To the researchers, chefs, servers, our security, maintenance, the tour guides, the groundskeepers, operational staff, and tech support, to all the staff who ensure this institution functions despite the occasional insanity, I thank them.

To our staff here and back home in our constituencies, working tirelessly on behalf of all Canadians, I thank them.

Last, to the pages, individuals from across Canada, here to participate in our democracy in a way few Canadians have the opportunity or the privilege to do, I thank them.

On behalf of my colleagues, I thank them for their time, their energy, their professionalism, and their service. I thank them for all they do.

Parliament Hill StaffStatements By Members

2:20 p.m.

Liberal

The Speaker Liberal Geoff Regan

Colleagues, please allow me to add my thanks to the pages, to the procedural clerks, to all the staff of the House of Commons, the Library of Parliament, and the Parliamentary Protective Service. I wish everyone a good summer, whenever it comes.

National SecurityOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Regina—Qu'Appelle Saskatchewan

Conservative

Andrew Scheer ConservativeLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, national security experts are concerned about the Prime Minister's efforts to weaken our national security legislation and to put obstacles in the way of our law enforcement agencies.

The former director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, or CSIS, Ward Elcock, said that this legislation will make it more difficult for the agency to analyze potential threats of terrorism.

Is the Prime Minister prepared to listen to expert advice and to improve his bill?

National SecurityOral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Papineau Québec

Liberal

Justin Trudeau LiberalPrime Minister

Mr. Speaker, we are very open to suggestions, amendments, and improvements to national security. We appreciate just how delicate and important it is to strike a balance, and how this balance is essential for Canadians. We have a duty to protect the security of individuals, communities, and families while also protecting the rights and freedoms of Canadians. This is what we will always be sure to do. I encourage the members opposite to participate fully in the process for reviewing this bill.

National SecurityOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

Regina—Qu'Appelle Saskatchewan

Conservative

Andrew Scheer ConservativeLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, I welcome the Prime Minister's indication that he is open to amendments.

Many of the national security experts are raising the alarm over a specific attempt to water down some of these national security laws. Several of our European allies are now dealing with the threat of terrorism literally on a weekly basis. The fact is that Canada is not, and will not, be immune to this threat.

Will the Prime Minister specifically be open to restoring the proactive ability for our national security agencies to disrupt terrorist threats, when mere minutes matter?

National SecurityOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

Papineau Québec

Liberal

Justin Trudeau LiberalPrime Minister

Mr. Speaker, no one in the House takes lightly the responsibility we all share, particularly on the government side, to keep Canadians safe in their homes, in their communities, and when they travel. We are very much focused on that, while at the same time understanding that Canadians expect and deserve to be reassured that their rights and freedoms will also be respected. Getting that balance right is extraordinarily important.

I look forward to robust discussions with all parties in the House, all members in the House, hearing from experts, as we move forward on getting that balance right, which is keeping Canadians safe and protecting their rights.

TaxationOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

Regina—Qu'Appelle Saskatchewan

Conservative

Andrew Scheer ConservativeLeader of the Opposition

Mr. Speaker, everyone is asking the Prime Minister to stop raising Canadians' taxes.

Yesterday, the Senate, which has a Liberal majority, made it clear that it does not support the government's new escalator tax on beer and wine, and rightly so. The tax will continue to increase every year for an indefinite period.

Will the Prime Minister listen to his Liberal senators and cancel the tax hikes that are hurting the people he claims to be helping?

TaxationOral Questions

2:25 p.m.

Papineau Québec

Liberal

Justin Trudeau LiberalPrime Minister

Mr. Speaker, the first thing that we did when we were elected was to lower taxes for the middle class and increase them for the wealthiest 1%. We promised to do that during the election campaign, and it was one of the first measures that we implemented. Unfortunately, the members opposite voted against the tax hike for the wealthiest 1% and against lowering taxes for the middle class.

We are always trying to lower taxes for the middle class because that is how we will build a strong country.