House of Commons Hansard #36 of the 43rd Parliament, 2nd Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was language.
Liberal
The Speaker Liberal Anthony Rota
It being Wednesday, we will now have the singing of the national anthem.
Before recognizing the hon. member for Portage—Lisgar to lead us, I wish to note that this week marks the 25th anniversary of the practice of singing the national anthem before the opening of each Wednesday sitting.
The hon. member for Portage—Lisgar.
[Members sang the national anthem]
Iqra Khalid Liberal Mississauga—Erin Mills, ON
Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the small businesses in Mississauga—Erin Mills, I would like to thank this government for the incredible support provided during this pandemic.
The Canada emergency business account has provided loans to organizations like the Gems Learning Institute, which allowed it to continue providing STEM education for youth this summer. The Canada emergency wage subsidy has covered up to 65% of wages for the loyal staff of Mulligan's Pub. Just this week we rolled out the Canada emergency rent subsidy, covering up to 65% of commercial rent and other expenses for businesses such as Orchid Nails & Spa.
These programs are a vital lifeline for small business owners in my riding and across the country. As we continue to weather the second wave of this pandemic and plan for Canada's recovery, I know that small businesses will continue to be a priority for our government.
Kenny Chiu Conservative Steveston—Richmond East, BC
Mr. Speaker, last year, the Richmond Christmas Fund helped brighten the holidays for nearly 3,000 of our neighbours in need, including over 1,200 children and youth and 300 seniors, enabling them to enjoy a festive holiday celebration with family and friends. This holiday season, the fund continues to ensure those experiencing financial hardship can share in the holiday spirit.
For the outpouring of generosity, I would like to thank the fund's “Angel Donors” for helping surpass donations and set another record year amidst the pandemic: Platinum Pro-Claim Restoration, Tony Scott; Herbaland Naturals, Aisha Yang and Musharaf Syed; Pacific Gateway Hotels, Eda Koot; Auto West Group, Joachim Neumann; Richmond Auto Mall Association, Gail Terry; TD Canada Trust, Tony Mauro; Patti Martin Real Estate Group, Patti Martin; Stage Foundations, David Sheng and Fanny Lagun; Canadian Tire Richmond, Terry Sanford and Sean Disdero. We thank them.
Happy holiday, happy Hanukkah and merry Christmas.
Yves Perron Bloc Berthier—Maskinongé, QC
Mr. Speaker, now is the moment of truth. The Bloc Québécois has introduced a bill to prevent any further breaches in supply management.
Farmers are watching us. They saw the House unanimously adopt motions where all parliamentarians supported fully maintaining supply management. When the rubber hit the road, however, these motions were ignored.
They heard the Liberals promise to make no concessions, only to betray them. They heard the Liberals promise to provide compensation, only to put off paying. Now they are hearing the Conservatives make promises, but the Conservatives were responsible for two of the three breaches.
They have seen and heard enough. Now is the moment of truth. Farmers are watching us, and it is time to vote.
It is time to vote for them, like they have been asking us to do. They will know which elected officials they can count on, based on who votes to stop this butchering of supply management once and for all. This will be the test.
Annie Koutrakis Liberal Vimy, QC
Mr. Speaker, on Remembrance Day, I met with representatives of Branch 251 of the Royal Canadian Legion and the cadet corps in my riding of Vimy, specifically 2650 Châteauguay, 687 Richelieu, 100 Laval and 784 St-Vincent-de-Paul squadrons.
Across the country, over 53,000 young Canadians participate in the Canadian army, sea and air cadets. These programs allow youth to develop physical fitness, leadership skills and good citizenship.
I would like to acknowledge the important work of all cadets in Canada. I encourage all young Canadians to join their local cadet branch. It is an unforgettable experience.
Angelo Iacono Liberal Alfred-Pellan, QC
Mr. Speaker, on December 5, we will mark International Volunteer Day, and I would like to commend volunteers from Alfred-Pellan ahead of time.
There are a great many of them, but to name just a few, we have the volunteers from Cité de la Santé, the Centre d'écoute de Laval and Jeunes Youth Laval.
During the pandemic, our volunteers did not hesitate to put themselves on the front lines to make sure our community remains closely knit in this time of crisis, working tirelessly to support the organizations and vulnerable individuals in my riding. They have brightened the lives of our seniors in their darkest days. They have rolled up their sleeves and worked kitchen shifts to feed those in need. They have given their time to listen to a community in distress so they could make people feel better.
I would like to thank them, our guardian angels, from the bottom of my heart.
The Holiday Season in Montmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-LoupStatements by Members
Conservative
Bernard Généreux Conservative Montmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-Loup, QC
Mr. Speaker, today I would like to commend all chambers of commerce, particularly those in Montmagny, Kamouraska-L'Islet and Rivière-du-Loup for their buy-local initiatives during the holiday season.
Many of my riding's business owners and artisans are not feeling very festive because they will have to make some tough business decisions soon. I would also like to commend the bold steps taken by associations, community groups and foundations to raise funds for those in need.
They are organizing ingenious charitable activities, cooking benefit meals to go, fashioning their own face masks, hosting virtual performances, and more.
Now, more than ever, is the time to show community spirit by rolling up our sleeves and encouraging local business owners, who are the lifeblood of our municipalities. I would like to pledge my support to all volunteers who are preparing meals and food baskets for families that never would have thought they would need to ask for food to meet their needs in these difficult times.
My team and I are here for them. We wish them all a happy holiday season, despite the situation.
Fayçal El-Khoury Liberal Laval—Les Îles, QC
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to proudly acknowledge the vital importance of the French language to us, to all Quebeckers and to all Canadians.
French is a unique and distinguished language. It symbolizes our history and our roots and speaks to our culture, our community and our origins.
French is essential to the survival of our identity and our communities. It is our right to access all services in French, so that we can be well served in Canada in one of the two official languages.
French, the language of Molière, is a wonderful asset for our country. We must not only protect this heritage of our ancestors by defending our language, but also promote it in Canada and around the world.
I am proud to speak French. Speaking French is a great asset. Speaking French is a source of pride.
Francis Scarpaleggia Liberal Lac-Saint-Louis, QC
Mr. Speaker, strong communities are possible only with the involvement of selfless individuals who give their time, energy, heart and soul to local causes and organizations. Antoinette Scarano was such an individual. Antoinette's contributions to West Island life were remarkable for their variety and for the long-standing involvement she maintained with the organizations she helped.
Whether as a member of the boards of Light a Dream, Carrefour jeunesse-emploi de l'Ouest-de-l'Île, Action Jeunesse de l'Ouest-de-l'Île, the Ricochet youth homeless shelter project, the West Island of Montreal Chamber of Commerce, or as a work-study coordinator with the Lester B. Pearson School Board, Antoinette was committed to building a more resilient community. The West Island has lost an engaged citizen who could light up a room with her smile and motivate by her example of service.
To Antoinette's husband Renato, daughter Roseann and son Andrew, we offer our deepest condolences.
Gary Vidal Conservative Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River, SK
Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege today to rise and honour the life of Fred Sasakamoose, who passed away yesterday.
Fred was a trailblazer, becoming the first first nations person to play in the NHL. After his last game of junior hockey, a telegram was read in the dressing room. It said, “Please report immediately to the Chicago Black Hawks to play in the NHL in Toronto on Hockey Night in Canada.” Fred's words described the story best when he said, “I was warming up on the ice. And somebody skated up to me and said, 'Somebody wants to talk to you over there.' I'd never seen Foster Hewitt in my life. He was just on the radio. He said, 'How do you pronounce your name? Is it Saskatchewanmoose or Saskatoonmoose?'”
Fred went on to be a champion for his people, and his family can always be proud of his many accomplishments. I ask all members to join me today in recognizing the life and the legacy of Fred Sasakamoose.
David McGuinty Liberal Ottawa South, ON
Mr. Speaker, despite all the challenges we have faced this year, democracy is alive and well in my riding of Ottawa South. During the COVID crisis, the local community associations have come together to assist those in need. Neighbours are helping neighbours, looking out for each other.
I have had the privilege of joining many of their virtual annual general meetings, and I want to sincerely thank their members and executive committees for their tireless efforts, especially at this difficult time. I thank the Alta Vista, Canterbury, Eastway Gardens, Elmvale Acres, Faircrest Heights, Fairlea, Heron Park, Hunt Club, Hunt Club Park, Ridgemont, Riverside Park, Riverview Park and South Keys Greenboro community associations.
I am so very proud to represent them, and look forward to continuing to work with them in 2021.
Tim Uppal Conservative Edmonton Mill Woods, AB
Mr. Speaker, I did not grow up around hunting or sport shooting. In fact, when I was a kid, I asked my dad to go camping and he said that he did not move to Canada to cook and sleep outside, but I know how important it is for people in my riding and right across Canada to own firearms and use them in a safe and lawful manner. It is a way of life, which is why last week I went to the Phoenix Gun Range in Edmonton to start the process of taking the Canadian firearms safety course and getting my PALs.
The reality is that banning firearms used by law-abiding citizens does nothing to stop the dangerous criminals who obtain their guns illegally. The vast majority of gun crimes are committed with illegally obtained guns, which is something that the Liberals have failed to address.
I encourage all members of the House to learn about the regulations law-abiding firearms owners face. Only then can we have an evidence-based approach to this issue.
John Brassard Conservative Barrie—Innisfil, ON
Mr. Speaker, as we mark the 15th anniversary of Victims and Survivors of Crime Week, I stand today to recognize the challenges facing victims, survivors and their families, and the dedicated hard-working professional service providers, advocates and volunteers who support them.
This year's theme, “Recognizing Courage, Renewing Commitment”, is a reminder of the tremendous strength of individuals as they endure each day.
I also recognize the unique challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and sincerely thank the countless individuals who have stepped up to continue delivering effective services in these difficult times. The pandemic has reminded us how important it is that victims continue to be supported and heard.
I honour their great courage and resilience to come forward and speak about their experiences. We must always ensure victims have access to meaningful supports, information and assistance. This week reminds us to continue our efforts to prevent crime and protect those who are the most vulnerable in our communities.
Jenny Kwan NDP Vancouver East, BC
Mr. Speaker, on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, let us all be reminded that the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls’ final report concluded that thousands of indigenous women and girls are victims of a genocide.
To end the genocide, the Government of Canada is required to fully and promptly implement all the calls for justice, yet more than a year later we still do not have an action plan led by indigenous women, as promised by the Prime Minister. This failure betrays the truths shared by survivors and their families.
What is worse is that the government is using the pandemic as an excuse for delays. It is as if the Prime Minister is blind to the fact that the pandemic has made violence against women much worse. Calls for action to address poverty, economic inequality and inadequate housing have been made repeatedly in numerous reports and by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission.
There can be no more delays. There can be no more stolen sisters. The government must treat violence against women, especially indigenous women, with the same urgency as its pandemic response.
Yves-François Blanchet Bloc Beloeil—Chambly, QC
Mr. Speaker, today Quebec lost a giant whose close relationship with René Lévesque and Quebec made him an integral part of the very soul of Quebec.
On behalf of the Bloc Québécois, I extend my condolences to the friends and family of Marc-André Bédard, and I share in their profound grief. My thoughts go out especially to his son Stéphane, with whom I also share fond memories in cabinet and in the Quebec National Assembly.
A founding member of the Parti Québécois, Mr. Bédard served as the MNA for Chicoutimi, deputy premier, government leader, justice minister and confidant of René Lévesque.
Politics aside, he was a staunch fighter for his region, the Saguenay. He was a key player in the local economy, social life and vibrant cultural sector of his magnificent region. My Quebec friends, if Saguenay is a kingdom, today it has lost the patriarch of the royal family.
Mr. Bédard, Quebec salutes you.
Richard Martel Conservative Chicoutimi—Le Fjord, QC
Mr. Speaker, this morning, Quebec lost a great man, and Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean lost a giant. Marc-André Bédard, former minister of Justice and René Lévesque’s right-hand man, died at the age of 85.
He was a formidable politician, a brilliant lawyer and a skilled orator. His values and his convictions were unwavering. He laid one of the first cornerstones of the Quebec civil code, particularly through the reform of family law. He solidified the foundation of the Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean region by contributing to the development of the aluminum industry, the Chicoutimi Hospital and the Université du Québec à Chicoutimi.
Although he retired from active politics in 1985, we regularly crossed paths with him. He always stayed in close touch with people and was tremendously kind.
We will fondly remember Mr. Bédard, an upright man who was involved in his community and who set an example for politicians of all stripes.
Today, we extend our deepest condolences to his children, Éric, Stéphane, Louis and Maxime, and the entire family.
Thank you, Mr. Bédard, for your enormous contribution. We will never forget.
Mark Gerretsen Liberal Kingston and the Islands, ON
Mr. Speaker, since 2015, this government has put a focus on gender equality in the House. Today, we hit a major historical milestone in Parliament. As Chair of the Ontario Liberal caucus, it is my honour to welcome two strong female voices into the House today.
For the first time in Parliament's history, the House is officially represented by 100 women from across our country. I hope all members of the House will help me in welcoming the new members for Toronto Centre and York Centre.
The Speaker Liberal Anthony Rota
I have the honour to inform the House that the Clerk of the House has received from the Chief Electoral Officer a certificate of the election and return of Ms. Marci Ien, member for the electoral district of Toronto Centre.
Ms. Marci Ien, member for the electoral district of Toronto Centre, introduced by the Right Hon. Justin Trudeau.
The Speaker Liberal Anthony Rota
I have the honour to inform the House that the Clerk of the House has received from the Chief Electoral Officer a certificate of the election and return of Ms. Ya’ara Saks, member for the electoral district of York Centre.
Ms. Ya'ara Saks, member for the electoral district of York Centre, introduced by the Right Hon. Justin Trudeau.
Erin O'Toole ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, months ago Conservatives began raising alarms that Canadians would get vaccines after many other countries. Yesterday, the Prime Minister acknowledged we were right.
The Centres for Disease Control and Prevention has said the first Americans will receive a COVID-19 vaccine in the next two weeks.
Why did the Prime Minister sign deals that placed Canadians months behind Americans for getting a COVID-19 vaccine?
Justin Trudeau LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, over the past months, experts have worked with this government to put Canadians in the very best possible position on vaccines.
We now have the best, most diverse portfolio of vaccines anywhere in the world, including agreements with all of the leading vaccine candidates for more doses per capita than just about any other country.
We are continuing to work with experts on a rollout plan. We have faith in our top scientists and doctors as we take a whole-of-government approach to delivering vaccines for Canadians as soon as possible.
Erin O'Toole ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, so far we know that Canada will receive its vaccine only after the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, France, India, Indonesia, and the list goes on. The combined population of countries ahead of Canada in the distribution line is almost 2.5 billion people.
To the nearest 100 million, can the Prime Minister tell the House how many vaccines will be delivered to the rest of the world before a delivery is made to Canada?
Justin Trudeau LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, from the beginning of this pandemic, we have worked with top scientists and experts to deliver to Canadians the very best help possible, whether it was making sure we had the right PPE, whether we moved forward on the right support for our treatments and medical systems, and as we move forward on vaccines, which I know everyone is eagerly awaiting because that will signal the beginning of the end of this pandemic.
This summer our experts came together and recommended a portfolio of vaccines that have actually put Canada at the very top, in terms of per capita doses, and those very experts are ensuring that we roll out vaccines to all Canadians.