Debates of Feb. 2nd, 2021

Men's Sheds Canada

[Marty Morantz, Conservative, Charleswood—St. James—Assiniboia—Headingley, MB]

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate a true community hero, Doug Mackie, for being awarded the Manitoba Lieutenant Governor’s “Make A Difference Community Award.” In 2011, Doug founded Men’s Sheds Canada here in Winnipeg. He recognized that many in our community were suffering from isolation, loneliness and depression. In a shed, men get together for activities like woodworking projects, cooking, playing cards and so much more. Doug expanded across the country and now has 38 locations with over 1,000 members.

I visited our local Woodhaven shed with Doug to see first-hand the movement he has created. These collaborative and communal spaces provide a safe place to come together, stay productive, and contribute to the community, all while improving the social, physical and mental health of seniors, or what Doug calls “health by stealth.”

Doug truly embodies the spirit of volunteerism, and I want to offer him my heartfelt congratulations on this well-deserved award.

Black History Month

[Peter Fonseca, Liberal, Mississauga East—Cooksville, ON]

Mr. Speaker, this year is the 25th year of Black History Month in Canada. It is a time to celebrate the immense contributions of Black Canadians around the country, along with recognizing their resilience and strength. Although we may celebrate differently this year, we can still connect virtually to honour the incredible achievements of Black Canadians, who have done so much to make Canada the culturally diverse, compassionate and prosperous nation it is today.

I encourage everyone to keep an eye out for virtual events related to Black History Month in my riding of Mississauga East—Cooksville and in other communities. Diversity is one of Canada's greatest strengths, and a multicultural Canada benefits all Canadians. Canada's commitment to diversity and inclusion is an essential, powerful and ambitious approach to making Canada and the world a better and safer place. We are a nation created by people from all walks of life. As Canadians, we are committed to playing a positive role in the world.

[Marie-Hélène Gaudreau, Bloc, Laurentides—Labelle, QC]

Mr. Speaker, today I would like us all to acknowledge Black History Month, which is celebrating its 30th anniversary here this year. This is an opportunity to highlight the often little-known contribution that all of Quebec's Black communities have made to our history.

Because of the pandemic, celebrations will be virtual, but there will still be a full slate of concerts, talks, discussion groups and more. I invite all Quebeckers to attend the online events put on by the round table all month.

As we celebrate, we cannot forget that the history of Black communities in Quebec is being written right before our eyes. The Black Lives Matter movement was one of 2020's defining moments, and it will certainly continue to have an impact well into the future. People are finding their voice as never before. This Black History Month, let us proclaim ourselves as allies.

National Suicide Prevention Week

[Soraya Martinez Ferrada, Liberal, Hochelaga, QC]

Mr. Speaker, as Parliament resumes, and especially given that this is National Suicide Prevention Week, my thoughts are with the post-secondary students in my riding and across Quebec who are once again beginning virtual classes.

For months, I have been seeing the effects of this pandemic on my own children, Keyla and Ianco, and on young people like Christine, Eric, Michel-Anthony, Nadine and Nicolas. I have witnessed psychological distress, suicide attempts and anxiety in our young people.

Universities and CEGEPs are places to socialize and exchange ideas. They are places where young people make memories, have their ideas challenged and fall in love, but not virtually. I am sure all my colleagues in the House will join me in wishing them the best of luck. Above all, I want them to know that they should not be ashamed to reach out for help if they need it.

We have invested in free mental health supports such as Wellness Together Canada and Kids Help Phone. I would like to highlight the exceptional work of the CIUSSS in Montreal East and its partners, including the Collège de Maisonneuve, in supporting the mental health of our young people.

In these pandemic times, I wish everyone a healthy mind in a healthy body.

Buy Local

[Jacques Gourde, Conservative, Lévis—Lotbinière, QC]

Mr. Speaker, buying local is even more important during this COVID-19 pandemic.

More than ever, our small shop owners, artisans and farmers need the public to stand behind them and buy their products and services. I would like to draw the attention of the House to the human dimension of buying local and having contact with the person whose work gives us an exceptional quality of life.

By extension, demanding more Canadian products will make us all safe when it comes to all the goods and services we consume. It is important that we learn from the tough times we are going through and do things for the long term with the human dimension in mind when it comes to safe supply in the future.

The political choices made in the coming months will leave a lasting mark on the Canadian economy. Let us choose the right direction together.

Groundhog Day

[Kody Blois, Liberal, Kings—Hants, NS]

Mr. Speaker, today, February 2, is Groundhog Day, when our furry friends across North America give us their prediction on whether we will have an early spring or six more weeks of winter. As the folklore goes, if the groundhog does not see its shadow, we can expect to have an early spring.

This morning at the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park, Nova Scotia’s own Shubenacadie Sam, the first groundhog in North America to report its prognosis, emerged from her burrow. I am happy to report that today in Nova Scotia, as we are experiencing a blizzard, Sam did not see her shadow and is predicting an early spring, which is welcome news to Nova Scotians who are looking forward to warmer weather.

Since 1987, Shubenacadie Sam, the prognosticating groundhog, has had an impeccable track record of giving accurate forecasts, with higher accuracy than many other famous groundhogs, including Wiarton Willie.

I want to thank the Shubenacadie Wildlife Park for the work it does to educate Nova Scotians about our wildlife. I hope members of the House can agree with me that Sam has an excellent track record, and we are hoping her prediction rings true in 2021.

Vimy's Biotech Community

[Annie Koutrakis, Liberal, Vimy, QC]

Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise to recognize this government's incredible efforts, which have resulted in the purchase and delivery of more than one million vaccine doses to the provinces. Millions more are on their way. We are still on track to meet our targets.

I would also like to mention the businesses in my riding of Vimy that contributed to the development of a vaccine: Biodextris, Nexelis and Glycovax Pharma, in partnership with the Armand Frappier Centre. I want to thank them for their efforts and their service to Canadians.

We are fortunate to have such a vibrant biotech community in Laval.

Canadians can be proud of the work this government has done to combat the pandemic. They can rest assured that they are in good hands.

Road Safety

[Alex Ruff, Conservative, Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound, ON]

Mr. Speaker, I am rising to speak on two issues. The first is to share the prediction of this country's greatest groundhog, Wiarton Willie. It is official: we will have an early spring.

Next is a more serious message, but one of hope and inspiration despite the tragedy associated with it. Last week, Grace Haines of North Vancouver, a 17-year-old honour roll high school student dedicated to fitness, was taking a study break by going for a run near her home when she was struck in a hit-and-run accident that left her critically injured.

I have the honour of knowing Grace's parents, Chris and Andria, from our time together at the Royal Military College. In the face of this tragic accident, they and her brother Jack are demonstrating bravery and compassion that is an example for all Canadians.

As Chris has stated publicly, instead of lashing out in anger at the driver, he is calling for all of us to look inward at our own driving behaviours. More importantly, in Chris's own words, “Anger won't heal Grace, just love will.” Considering the challenges all Canadians have faced the past year, we should all follow this advice.

I am sending my love to Grace and her family.

Fleetwood—Port Kells Hidden Heroes

[Ken Hardie, Liberal, Fleetwood—Port Kells, BC]

Mr. Speaker, everybody here can share stories about the generosity of the folks at home as we have made our way through some very difficult times, and I am glad to offer examples of just those kinds of people in Fleetwood—Port Kells: Flavio Marquez and his amazing Christmas light show and his wonderful Fraser Heights neighbours, who donated 1,427 pounds of food and nearly $1,800 in cash to the Surrey Food Bank; people like Narinder Singh at the big gurdwara at 152nd Street and 68th Avenue, who turbocharged their langar hall and delivered thousands of meals to seniors and people having tough times; the Muslim Food Bank, which helped thousands more; our Filipino community, and Narima Dela Cruz; Michelle Liu, for our Chinese community; Sergeant Mike Spencer, of our Surrey RCMP; Brian Woudstra from our faith community, and so many others that our constituency office has honoured as Fleetwood—Port Kells Hidden Heroes.

The worst of times can bring out the best in so many, and to all who have done their best, I thank them.

Black History Month

[Kenny Chiu, Conservative, Steveston—Richmond East, BC]

Mr. Speaker, this February we respect Black Canadians by recognizing and participating in Black History Month. It is a time to show special appreciation for their contributions to Canada's history beyond the usual lip service and virtue signalling frequent in this chamber.

When we honour Black History Month this month, we learn from an intersectional understanding of separate communities across our great nation, each one demonstrating tenacity and bringing unique experiences that contribute to our cultural mosaic from coast to coast to coast.

I would highlight Robert Sutherland, Canada's first Black lawyer, whose estate saved Queen's University from bankruptcy. It was a simple act that has allowed countless Canadians since to receive quality post-secondary education.

I would encourage all to seek out and improve our knowledge of Black history in Canada. On behalf of Her Majesty's loyal opposition, we wish all a respectful and enlightening Black History Month.

Enbridge Line 5

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

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great concern over Michigan Governor Whitmer’s attempt to shut down Enbridge Line 5 in violation of the transit pipelines treaty. If this important line is shut down, more than 20,000 jobs would be impacted in my riding alone. Thousands more would be in jeopardy across Ontario and Quebec’s energy industries.

Line 5 supplies fuel to both the Pearson and Detroit airports, as well as 30% of home heating energy to these regions. Refineries, downstream processors, farmers and businesses on both sides of the border would be impacted. Alternative methods of transportation, such as trucks and railcars, are not more environmentally friendly, and there are not enough of them to handle the capacity.

The Prime Minister needs to seek President Biden’s assistance on this issue. To help avoid the shutdown of Line 5, anyone can let Governor Whitmer’s office know of their opposition by sending the proposed email available on my MP website. Together, we can help keep Line 5 open and secure jobs on both sides of the border.

Oil Tanker Moratorium Act

[Taylor Bachrach, NDP, Skeena—Bulkley Valley, BC]

Mr. Speaker, for nearly 50 years, communities along B.C.’s north coast have been working together to keep oil tankers out of our coastal waters. An oil spill here would damage our coastal economy and the world-renowned ecosystem of the Great Bear Rainforest. For first nations that have called the coast home for thousands of years, such a disaster is unthinkable.

In 1972, on a motion tabled by former Skeena MP Frank Howard, the House unanimously agreed that oil tankers on B.C.'s north coast were “inimical to Canadian interests, especially those of an environmental nature.” That remains as true today as it was then. Tomorrow, we will again vote on this important question.

Since Bill C-229, which would repeal the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, was first tabled, I have heard from community leaders and residents across our region. In a matter of weeks, our petition received hundreds of signatures. On behalf of the people of northwest B.C., I ask that the House support a vibrant, sustainable future for our coast.

Post-Secondary Education

[Alain Therrien, Bloc, La Prairie, QC]

Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to announce that beginning in September, UQAM will be offering courses in Saint-Constant in my riding.

As early as 2012, when I was a member of the Quebec National Assembly, I saw that the availability of post-secondary education was not keeping pace with our region's rapid development. I therefore began to work on bringing a satellite campus to the area to give students access to a college education, a project that came to fruition in 2018.

When I returned to politics at the federal level, I promised to join a university to that CÉGEP. A promise is a promise, and from now on, young people from Roussillon, starting with my children, will be able to complete all of their studies in my region.

I want to acknowledge the effectiveness and efficiency of the UQAM team, ably led by university president Magda Fusaro. I also want to thank Marc Rémillard, director general of the Valleyfield CÉGEP, and my friend and former partner Jean-Claude Boyer, the mayor of Saint-Constant, who never sees problems, only solutions.

I wish UQAM in Roussillon long-lasting success.

COVID-19 Vaccines

[Michael Barrett, Conservative, Leeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes, ON]

Mr. Speaker, throughout this pandemic we have seen people, families and small business owners left behind by the government's response. Now Canadians are locked down and left behind because of the Liberals' failure on rapid tests and vaccines. Instead of focusing on vaccine delivery guarantees and securing the ability for domestic production, the Liberals spent the fall filibustering across multiple committees in a grand effort to cover up the Prime Minister's role in the WE scandal.

Every day, Canada falls farther behind our peers. They have enough doses of the vaccine, while our elderly and our most vulnerable continue to be at risk and businesses remain closed.

Conservatives want the government to get vaccine rollout right. We know that Canada cannot secure jobs, our economy or our future without vaccines. We need vaccines to end the lockdown, and we need to end the lockdowns. Canadians can count on Canada's Conservatives to secure health care, secure our economy and secure our future.

Legion Branch 170

[Jennifer O'Connell, Liberal, Pickering—Uxbridge, ON]

Mr. Speaker, COVID-19 has greatly impacted veterans and the resources they rely on. Legions across the country have had to close their doors, leaving many veterans isolated and without these community-led supports. Legions provide supportive spaces and valuable assistance for our veterans and their families.

Our government understands the important role Legions have in our communities, and responded by creating the $20 million veterans organization emergency support fund. Through this fund, Legion Branch 170 in Uxbridge received $10,000 in support. Not only does Branch 170 honour and support veterans, but it brings together the entire community in its efforts and teaches future generations of the sacrifices that veterans made for us.

The work our community does with Branch 170 is incredibly special, and I am glad our government supported this to ensure veterans' supports will continue in Uxbridge and in so many communities across Canada.

Natural Resources

[Erin O'Toole, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, in the last two weeks, the Prime Minister has failed to specifically raise the issue of Line 5 with any senior American officials he has talked to. There have been three calls, but no action. Thirty thousand direct and spinoff jobs in Ontario depend on Line 5.

This is what these workers want to know: When is the Prime Minister finally going to stand up for their jobs?

[Justin Trudeau, Liberal, Prime Minister]

Mr. Speaker, over the past many years this government has consistently and effectively stood up for Canadian interests across the table from American administrations. We have demonstrated our ability to protect steel and aluminum workers, secure supply management, protect our cultural exemptions, and renegotiate NAFTA.

We will always stand up for Canadian workers and Canadian energy and we will continue to engage actively with the United States administration.

[Erin O'Toole, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, all the jet fuel at Pearson airport, the jobs at refineries in Montreal and Lévis, and 66% of the crude used in Quebec, and zero mention of the issue from the Prime Minister in three calls with senior U.S. officials.

Yesterday, the natural resources minister talked about a team Canada approach. When is the Prime Minister finally going to get on the field, talk about Line 5, and stand up for workers in all parts of this country?

[Justin Trudeau, Liberal, Prime Minister]

Mr. Speaker, we have seen this consistently from Conservatives over the past many years: armchair quarterbacking; telling us what we had to do, should do, and would do. We just went ahead and did it.

We kept protecting Canadian jobs. We kept standing up for Canadian interests. We delivered on NAFTA. We are delivering on protecting Canadian interests, and we will continue to do so, on Line 5, and on every other issue facing Canada and the U.S.

Health

[Erin O'Toole, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Actually, Mr. Speaker, do they want to know who really did it and showed some leadership? It was Northern Ireland.

In a few hours, it was able to obtain written exemptions from the European Union with respect to vaccine export controls. Friday night, the EU changed its rules to guarantee the vaccine supply to Northern Ireland. It is now Tuesday, and all we have gotten from this Prime Minister and the trade minister are some verbal assurances that they have raised the matter.

With Canada falling further and further behind in vaccines every week, can the Prime Minister get to it and guarantee in writing our supply of vaccines from Europe?

[Justin Trudeau, Liberal, Prime Minister]

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to take this opportunity to reassure Canadians that we indeed received strong assurances from the EU leadership, including Ursula von der Leyen, president of the European Commission, that Canada's deliveries of the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines would not be disrupted by the new transparency measures the EU is bringing forward.

We are relying on vaccines from European production plants, and Europe will continue to protect Canada's supply.

[Erin O'Toole, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, we have learned that Novavax will likely be able to manufacture vaccines here in Canada, if Health Canada approves the vaccine.

The Prime Minister said that the new facilities should be able to produce vaccines here by the end of the summer, but his Minister of Innovation is saying that it will be by the end of the year.

Can the Prime Minister tell Canadians which it is?

[Justin Trudeau, Liberal, Prime Minister]

Mr. Speaker, I was very pleased to be at the Royalmount facility last September to announce federal investments in vaccine production in Canada.

As I said, the plant should be built over the summer. Then there will be an approval process, and vaccine production will be up and running by the end of the year.

[Erin O'Toole, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, there was an investment in a partnership with China in September.

News about potentially manufacturing the Novavax vaccine in Canada was slow to come but positive. Canadians are tired of waiting to be vaccinated because economic recovery depends on vaccines. The Liberal government should have a clear plan for vaccine delivery.

Why is the Liberal government always lagging behind other countries?

[Justin Trudeau, Liberal, Prime Minister]

Mr. Speaker, once again, the Conservatives are completely out to lunch. They are just scaring Canadians.

By negotiating agreements with a number of different companies, we made sure we would have more doses per capita than any other country, and we will be receiving millions of doses at the end of March, as planned.

We will be getting 20 million doses this spring, and everyone will be vaccinated before September of this year because that is the commitment we made.