Debates of Feb. 16th, 2022

[The Speaker, Liberal, Anthony Rota]

Before we open the doors, the hon. Minister of Tourism will be leading us in the singing of the national anthem.

[Members sang the national anthem]

Liaquat Ali Bajwa

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

Mr. Speaker, our community is mourning the loss of a much beloved and respected man from a much respected and honoured family. Liaquat Ali Bajwa passed away earlier this month at the much too young age of 71. It was too young, given the legacy he has left us of a life well lived in the spirit and service of Surrey's robust diversity.

Mr. Bajwa dedicated himself to nourishing our Pakistani community's links to its arts and culture as the largest promoter of programs and events that entertained and enriched. As a Muslim, he was a champion and as a dad, Mr. Bajwa and his wife raised three great sons who serve today in medicine, the law and the family construction business.

This gentleman's reputation was one of a straight shooter with a heart of gold. He never sought praise or recognition. He earned it, receiving the Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013. To his wife, Samara, and his sons Ammar, Affan, Zohaib and their families, we, like them, will miss him. May his memory always be a blessing.

Food Bank Challenge

[Kyle Seeback, Conservative, Dufferin—Caledon, ON]

Mr. Speaker, even in challenging times such as these, there can be extraordinary things. I am really proud today to talk about some extraordinary constituents in the great riding of Dufferin—Caledon. Jaylen Padayachee, together with the support of his father Koven and his sister Isabella, successfully concluded their second annual food bank street challenge. Jaylen and his dad came up with the idea because food banks were suffering as a result of COVID-19 and a lack of donations. Why did they call it a challenge? It was because once a person collected food, they challenged their neighbours to do the same thing. The extraordinary thing is that this challenge was mostly driven by children. In the first year they brought in 30,000 pounds of food. In the second year, they brought in another 7,500 pounds of food. Again, this was mostly driven by children.

I want to give a hearty congratulations on behalf of myself and everyone here today, to Jaylen, Koven, Isabella and everyone who took up the food bank challenge.

Canada Foundation for Innovation

[Kirsty Duncan, Liberal, Etobicoke North, ON]

Mr. Speaker, 25 years ago, the Government of Canada created the Canada Foundation for Innovation. Its mandate was to increase the capacity of Canada’s universities, colleges, hospitals and other organizations by investing in research infrastructure. The CFI has transformed the research landscape in Canada by giving researchers the labs and tools they need to think big and conduct world-class research.

Since the start, the CFI has invested over $9 billion in almost 12,000 infrastructure projects at 170 research institutions across Canada. These investments have led to breakthroughs in such areas as health, AI, quantum computing and the environment.

I invite all members of the House to join me in congratulating the Canada Foundation for Innovation, led by president Roseann Runte and her team, on its silver anniversary.

Here is to the next 25 years of supporting discovery, exploration and innovation.

Marie-Ève Bouchard

[Alain Therrien, Bloc, La Prairie, QC]

Mr. Speaker, on the night of July 13 and in the early morning hours of July 14, a tragedy was prevented thanks to the quick reaction of a Saint-Constant resident, Marie-Ève Bouchard. Her husband, Nick Saint-Jacques, unexpectedly went into cardiorespiratory arrest and collapsed in front of their children.

Despite her emotional involvement, Ms. Bouchard's instincts kicked in and she began CPR, while ensuring that emergency services were contacted right away. Thanks to Ms. Bouchard's knowledge and tremendous composure, Mr. Saint-Jacques was lucky enough to make it through this incident without any serious long-term consequences.

What happened shows Ms. Bouchard's great resilience, but it also serves as a reminder to us all of the importance of knowing CPR. It saves lives. That is literally what Ms. Bouchard did for her husband because she was prepared. Whoever saves one life, saves the world entire. Ms. Bouchard is a real hero, and I want to tell her how much I admire her.

Black History Month

[Francesco Sorbara, Liberal, Vaughan—Woodbridge, ON]

Mr. Speaker, every year in February, we are proud to celebrate Canada's Black community. However, 28 days is not enough time to recognize the contributions of Black Canadian trailblazers, past and present.

This year's theme, “February and Forever”, recognizes the remarkable contributions of Black leaders here in the House of Commons and in every community in Canada.

In my riding, Shernett Martin, Isaac Olowolafe, Charline Grant and Chris Campbell are tireless advocates for Black entrepreneurs and for the well-being of families, women and children. They promote diversity and serve as modern-day role models for the Black community. The destiny of Black Canadians is closely linked to Canada's history, the moments of passion, courage and hope. Today and every day, let us raise our voices to ensure that theirs are better heard.

Happy Black History Month to everyone.

Saskatchewan By-election

[Gary Vidal, Conservative, Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River, SK]

Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise in the House today to congratulate newly elected Sask Party MLA Jim Lemaigre on his historic victory in last night's by-election in the provincial riding of Athabasca.

A proud member of the Clearwater River Dene Nation, Jim has been a voice for northern Saskatchewan, built around a career of community service. He served on the council of the Clearwater River Dene Nation holding the education and natural resources portfolios. He also served as a member of the Meadow Lake Tribal Council's office of education. In addition to these roles, Jim is a retired member of the RCMP, and served many northern communities and first nations.

In its 114-year history, the Athabasca riding has only been represented by the Liberals, the CCF or the NDP. Today begins a new exciting chapter for northwest Saskatchewan. I look forward to working with Jim to grow the north's economy, keep our communities safe and make life more affordable for everyone across northern Saskatchewan.

Congratulations to Jim on his historic victory.

Afghan Women’s Organization

[Michael Coteau, Liberal, Don Valley East, ON]

Mr. Speaker, I want to take this opportunity to highlight the outstanding work of the Afghan Women’s Organization Refugee and Immigrant Services in my riding of Don Valley East.

Adeena Niazi, the executive director, and her entire team continue to empower women, their families and Afghan Canadians in my community, and more broadly throughout the GTA. From settlement services, to advocacy, to humanitarian work in Afghanistan, the AWO has been a lifeline to so many people seeking its help. This organization is helping people and their families build new lives here in Canada. Some are starting with absolutely nothing, having left everything they own behind after surviving the devastation back home. I have always been impressed by its passion and dedication toward helping others and the success of the programs and services it delivers.

We are lucky to have such an organization here in Canada, and I want to thank it for all of its work.

Tribute to Family Member

[Jenica Atwin, Liberal, Fredericton, NB]

Mr. Speaker, today I am honoured to rise in the House to celebrate the life of Evelyn Gertrude Powell, better known to those who know her as Betty.

Betty was born in Ontario and raised in Cape Breton. She was the proud wife of a brave Canadian soldier and raised four boys in the Oromocto PMQs at CFB Gagetown. Betty gave all she had to the people around her, whether it was through her famous tea biscuits, singing in the choir at church, delivering the blessing before a meal or being the last to leave the legion for cleanup after a function.

Betty is a charter member of the Ladies Auxiliary Branch 93, serving for over 50 years as a colour guard on Remembrance Day. She was a goodwill ambassador for the Fredericton capital district, a dedicated fundraiser for the Heart and Stroke Foundation among many other causes, and a model volunteer, including running the Dolphins Seniors Swim Club at the University of New Brunswick and being the secretary for the Oromocto sea cadets.

Betty has always believed in our great nation. She has always had a deep respect for our democracy, our institutions and Queen Elizabeth. She is even the recipient of the Queen's Jubilee medal. Betty embodies the definition of selflessness, and has made the world a better place for her contributions.

Betty is my grandmother.

The Economy

[Ziad Aboultaif, Conservative, Edmonton Manning, AB]

Mr. Speaker, inflation is at 5.1%, its highest level since 1991. Last week I received a letter from a constituent, who said, “I just got a natural gas bill in the mail. I have never seen my gas bill go over $350 a month. For this month it was $645, and $120 was for the carbon tax for the feds to squander. It's a tax grab and I'm upset. I'm on a limited and fixed budget. This hurts me financially. I know the Prime Minister could care less about me and my family. He figures my budget will balance itself. I love our country, but my family just cannot afford him and the Liberals. Sorry for venting. I have to go and figure out how to pay my bill for the month.”

Plastic Waste

[Jenna Sudds, Liberal, Kanata—Carleton, ON]

Mr. Speaker, Canadians dispose of three million tonnes of plastic waste each year. This waste pollutes Canada's rivers, lakes and oceans. As data shows the serious impact of single-use plastics on our environment, all Canadians can appreciate efforts at every level of government to transition to sustainable alternatives.

In my past role as deputy mayor and city councillor here in Ottawa, I worked with the City of Ottawa administration to eliminate the sale of plastic water bottles from the city's administrative, recreational and cultural facilities. I am proud to share that the City has just announced that, as of the end of June, Ottawa’s facilities will no longer distribute or sell plastic water bottles. Instead, Ottawa residents can turn to water fountains and water bottle refill stations in municipal facilities.

I highly commend the city for taking this step, and look forward to supporting more initiatives to achieve the government’s goal of zero plastic waste by 2030.

Disaster Assistance

[Dan Albas, Conservative, Central Okanagan—Similkameen—Nicola, BC]

Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of the good people of Princeton, British Columbia. It is, as many in this place may recall, a small rural community of less than 2,000 citizens struggling mightily to rebuild after devastating flooding. After that flooding, the Prime Minister told the good people of Princeton not to worry, he had their backs and he would be there for them.

Now the bills are due. It was reported in The Similkameen Spotlight that the Prime Minister's Office gave Mayor Spencer Coyne a special phone number. They told the mayor it was a special link to call if in trouble. The mayor has called that special link and he was told to talk to the province.

I hope everyone in this place can agree that, when the Prime Minister makes a promise to have someone's back and to be there for them, the Prime Minister must be a man of his word.

Service Canada

[Scott Aitchison, Conservative, Parry Sound—Muskoka, ON]

Mr. Speaker, recently a constituent of mine in Parry Sound—Muskoka told me the nightmare she experienced trying to access parental benefits after she spent weeks in SickKids hospital with her newborn. She sent her paperwork for parental benefits to Service Canada in late August 2021. She delivered her baby in September, and only yesterday finally received her benefits. Service Canada officials, at every step of the way, told her that they were overworked and were still learning how to deal with COVID. This was late 2021, two years into the pandemic.

In a riding like mine, where many seasonal workers and folks rely on the EI program, the excuse that Service Canada is still learning how to work with COVID is just simply not good enough. At a time when restaurants and businesses are reopening and learning how to live with COVID-19, it is time for the government to do the same and ensure the services delivered to the people who need them are done in a timely fashion.

Ukraine

[Kevin Lamoureux, Liberal, Winnipeg North, MB]

Mr. Speaker, the President of Ukraine has declared February 16 as a day of national unity.

Canada has over 1.3 million people of Ukrainian heritage and millions more who are watching closely and care deeply about what is happening in Ukraine today. The Canadian government continues to work with its allies to support Ukraine in whatever way we can, which includes supplying defensive weapons.

On this day of Ukrainian solidarity, let us all, in our own way, recognize the importance of Ukraine and support the very principle enshrined in article 2(4) of the UN Charter: the respect of sovereignty and independence.

To the people of Ukraine on this day of solidarity, know that they have a friend in Canada, unwavering in our support for Ukraine. Along with our physical support comes with it millions of prayers. I stand today to support the call for Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine worldwide to stand united as part of a global solidarity campaign. Long live Ukraine.

World Thinking Day

[Laurel Collins, NDP, Victoria, BC]

Mr. Speaker, every year on February 22, Girl Guides celebrate World Thinking Day. It is an opportunity to speak up on issues that affect girls and young women, commemorate the founding of Girl Guides and celebrate with the over 10 million members of the Guiding movement around the world.

In my province of British Columbia, thousands of Girl Guides light up their communities year-round through leadership, community service and efforts to create a better, more equitable world.

Thinking Day is usually marked with large gatherings, campfire singalongs, community events and special camps, but due to the ongoing pandemic, instead this year Girl Guides will celebrate the sisterhood of Guiding in a COVID-friendly way, through Guiding Lights across Canada.

Outdoor landmarks, bridges, buildings and stadiums will be lighting up in Guiding blue in support of girl empowerment. In Victoria, one can admire the lights at City Hall, Government House, the Legislative Assembly and the Steamship Terminal.

I invite all Guiding members this World Thinking Day to shine their Guiding lights.

Retirement Congratulations

[Christine Normandin, Bloc, Saint-Jean, QC]

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to honour Sylvie Brosseau, whose extraordinary 38-year career will draw to a close on February 25 when she embarks on a well-deserved retirement.

Over the course of nearly 38 years, Sylvie held various positions at NexDev, the economic development organization in Haut-Richelieu. As the executive director since 2019, Sylvie led a number of files that are key to the region's economy.

A woman of unrivalled competence, Sylvie was also known for her kindness, compassion and dedication. Anyone who knows her has only good things to say about her. With her positive leadership style and sophisticated understanding of the issues and of business people, not to mention the fact that she knew absolutely everyone, Sylvie was the person who brought out the human facet of our economy.

Sylvie, with all you have accomplished, you leave behind some mighty big shoes to fill, but I think you deserve a little you-time at last.

Happy retirement.

Emergencies Act

[John Williamson, Conservative, New Brunswick Southwest, NB]

Mr. Speaker, Liberal, NDP and Green MPs defeated a motion calling on the federal government to provide Canadians with a plan to lift restrictions. Supporting this motion would have allowed the Liberals to demonstrate that they are committed to ending mandates and restrictions. However, that did not happen.

The Liberal government instead invoked the Emergencies Act. This is the reformed War Measures Act that gives Ottawa and police sweeping and never-before-used powers. The Emergencies Act suspends civil liberties.

The Prime Minister thinks he looks strong but he looks weak and unable to lead Canada while respecting our rights and freedoms. Invoking the Emergencies Act is a dramatic misuse of federal powers. It is a deep stain on Canada's reputation as a defender of rights and civil liberties.

Totalitarian regimes around the world are delighted, for if Canada does this, who could say they could not do the same when their capital cities are filled with people objecting to their policies?

Black History Month

[Chandra Arya, Liberal, Nepean, ON]

Mr. Speaker, February is Black History Month. It is a time again to learn about the history and culture of Black Canadians and how they have contributed to Canada.

I rise to recognize the hard-working and inspiring leadership of some key Black leaders in Ottawa, such as John Adeyefa, Hector Addison, Sahada Alolo, Chuks Imahiagbe, Thomas Ngwa and Francis Yel of the African Canadian diaspora; Franklin Epape, André Azambou, Germaine Basita, Justin Materania and Alain Lutala of the French-speaking African Canadian community; June Girvan and Godwin Ifedi of Black History Ottawa; Ingrid John-Baptiste of the Caribbean Canadian diaspora; and Abdillahi Roble and Ali Jama of the Somaliland Canadian community.

There are dozens more I could name but my time is limited.

To all of the simply phenomenal Black leaders in our community and across the country, we say thanks.

Public Safety

[Candice Bergen, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, it is clear the Prime Minister has more of a political emergency on his hands than a national emergency. The borders at Coutts, Surrey, Windsor and Emerson have all been cleared. There are no more blockades at any borders. Trucks are still here downtown in Ottawa and they need to move.

In light of the rapidly changing landscape, can the Prime Minister tell us where the serious threat of violence is to Canadians for ideological purposes, which is the threshold that needs to be met for the Emergencies Act?

[Justin Trudeau, Liberal, Prime Minister]

Mr. Speaker, the invocation of the Emergencies Act is not something to be done lightly. It is not something to be done as a first resort or even a second resort. However, it was necessary to be done to give local law enforcement across the country the tools to handle these illegal blockades, to be able to ensure restoration of order and to make sure that Canadians, whether they are losing shifts or seeing supplies delayed on their way to the border, are able to get back to their daily lives. This is a decision we took and of course Parliament is going to have an opportunity to debate it.

[Candice Bergen, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, the law is clear: Any limitations to Canadians' fundamental freedoms must be justified and must meet a legal criteria. Experts across the country have said these requirements have not been met. The Prime Minister has not given Canadians a clear reason why he is invoking the Emergencies Act. In fact, things are de-escalating as we speak.

Why is the Prime Minister using this hammer on Canadians? Is it not true he is doing it just to save his own political skin?

[Justin Trudeau, Liberal, Prime Minister]

Mr. Speaker, over the past few weeks, Canadians have been suffering, whether it is because of border crossings or it is because of illegal blockades in their neighbourhood. These are some things that required extra tools, which we have put in law enforcement's hands. Of course, local law enforcement with jurisdiction can use these tools or not as they are available, but the threshold was met for the Emergencies Act and now across the country, police of jurisdiction have the tools necessary to keep people safe.

[Candice Bergen, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister calls people he disagrees with racists and misogynists. He spent the last month wedging, dividing, stigmatizing and traumatizing Canadians. I understand the Prime Minister admires basic dictatorships, but let us remind the Prime Minister this is Canada. This is not a dictatorship. The Prime Minister is actually pouring gasoline on embers.

Is it not true the Prime Minister is doing this for one reason, and one reason alone? It is to save his own political career.

[Justin Trudeau, Liberal, Prime Minister]

Mr. Speaker, the Conservatives simply cannot have it both ways. They spent weeks complaining that we were not doing enough to restore order in this country and now when we move forward to give people the tools they need—

[Some hon. members]

Oh, oh!