House of Commons Hansard #239 of the 44th Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was victims.
2:05 p.m.
Liberal
The Speaker Liberal Greg Fergus
It being Wednesday, we will now have the singing of the national anthem led by the hon. member for Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation.
[Members sang the national anthem]
Homelessness Awareness NightStatements by Members
2:05 p.m.
Liberal
Élisabeth Brière Liberal Sherbrooke, QC
Mr. Speaker, it was a unique experience for me to participate in the 22nd edition of Homelessness Awareness Night in Sherbrooke on Friday. Over 200 people were there to raise public awareness of the growing vulnerability of those who have no choice but to live on the streets.
Many organizations also demonstrated their support for the cause. I want to thank the Salvation Army, Chaudronnée de l'Estrie, CAP, Coop de solidarité l'Autre-Toit and all of the other organizations that help to fight hunger, prevent trauma and eradicate extreme poverty. I walked, ate some delicious chili and talked about the reality of homelessness with Michel‑Alexandre, Jérémie and Alexandre.
Events like this one show that the people of Sherbrooke are concerned about homelessness and that they are prepared to take action to fight it.
Special Olympics Canada Winter GamesStatements by Members
2:05 p.m.
Conservative
Len Webber Conservative Calgary Confederation, AB
Mr. Speaker, the Olympics are back in Calgary. I was there for the 1988 Winter Olympic Games, and I will be there in February for the Special Olympics Canada Winter Games.
Qualified athletes from across Canada will compete in eight sports with inspiring enthusiasm. The athletes, together with their families, friends, coaches, officials, mission staff and over 4,000 visitors, will generate significant economic activity for our community.
However, to make this event an absolute success, we need our community to help. Olympic medallist and games co-chair Cheryl Bernard and her team are looking for 1,200 volunteers to help roll out the red carpet and make the events run smoothly.
People can find all the details on their website, calgary2024.specialolympics.ca. There are so many ways to be a part of the volunteer experience. I encourage all Calgarians to consider volunteering so that we can make the games a great success.
Canadian Italian Business Professional AssociationStatements by Members
2:05 p.m.
Liberal
Francesco Sorbara Liberal Vaughan—Woodbridge, ON
Mr. Speaker, for over seven decades, the Canadian Italian Business Professional Association, CIBPA, has been a leading voice in our community, playing an instrumental role in recognizing the achievements of more than 1.5 million Italian Canadians across Canada.
CIBPA's inception marked a significant moment in the Italo-Canadian journey. It was founded to address difficulties experienced by Italian immigrants seeking to establish themselves in Canadian society.
This Friday, CIBPA Toronto celebrates its 71st annual President's Ball, featuring the spirit of unity that defines the community and the ongoing contributions of Italian Canadians to all aspects of society. I wish to congratulate this year's CIBPA award recipients: Dr. Gianluigi Bisleri, Rocco Rossi, Victoria Mancinelli, Carmen Principato, Anthony Ricciardi and Dr. Roberta Iannacito-Provenzano on their individual accomplishments.
The Italian Canadian story of hard work, sacrifice and generosity is one I am proud of and one my children will know well.
On behalf of my colleagues and the Italian Canadian community, auguri to this year's award recipients for their recognition.
Société Alzheimer LaurentidesStatements by Members
2:05 p.m.
Bloc
Marie-Hélène Gaudreau Bloc Laurentides—Labelle, QC
Mr. Speaker, for 40 years, Société Alzheimer Laurentides, based in Sainte‑Agathe‑des‑Monts, has worked tirelessy to support people with all forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's. It also provides support to caregivers and families in the vast Laurentian region.
I would like to highlight the invaluable contribution that this organization makes within the community. All workers and volunteers are the backbone of the organization, because they provide a social safety net and ensure that patients are treated with humanity. In my personal life, I have witnessed the immense contribution of these organizations and what they do. They have my gratitude and appreciation. Having had to live with my father when he was losing his autonomy, I know first-hand that these services need to be there for communities.
Let us ensure the sustainability of Société Alzheimer Laurentides.
Macadam SudStatements by Members
2:10 p.m.
Liberal
Sherry Romanado Liberal Longueuil—Charles-LeMoyne, QC
Mr. Speaker, I would like to acknowledge the exceptional achievements of Macadam Sud, an organization in my riding that is celebrating its 40th anniversary this year.
Macadam Sud's mission is to support and empower troubled adolescents and young adults by tackling issues such as homelessness, mental health, school drop-outs and isolation, to name just a few. A large part of the Macadam Sud team is made up of street outreach workers. They meet young people in their environment and offer them support without judging them, with respect and dignity.
I want to congratulate all the members of the current Macadam Sud team for the important work they are doing. I also want to thank all those who, over the past 40 years, have contributed to the organization's mission and consequently enabled many young people in Longueuil—Charles-LeMoyne to improve their quality of life.
I wish Macadam Sud continued success.
Ted FarrStatements by Members
2:10 p.m.
Conservative
Dan Albas Conservative Central Okanagan—Similkameen—Nicola, BC
Mr. Speaker, Canadian radio lost a good one this month. Ted Farr began his radio career 54 years ago, in 1969. Many remember “Tall Ted” on CKLG's Doc Harris Show. Ted's colleagues have remembered him for being an outstanding coach and mentor. I met Ted at Kelowna's AM 1150, where he led the news team. Ted was dedicated in all that he did. Ted Farr's interviews always got to the heart of the issue; and not just what the news was, but how it affected people in their daily lives.
Ted was a dedicated husband and father and a proud grandfather. He championed his kids: his son Jonathan, who sadly predeceased him in 2008; and his daughter Natalie. Grandson Jonathan was Ted's joy and he was so proud of watching him play and grow in lacrosse.
Ted and wife Terrie, also known as T&T, celebrated their 52nd wedding anniversary on October 1. Ted's own words to Terrie were, “Your love and support for 52 years has been priceless.”
I send my deepest condolences to Terrie, Natalie and grandson Jonathan. To quote Ted's favourite expression, “If you couldn't play tomorrow, how hard would you play today?”
Prince Edward Island MarathonStatements by Members
October 25th, 2023 / 2:10 p.m.
Liberal
Sean Casey Liberal Charlottetown, PE
Mr. Speaker, 10 days ago, the Prince Edward Island Marathon was run on a clear, cool morning in Charlottetown. More than 3,000 people from all over the world participated in multiple categories.
The P.E.I. Marathon started from humble beginnings, until 19 years ago when Myrtle Jenkins-Smith saw the potential to professionalize it, make it into a Boston Marathon qualifier, draw in corporate partners, ramp up the promotion and make it into a huge tourist draw. Myrtle has been the heart and soul of what is now a weekend that runners everywhere have circled on their calendars. Myrtle has tweaked and perfected the formula that keeps volunteers, sponsors, spectators and runners coming back year after year.
The P.E.I. Marathon is but one of so many enduring contributions that Myrtle has made to better our community and the lives of so many. Myrtle truly has dedicated her life to service and excelled at every turn. Islanders are truly fortunate to count her as one of our own.
Louis RielStatements by Members
2:10 p.m.
Liberal
Yvonne Jones Liberal Labrador, NL
Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise in the House to honour Louis Riel, a man who continues to inspire generations of Métis leaders in Canada and the respect of all Canadians. Riel was a father of the Métis Nation and the founder of Manitoba. He was a political leader who fearlessly fought for the rights of all Métis citizens at a time when his people faced persecution and oppression because of their culture, values and way of life.
Today, in front of the House, we have Bill C-53, which would recognize the rights of Métis in Canada. I call on everyone to reflect on the importance of Métis in Canada and support the rights and recognition of Métis people.
In recognizing Riel's unwavering commitment to the vitality and prosperity of Métis in Canada, the Métis Nation of Saskatchewan will be hosting a reception this evening in the Speaker's lounge. I hope that colleagues in the House will join the Métis Nation in celebrating the incredible life and legacy of Louis Riel.
Carbon TaxStatements by Members
2:15 p.m.
Conservative
Todd Doherty Conservative Cariboo—Prince George, BC
Mr. Speaker, after eight long years of the NDP-Liberal government, Canadians are finding life more difficult each and every day. The tripling of the carbon tax is having a devastating effect. It is raising the cost of everything from gas to groceries to home heating fuel. Canadians are struggling just to get by.
According to the Canadian Taxpayers Federation, B.C. is one of the most expensive places to live. British Columbians are being “raked over the coals”.
The Prime Minister just does not understand. Higher taxes means it costs more to grow the food; it costs more to ship the food; and, ultimately, it costs more to buy the food. When Prince George resident Brian Wourms opened up his gas bill, almost half was tax. We need to end this nightmare. The Prime Minister is out of touch and just not worth the cost.
Tragedy in Sault Ste. MarieStatements by Members
2:15 p.m.
Liberal
Terry Sheehan Liberal Sault Ste. Marie, ON
Mr. Speaker, our hearts are broken in Sault Ste. Marie. Families have been shattered by intimate partner violence. Children who had a bright future ahead of them, with untold potential, have been lost. To the families and friends of the victims, I send my deepest condolences. To the school community and to the residents of the Soo, I hear in their voices their pain. We will be there for them. It is so important that, as a community, we reach out to our friends, family members, therapists and counsellors in such a time. I would be remiss if I did not recognize the first responders whose lives will be significantly changed for the rest of their lives.
We are going to stand together. We will mourn together and we will heal together because, as a community, we will get through these very tragic days in Sault Ste. Marie and Canada. I thank all who have reached out to me and to my community. My heart goes out to the families.
Bloc QuébécoisStatements by Members
2:15 p.m.
Conservative
Gérard Deltell Conservative Louis-Saint-Laurent, QC
Mr. Speaker, after eight years of Liberal government, a growing number of Quebeckers are realizing how costly it is to vote for the Bloc Québécois. Twice, the Bloc has voted to keep the two carbon taxes. The first tax has direct impacts in Quebec and the second is going to cost up to 20¢ more a litre at the gas pumps.
That is not all. Last Monday, the RCMP commissioner appeared before the Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics. He came to testify in the SNC-Lavalin case. Before he could utter a word, Liberal members asked to adjourn the meeting. Who voted for that adjournment with the Liberals? That was the Bloc Québécois. The Bloc member for Trois-Rivières prevented the RCMP boss from testifying when he was right there in the committee room.
How can the Bloc Québécois side with the Liberals when ethics are at stake? How can the Bloc Québécois side with the Liberals to protect the Liberal Prime Minister? Whether in terms of money or ethics, voting for the Bloc Québécois is costly.
Leader of the Liberal Party of CanadaStatements by Members
2:15 p.m.
Conservative
Damien Kurek Conservative Battle River—Crowfoot, AB
Mr. Speaker, earlier this week, members of the NDP-Liberal government shut down the ethics committee before we could hear from the RCMP commissioner, who was there to testify about the documents the Liberal Prime Minister refused to release that hindered their criminal investigation into the SNC-Lavalin scandal. All of this happened after the Prime Minister hid behind cabinet confidence. This type of behaviour is disgraceful and shows clearly that the Liberals, with the help of the NDP, seem to be hiding and protecting the Prime Minister. No one, not even the Prime Minister, should be above the law.
After eight years, the corrupt NDP-Liberal government has not only worsened the livelihoods of Canadians but also seen trust in government disappear as quickly as a Liberal election promise. Canadians deserve to know whether the Prime Minister broke the law to help his friends. My question is simple: If he has nothing to hide, why is the cover-up coalition going to such lengths to keep the facts from coming to light?
Ian ShugartStatements by Members
2:20 p.m.
Liberal
David Lametti Liberal LaSalle—Émard—Verdun, QC
Mr. Speaker, I rise today with the sad news that Canada has lost a loyal and faithful public servant. Our friend and colleague, Senator Ian Shugart, has left us after a battle with cancer.
Ian was born in Ottawa and educated at Trinity College, U of T, before taking a degree in political economy. Ian cut his political teeth as a policy adviser to two Right Honourables, Joe Clark and Brian Mulroney. When the Conservatives were elected to govern in 1984, he first became a policy adviser and then chief of staff to Minister Jake Epp. During this time, he played a pivotal role in historic events, such as the patriation of the Constitution and the development of the charter, and working, among other things, on child care, labour market agreements and the Meech Lake accord.
In 1991, Ian entered the public service, rising to many important roles, successive deputy minister positions, with a substantive impact in many areas, including health, labour, climate and global affairs. Finally, in 2019, he was named by the Prime Minister as the 24th Clerk of the Privy Council. He would serve in this role for two years, marked by the outset of a global pandemic, until his health forced him to step aside. When the situation looked more positive, in 2022, he returned to public service as a senator and with a deserved role at the Munk School.
Ian's public service was punctuated not only by his intellect but also by his practical wisdom. I would add, too, his stability and kindness. As a rookie cabinet minister on some challenging files, I will always appreciate the many kind words from Ian before, after and sometimes during cabinet meetings, whether spoken or in the form of an encouraging note.
On behalf of all Canadians, we are thankful for Ian's dedicated service to this country and to our public institutions. We thank him for his thoughtfulness. To Linda, family and friends, please accept our condolences.
Rest in peace, friend.
Ian ShugartStatements by Members
2:20 p.m.
Liberal
The Speaker Liberal Greg Fergus
He was indeed a great public servant.
The hon. member for Edmonton Strathcona.
Women's RightsStatements by Members
2:20 p.m.
NDP
Heather McPherson NDP Edmonton Strathcona, AB
Mr. Speaker, the world is a dangerous place for women. In the DRC, women are facing the world's highest rates of sexual and gender-based violence. MSF reports that sexual violence now is a public health emergency in the Central African Republic. In Afghanistan and Iran, women's rights are non-existent.
In Canada, women who speak up are attacked, not just in politics but also in journalism, on social media and in their communities. I am alarmed by the exclusion of Muslim and Jewish women's voices from critical conversations on Israel and Palestine. Canada claims to have a feminist foreign policy, but where are the investments? As Sudan's Hala Al-Karib said recently, only paying lip service to the women, peace and security agenda without insisting on women's rights and women's meaningful participation in peace and political processes is not enough.
Canada must do better.
Macadam SudStatements by Members
2:20 p.m.
Bloc
Denis Trudel Bloc Longueuil—Saint-Hubert, QC
Mr. Speaker, we are currently seeing a troubling rise in food insecurity and homelessness, a housing crisis that will likely be long and gruelling, and unbearable inflation rates that are primarily affecting the less fortunate, including the young people in our communities.
In my riding, Macadam Sud supports young people between the ages of 12 and 35 and gives them the tools they need to improve their living conditions with respect and human dignity, especially those who find themselves marginalized when it comes to education, family and the labour market.
I rise today to recognize the 40th anniversary of this organization, which has dedicated the last 40 years to supporting the community, helping young and marginalized people live decent lives, and making a real difference in the lives of all families in Longueuil.
Speaking for myself and on behalf of all Bloc Québécois members, I would like to thank Macadam Sud.
HousingStatements by Members
2:20 p.m.
Conservative
Karen Vecchio Conservative Elgin—Middlesex—London, ON
Mr. Speaker, after eight years, too many Canadians are suffering at the hands of crippling mortgage rates. According to a CBC article published this week, a Calgary senior sold his home due to interest rate hikes and is still unable to find an affordable rental.
Seniors are forced to couch surf, find roommates, or rent a bedroom in a basement apartment. Under the NDP-Liberal government, the very people who built this country are being forced to sell their homes, with nowhere left to turn except the workforce. Seniors should not be forced out of retirement to make ends meet and achieve their dream of owning a home. It is clear that the NDP-Liberal government is not capable of ensuring housing stability and protecting Canadians of all ages, the thousands of Canadians fighting homelessness and desperate for a change.
The Prime Minister is not worth the cost. It is time for Canadians to have a common sense government that brings down inflation and interest rates so hard-working people can keep their homes and a secure life.
Member for Vancouver CentreStatements by Members
2:25 p.m.
Liberal
Steven MacKinnon Liberal Gatineau, QC
Mr. Speaker, it is a very “heady” day in the House as we honour a true trailblazer. Thirty years ago today, the voters of Vancouver Centre opted for a fresh alternative over her opponent, a Conservative prime minister. They chose a physician who was running as the Liberal candidate for the first time.
Since October 25, 1993, voters in that constituency have voted Liberal, and they have elected her in 10 successive elections. She is now the longest-serving female member of Parliament in Canadian history. She has been the parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Health and the Secretary of State for Multiculturalism and the Status of Women. Over three decades, she has been a supporter of a strong health care system and a champion for the LGBTQ+ community. She currently chairs the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage, and back home she is beloved by her fellow residents of Vancouver. Indeed, the City of Vancouver has proclaimed today as a day in her name.
Canada has been fortunate to have her in the House.
Carbon PricingOral Questions
2:25 p.m.
Carleton Ontario
Conservative
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, after eight years in power, this Prime Minister is not worth the price of food.
According to a devastating report, in one month alone there were two million visits to food banks. That is by far the highest level of use in the history of Canada, and that, after eight years of this Prime Minister.
Will he finally reverse his plan to radically increase the taxes imposed on farmers and truck drivers who deliver our food?
Carbon PricingOral Questions
2:25 p.m.
Papineau Québec
Liberal
Justin Trudeau LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, I will answer that question in a moment.
I want to begin by sharing a few thoughts about Senator Shugart.
It is with incredible sadness that I rise in this place to mourn the loss of our friend and fellow parliamentarian, Senator Ian Shugart.
Senator Shugart spent his entire career in the service of others and his contributions have been invaluable.
He was an incredible clerk to the current government, and I know he was also a valuable deputy minister to the Leader of the Opposition when he was in government.
I offer my deepest condolences to his family, his friends, his Senate colleagues and his former public service colleagues.
Carbon PricingOral Questions
2:25 p.m.
Carleton Ontario
Conservative
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, indeed, Ian Shugart was my deputy minister. He was a brilliant public servant, serving both political parties and serving Canadians in the Senate. All of us mourn with his family at the tragic loss of this great Canadian public servant.
I want to quote Food Banks Canada, which said, “Rates of food insecurity in Canada—the number of people living in households struggling to afford food due to lack of money—have increased to the highest levels on record.”
This is happening after eight years of this Prime Minister's inflationary taxes and deficits. Why does the Prime Minister want to deprive Canadians of food just so he can increase taxes at the expense of Canadians and families?
Carbon PricingOral Questions
2:30 p.m.
Papineau Québec
Liberal
Justin Trudeau LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, over the years, we have helped lift 500,000 children out of poverty with the Canada child benefit, a measure that the Conservatives campaigned against. We have helped people create economic opportunities.
We know that people are struggling right now. That is why we are stepping up to help them with measures like $10-a-day child care, dental care for children and even more family allowance cheques. The Conservative Party opposed all of those measures.
We will continue to be there to help families in these difficult times. We will continue to invest in them and help them rather than making cuts like the Conservative Party is proposing.
Carbon PricingOral Questions
2:30 p.m.
Carleton Ontario
Conservative
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, there he goes telling Canadians they have never had it so good when, after eight years, he is not worth the cost of food.
According to the HungerCount by Food Banks Canada, “the number of people living in households struggling to afford food due to lack of money” has “increased to the highest levels on record.” There is a record-smashing two million visits to Canadian food banks in a month, and his plan is to quadruple the carbon tax on the farmers and the truckers who bring us our food.
How many Canadians have to go hungry or homeless before he axes this terrible tax?
Carbon PricingOral Questions
2:30 p.m.
Papineau Québec
Liberal
Justin Trudeau LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, we know that Canadians are struggling with the costs of food and groceries and housing. That is why we continue to step up to support them with measures like $10-a-day child care, dental care for children and child benefit cheques, all measures that the Conservative Party has stood against.
We will continue to help Canadians. We will continue our work to lift hundreds of thousands of kids out of poverty and to lift over a million Canadians out of poverty. However, there is much more to do, and we will keep doing it instead of giving in to the Conservatives' demands for more cuts, cuts to services for Canadians and cuts to supports that people rely on.