Alleged Breach of Privilege at Committee—Speaker's Ruling
The Speaker rules that the Member for Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan's parliamentary privileges were not breached regarding committee proceedings on Bill C-47 or the timing for submitting report stage motions.
600 words.
Request to Consider Motions in Amendment—Speaker's Ruling
The Speaker addresses Members' concerns that a programming motion and committee rulings prevented amendments to Bill C-47. The Speaker explains the process for selecting report stage motions, encouraging written submissions.
300 words.
Technical Issues Raised During the Taking of Recorded Division—Speaker's Ruling
The Speaker addresses technical issues during a recorded division, reporting no generalized app outage. Members are reminded of virtual voting procedures, encouraged to use proper equipment, and to uphold good faith and respect for the process.
500 words.
International Human Rights Act
Third reading of
Bill C-281.
The bill proposes amendments to increase transparency and accountability for Canada's international human rights advocacy. It would require the government to report on its actions regarding prisoners of conscience and Magnitsky sanctions. It also aims to empower the CRTC to prevent genocidal states from broadcasting propaganda on Canadian airwaves and prohibits investments in entities that contravene the Prohibiting Cluster Munitions Act. Some opposition members criticize the government's overall human rights strategy.
8600 words, 1 hour.
Government Response to Order Paper Questions
Members debate the government's handling of Order Paper questions, specifically whether stating an inability to provide a comprehensive response within the 45-day deadline constitutes an "unanswered" question. Conservative MPs argue this should trigger a referral to committee, while the Chair states it does not rule on the content of responses.
3100 words, 20 minutes.
Decorum
Members debate parliamentary language, specifically the use of "phony," and raise points of order about the government's alleged failure to adequately answer written Order Paper questions, arguing for referral to committee.
1400 words, 10 minutes.
Alleged Breach of Government Obligation to Appoint Officer of Parliament
Conservative MP Michael Barrett raises a question of privilege, arguing the government's failure to appoint a Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner obstructs the House's functions and Members' ability to ensure ethical conduct. He cites the Michael Sabia case as an example requiring investigation and highlights past Liberal ethical breaches, asking the Speaker to rule on the matter.
1600 words, 15 minutes.
Budget Implementation Act, 2023, No. 1
Report stage of
Bill C-47.
The bill (C-47) is debated, with Conservatives criticizing its impact on government spending, national debt, and inflation, advocating for lower taxes and deficit reduction. Liberals and NDP members defend its provisions for social programs like dental care, a grocery rebate, and affordable housing, crediting their partnership. The Bloc Québécois opposes the bill over perceived insufficient support for seniors and housing, and its environmental policies.
30700 words, 3 hours in 2 segments: 1 2.
Statements by Members
Question Period
Defence of Canada Medal Act (1946-1989)
First reading of
Bill C-335.
The bill establishes a Defence of Canada Medal for individuals who served Canada during the Cold War (1946-1989), including military, police, and civilian assistance organizations, to acknowledge their hard work and sacrifice.
200 words.
Strengthening Reporting Obligations for Sex Offenders Act (Noah's Law)
First reading of
Bill C-336.
The bill amends the Criminal Code and SOIRA to strengthen reporting obligations for highly-likely-to-repeat sex offenders, allowing courts to order 30-year compliance, rehabilitation, and increased reporting, making non-compliance an offense.
400 words.
Public Accounts
Members debate the 20th report of the Public Accounts Committee, focusing on the cost of living and the carbon tax. Conservatives criticize government spending and taxes, calling for the carbon tax's elimination. Other parties accuse Conservatives of delay tactics to block the budget and an emergency debate on wildfires, while defending the carbon tax as a measure to address climate change.
5400 words, 40 minutes in 2 segments: 1 2.
Petitions
Wildfires in Canada
Members debate the urgent and escalating wildfire situation across Canada, noting its unprecedented scale and impact on communities. Discussions cover the federal and provincial responses, the impact on firefighters, and the need for a more proactive federal role, including a national firefighting service and equipment. The importance of indigenous knowledge, particularly prescribed burns, is highlighted for prevention. Members also raise concerns about air quality and the long-term implications of the climate emergency.
17000 words, 2 hours.
