Debates of Dec. 17th, 2024

International Trade

[Ryan Williams, Conservative, Bay of Quinte, ON]

Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for her speech. I enjoyed serving with her on the trade committee.

We talk about what Canada needs when it comes to trade. We talk about leverage or strength. We talk often on this side about the weakness that comes from the current government and Prime Minister in taking on a very strong American counterpart. When we look at that, there are three things we need to see right away. Number one is to axe the carbon tax, which is putting an undue burden on a lot of our businesses, making them uncompetitive. Number two is to scrap the cap on emissions in oil and gas, which is our number one export and, of course, drives growth into Canada. Number three is to make sure we are Canada first when we look at defending our borders and when it comes to meeting our 2% NATO commitment, which builds up our military for us.

Does the member agree that we need to look at Canada first for all Canadians, for always?

[Judy Sgro, Liberal, Humber River—Black Creek, ON]

Madam Speaker, I want thank my colleague who is the vice-chair of the international trade committee. He is doing a fine job and we work well together.

At the end of the day, it is about Canada first all the time, for all of us. All of us in the House have the same destination, to make sure we are doing things.

When it comes to the whole issue of climate change, the Liberal Party of Canada has a plan. I would ask anybody to look at the news, even last night, in spite of all the other things that were on the news. We talked about the amount of destruction happening around the world because of climate change. I believe we have a path forward that will work to try to change the conditions the world is facing.

[Sébastien Lemire, Bloc, Abitibi—Témiscamingue, QC]

Madam Speaker, I would like to take advantage of what is likely my last speech in the House this year to wish everyone a merry Christmas. With that out of the way, I want to say that my colleague's speech is important. Approximately 80% of our exports to the United States are raw materials. The United States needs this raw material to process it.

Would it not make sense to invest in processing our own raw materials and develop our economy that way? My dream is to see processing happen near the Abitibi-Témiscamingue mine, particularly for strategic critical minerals. I dream of seeing a Quebec IKEA built near La Sarre so that we can actually process our wood instead of just sending our two-by-fours and lumber to the United States. That would create wealth and protect our economy.

What does the member think about that?

[Judy Sgro, Liberal, Humber River—Black Creek, ON]

Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for his best wishes.

Certainly, we recognize the value of our lumber, our minerals and all of the very sacred items we have in Canada that help to keep our country strong and open more opportunities for all of our businesses as we move forward.

[Mark Gerretsen, Liberal, Kingston and the Islands, ON]

Madam Speaker, I rise today to speak to this concurrence motion. It appears as though we will end this parliamentary session the same way we started it, which was with Conservative gimmicks and antics.

For those who are just tuning in today, the Conservatives moved a concurrence motion that had been sitting on the table for quite a while, and then they proceeded to put a number of amendments to it. The unfortunate reality for Conservatives is that all of the amendments they put forward have dates on them in early January, and unfortunately we will not even get to vote on this until the House resumes in late January. I guess we can chalk this one up as a loss for the Conservatives in that they were not successful in their antics today.

However, I found it very interesting when the member for New Westminster—Burnaby made the comment earlier that the Conservatives put forward this concurrence motion, yet none of them wanted to talk about it. We had two Conservative members get up to speak to this motion, and the first, the member for Caledon, took all of his time congratulating Tamara Jansen, the new—

[Some hon. members]

Oh, oh!

[Mark Gerretsen, Liberal, Kingston and the Islands, ON]

Anybody else want to—

[The Assistant Deputy Speaker, NDP, Carol Hughes]

Order. One would hope that MPs would be behaving themselves. Christmas is coming, and I am sure that Santa has been taking note of the disorder here in the House. He is going to save himself a lot of trips this year.

The hon. deputy government House leader.

[Mark Gerretsen, Liberal, Kingston and the Islands, ON]

Madam Speaker, I am happy to go out the same way that I came in, in September, which is with Conservatives heckling me. I am happy to leave for the break on the same terms.

Just for those in the gallery and perhaps those who are watching this right now, all of those cheers that we just heard from Conservatives were in support of a former colleague who used to sit in the House. Do Canadians know what that colleague said during a debate on conversion therapy? This is what she said, in asking the member for Don Valley West a question about conversion therapy after his debate. She quoted scripture and said:

Woe to you, teachers of the law and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You are like whitewashed tombs, which look beautiful on the outside but on the inside are full of the bones of the dead and everything unclean.

That, ladies and gentlemen, is the calibre of candidate that the Conservative Party of Canada puts up today. That is who is put on the ticket for the Conservatives. For those who might wonder what a Conservative future government could look like for the LGBTQ community, they need look no further than the results of last night's election.

I was trying to ask the member for New Westminster—Burnaby a question earlier, specifically about what would happen in his caucus if one of their MPs had done that. I can tell the House that, if a member of the Liberal Party had made a comment like that and it was not immediately retracted—

[The Assistant Deputy Speaker, NDP, Carol Hughes]

I have a point of order from the member for Selkirk—Interlake—Eastman.

I hope that members will be quiet, because I know that the hon. deputy government House leader can speak quite loudly, but I am having a hard time hearing him because of the disorder.

The hon. member for Selkirk—Interlake—Eastman.

[James Bezan, Conservative, Selkirk—Interlake—Eastman, MB]

Madam Speaker, the tone of the member for Kingston and the Islands as he is quoting scripture is nothing more than anti-Christian bigotry—

[The Assistant Deputy Speaker, NDP, Carol Hughes]

This is actually a point of debate. It is not a point of order.

The hon. member for Timmins—James Bay is also rising on a point of order.

[Charlie Angus, NDP, Timmins—James Bay, ON]

Madam Speaker, as someone who was an altar boy, I find it very offensive that people use witch burners as examples of what Christians should be.

[The Assistant Deputy Speaker, NDP, Carol Hughes]

These are not points of order. They are points of debate.

The hon. deputy government House leader has one minute before I interrupt him.

[Mark Gerretsen, Liberal, Kingston and the Islands, ON]

Madam Speaker, all I was saying is that, if somebody in the Liberal Party had said that, and I am sure in the NDP and most likely in the Bloc Québécois too, not only would they not be allowed to run in a future election under our banner, but they would probably be immediately removed from caucus.

That is not the Conservatives though. They embrace individuals who teach, preach and participate in the act of conversion therapy, and they have no problem with going after a marginalized community, a community that needs the support of Canadians, a community such as the LGBTQ community, which this side of the House will always stand with.

[The Assistant Deputy Speaker, NDP, Carol Hughes]

The hon. member ended his speech before I interrupted him, so he will have five minutes of questions and comments the next time this matter is before the House.

It is my duty to interrupt the proceedings on the motion at this time. Accordingly, the debate on the motion will be rescheduled for another sitting.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone and wish everyone a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

To my constituents and to all in the House, I am wishing you a great holiday season and that you are safe.

Christian Heritage Month

[Chandra Arya, Liberal, Nepean, ON]

Madam Speaker, I stand today to advocate for fairness, unity and recognition.

Christianity, embraced by millions of Canadians, has shaped the moral and cultural fabric of our great nation. Many of Canada's foundational values, institutions and traditions reflect Christian principles. We have months dedicated to Sikh, Islamic, Jewish and Hindu heritage, but there is no such recognition for the Christian faith.

December, a month already steeped in Christian traditions of hope and giving, is the perfect time to honour this legacy. Let us celebrate the values, contributions and diversity Christianity has brought to Canada and to mankind. I urge the government to designate December as Christian heritage month.

I wish everyone a merry Christmas and a very happy, healthy and prosperous new year.

Separation of Church and State

[Cathay Wagantall, Conservative, Yorkton—Melville, SK]

Mr. Speaker, with Christmas, Christians celebrate the hope and love that God provides through the birth of his son, Jesus Christ, who lived, died and rose again so that we could choose his free gift of eternal life beginning right here on earth.

When I was accused of allowing my Christian faith to impact how I engage in this place, my response was that everyone in this place has faith. The difference between us is where and in whom we put that faith. Secularism seeks to conduct human affairs without religious involvement, expunging the values and morals of those who believe in God from the public square. This is contrary to the intent of the term “separation of church and state”. On January 1, 1802, Thomas Jefferson penned a letter assuring a specific church community that it is the church that is protected from state control under the First Amendment. In Canada, our Canadian Bill of Rights and Charter of Rights and Freedoms protect the church from state interference.

Wherever someone choses to place their faith, I wish them a heart full of thankfulness and wonderful memories with family and friends during this Christmas season.

Government Priorities

[Sonia Sidhu, Liberal, Brampton South, ON]

Mr. Speaker, today is the last parliamentary sitting day of the year.

Federal investments are laying the foundation for a healthy and sustainable community in Brampton South. That includes over $26.2 million for energy-efficient retrofits and the creation of a youth hub at the Susan Fennell Sportsplex. Millions of dollars have been committed to develop and enhance public transit, parks and fitness centres across the riding.

We recently marked one year of the Canada dental care plan. Already more than three million Canadians have been approved for coverage, including nearly 5,000 from Brampton South. Pharmacare is going to help 3.7 million Canadians living with diabetes get free medication, and the upcoming device fund will help them get access to the equipment they need.

I am truly proud of the work we did in 2024 for Canadians. With that, I would like to wish everyone in Brampton and across Canada happy holidays and a happy new year in 2025.

Tablée Populaire

[Martin Champoux, Bloc, Drummond, QC]

Mr. Speaker, today's lunch was the most beautiful meal of the year in Drummondville, as a hearty traditional Christmas dinner was offered to Tablée populaire regulars by the team at the legendary Le Roy Jucep restaurant, where, as we all know, poutine was invented.

This is the third year that Laurent Proulx and Léonie Nadeau have invited local politicians and business people to help their generous team by becoming servers for a day. It is hard to put into words just how special this moment is, not only for those who are being pampered, since these are people who do not have it easy in general, but also for those who are coming together to offer a moment of happiness to the less fortunate. A total of 120 meals were served today, 120 meals that brought a smile to someone's face, put a little twinkle in their eyes, or warmed their heart.

I would like to thank Laurent and Léonie for highlighting the indispensable mission of the Tablée populaire through their generous gift, which shows that Drummondville's got heart. We have a heart, and it is in the right place.

Holiday Greetings

[Wilson Miao, Liberal, Richmond Centre, BC]

Mr. Speaker, as the holiday season approaches, I want to share my holiday greetings and gratitude with my constituents in Richmond Centre.

This holiday season in Richmond, we celebrate the diversity and the richness of our shared culture, where Canadians from all backgrounds come together to share this holiday joy with one another. As we celebrate the holidays, let us reflect on the importance of family, compassion and the connection that unites us all. This year's holiday season is extra special for Canadians. With a GST tax break for the holidays, we are helping everyone focus on what matters most: spending time with family and friends.

To my constituents in Richmond Centre and all Canadians, I extend my warmest wishes for a joyous holiday season and a happy new year. May this holiday season bring peace, hope and happiness to everyone.

Monique Vézina

[Bernard Généreux, Conservative, Montmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-Loup, QC]

Mr. Speaker, we were deeply saddened yesterday to learn of the passing of a former Conservative MP and minister. Monique Vézina was an exceptional woman who left a lasting mark on Quebec and all of Canada.

Elected in 1984 as the member for Rimouski—Témiscouata, Mrs. Vézina became a vital player in Brian Mulroney's Progressive Conservative government. She held key roles, including Minister for External Relations and International Development and Minister responsible for La Francophonie. Throughout her career, Mrs. Vézina was a true pioneer. She had a passion for improving the lives of women and seniors, while paving the way for countless women in politics.

Her legacy goes well beyond her political accomplishments. Mrs. Vézina also contributed to the social and cultural vitality of the Lower St. Lawrence, her home region, by inspiring future generations with her dedication and her vision.

My thoughts are with her family, friends and loved ones, as well as all those who were lucky enough to meet her and witness her leadership. A remarkable woman has left us, but her influence and memory will stay with us forever.

Holiday Greetings

[Iqra Khalid, Liberal, Mississauga—Erin Mills, ON]

Mr. Speaker, as we come to the end of another session, I am delighted to wish neighbours in my riding of Mississauga—Erin Mills and all Canadians a very happy holiday season. This is a time for reflection and gratitude, a time to celebrate the values that unite us in kindness, hope and the spirit of generosity. We also recognize that, for many, this time of year can be challenging, and it is crucial that we come together to support one another.

I want to express my sincere thanks to my incredible team, whose hard work and commitment continue to make a positive impact in our community. We have made progress this year, and we are ready to work even harder in the new year to support the people of Mississauga—Erin Mills and all Canadians.

I wish members in the House and all Canadians a very merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah and all the joy of the season.

Elevation to Cardinal

[Marco Mendicino, Liberal, Eglinton—Lawrence, ON]

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to pay tribute to His Eminence Cardinal Francis Leo of the Archdiocese of Toronto, who was recently elevated by Pope Francis to the College of Cardinals in the Vatican.

Born as an Italian Canadian in Montreal, Cardinal Leo's vocational service has been rooted in compassion, love and inclusion. His advocacy for truth and reconciliation, the LGBTQ+ community and the vulnerable has been a force for good within the Catholic Church. Cardinal Leo is also a champion for education, including the integration of indigenous history within educational programs across Catholic institutions. This represents a hopeful direction for the Catholic Church to foster mutual trust and healing.

Cardinal Leo said that, when he heard about his elevation to the College of Cardinals, his phone “lit up like a Christmas tree”. It may have been an early gift from the Pope, but the true present is Cardinal Leo's service to his community. May his tenure inspire hope, love and renewal within the Church and beyond.

Auguri e buon natale.

Member for Cloverdale—Langley City

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

Mr. Speaker, I would like to begin by congratulating Tamara Jansen on her by-election victory last night. The people of Cloverdale—Langley City have sent a powerful message to the Prime Minister and his partner, the leader of the NDP. The only question we must ask is whether they are listening.

After nine years of the NDP-Liberal Prime Minister, housing prices and rents have doubled; people struggle to afford food and heating. The Prime Minister has lost control of the border, immigration and, now, our finances. Following his former finance minister's departure, the Prime Minister hobbles along only with the support of his former babysitter for adult supervision.

Recently, in Halifax, the Prime Minister referred to “the moment when Canadians actually get to make a choice about the kind of country we are and the kind of solutions we are going to put forward in the coming years”. Last night, the people spoke clearly. They rejected a government that denies citizens their democratic right to choose who can best lead us through these times of turmoil.

Canadians need and deserve a carbon tax election. I am calling on the NDP leader to stop his shameful propping up of the Prime Minister, who is way past his best-before date. We need an election now.