House of Commons Hansard #61 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was sanctions.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Budget 2025 Implementation Act, No. 1 Second reading of Bill C-15. The bill implements provisions of the November 2025 budget. Conservative MPs criticize the budget for increasing deficit and debt, rising cost of living, and insufficient support for the Canadian Armed Forces and veterans. Liberal MPs defend the budget, highlighting investments in housing, a national school food program, and strengthening Canada's economy and trade relations. The Bloc Québécois opposes the bill, citing increased subsidies for the fossil fuel industry and inadequate support for the forestry sector. 16300 words, 2 hours.
Sergei Magnitsky International Anti-Corruption and Human Rights Act Second reading of Bill C-219. The bill proposes amendments to existing legislation to strengthen Canada's sanctions regime against corrupt foreign officials and human rights violators. It introduces new definitions for transnational repression and prisoners of conscience, and aims to enhance transparency and enforcement of sanctions. While members agree on the bill's intent, concerns exist regarding potential risks to human rights defenders and the practical implementation of some provisions. 8800 words, 1 hour.
The Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia
The hon. member for Haldimand—Norfolk will be leading us in the singing of the national anthem today.
[Members sang the national anthem]
Gord Johns NDP Courtenay—Alberni, BC
Mr. Speaker, coastal communities are running out of time. Key federal fisheries programs that protect Pacific salmon and repair critical habitats are set to expire in March, and the federal government has still not confirmed their renewal. Communities cannot wait until the next budget for answers.
Across the coast of British Columbia, remarkable work is happening. First nations are leading salmon recovery and guardian programs. Local hatcheries and volunteer enhancement groups are restoring streams and rebuilding stocks. The salmon in the classroom program is educating thousands of students, and organizations such as Redd Fish Restoration Society and the Coastal Restoration Society are removing debris, protecting estuaries, and repairing damaged watersheds.
These leaders are showing what real stewardship looks like, but they cannot plan or expand their work without federal commitments. We cannot take our foot off the gas. The government must renew these programs now.
Salma Zahid Liberal Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East, ON
Mr. Speaker, on November 29, the United Nations International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, we reflect on the urgent need for justice, dignity and lasting peace. The people of Gaza are enduring what many international legal experts have identified as a genocide, with unimaginable loss of life and suffering. In the West Bank, escalating settler violence continues to displace families and deepen fear and instability.
Canada and the international community must demand that the ceasefire be fully respected and that humanitarian aid reach those in need without any delay. Every person, Palestinian or Israeli, deserves to live in peace, security and freedom. Solidarity means action, upholding international law, protecting civilians and supporting a just political solution. We must not look away.
Today and every day, we stand for human rights and a future where all can live in safety and hope.
Sandra Cobena Conservative Newmarket—Aurora, ON
Mr. Speaker, this week, the owners of a small family-owned business in Newmarket—Aurora reached out to me. They have been serving our community of Bayview and Mulock for 50 years with no major theft or crime, but over the past two years, they have been hit so often that they have actually lost count. They have spoken to other businesses in the area and heard the same stories. The incidents are so frequent, their insurance will not even process their claims without threatening to drop them for being too high risk. They have added cameras and floodlights, and they have even considered barbed wire fencing just to protect what they own.
Every week, I hear from residents in Newmarket—Aurora who are telling me that they no longer feel safe. This is the reality under the Liberal soft-on-crime approach, where criminals are released on bail the very same day with no real consequences for their crimes.
To the people of Newmarket—Aurora, I see them. I hear them. I thank them for speaking up. Conservatives are committed to fighting for the legislation and the change that our communities need.
Iqwinder Gaheer Liberal Mississauga—Malton, ON
Mr. Speaker, when Hindu Brahmins from the Kashmir Valley faced persecution from Mughal emperor Aurangzeb, they sought refuge with the ninth Sikh guru, Tegh Bahadur, whose name means “brave with a sword”. Aurangzeb had offered them a cruel choice: abandon their faith or offer a great sacrifice. On hearing this, a young Gobind Rai, who would go on to become the 10th Sikh guru and who was the son of Tegh Bahadur, looked to his father and asked, “Father, what sacrifice could be greater than your own?”
With those words echoing in his heart and mind, Guru Tegh Bahadur set out for Delhi, with the faithful standing firm at his side. They accepted torture and death, but they did not bend and they did not yield. They stood unbroken in their own faith, and in so doing, they protected the faith of another. It is in memory of this that I rise today.
Connie Cody Conservative Cambridge, ON
Mr. Speaker, the alarming rise in scams targeting seniors is a growing concern in our communities, with a 300% increase in money being lost to scams since 2020. Across the country, criminals are preying on trust and vulnerability, and seniors are losing their life savings, money they worked for decades to earn.
In Cambridge and North Dumfries, I have heard heartbreaking stories of individuals who believed they were helping a loved one or paying a bill, only to discover they had been deceived. These scams get more sophisticated by the day and often leave victims feeling ashamed and isolated.
We must do more to educate and protect our seniors from these predators. That is why this Saturday morning I will be hosting a community town hall called “Inside the Scam Playbook”. It is focused on raising awareness and sharing practical steps for people to safeguard themselves and those they care about. Knowledge is the best defence. Understanding how these scams work before they happen can prevent devastating loss.
Together, we can stop these criminals and ensure that no one in our community faces this alone.
Angelo Iacono Liberal Alfred-Pellan, QC
Mr. Speaker, November 22 was National Housing Day, reminding us of how essential housing is to everyone in Canada being able to have an affordable place to call home.
With Build Canada Homes, we will double the construction of housing, speed up building projects, build more sustainably and make housing affordable for families again. In my riding of Alfred-Pellan, these investments are already taking shape. Le Bleau will provide 149 housing units thanks to $50.5 million in federal funding. With over $11 million in funding, Habitation Bousquet will provide 26 housing units, nine of which are fully accessible
While we are delivering real results, let us remember that only six housing units were built when the Leader of the Opposition was the housing minister. We, on the other hand, have an ambitious plan, a real plan, that is already being implemented. With budget 2025, we are building a stronger Canada.
Lianne Rood Conservative Middlesex—London, ON
Mr. Speaker, Christmas is the season of hope, a light that breaks through even the darkest of days. During this time, we remember the true meaning of this holy day: the birth of Jesus Christ, the light of the world. As scripture reminds us in John 1:5, “The light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.”
That promise is as real in Middlesex—London as it was in Bethlehem. This is the season to carry the light into our communities through kindness, generosity and cheerful giving. I thank everyone who brings warmth to our towns and villages: parade organizers, church choirs, first responders, volunteers and neighbours who show up quietly and faithfully. They make this season glow.
Let us keep the support going strong. Shop local to lift up our small businesses and, if able, pick up an extra item for our community food bank so that no one is left out in the cold. Every act of compassion, large or small, is an example of Christ.
I wish a merry Christmas from my family to all families. May the peace of Jesus Christ guard their hearts and homes, and may God bless them in the year ahead.
Tim Louis Liberal Kitchener—Conestoga, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to celebrate an incredible achievement by the Woolwich Thrashers sledge hockey team. At the recent Cruisers Cup tournament, our junior Thrashers struck gold, going undefeated and capping it off with a 4–0 shutout in the finals. Their determination, teamwork and heart were on full display, with Wilder Sutter-Ruston scoring all four goals and goalie Hadley Deckert earning a flawless shutout.
Not to be outdone, the Thrashers’ men and women mixed open team battled through tough competition to claim bronze in their division. From start to finish, these athletes showed resilience, skill and sportsmanship, qualities that make our community proud. I send my congratulations to the players, the coaches and families. Their hard work and spirit inspire us all.
Go, Woolwich Thrashers!
50th Anniversary of the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne du CanadaStatements by Members
Conservative
Joël Godin Conservative Portneuf—Jacques-Cartier, QC
Mr. Speaker, today we are celebrating a milestone. We are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne du Canada, or the FCFA.
Our communities came together to ensure they had national representation. Hundreds of men and women continue to stand up for francophones, their rights and their interests across Canada. The FCFA supports cultural vitality and helps to build resilient, proud and deeply committed communities. This half-century reminds us of everything the FCFA has accomplished, but also of what remains to be done.
Together let us continue to protect, advance and promote Canada's francophonie for future generations.
Congratulations to the FCFA for 50 years of commitment to advancing the francophonie, since it is important and vital to maintain the distinct character of our country, namely French-English bilingualism. I would like to thank everyone who keeps our French language alive every day. Let us keep fighting.
Mario Beaulieu Bloc La Pointe-de-l'Île, QC
Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to recognize the 40th anniversary of Les Relevailles de Montréal centre in La Pointe‑de‑l'Île. Since 1985, this centre has supported 15,000 families as they transition to parenthood and through their journey of parenting a child from birth to age 2. The centre provides training, support services, in-home respite care and prenatal and postnatal activities in Montreal East. The centre shares its expertise with parents and professionals throughout the greater Montreal area, and even abroad.
I want to commend the executive director, Josée Lapratte, the president, Martine Alary, and the entire Relevailles team. Every day, their respectful work with parents helps support children so that they can reach their full potential and become successful citizens, ready to contribute to the Quebec of tomorrow.
I wish them a happy 40th anniversary. Three cheers for Les Relevailles!
Kristina Tesser Derksen Liberal Milton East—Halton Hills South, ON
Mr. Speaker, hear ye, hear ye: Mayor Gordon Krantz of the town of Milton is celebrating his 60th year of elected office. First elected as municipal councillor in 1965 and then as mayor when I was just two years old, Mayor Krantz is Canada's longest-serving mayor, having served under 10 prime ministers.
Mayor Krantz has guided Milton through four decades of managing growth and modernization. His leadership, vision and commitment have positioned Milton as one of the most educated, most diverse and most dynamic communities in the country. I have the distinct honour of having served as one of Mayor Krantz' municipal councillors, which was my first elected office in 2018. Whether it is playing cards on Sunday afternoons at Branch 136 of the Legion or capturing the moment cutting the ribbon at a new business, Mayor Gord is quintessentially Milton.
I congratulate Mayor Krantz and his family on this incredible milestone, a testament to the power of public service that stands the test of time.
Chris Lewis Conservative Essex, ON
Mr. Speaker, food costs are rising 40% faster in Canada than in the United States, and families in Essex are feeling the pressure. My riding is one of Ontario's most productive agriculture regions, but after 10 years of a Liberal government, the Canadians who produce our food are struggling to pay for it.
Farmers have been clear: Scrap the industrial carbon tax. Instead, the Liberals continue to drive up the price of fertilizer and farm equipment, making it harder for farmers to grow, ship and sell food. When 80.6% of Canadians say that food is their top expense pressure, the government should listen and take action by cutting hidden taxes to bring down costs and make life affordable for families.
Unlike the Prime Minister, who says, “Who cares?” to Canadians, I, along with my Conservative colleagues, care about the families of Essex
Brendan Hanley Liberal Yukon, YT
Mr. Speaker, this fall season brings fresh momentum, new opportunities and renewed energy to the Yukon.
Just last week at Yukon's annual Geoscience meeting, the mood in the room could not have been more positive. Members may ask why. It is because budget 2025 is replete with investments in the north, like the $1-billion Arctic infrastructure fund, the $2-billion critical mineral sovereign fund and the expanded critical mineral exploration tax credit. Add to those our government's ambitious Build Canada Homes to ensure that northerners have access to homes they can afford, and so much more.
With the recent referral of the Yukon-B.C. grid connect to the Major Projects Office, we are also setting the stage for the longer term. We know how important clean power is to realize the full potential of Canada's northwest, including the Yukon.
Before closing, I send congratulations to newly elected premier, Currie Dixon, and his cabinet staff, who were just sworn in on Saturday. I know we will all be working together on priorities and opportunities for the Yukon.
Let us keep Yukon strong and Canada strong.
Corey Tochor Conservative Saskatoon—University, SK
Mr. Speaker, the Canadian taxpayer is spending hundreds of millions of dollars on the European Space Agency. Canadians could be expected to wonder why so much of their money is being spent on the European Space Agency and its private corporation, Harwell, but do not worry, we know the answer, which is that 50% of the Harwell Science and Innovation facility is owned by Brookfield. That explains it.
As always under the Liberal government, if it benefits Brookfield, it happens, but as with so many other projects, from timber to pipelines, if it does not benefit Brookfield, then it goes nowhere.
Peter Schiefke Liberal Vaudreuil, QC
Mr. Speaker, for 158 years, Canadians have elected members of Parliament. They have travelled to Ottawa to take their seats in these chairs and make decisions that have helped build the greatest country in the world.
Today it was an honour to turn that work over, if only temporarily, to bright and inspiring grade 6 students from Forest Hill Elementary in Saint-Lazare.
Under the guidance of Principal Larente, dedicated teachers and volunteer parents, 106 students took their seats to become MPs for the day. They shared what Canada meant to them and what issues were most important, and they were proud to share ideas on how to build an even better Canada in the years ahead. The discussion was insightful, and it served as a reminder of our true purpose in this place: to leave a better Canada for our children than the one we inherited.
I want to sincerely thank the Forest Hill teachers and students who joined me today. This is their House; their ideas, energy and thoughtfulness are always welcome here.
Leslyn Lewis Conservative Haldimand—Norfolk, ON
Mr. Speaker, this morning at a multi-party parliamentary prayer breakfast, I shared from Mark 4:35 and the moment when the disciples, caught in a violent storm, cried out to Jesus, “don't you care”. These were experienced fishermen, but even they were overwhelmed by the winds and the waves.
Today, many Canadians feel the same. They see economic uncertainty, rising unemployment, social tensions, immigration pressures and new tariffs creating instability in their lives. The storms are real, and people are looking to their leaders for reassurance and results, not indifference. When the Prime Minister promises Canadians a deal on tariffs, a response of “Who cares?” is exactly what the people fear in the middle of an economic storm.
In turbulent times, leadership is not just about expertise; leadership begins with compassion, the willingness to see the storm that others are facing and the courage to stand with them in it.
Vince Gasparro Liberal Eglinton—Lawrence, ON
Mr. Speaker, in a world full of noise, sometimes the most powerful thing we can do is simply talk to one another.
I recently met with Pete Bombaci, a constituent of mine in Eglinton—Lawrence and an advocate for Genwell, Canada's human connection movement. Genwell champions social health, the idea that our relationships, connections and interconnections with one another are essential not only to our mental and physical well-being but also to the health of our society.
This week is talk to a stranger week, and I want to encourage Canadians to take a moment to look up from their phones and start a conversation with someone new. We never know the difference a simple hello can make.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, “Who cares?”
The Prime Minister promised to negotiate a victory before July 21. Since then, there has been no deal, no victory. The Americans have doubled tariffs, yet the Prime Minister made concessions by eliminating countertariffs, scrapping the digital services tax and backing down on softwood lumber litigation. He got only one thing in return: an $80-billion contract for Brookfield from President Trump.
Is the money for his company the victory he promised to negotiate?
Dominic LeBlanc LiberalPresident of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister responsible for Canada-U.S. Trade
Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition knows full well that Canadians did not trust his judgment when it came to standing up to President Trump and not signing an agreement that was in the interests of the United States.
What did we do? We worked with the United States to find an agreement that will be in the interests of Canadian industries and workers. At the same time, we are taking more measures to support Canadian workers and industries, even today.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, do we want the good news, or the bad news? Well, in these times I guess we will have to start with the good news; it is all we have. The good news is that David Eby, the Premier of B.C., has absolutely no constitutional authority to block a pipeline. The bad news is that the Prime Minister does. Under paragraph 92(10)(a) of the British North America Act, works between provinces are exclusively the federal government's responsibility.
Will the Prime Minister stop hiding behind the powerless premier, get out of the way and approve a pipeline to the Pacific today?
Tim Hodgson LiberalMinister of Energy and Natural Resources
Mr. Speaker, I would invite the member opposite to buy a ticket to Calgary tomorrow to see how a federal government works with a provincial government to build Canada strong.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, tomorrow the Prime Minister will wave around in the air a worthless piece of paper that he says the Premier of B.C. can veto anytime he wants. Here is the political problem he has: Canadians want a pipeline. They know it is the best way to get our resources to market, going around the United States of America, but his “keep it in the ground” caucus is standing in the way.
Why does the Prime Minister not stand up to the U.S.A. and stand up for Canada?
Tim Hodgson LiberalMinister of Energy and Natural Resources
Mr. Speaker, maybe the member opposite should explain to his constituents why the Premier of Alberta wants to stand beside our Prime Minister and talk about how to build Canada strong.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, yesterday the Prime Minister claimed he did not have the power to approve a pipeline. Well, too bad for him; the Constitution is public. Paragraph 92(10)(a) says it is exclusively a federal responsibility. He happens to be the Prime Minister, and he asked us to pass emergency legal powers in Bill C-5 to give him the personal authority to overturn any regulation in order to get the project done.
In other words, the government has the exclusive power; the Prime Minister has the exclusive legal authority. Will he match that authority with responsibility and approve a pipeline to the Pacific today?