Oh, oh!
House of Commons Hansard #65 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was debt.
House of Commons Hansard #65 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was debt.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Closure of Algoma Steel Plant Pierre Poilievre requests an emergency debate on steelworker job losses at Algoma Steel, blaming American tariffs and the Liberal government's carbon tax. He criticizes a $400 million investment without job guarantees. 500 words.
Admissibility of Committee Amendments to Bill C-12—Speaker's Ruling The Speaker rules on a point of order concerning nine amendments adopted by committee to Bill C-12, an act relating to border security and immigration. The deputy government leader argued the amendments violated the "parent act rule." The Speaker declares eight amendments, primarily concerning the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, inadmissible, finding them outside the bill's scope, but upholds one amendment to the Oceans Act as consequential. 1600 words.
Budget 2025 Implementation Act, No. 1 Second reading of Bill C-15. The bill implements the 2025 budget, which opposition members criticize as leading to generational debt and a rising cost of living. They allege it contains "corruption" and "favouritism" benefiting Liberal insiders and the Prime Minister's corporate buddies, hindering job creation. Government members defend it as a "generational investment" to build a strong economy, citing increased defence spending, infrastructure, and social programs, while accusing the opposition of "character assassination" and "filibustering." 51200 words, 6 hours in 2 segments: 1 2.
National Strategy on Flood and Drought Forecasting Act Second reading of Bill C-241. The bill proposes a national strategy respecting flood and drought forecasting to enhance coordination and data sharing across Canada, addressing the increasing impacts of climate change. While supporters emphasize the need for cooperation among different levels of government and improved water management, critics argue it risks becoming another Ottawa-driven exercise in paperwork without providing real solutions or timely funding for disaster mitigation. Concerns are raised about duplication with existing services, respecting provincial jurisdiction, and the lack of concrete action or funding mechanisms to support communities. 7400 words, 1 hour.
Some hon. members
Oh, oh!
Frank Caputo Conservative Kamloops—Thompson—Nicola, BC
I am striking a chord now, Mr. Speaker. This is good—
The Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia
It is called being on the cusp of disorder. I will let the member continue, but let us not try to be provocative. That is the key. Let us not try to be provocative on either side, because that just leads to disorder.
Frank Caputo Conservative Kamloops—Thompson—Nicola, BC
Mr. Speaker, we hear about debt to GDP, and we have a debt-to-GDP ratio, but we have two levels of government in this country. When the government says that we have the lowest debt to GDP, is it actually counting the provincial debt in there? What about Crown debt? Is it counting that?
I will be honest with members. I have not done the calculations, so maybe I am completely out to lunch on this. If I am out to lunch, the Liberals can feel free to let me know. However, I would love for a member of the Liberals, who are so gleeful to tell us about our debt-to-GDP ratio, to tell us that they are factoring in provincial debt, Crown debt and federal debt as opposed to just the national debt that countries without our two-level government system have. I challenge any member from that party to do so. Again, we will probably hear that we have never had it so good.
I am quite saddened with the budget. There were a number of asks in my riding. The District of Clearwater is estimating a population boom, with an increase of 60% to 80% in the next six to 10 years, if an expected mine goes through.
I look forward to having more truth and more light shed after question period.
Chi Nguyen Liberal Spadina—Harbourfront, ON
Mr. Speaker, today is Giving Tuesday, a global day of generosity and community, an opportunity to reflect on local needs, support important causes and give through donations or volunteering. Volunteering is how we learn about ourselves and the world. It is woven into who we are as Canadians, and we are people who care.
According to the “World Giving Index”, Canada ranks 11th for generosity, yet Volunteer Canada and Statistics Canada report a decades-long decline in volunteer hours and participation. This matters because organizations, such as United Way Greater Toronto, The Neighbourhood Group, Scadding Court Community Centre and Crossroads International, rely on volunteers to deliver essential supports to our most vulnerable.
Volunteering strengthens belonging, reduces social isolation, builds lifelong skills and weaves together a stronger community fabric. It reminds us that we coexist and we thrive together. Even a few hours can make a real difference for the volunteers and the organizations that receive their support.
On this Giving Tuesday, and throughout the holiday season, I encourage Canadians to give what they can, and even more importantly, to give their time, when possible.
Todd Doherty Conservative Cariboo—Prince George, BC
Mr. Speaker, five years ago, in December 2020, the House came together to support my motion to bring a simple, life-saving idea to Canada: A three-digit suicide prevention crisis line, or 988.
One thousand days later, 988 launched in November 2023. Since that time, over a million calls and texts have been made to 988. Every one of those calls or texts represents someone reaching out instead of giving up, but sadly, 12 Canadians die by suicide each day and a further 200 attempt suicide each day. That is 73,000 Canadians.
This is why 988 must be the beginning, not the end. As we enter the Christmas season, we must remember that many Canadians suffer silently and fall through the gaps.
If someone is struggling, I ask them to please reach out. Help is only a call or text away, regardless of where they are. They can dial or text 988 24-7. I ask them to remember they are needed, are loved and our world is a better place with them in it.
Ben Carr Liberal Winnipeg South Centre, MB
Mr. Speaker, this past month, I had a chance to visit three schools in my riding where students are bringing about positive change in the world.
At École Robert H. Smith, students raised thousands of dollars for CancerCare Manitoba by organizing drink sales that saw them working early hours on top of their regularly scheduled academic responsibilities. They put the needs of others ahead of their own.
Over at Earl Grey School, nearly 50 students, guided by educator Lily Godinez Goodman, formed a media literacy club and started a school newspaper. Their commitment to citizenship can be held up as a model for all to follow. I experienced first-hand the challenge of being in the lion's den of one of their media scrums.
At Linden Meadows School, under the leadership of teachers Colleen Nelson and Alex McGavin, students are dedicating time regularly to debating ideas. They are staying engaged with the world around them and are doing it in a respectful way.
I am so proud to represent these bright young people, who are paving the way for a future full of kindness, compassion and hope.
Doug Shipley Conservative Barrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte, ON
Mr. Speaker, Christmas is right around the corner, and in Barrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte, the festivities are already in full swing, with Santa Claus parades, Christmas markets and, most importantly, the spirit of giving.
Year-round in my community, charities do outstanding work to help the residents of our community, especially during the holiday season. Our local charities, such as the Barrie Food Bank, the Elmvale and District Food Bank, Christmas Cheer, Senior Wish Association, the Salvation Army and Barrie Families Unite, work tirelessly to help support families in putting food on the table and gifts under the tree.
As we enter this giving season, I encourage all those who are able to do so to donate to a local food bank or shelter. To those who need help during these challenging times, please know that these organizations in their community will be there to help support them. I thank the employees, volunteers and donors who help support the vital work of these charities.
From my family to the families of all members, I wish everyone a very merry Christmas, happy holidays and happy new year. To the students who are here from Barrie today, joyeux Noël.
Jean-Yves Duclos Liberal Québec Centre, QC
Mr. Speaker, today I would like to pay tribute to all those who helped create the new permanent exhibition “Growing Up with the Ursulines” at the Pôle culturel du Monastère des Ursulines in Quebec City, in the beautiful riding of Québec Centre.
The result of more than four years of work, this exhibition pays tribute to 400 years of educational and social engagement by the Ursuline Sisters, women who have left a profound mark on the social, cultural and intellectual development of the greater Quebec City area and across the country. The exhibition “Growing Up with the Ursulines” features six thematic rooms and more than 180 objects and archives, including the founding document signed by King Louis XIII. It shows visitors how these visionary women helped advance the status of women in Quebec City and Quebec.
I invite all members of the House, as well as everyone listening to us, to come visit this exhibition and experience the exceptional legacy of the Ursuline Sisters.
Blake Richards Conservative Airdrie—Cochrane, AB
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the amazing contributions of the Canadian Filipino community from coast to coast to coast. Filipino culture is one that values faith, family, community, hard work and loyalty. From Vancouver to White Horse and St. John's, Filipino families have contributed greatly through their hard work and community involvement. Rarely will I find a church or community group without pancit, Tagalog and friendly smiles.
I myself am honoured to be married to a Canadian Filipina, and I have had the privilege of meeting with Filipino leaders all across our great country. Today, I want to recognize in particular one of those community leaders: Carlos Cabaneros, who is here on Parliament Hill today. Carlos is the creative genius behind Filipinos in the 6ix, the largest online North American Filipino page promoting Filipino culture and values.
Join me in recognizing the amazing contributions of Filipinos all over Canada, and let us celebrate our shared values of family, freedom, community and hard work.
Maraming Salamat Po. Tara Na.
Jenna Sudds Liberal Kanata, ON
Mr. Speaker, through the Canada summer jobs program, young people in my community are gaining valuable work experience, developing new skills and earning an income while contributing to our community. Last summer, our government committed more than $1.3 million to youth in my community. This funding helped create over 320 amazing student jobs. These opportunities are helping young people grow through hands-on work with organizations such as the Dave Smith Youth Treatment Centre, the YMCA, STEM Camp, the Diefenbunker and the Kanata Food Cupboard.
These opportunities not only build confidence and skills, but also strengthen the community organizations that serve residents every day. Applications for the 2026 season are now open until December 11. I encourage organizations and small businesses to take part and give a young person a chance to learn and to contribute.
Jim Belanger Conservative Sudbury East—Manitoulin—Nickel Belt, ON
Mr. Speaker, after 10 years of fiscal mismanagement by the Liberals, the affordability of daily life is out of reach for many Ontarians. According to Feed Ontario's 2025 “Hunger Report”, more than 1 million Ontarians needed a food bank this year, marking a record-breaking 8.7 million visits to food banks in 2025. In Chelmsford, 1,300 people regularly visit the local food bank per month.
This need is being largely driven by the poor decisions of the Liberal government, which drive up inflation and the cost of daily necessities for all Canadians.
Today is Giving Tuesday, and I will be making a personal donation of food and other items to the fill a crib initiative in Greater Sudbury. As a record number of Canadians struggle, I encourage others across the country to do the same if they are able.
Gabriel Ste-Marie Bloc Joliette—Manawan, QC
Mr. Speaker, Jean-Claude Germain passed away earlier this year, leaving behind a stir of words, stories and laughter that still buzz in our ears to this day. Two weeks ago, he was given a warm and colourful tribute at the Centre du Théâtre d'aujourd'hui. Playwright, screenwriter, writer, journalist, lyricist, historian and so much more: with Germain, the labels jostled for position like actors in the wings. He was larger than life and had a knack for capturing all of Quebec in a single well-turned phrase.
From Le Petit Journal to honorary chair of the Salon du livre de Montréal, he shook up Quebec theatre until it spoke in joual and stood on its own two feet. I knew him at L'aut'journal. Working alongside him was like taking a class where the professor laughed louder than everyone else in the room. His entire body of work is a mirror reflecting our wrinkles and our smiles back at us, and we say to ourselves, yes, that is us, and we can be damn proud of it.
I salute Jean-Claude and I thank him.
Jessica Fancy-Landry Liberal South Shore—St. Margarets, NS
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight an exceptional young athlete from Hubbards, 13-year-old Asher Davis. Asher has been selected to represent Canada at the inaugural Panamerican Optimist Championship in Buenos Aires next month. Out of 15 youth across the country, he is the only sailor chosen from Atlantic Canada, which is an incredible achievement and a proud moment for our community.
A proud member of the Hubbards Sailing Club, he has been training tirelessly to meet this moment. His family and neighbours have rallied with him, showing once again how our communities lift up their young people and help them reach big opportunities and experiences.
I ask all members to join in congratulating Asher today and wishing him the very best next month as he represents team Canada and the South Shore on the world stage. I send my congratulations to Asher. We are all cheering him on.
Cheryl Gallant Conservative Algonquin—Renfrew—Pembroke, ON
Mr. Speaker, the talented scientists, engineers and technicians in Chalk River perform leading-edge nuclear research while also producing life-saving medical isotopes. Now the elbows-down Brookfield government wants to pay an all-American consortium $1.2 billion a year to manage Canadian Nuclear Laboratories. We know the Prime Minister has a financial interest in the consortium. Canadians have concerns about the American-owned monopoly having control over Canada's medical isotopes and unique nuclear analytic capabilities.
The Competition Bureau has launched three investigations, yet the bureau has been forced to obtain court orders to get the information it needs from the secretive, self-serving Brookfield government. Canadians want the Liberals to stop blocking the investigation into the deal. Canadian intellectual property and the jobs that technology brings will be lost if the Brookfield Prime Minister gets his way.
Braedon Clark Liberal Sackville—Bedford—Preston, NS
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary achievement by Synergy, a local barbershop quartet in Nova Scotia.
Earlier this month, in Hershey, Pennsylvania, the Synergy quartet was crowned the 2025 Queens of Harmony at the international harmony competition, representing eastern Canada on the world stage and competing against top quartets from across North America. This is the first time since 1993 that a quartet from Area 1, which includes nine chapters across the four Atlantic provinces, has earned this title, and it is only the third time in the region's history. The quartet includes Sue Kember and Jennifer Cleveland of HRM's ScotianAires Chorus, alongside Adèle Merrit and Corinna Garriock of Valley Voices.
Their victory reflects the musical excellence that exists in our province and the strength of our women-led arts communities. It also speaks to the value of supporting Canada's homegrown arts sector so that talent like this can continue to succeed.
Congratulations to the Synergy quartet and everyone involved in bringing home this well-deserved international honour.
Jacob Mantle Conservative York—Durham, ON
Mr. Speaker, there are promises, and then there is reality. The Prime Minister's promise was a so-called generational investment to rapidly scale up housing to meet his target of half a million homes a year. The reality is, as the budget watchdog said this morning, that the new bureaucracy will actually build only 5,200 homes per year. This means the Liberals are more than one million homes short over the next five years and will address only 4% of Canada's housing gap. The future is not any brighter.
Yesterday, the Missing Middle Initiative reported that housing starts are down across nearly every GTA municipality, but Conservatives have not given up on the Canadian dream: the dream to earn, save and own a home. That is why Conservatives will incentivize municipalities to cut building taxes; spend less and keep interest rates down, so mortgages can be affordable; and scrap the industrial carbon tax on steel, lumber and every single thing that builds a Canadian home.
Sophie Chatel Liberal Pontiac—Kitigan Zibi, QC
Mr. Speaker, today, during this week of remembrance and action on violence against women, I would like to congratulate and express my full support for L'EntourElle, an essential organization in my riding.
I would like to thank Gisèle, Ashley, Christie, Ollisha, Cassey and Chantal, and everyone who works with and supports their vital work.
They are making a difference in the riding through their courage, determination and professionalism. They provide hope to all women survivors and victims of domestic violence.
Today, we honour them and support everything they do. We stand with these dedicated women; they have my thanks.
Branden Leslie Conservative Portage—Lisgar, MB
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is riddled with conflicts of interest, and companies like Brookfield are raking it in while he is at the helm. Not only did the Prime Minister help his company avoid paying $6.5 billion in taxes, but it is now also Canada's greatest tax-dodger. Is it a bike shop in Bermuda? That is no problem. Is it a couple of tax havens in the Cayman Islands? It will use anything to keep Brookfield outside the reach of the CRA.
Ordinary Canadians are struggling to put food on their plates and a roof over their heads, while the Prime Minister's elite friends just keep benefiting. His so-called ethics screen is mostly a joke. The ethics committee found that 95% of Brookfield's companies, nearly 1,900 of them, are not included. If they perform well, the Prime Minister is going to reap the reward. It is no wonder he wants to help them. Instead of avoiding questions, as he helped Brookfield avoid taxes, the Prime Minister needs to come clean.
Is the Prime Minister here to serve Canadians or Brookfield and himself? Conservatives will not stop asking questions. We will expose this sleaziness and fight to make sure that it stops.
David Myles Liberal Fredericton—Oromocto, NB
Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate Constantine Passaris, a constituent of Fredericton—Oromocto who was recently awarded the 2024 Canada's Volunteer Awards Atlantic prize for his outstanding contributions to building a welcoming and inclusive New Brunswick. For more than 50 years, Constantine has dedicated thousands of volunteer hours to connecting people from diverse backgrounds and championing collaboration.
As the founder of the New Brunswick Multicultural Council, his expertise has guided immigration policy throughout the Atlantic region.
Constantine has been an inspirational leader and a role model for New Brunswick's multicultural community, and his unwavering commitment to diversity and inclusion continues to enrich our province.
I ask members to join me in congratulating Dr. Constantine Passaris and thanking him for championing multiculturalism in New Brunswick.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister just appointed another Trudeau-era minister who destroyed our immigration system and helped drive up the cost of living. This same minister, who is responsible for heritage, just said this morning that he is fed up with the debate on the decline of the French language.
The Conservatives are not fed up. We will defend the French language.
Of all the Liberal members the Prime Minister could have appointed, why did he appoint someone who is fed up with defending the French language and Quebec culture?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, the government is keeping immigration levels under control. The number of asylum seekers—
Mark Carney Liberal Nepean, ON
I would like to continue, Mr. Speaker. The number of asylum seekers has dropped significantly, by one-third. The number of foreign students has also dropped significantly.
We will defend the French language with the largest investments in the cultural sector in the history of Canada.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, my question was about the statement made by his new minister, who said he was fed up with the debate on the decline of the French language. The Prime Minister's response shows that we should all be concerned about the decline of the French language.
Of all the Liberal members, why did he choose to appoint someone who is fed up with defending the French language and Quebec culture?