House of Commons Hansard #70 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was mou.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Opposition Motion—Pipeline Construction Members debate a Conservative motion supporting a new oil pipeline from Alberta to the British Columbia coast for export to Asian markets, alongside an adjustment to the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act. Conservatives urge the Liberal government to unblock investment and expedite construction. Liberals support the full Canada-Alberta MOU, which includes environmental and Indigenous consultation conditions. The Bloc Québécois and NDP oppose, citing economic non-viability, climate betrayal, and lack of Indigenous consent. 47800 words, 6 hours in 2 segments: 1 2.
Supplementary Estimates (B), 2025-26 First reading of Bill C-17. The bill grants sums of money to His Majesty for federal public administration for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2026, and is passed through all stages of the House. 100 words.
Ukrainian Heritage Month Act Second reading of Bill S-210. The bill proposes to designate September as Ukrainian Heritage Month in Canada to recognize the contributions of Ukrainian Canadians to the country's economic, political, cultural, and social life. Members from various parties support the bill, emphasizing the importance of celebrating Ukrainian heritage, especially given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, and to educate Canadians about Ukrainian culture and history. 7800 words, 1 hour.
Kevin Lamoureux Liberal Winnipeg North, MB
Mr. Speaker, I did not ask the member to ask that question, but I have a simple answer: No, I do not.
Members can look at what has been accomplished since the last federal election, whether it is the budget implementation bill and the many initiatives that are in it to support Canadians, our infrastructure, our military and so much more, or building Canada strong by looking at ways in which we can develop major projects, with 60 billion dollars' worth of investment.
The answer is no.
Mario Simard Bloc Jonquière, QC
Mr. Speaker, the parliamentary secretary is shouting himself hoarse trying to pull the wool over our eyes. This might even be affecting his health. He needs to take a breath between his shrieks. I am really concerned about his personal health.
He can try to pull the wool over our eyes, but what the government is doing right now is providing indecent levels of support to the greedy oil and gas sector, while people in the forestry sector are going through the worst crisis in their history. The government has made only one announcement for that sector, back in August, and people in the forestry industry are still waiting for help.
Meanwhile, the Liberals are prepared to open their wallets wide and make the worst environmental compromises to benefit people in the oil and gas sector.
Kevin Lamoureux Liberal Winnipeg North, MB
Mr. Speaker, the member and I had an exchange a little earlier today. As I indicated to him then, we have to look at this through a different perspective. He agreed that the Bloc party is a separatist party. What this agreement shows very clearly is that federalism works and that all of Canada benefits by this MOU.
Pipelines, the lumber industry, the steel industry and the aluminum industry are all important issues to the government of the day. The government and the Prime Minister have been working actively on them to ensure we can build Canada strong. Whether it is on any of those issues or looking for other opportunities to expand trade, we will continue to work every day of the week to get the best results for Canada.
Opposition Motion—Pipeline ConstructionBusiness of SupplyGovernment Orders
Calgary Confederation Alberta
Liberal
Corey Hogan LiberalParliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Energy and Natural Resources
Mr. Speaker, one of the things that struck me about the Conservative amendment that was moved recently was that it expresses support for the Pathways project. However, the Leader of the Opposition emphatically told me that they do not support a price on carbon.
I am wondering if the member has any thoughts on how they could possibly reconcile that without creating a subsidy of tens of billions of dollars to the oil and gas sector.
Kevin Lamoureux Liberal Winnipeg North, MB
Mr. Speaker, there is irony in that. We need to recognize that out of the entire North American continent, it was the Province of Alberta that led the way in terms of the first price on pollution, a carbon tax. It was the Premier of Alberta who signed the MOU, recognizing the value of a carbon tax. That is why I started off by saying how far right the Conservative Party of today is. I think they should look at a new name. What did mad Max call his party? Was it the People's Party?
At the end of the day, the Conservative Party has gone so far to the right, there have to be a lot of red Tories over there feeling pretty uncomfortable. I would encourage them to look at what we hear day and day again coming from the leadership of the Conservative Party and so many of those far right personalities. They must be starting to feel uneasy and might even want to sit as independents. They should reflect on the value that red Tories have contributed to the country in many ways in the past. I would like to see a few more bold red Tories stand up against the current leadership of the Conservative Party.
Ned Kuruc Conservative Hamilton East—Stoney Creek, ON
Mr. Speaker, I am splitting my time with the member for Fort McMurray—Cold Lake.
Today I rise on the motion to commit the government to a new pipeline from Alberta to the west coast. First, I think we need to be really clear what this Liberal memorandum of understanding really is. It is not a real commitment to Canadian energy; it is a political charade designed to make headlines rather than put shovels in the ground. Canadians have seen this movie before: big announcements, photo ops and then years of backtracking and filibustering, all leading to cancelled projects.
This MOU is no different. It is not a binding contract. It is not a guarantee to build a pipeline, and the Prime Minister's own caucus is now divided on whether they support their own party's policy. One thing that is for certain is that the Conservatives are all in agreement. No one in Canada has been more clear about the need to get an oil pipeline built to the west coast than we have. We are a resource superpower, and through this decade of Liberal government, we have only put hurdles in front of ourselves by keeping our wealth in the ground. With an unpredictable neighbour down south and economic conditions worldwide being tested, now is the time, more than ever, for the Liberals to step out of the way and let Conservatives deliver on a promise of a prosperous Canada.
Using the Prime Minister's own words, we need to build “things previously thought impossible” at unimaginable speeds and “build Canada into an energy superpower”. The only way we can do that is with the Liberals stepping aside and letting builders build. That is exactly what this motion is: committing the Prime Minister to his very own words.
The MOU signed by the Prime Minister in Alberta in November provides the “necessary conditions” for a pipeline, but it is not a commitment to build one. In reality, the MOU only says that a proposal may eventually be referred to a federal office for years of further study. We have seen this roundabout language time and time again with the Liberal government in attempts to drag its feet on issues and never follow through.
The MOU must have B.C. support, and Premier Eby has been extremely vocal that he would not support it. Not only that, but the Liberals are also keeping the tanker ban in place. The tanker ban, passed by Justin Trudeau in 2019, would make the pipeline bringing LNG to B.C. completely pointless. It would be like building a pipeline to nowhere. We would have no way of getting the oil off the west coast and into foreign markets. To further the problem, with restrictions like this baked into the MOU, the private sector would not support this deal, meaning there would be no one to actually build the pipeline.
The Liberals cannot claim to support pipelines while keeping laws and veto powers that make building them virtually impossible. That is exactly why our motion before the House matters. It is not a vague promise that maybe someday we would build a pipeline. Our motion is clear. It says, yes, we support building the pipeline and exporting a million barrels a day. By voting for this motion, members agree that we need to cut the red tape and bureaucracy, repeal the outdated tanker ban, grant the permits and let private sector investment flow to build the infrastructure we need.
This motion would force clarity. It forces the question: Do they want a pipeline or just more press conferences, studies and headlines? The Prime Minister has been asked in this very House when the pipeline would be built, and his response was that the MOU “creates necessary conditions, but not sufficient conditions”. I ask Canadians listening at home if this sounds like someone who really wants to build a pipeline.
The MOU is not a shovel in the ground. The Liberals campaigned on “keeping it in the ground” policies. This is not a change of heart. It is a political game, and Canadians can see right through it. They tell Albertans they are in favour of a pipeline, while telling B.C. and Quebeckers they are against it. The Liberal caucus is not aligned. They have lost a minister over it and now multiple MPs on that side have spoken out against it. This is an identity crisis for them.
Meanwhile, the Prime Minister is speaking out of both sides of his mouth. On June 6, he said he “will not impose a project on a province”. On October 1, he told his caucus that if B.C. does not want it, it is not going ahead. Let us not forget that when Mark Carney was an environmental ambassador for the United Nations, he agreed that 65% of all oil and gas reserves and 90% of all coal reserves must be left in the ground, and that there is no need for any exploration of new oil and gas fields. It is time to make a decision and get the divided Liberals on record for all Canadians to see.
Shipping a million barrels a day of Alberta oil to Asia can have a transformative effect on our economy, which is exactly the promise of this motion. By unlocking access to global energy markets, we attract billions in private sector energy investment, which creates jobs, not just for oil and pipeline workers but across sectors, such as manufacturing, fabrication, steel, transport and infrastructure. It strengthens Canada's economy and sovereignty, reduces our dependence on foreign energy and gives Canadian workers more secure, well-paying jobs. It also helps stabilize incomes while lowering the cost of energy, food and housing. This is a huge factor as many Canadians are struggling under the current cost of living. The new Nanos Research poll shows that 56% of Canadians support building a new pipeline and 55% are in favour of lifting the ban on tanker traffic to make it happen.
A much overlooked benefit of building major infrastructure like a pipeline is that it gives a boost to the domestic steel markets and fabrication industries. We can consider the steel industry in Hamilton, a cornerstone of Canadian manufacturing. A large pipeline project with its demand for steel structural components, welding and fabrication would generate increased demand for Canadian-produced steel. That means more orders, more stable demand and more work for steelworkers and fabricators in Hamilton and beyond.
Supporting the motion is not about just energy; it is about reinforcing Canadian manufacturing, protecting Canadian jobs and giving Canadian steel a home market advantage against imported materials. This is not just about a pipeline. It is about Canada's economic future. It is about creating jobs in Alberta, B.C., Ontario and, of course, Hamilton. It is about factory floors, steel mills, transport depots and shipping ports. It is about energy, sovereignty, national pride and ensuring Canadian resources benefit Canadians first.
The Liberal MOU is a promise of maybe someday, diluted by countless caveats and subject to vetoes. The Conservative motion before us is a clear statement of support for action, growth and prosperity. We even have some breaking news. The Leader of the Opposition has amended the motion to include the Liberals' concerns, green-lighting carbon capture projects, engaging and consulting with indigenous partners and participating in a trilateral discussion with B.C. on the pipeline.
To quote the finance minister, today is “a good day for Canadians.” Let us build the pipeline, and I hope the Liberals will join us in building a stronger, more self-reliant Canada.
Opposition Motion—Pipeline ConstructionBusiness of SupplyGovernment Orders
The Deputy Speaker Tom Kmiec
Before we go to questions and comments, I would remind members not to use the first name, the last name or the full name of a member of the House, whether they be a cabinet minister or any member.
Questions and comments, the hon. government deputy House leader.
Arielle Kayabaga Liberal London West, ON
Mr. Speaker, I ask the member opposite to consider the comments of his colleague from earlier. He said that we are “10 years too late to believe in Canada.” Does the member opposite agree with this statement?
Ned Kuruc Conservative Hamilton East—Stoney Creek, ON
Mr. Speaker, I would like to quote the Prime Minister again when he said that he agreed that 65% of all oil and gas reserves and 90% of all coal reserves must be left in the ground, and that there was no need for any exploration of new oil and gas fields. That is what is actually concerning.
Canadians are seeing right through this pipeline MOU. They want a clear answer, and we have delivered one. I hope the Liberals join us today in voting for Canada and what Canada wants and needs.
Andréanne Larouche Bloc Shefford, QC
Mr. Speaker, today we are debating a motion that deals with the agreement between Ottawa and Alberta for a new pipeline. However, I want to follow up on a concern that my colleague and I share, and that is the cost of living. As the critic for seniors, I hear all the time that seniors can no longer afford rent and groceries. Last week, a study showed that, in 2026, people will be spending at least $1,000 more on groceries. One of the reasons mentioned for this is climate change.
What does my colleague think about the fact that maybe we should take action on climate change to lower the price of groceries?
Ned Kuruc Conservative Hamilton East—Stoney Creek, ON
Mr. Speaker, the member has touched on the point that the Liberals are facing a very big identity crisis. They do not know whether they are for climate change policy or for pulling oil out of the ground, or whether their caucus is completely divided on this issue.
To the member's question on unleashing Canada's economic future, the motion today would produce that. Like I said, it is a good day for Canadians. It is a day when the Liberals and every member of the House can vote to unleash Canada's energy sector and have good economic, prosperous, times ahead. I hope every member of the House votes with us today, because Canadians at home are counting on the House to unleash pipelines, oil and energy so we can become an energy superpower and rely on no one but Canada. I ask members to please vote with us.
Harb Gill Conservative Windsor West, ON
Mr. Speaker, there is a cost to our inaction. Based on the current state of affairs we are facing, our reliance on just one buyer, to whom we have to sell to at a discount no less, we are losing billions of dollars in revenue and thousands of jobs in Saskatchewan, Alberta and Newfoundland, as well as across this country. We are losing influence on the world stage because other countries use energy as a diplomatic tool, while we are sitting on the sidelines.
When the Liberals propose an MOU with no solid timelines, what hope is there for Canadians?
Ned Kuruc Conservative Hamilton East—Stoney Creek, ON
Mr. Speaker, that is a fantastic question. I have said over and over again that the Liberals are focused only on headlines. The MOU is going to kick the can down the line and hopefully get them into another election by saying they were pro-pipeline. Nothing in the MOU actually says that they are going to build one, but today's motion would accomplish that, so I hope the Liberals will join us and vote for a pipeline that they have proposed. The leader of the Conservative Party has actually put forward amendments that they wanted.
To the member's question, yes, it would secure jobs. His riding and my city of Hamilton need steel, and we have to be self-reliant.
Again I encourage every member of the House to vote for the motion, and I hope they do. It is what the Liberals want, but we, through the motion, would do it faster and actually make a commitment to Canadians.
Patrick Weiler Liberal West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country, BC
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Squamish Climate Action Network, Squamish CAN, on receiving the 2025 Edible Communities Sustainability Award for outstanding leadership in community-driven climate action.
The network's impact is felt across the region. Its self-sustaining downtown school farm gives residents and students hands-on experience with regenerative agriculture, distributes fresh food throughout the community, and supplies healthy produce to local schools. Its edible school gardens and indigenous plant garden created in partnership with Squamish Nation elders deepen ecological learning in the classroom and embed cultural knowledge in the community. Through food-security programs, waste reduction initiatives, community education and strong policy leadership, Squamish CAN is reshaping local food systems and strengthening the region's resilience.
I congratulate the executive director, Krystle tenBrink, and the entire Squamish CAN team for this well-deserved honour and for their continued work to build a healthier, more sustainable future for our community.
Joël Godin Conservative Portneuf—Jacques-Cartier, QC
Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to pay tribute to the community organizations in Portneuf—Jacques-Cartier, as well as to the women and men who keep them running day after day. Whether it is food aid, helping one another or support for families, culture, sports or the most vulnerable, their work is key to a vibrant and united community. Often, we find it is the same people supporting various organizations, the same people who are always there. They are immensely generous with their time, energy and hearts.
Our organizations are vital. They break the isolation and make a real difference in people's lives. I would like to take this opportunity to call on the next generation to get involved. First and foremost, volunteering is about doing good for others, but it is also about enriching oneself as a person, making friends and giving meaning to one's commitment.
I would like to thank all those who work in community organizations. They are indispensable. I wish you a merry Christmas and a happy 2026—
Community Organizations in Portneuf—Jacques-CartierStatements by Members
Judy Sgro Liberal Humber River—Black Creek, ON
Mr. Speaker, the Great Lakes-St. Lawrence River Basin is home to 98% of Ontarians and more than 90% of Québécois. It is a critical part of a highly integrated economy, valued at over $10 trillion and is extremely important to all of us.
Yesterday evening, a coalition of groups dedicated to fostering a prosperous and resilient Great Lakes and St. Lawrence ecosystem welcomed parliamentarians, staff and officials to a reception to learn more about this precious resource shared by both Canadians and Americans. Representatives from the Great Lakes Fishery Commission, Pollution Probe, AquaAction and many other groups were on hand to answer many questions. It was also an opportunity to celebrate the historic and continued investment made by the Government of Canada to protect and restore the basin and to further encourage this important work.
David McKenzie Conservative Calgary Signal Hill, AB
Mr. Speaker, teachers can be the most important people in the life of a student: encouraging, guiding and inspiring; and providing strength, support, caring and love. Richard William Stark was such a teacher.
A university basketball player and later a professional engineer, Dick Stark became a teacher in the 1970s. As a coach, particularly of basketball, and a teacher of science and math at Luther College High School in Regina, Saskatchewan, Dick Stark had an enormous impact on thousands of young people over three decades. If someone needed help or support, Coach Stark was there. He was patient and kind, and he possessed a great compassion and energy. He challenged his students to become better members of society and positive examples to others.
Dick Stark inspired many, including me. Dick Stark died on October 10, 2025. Rest in peace, Coach Stark.
Tatiana Auguste Liberal Terrebonne, QC
Mr. Speaker, the Coupe du monde de la viennoiserie is an international competition celebrating artisan bakers' excellence and know-how. At the 2025 world cup held in France in November, a Terrebonne resident performed remarkably well. Damien Agliata, a baker at La Shop à pain in Terrebonne, placed third in the world and won the best brioche award. He represented Canada proudly among the 14 competing countries.
Accompanying Mr. Agliata at the prestigious competition were Guillaume Roy, owner of La Shop à pain and three advisors: his father, Laurent Agliata, of La Shop à pain; Philippe Bretignière, a baking instructor; and Roch Desjardins, a pastry instructor and team lead.
I would like to congratulate Mr. Agliata for his award, his talent and his passion, which put Terrebonne on the international pastry map. I would also like to salute the leadership of La Shop à pain owner and baker Guillaume Roy.
Amanpreet S. Gill Conservative Calgary Skyview, AB
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister admits that the vast majority of illegal firearms used in crime come from across our border, yet instead of stopping those guns, the Liberals are pushing a billion-dollar gun grab scheme that targets the wrong people. In Calgary, hunters, ranchers and sport shooters who follow the law are being punished, while violent criminals walk free. Law-abiding Canadians are not the threat; the criminals are.
While our city faces rising gun violence, the Liberals refuse to fix the border disorder that lets in nearly all illegal guns. Gun crime is up 130% because of their catch-and-release bail system in Bill C-75 and reduced penalties for gun offences in Bill C-5. The buyback will not stop criminals or smuggling; it only targets responsible citizens.
Conservatives will protect lawful gun owners, crack down on violent offenders and keep Calgary families safe.
Mike Kelloway Liberal Sydney—Glace Bay, NS
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Chief Terry Paul of the Membertou First Nation, who has been named a 2026 inductee into the Canadian Business Hall of Fame. This is a testament to one of the most remarkable leadership stories in Canada.
For over 40 years, Chief Paul has guided Membertou through economic and social transformation. Under his leadership, Membertou's became the first indigenous government in the world to achieve ISO certification. In addition, employment has climbed to nearly 80%, graduation rates are approaching 90% and the community continues to grow and evolve, strengthening its economy and expanding its opportunities. Chief Paul has also led some of the most significant indigenous business investments in our country, including the 50% acquisition of Clearwater Seafoods.
His leadership has reshaped opportunity for the Membertou, the Mi'kmaq and all of Cape Breton. His induction is well earned and well deserved.
I say, wela'lin to Chief Paul.
Helena Konanz Conservative Similkameen—South Okanagan—West Kootenay, BC
Mr. Speaker, for over 40 years, the Penticton Shooting Sports Association has operated a facility that includes multiple ranges on land leased from the federal government, but unless action is taken before December 31, it will be forced to close forever. For decades it has provided a family-friendly atmosphere for hunters and sport shooters in a safe and responsible environment.
The range has also provided an essential local training resource for the RCMP and CBSA. National Police Federation president, Brian Sauvé, even said today at the public safety committee that the RCMP needs more training facilities like this one. MPs at the same committee unanimously passed a motion to support the extension of the club's lease, and over 10,000 Canadians have signed a petition.
I call on the Minister of Agriculture to renew the lease of the Penticton Shooting Sports Association.
Christine Normandin Bloc Saint-Jean, QC
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to someone with a remarkable professional career. She has been a colleague for six years, but she is now also a friend: Diane Godin, has been a pillar of my office and has played a key role in political life since 1994.
Over the years, she has served five members with remarkable professionalism: Louise Beaudoin, Yves Lessard, Bertrand Saint‑Arnaud, Dave Turcotte and myself.
We like to tease Diane, but she epitomizes being young at heart. Diane is our version of Dominique Michel. Sometimes she talks about retiring, but we remind her that we cannot do without her, and rightly so. She is a rock star when it comes to community connections. Not a day goes by without someone telling me about the incredible service she provides to the public. Her empathy and kindness are her greatest assets.
I thank Diane for her big heart and for the countless lives she has touched. Saint-Jean and Quebec owe her a lot.
Tim Louis Liberal Kitchener—Conestoga, ON
Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honour Adolph Hafemann of Wellesley Township, who passed away this fall at the age of 95.
Adolph's life is a story of resilience and of service. Born in Poland, he fled with his family during the Second World War, immigrating to Canada with just 15¢ in his pocket. He worked on farms, then in Kitchener's manufacturing sector, before building a new life in Wellesley Township. In 1970 Adolph and his wife, Emily, purchased a small grocery store in Wellesley. It turned into a thriving business. His character shone through in the quiet moments, gestures like slipping food into the bag of a family in need, or granting credit with no questions asked.
Adolph Hafemann helped found the Wellesley Apple Butter and Cheese Festival, a tradition that continues to bring our community together every year. He was named Wellesley citizen of the year and remained a pillar of generosity throughout his life.
I thank his family and friends for sharing Adolf with us. His life reminds us that true success is measured by the lives we touch.
Dean Allison Conservative Niagara West, ON
Mr. Speaker, it does pay to be Brookfield under this government. Just last month, Canadians were told that we are sending $528 million of our money to the European Space Agency. That is great news for European jobs and an even bigger coincidence for Brookfield, because it just happens to own 50% of a campus in the U.K. that is home to a major ESA facility. I am sure the Prime Minister, the former chair of Brookfield Asset Management, was just as surprised as the rest of us when this deal landed.
This is the same Brookfield that, while the Prime Minister was chair, used Bermuda addresses above bike shops and Cayman Island post office boxes to avoid paying billions in Canadian taxes that could have helped the more than 2.2 million Canadians now relying on food banks every month or the young families who have given up dreaming of ever owning their own home. Connected insiders keep winning, while regular Canadians keep getting the bill.
Conservatives will keep exposing this every single day, because clearly, someone has to.
