House of Commons Hansard #3 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was trade.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Welfare of Indigenous Children in Canada Lori Idlout requests an emergency debate on the health and well-being of Indigenous children, citing government failures, changes to Jordan's Principle and Inuit Child First Initiative, application backlogs, and poverty. 400 words.
Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply Members debate the Speech from the Throne, with Conservatives criticizing its lack of detail and urgency on economic issues like the cost of living and housing, demanding a budget and action on crime like repealing catch-and-release bail laws. Liberals defend their plan to build a stronger, healthier Canada, emphasizing a one Canadian economy and managing trade relations. The Bloc highlights Quebec's distinctiveness and jurisdiction. 23500 words, 3 hours.
The Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia
It being Wednesday, we will now have the singing of the national anthem led by the hon. member for Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation.
[Members sang the national anthem]
Alana Hirtle Liberal Cumberland—Colchester, NS
Mr. Speaker, five years ago, Portapique, Nova Scotia, faced an unimaginable tragedy, but what happened next in my riding is an important lesson in what resilience looks like. The people of Portapique did not just survive; they organized. Working with the Rotary Club of Truro, they said they would not be defined by their darkest hours. Through the generosity of donors from across Canada and support from all levels of government, they transformed tragedy into community.
On June 1, we celebrate the first anniversary of the opening of the Portapique Community Centre, proof that when communities unite, they can create spaces that honour our past while building toward a happier, healthier future. I thank them for their example, and I thank the House for the time.
Ziad Aboultaif Conservative Edmonton Manning, AB
Mr. Speaker, the Liberal plan for Canada to become the world's leading energy superpower is just an empty promise. Where is the investment in infrastructure? Where is the commitment to repeal the job-killing Liberal anti-energy laws from the last Parliament?
Albertans want to know if the government understands how important our clean, ethical fossil fuels are to the Canadian economy and to the world. Is the throne speech just rhetoric or are the Liberals finally willing to face reality? The demand for Alberta products is there, but the delivery method is lacking.
The previous prime minister told those who were looking to buy Canadian oil and gas that they really did not want to buy it. Will the new Prime Minister commit to a west-east pipeline to move Alberta oil and gas to Canadian and European markets? Albertans want to know.
Ryan Turnbull Liberal Whitby, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise today for the first time in the 45th Parliament with a deep sense of gratitude and humility. I thank the people of Whitby for placing their trust in me for a third time. It has been the honour of my life to serve since 2019, and I remain committed more than ever to delivering results that improve the lives of people in our community.
I thank so very much the incredible volunteers and supporters who powered our campaign for their time, their energy and their heart, which made the difference in our success. I thank my incredible family, my wife Suze, my daughters Alexis and Brooke, my mother-in-law Verna and my nephew Ryan, for their unwavering support and all their sacrifice. I could not do this without them.
There are many challenges ahead, but our priorities are clear: protect Canada's sovereignty, address affordability challenges, keep communities safe and build the strongest economy in the G7. I look forward to contributing to the hard-working team that will deliver results for Canadians.
Scott Aitchison Conservative Parry Sound—Muskoka, ON
Mr. Speaker, I am humbled to rise today to thank the incredible people of Parry Sound—Muskoka, who placed their trust in me to represent them here in this House for the third time.
This seat, of course, does not belong to me; it belongs to the people I serve. From the majestic French River in the north to the historic Trent-Severn Waterway in the south, from the rugged shores of Georgian Bay to the heights of Algonquin Park, it is an honour to serve the people who call our magnificent region home.
Throughout the election, I heard from countless people about the issues that are important to them: the cost of living, safety in our streets, protecting hunters' rights and, of course, the outrageous price of homes. Today, I want to reassure all the people of Parry Sound—Muskoka that I am here to advocate for them and to ensure their voice is heard in this House, their House of Commons. They have placed their trust in me, and I promise to earn that trust every single day.
Stéphane Lauzon Liberal Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, QC
Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to recognize three exceptionally talented young people from my riding for their outstanding performance at the Olympiades québécoises des métiers et des technologies, a competition for up-and-comers in skilled trades and technology. The event took place in Quebec City from May 7 to 10, 2025.
Théolie Lajoie's culinary prowess earned her a gold medal. Mathis Rozon's gold in industrial mechanics was a testament to his ingenuity and rigour. Geneviève De Melo was awarded a bronze medal in baking for her promising talent in this demanding trade.
All three medallists are students at CFP Innovation Outaouais, a top-notch institution in my riding that is passionate about training the next generation of tradespeople. I heartily congratulate them on their hard work, their perseverance and their success. They are an inspiration to an entire community, and we are extremely proud of them.
Congratulations to Théolie, Mathis and Geneviève.
Damien Kurek Conservative Battle River—Crowfoot, AB
Mr. Speaker, in the last Parliament, I introduced a private member's bill, which will be reintroduced soon. This bill, an act to recognize a national livestock brand as a symbol of Canada, aims to acknowledge and promote the role of farmers, ranchers and the whole agriculture and animal husbandry sector, plus so many in our history, such as pioneers, indigenous peoples, those in resource industries like mining and the oil patch, hunters, trappers and anyone else who played a role in building our country from coast to coast to coast.
As I plan to step down as soon as possible, I hope to see the conversation on this important issue continue. This livestock brand, a heraldic symbol added to the national inventory of Canadian symbols, would be a fitting way to recognize a huge part of our country's history. At a time when national unity is at stake, this bill would be important to show that western and frontier culture played and still plays a prominent role in the building of Canada. The Conservatives get this. I hope the whole House will join in supporting this bill.
Kristina Tesser Derksen Liberal Milton East—Halton Hills South, ON
Mr. Speaker, today I share the story of the grade 4 and grade 5 classes at Glen Williams Public School in Georgetown, Ontario, and that of their dedicated teachers and parents, who are visiting Ottawa today.
These teachers asked their students to craft a letter sharing their vision for the future of Canada. The final product was so inspirational that it garnered national attention and a visit from the Prime Minister.
I thank teachers across Canada who bring this type of civic education to their schools. I am sure we can all agree that education is the foundation of a strong, united and compassionate country.
Canada's youth should be able to look to their leaders to set a guiding example. It is certainly a reminder for me, and I hope to my colleagues, to always lead with respect, integrity and purpose, because the children are watching.
Yves Perron Bloc Berthier—Maskinongé, QC
Mr. Speaker, World Milk Day is coming up in a few days.
Let us raise a glass to this simple yet essential food. Milk has endured through the ages and across cultures. It is more than just a drink; it is a powerhouse of benefits. It fuels our bodies, strengthens our bones and rounds out our bowl of cereal in the morning and our dessert at night. World Milk Day also provides an opportunity to celebrate the commitment of the farmers who work hard every day, with passion and perseverance, to supply us with this nutritious beverage. World Milk Day is a day to reflect on how milk gets to our table, through essential work that is invisible to most of us.
Today, let us spare a thought for that glass of milk and the supply management system that is behind both it and our farmers, who get up every morning and keep our regions strong.
I wish everyone good health and a happy World Milk Day.
Alex Ruff Conservative Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound, ON
Mr. Speaker, 100 years ago today, Albert Christian was born in Waterloo, Ontario. At age 17, he was in the local barbershop and overheard two older guys talking about heading to London, where they were going to enlist in the Canadian Army. Bert asked if he could tag along, which he did.
Bert passed all the tests, exams and interviews and was enlisted, despite having lied about his age. He served in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany with the Essex Scottish Regiment. It was in Germany that he fought on the front lines in the Hochwald Forest against the Nazis.
Bert had three brothers who served in the war as well. All four brothers returned home from the war alive and well. He met another four brothers in Europe, who were from Manitoulin Island and who also returned home safe and sound. They invited Bert to join them when they returned to Canada, and he did. That is where he met his future wife, Maurine.
At the age of 63, Bert retired to Owen Sound to be close to family. He had two children, David and Rick, and has two grandchildren, Candice and Cory. One saying Bert always says is “Old soldiers never die, they just fade away”, and he still says that he would do it all again.
I wish a happy 100th birthday to Bert. Pro patria.
Parm Bains Liberal Richmond East—Steveston, BC
Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to be re-elected, and I am very grateful to the residents of Richmond East—Steveston for placing their trust in me once again to serve as their voice in the House.
I dedicate this statement to the memory of a childhood friend, Sukhi Bahia, who sadly passed during the election.
One election issue raised in our community was the urgent need for mental wellness and wraparound supports. May is Mental Health Awareness Month in Canada, and policy-makers ought to be aware of the challenges Canadians face. According to the Canadian Mental Health Association, the rate of suicide for Canadian men is three times higher than for women. However, women are hospitalized for self-harm twice as often as men.
As the 45th Parliament begins its work, I call on all levels of government to come together and invest in mental health as a cornerstone of building healthy, resilient and thriving communities for all Canadians.
Roman Baber Conservative York Centre, ON
Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise in the House of Commons for the first time. I am honoured to serve the beautiful riding of York Centre, located in the great city of Toronto. It is home to one of Canada's largest Jewish communities, to which I belong.
An unprecedented wave of hate crimes is terrorising Canada's Jewish community. Under the Liberal government, hate crimes have gone up 250%, and anti-Semitic hate crimes have gone up over 400%. A Jewish school located a mile away from my North York home has been shot at three times. Enough is enough. Conservatives stand with Canada's Jewish community for its right to exist, to worship and to live free from violence and intimidation.
Last Sunday, over 50,000 Jewish Canadians proudly marched through York Centre on the Walk with Israel. We are grateful to the Toronto police for keeping us safe, but we demand of the Liberal government to end the incitement to violence on Canada's streets and to take all necessary measures to protect the Jewish community.
I know that my Conservative colleagues will fight for the safety of Jews all across Canada.
Iqra Khalid Liberal Mississauga—Erin Mills, ON
Mr. Speaker, congratulations on your election, and through you I welcome all members of Parliament to the House. I look forward to working together as Canadians serving Canadians. I also want to thank the people of Mississauga—Erin Mills and my phenomenal team and volunteers for once again placing their trust in me. It is an honour to continue representing our beautiful community.
Canadians have chosen a government, led by our Prime Minister, that is ready to meet the challenges ahead, such as global instability, threats to sovereignty and urgent pressures on housing and affordability. Our government has laid out a clear path: building a strong and inclusive economy, strengthening Canada's global role and deepening ties with our allies. We are focused on delivering real results, creating opportunity and removing interprovincial trade barriers to build one strong Canadian economy. Let us get to work.
Tamara Kronis Conservative Nanaimo—Ladysmith, BC
Mr. Speaker, I wish my first intervention in the House on behalf of the people of Nanaimo—Ladysmith were under better circumstances, but our community is in crisis.
In 2024, Nanaimo lost 94 people to overdoses, more than three times the number in 2016, when the B.C. government declared the opioid crisis a public health emergency. Families are grieving. Neighbourhoods feel the weight of this tragedy. The safe-supply experiment has failed. People are suffering. Crime is up. It has truly been a lost decade.
Conservatives know that it is time to invest in treatment, to recriminalize hard drugs like fentanyl and to provide real mental health supports, not taxpayer-funded drugs that fuel addiction. It is time for common-sense solutions that restore hope and bring our loved ones home drug-free.
Shannon Miedema Liberal Halifax, NS
Mr. Speaker, I rise today, one month after being elected, to thank the people of Halifax for placing their trust in me. I am here in the House of Commons today because of my community's support.
Halifax is a special place. Known to the Mi'kmaw, who cared for the land for millennia, as Kjipuktuk, The Great Harbour, it is one of Canada's oldest cities. It is home to Black communities predating Confederation, and it is the birthplace of responsible government.
Today, Halifax is a hub of research, innovation and technology. It is home to Canada's Ocean Supercluster, and it leads in climate action, ship building and global trade. It is a vibrant and fast-growing Maritime city, and its greatest strength has always been its people. Haligonians are resilient, caring and driven. As I take my seat in the chamber, I am honoured to be their champion in Ottawa, and I am ready to get to work.
Colin Reynolds Conservative Elmwood—Transcona, MB
Mr. Speaker, as I rise today, I want to thank my family, friends, volunteers and the hard-working people of Elmwood—Transcona, who placed their trust in me and the Conservative Party. These are the Canadians who get up early, put on their boots and build the country we love. I have been in their boots for 18 years as a construction electrician, proud union member and vice-president of IBEW Local 2085.
The NDP and Liberals have abandoned unions. They have driven up inflation, housing costs and taxes while supporting union-busting tactics. That is why more rank-and-file union members are turning to the Conservatives, many for the first time. Just weeks ago, we received support from local unions, including the ILA, the UBC, IBEW, the UA, Boilermakers, LIUNA and many more.
Conservatives are the party of blue-collar workers. We will keep working to earn the trust of Canadian workers and keep delivering the strong and prosperous future they deserve.
Bruce Fanjoy Liberal Carleton, ON
Mr. Speaker, I wish to thank the people of Carleton for the confidence they have placed in me. I will never take the honour of representing them for granted. I also wish to thank the hundreds of volunteers who believed that together we could. From Stittsville to Constance Bay, Riverside South to Metcalfe, Greely to Richmond, Manotick to Osgoode, and all points in between, together we did.
Now it is time to embrace every moment in the House and in all ridings to build a future in which all Canadians can thrive in the true north strong and free.
Andrew Scheer ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, I would like to welcome the Prime Minister to his first official question period. This is where democracy lives, and this is where we provide rigorous scrutiny of every word he says and every dollar he spends on behalf of Canadians.
Let us talk about those words and dollars. During the election campaign, it was “elbows up”, as he put retaliatory tariffs on the U.S. Secretly, he then dropped those tariffs to, effectively, zero. He did not stop there; he told Canadians that the government would collect $20 billion in revenue from those tariffs and use it to cost his platform. Now that those tariffs are going to bring in zero dollars, I have two quick questions.
Why was the Prime Minister not honest with Canadians during the election, and how is he going to make up the shortfall? Is he going to borrow it, print it or tax it?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, may I first thank my constituents from Nepean for giving me the honour of being here? Could the Speaker also indulge me in saying how great it is to see him in the Speaker's chair? I trust that he is operating under the period of grace that will later not be accorded to me, appropriately, as the Leader of the Opposition just said.
Our tariffs have maximum impact on the United States and minimum impact on Canada, and we are dedicating all the revenues from those tariffs to supporting the workers and businesses affected by the unjustified American actions.
Andrew Scheer ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, he did not take long to pick up old Liberal habits of not being able to answer questions.
Since the election, Canadians have been inundated with grand rhetoric and pretty speeches from the Liberal Party, but they are still suffering under all those policies. Household debt is up to record levels. The number of people who cannot pay their mortgage is increasing. Food bank use is continuing to rise. TD Bank is now forecasting a recession, with hundreds of thousands of lost jobs. The PM said that undoing the damage of the last 10 years would require great speed, but he is not going to table a budget for six months.
If the Prime Minister is the man with the plan and the guy we hire in a crisis, why will he not table a budget before he goes on summer vacation?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, I understand that the member from the opposition is very busy and did not have a chance to study closely the 100-day plan of the former member for Carleton, which did not include a budget. Our plan includes legislating for one Canadian economy and for nation-building projects immediately, to grow the economy, and we expect the support from all members of the House.
Andrew Scheer ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, the Liberals must be really afraid to come clean with Canadians if they are going to punt it off into the fall.
With the throne speech yesterday, Liberals have effectively admitted that it was their policies that caused the suffering for Canadians. Their reckless borrowing and massive deficits caused the inflation. The carbon tax drove up prices and drove away investment. Their anti-development bills chased jobs out of Canada. The Prime Minister is claiming that somehow the Liberals have changed. He has a chance to prove it to Canadians.
If the Prime Minister is serious, will he tell Canadians that pipelines are part of his values, by repealing Bill C-69, the no more pipelines bill?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, I just made my maiden speech in the House. Canada's new government is acting immediately to grow the economy, one Canadian economy out of 13, with nation-building projects and one project office, working with the provinces to co-operate. We expect the support from the members opposite.
Pierre Paul-Hus Conservative Charlesbourg—Haute-Saint-Charles, QC
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister campaigned as the man with a plan. The problem is, he refuses point-blank to tell Canadians what that plan is. A budget is a plan. The Liberals will have gone more than a year without presenting a budget, which has not happened since the 1960s. What we do know is that he is determined to spend even more money than Justin Trudeau, but he refuses to tell Canadians how he plans to spend it.
What is the Prime Minister trying to hide about the state of the Liberal government's finances?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, Canada's new government has a bold, ambitious plan to create one Canadian economy out of 13 and to implement nation-building projects.