House of Commons Hansard #152 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was children.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Hungarian Heritage Month Act First reading of Bill C-294. The bill designates October as Hungarian Heritage Month to recognize Hungarian Canadians’ contributions and preserve their heritage for future generations. 200 words.
Alleged Mis-characterization of Members' Remarks Elizabeth May raises a question of privilege, arguing that a Halifax MP’s description of criticism of Bill C-39 as a “wild disinformation campaign” impugns members’ integrity; Liberal MPs dispute that the remarks were improper. 1100 words.
Safe Social Media Act Second reading of Bill C-34. The bill would require social media platforms and AI chatbot services to reduce online harms, remove specified harmful content, protect children and publish safety plans. It would establish an independent commission to oversee compliance and restrict social media accounts for under-16s, subject to exemptions for adequate safeguards. Members broadly support child safety while raising questions about privacy, enforcement, regulatory powers and effectiveness. 14300 words, 2 hours.
Freedom of Speech in Members' Parliamentary Work Members debate whether a medical regulator’s complaint concerning a Thunder Bay—Rainy River MP’s parliamentary opinion on medical assistance in dying interferes with parliamentary privilege and the Speaker’s duty to protect members. 400 words.
Georgina's Law Second reading of Bill S-242. The bill requires continued federal leadership and coordination with provincial, Indigenous and community partners to prevent and address intimate partner violence, with regular public progress reports. Members broadly support sustained national action, while the Bloc raises concerns about provincial jurisdiction and federal bureaucracy. 7600 words, 1 hour.
Alleged Premature Disclosure of Bill C-40 Andrew Scheer argues that leaked details of Bill C-40 may have breached parliamentary privilege, challenges the government’s account of its investigation and policy timeline, and urges the Speaker to consider a committee inquiry. 1200 words.
The Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia
The hon. member for Kitchener South—Hespeler will lead us today in the singing of the national anthem.
[Members sang the national anthem]
Giovanna Mingarelli Liberal Prescott—Russell—Cumberland, ON
Mr. Speaker, today I rise to mark Global Dignity Day. Dignity is something we all share regardless of our background, gender, beliefs, language or circumstances. We all deserve to be treated with respect and kindness. Now more than ever, we need a kindness revolution. In a world that can sometimes feel divided, our common humanity is stronger than what sets us apart.
I am proud that Prescott—Russell—Cumberland is leading the charge. During national Kindness Week this year, municipalities across our compassionate riding came together to show that kindness matters. In Russell, kindness meant bowling with firefighters and kids, and in Casselman and in Clarence-Rockland, it meant spending time with seniors. In Alfred and Plantagenet and in Hawkesbury, kindness meant sharing acts of kindness with the community.
These acts remind us that kindness starts with each and every one of us and that every gesture makes a difference. I wish all Canadians a happy Global Dignity Day.
Jim Belanger Conservative Sudbury East—Manitoulin—Nickel Belt, ON
Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize the Special Olympics Sudbury national team. Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with some of the athletes from the team, who proudly represented our community at the 2026 Canada Summer Games in Medicine Hat. I would like to extend my congratulations to Josée and Danie, who brought home gold medals. I want to commend Jesse for earning both a silver medal and a bronze medal, an impressive achievement. I would also like to give a special shout-out to Eric and Renée, who finished fourth and fifth in the bocce competition. A special thanks goes to Lynne Houle, community coordinator for Special Olympics Sudbury, whose leadership and 23 years of dedicated service have helped countless athletes reach their goals and achieve their full potential.
I congratulate all the athletes, coaches and volunteers once again on their outstanding achievements.
Sean Casey Liberal Charlottetown, PE
Mr. Speaker, there are few stories more closely associated with Prince Edward Island than Anne of Green Gables. It is fitting, then, that a new school, Green Gables Elementary, in Charlottetown's East Royalty area will carry that connection forward for another generation of island students.
Lucy Maud Montgomery's stories have introduced millions of readers around the world to the beauty, character and spirit of Prince Edward Island. That legacy lives on today, not only in our books and tourism, but in our schools, in our communities and most importantly in the young Islanders who are growing up there.
I want to congratulate the students, educators and community members who will make Green Gables Elementary a part of Charlottetown's future. May it be a place where generations of young Islanders learn, grow and perhaps find a little of their Anne Shirley spirit.
Richard Bragdon Conservative Tobique—Mactaquac, NB
Mr. Speaker, this week is Small Business Week in Canada, and I want to recognize the hard-working entrepreneurs and small business owners across Tobique—Mactaquac, Atlantic Canada and the nation.
One of the greatest privileges I have had of serving as a member of Parliament has been visiting small businesses throughout my region and witnessing first-hand the perseverance of all those who helped build them. These men and women do more than just create jobs. They support families, build communities and go above and beyond for their neighbours.
Canadians believe that hard work should pay off. On this side of the House, we will continue fighting for lower taxes and reduced red tape, and to give entrepreneurs the much-needed freedom to invest, hire and grow.
This Small Business Week, let us recognize the vital role these businesses play in our communities and do our part by buying and supporting local whenever possible. I thank them for being willing to make the sacrifices necessary, taking risks and dreaming big despite overwhelming odds. On behalf of a grateful nation, we say thanks. They helped to build this country, and they will be key to this country's comeback.
Mona Fortier Liberal Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester, ON
Mr. Speaker, the National Military Cemetery of Canada is located at the Beechwood Cemetery in Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester.
Every year, hundreds of Canadians gather at this historic site on Remembrance Day to pay tribute to the courage and ultimate sacrifice of the men and women who served our country.
Mr. Speaker, did you know that you can visit the Canadian Forces Artists Program Group 10 exhibition until December 6?
The artists who contributed to this 25th exhibit at the Beechwood Cemetery use art to share the deeper understanding they gained of the realities of military service, military operations and the duty to remember after being given access to Canadian Armed Forces personnel and activities.
Following the tragedy that occurred last week in Wainwright, let us remember the importance of honouring those who serve our country with courage and dedication. Together, let us continue to preserve their memory and pass on their stories for future generations.
We will remember them.
John Brassard Conservative Barrie South—Innisfil, ON
Mr. Speaker, this Friday, I will be joining veterans and their families, Canadian Armed Forces members, politicians and volunteers in the community as we launch central Ontario's 2026 poppy campaign at the Barrie Legion. This year's campaign is especially significant, as it marks the Legion's 100th anniversary.
From October 24 to November 11, Canadians will once again wear the poppy to honour those who served our country, those who continue to serve and those who made the ultimate sacrifice as we remember them in this life after they have passed on to the next. As we gather, we do so with heavy hearts following the tragic loss of four members of the Canadian Armed Forces at CFB Wainwright. Our thoughts will be with their families, friends and fellow service members, as well as with those recovering from injuries.
In John 15:13, Jesus says, “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one's life for one’s friends.” I encourage everyone to wear a poppy, support their local Legion, attend a Remembrance Day ceremony and take a moment to reflect on the rights and freedoms that our men and women in uniform have given us in laying down their lives. Let us commit to defending those rights and freedoms with everything we have.
Jessica Fancy-Landry Liberal South Shore—St. Margarets, NS
Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize two remarkable young Nova Scotians who have gone the distance for causes that matter.
Landon Smith, a marathon runner and volunteer firefighter from Cape Sable Island, ran 804 kilometres from The Hawk to Meat Cove in just 14 days this summer. He ran for Autism Nova Scotia and its summer camps and helped raise $65,000. Inspired by his autistic nephew, Landon turned a personal connection into meaningful support for Canadian families.
Darcy Eygun, from Bedford, ran 1,000 kilometres across Nova Scotia, raising money and awareness this summer for Feed Nova Scotia. I completed a 25-kilometre leg with him.
These young men remind us that leadership is defined not by our age or our title, but by a willingness to act for others. They have shown determination, compassion and community spirit in what they have accomplished.
I ask all members to join me in congratulating Landon and Darcy for turning every kilometre into a powerful message of hope and generosity.
Éric Lefebvre Conservative Richmond—Arthabaska, QC
Mr. Speaker, the affordability crisis is spiralling out of control in Quebec. Even workers are struggling to feed their families.
According to Hunger Count 2026, which was published today by Food Banks Canada, food banks in Quebec are responding to over 3.2 million requests for food assistance every month, an increase of nearly 5%. What is even more troubling is that 23% of the recipients are employed. We are talking about Quebeckers who work and pay their bills but who cannot afford groceries anymore. In Montreal, half of the organizations say they have had to reduce the size of their food hampers so that they could feed more people.
There are real people behind these numbers: parents who are skipping meals to keep their kids fed, children who are going to school with an empty lunch box, and seniors who are struggling to put food on the table because of inflation. In a country as rich as Canada, no one should have to choose between putting a roof over their head and putting food on the table. Quebeckers need real action.
Jean-Denis Garon Bloc Mirabel, QC
Mr. Speaker, since this week is National Early Childhood Educators Week, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all those who support our little ones as they make their first discoveries.
Day after day, they nurture our children's emotions, encourage their curiosity, and help them find their place in the group. Behind every story told, behind every child comforted, there is heart, dedication and, above all, a very, very, very deep well of patience.
Whether in private day care, home-based care, or a child care centre, a proud legacy of the Parti Québécois that significantly advanced gender equality, these professionals use their expertise to provide children with a solid foundation for life. Above all, parents know they can entrust their precious little ones to them with complete peace of mind.
On behalf of the families in my riding, the Bloc Québécois and, I am sure, all my colleagues in the House, I would like to thank all early childhood educators. On a personal note, I would like to thank Michèle and Sonia for taking care of my little boy every day. I thank them for the role they play, perhaps the most fundamental one of all, in helping to shape the Quebec of tomorrow.
Terry Duguid Liberal Winnipeg South, MB
Mr. Speaker, 50 years ago, a small group of Muslim families opened Manitoba's first mosque on Hazelwood Avenue in Winnipeg, now known as the Pioneer Mosque. The community grew, and the Manitoba Islamic Association opened the Winnipeg Grand Mosque on Waverley Street in 2007. I remember people wondering why it was built so far out of town. Today, it stands at the heart of the thriving neighbourhood of Waverley West in Winnipeg South, serving thousands in Manitoba's growing Muslim community.
My friendships with families like the El Tassis and the Zeids go back decades. Through Ramadan Iftars, community gatherings and my work helping families reunite in Canada, those friendships have grown manyfold. The MIA continues to build bridges of understanding, welcoming neighbours of every faith to its open houses and other community events.
I thank Manitoba's Muslim community for their friendship, their trust and their tremendous contributions to our province, and I congratulate them on 50 remarkable years.
Kelly DeRidder Conservative Kitchener Centre, ON
Mr. Speaker, Canada's food banks saw 2.36 million visits in March alone, up 117% since 2019. In Waterloo region, one in nine families relies on food banks just to get by.
Waterloo businessman Jim Balsillie donated an extraordinary $4.5 million to our local food bank. That was an incredible act of kindness and generosity. The fact that our food bank still needs more support, despite a donation of that size, shows just how great the need has become.
It is clear that the Liberal government is failing to acknowledge the affordability crisis or ensure stability within our market. Until these things change, it is only going to get worse. Canadians need to be able to put warm food on the table without relying on a food bank. The Liberal government must react to the needs of everyday Canadians.
Brendan Hanley Liberal Yukon, YT
Mr. Speaker, as we commemorate World Polio Day this week, we reflect on the extraordinary achievement of getting so close to eliminating polio while recognizing the hurdles ahead. Polio remains endemic in only two countries, but the challenges of reaching children amidst conflict, distrust and misinformation cannot be overstated. Canada's leadership, including a contribution of over $1 billion, has helped vaccinate over two and a half billion children, reducing polio cases by over 99.9%.
I also applaud the incredible work and decades-long leadership of Rotary International, a founding partner in the global polio eradication initiative. One particular Rotarian is Yukon's Ramesh Ferris, a polio survivor and a champion for global health. Through his tireless advocacy around the world, Ramesh has helped keep alive our dream of eradicating polio.
Let us salute and join Ramesh, along with all the dedicated individuals, from those on the front line of immunization to the planners, policy-makers and volunteers, who continue to strive for a polio-free world.
Kathy Borrelli Conservative Windsor—Tecumseh—Lakeshore, ON
Mr. Speaker, in the wake of Saturday's tragedy at CFB Wainwright, I want to take a moment to recognize not only the tragedy but also the people and families whose lives have been changed forever.
From Tecumseh, Ontario, Private Daniel Thrasher, an infanteer with Princess Patricia's Canadian Light Infantry since December 2025, was critically injured in Saturday's fire. Prior to joining the military, he was an athlete playing varsity football with Wilfrid Laurier University and the University of Windsor Lancers. He also worked as a wildland firefighter in Edson, Alberta.
Our thoughts remain with Daniel, his parents, John and Carmen, and his siblings during this difficult time.
In moments like these, we are reminded, across this nation, of the strength, compassion and solidarity of the brave men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line every day to protect our country. We ask all members of the House to keep Daniel and his family in their prayers.
Louis Villeneuve Liberal Brome—Missisquoi, QC
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the courage of Charles-André, a 17-year-old who chose to give evidence before our Minister of Health about how easy it is for young people to access pornography, as well as the harmful effects it has on their development, both psychologically and physically. He talked about how he would like to see the government take action on this issue in order to better protect young people. That is exactly what we want to do.
I want to commend the courage he showed in sharing his own experience, despite the highly intimate nature of the subject, in an effort to help other young people. His evidence will help raise awareness about the consequences of trivializing sexuality and help discourage some inappropriate behaviour among young people. His testimony serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of Bill C-34 and the legislation that came out of Bill C-16.
Charles-André is a role model for young people his age. I would like to thank him for his inspiring conduct, his commitment and his courage. We are proud of him.
Pierre Poilievre Conservative Battle River—Crowfoot, AB
Mr. Speaker, as we stand here today, there are soldiers burned head to toe in hospitals across Alberta because they chose to run into the flames to save their compatriots again and again. They join the eternal list of heroes that of course includes the four great young men who lost their lives this last weekend.
I have just returned from Wainwright, where I met with soldiers, nurses, doctors and firefighters, and let me tell members that they are good, they are great and they are grand in every single way. The road to recovery will be a long one for the town, the district, the base, the families that mourn the fallen and those who are recovering. The people can count on me to be their voice to fight for the government to do everything necessary to make this road shorter and easier.
In the meantime, I ask Canadians to donate their blood, their time and their money, and to remember how proud we should be, how grateful we should be, for those who gave their lives for this country. The country for which those young men died is the country for which we must live.
Jenna Sudds Liberal Kanata, ON
Mr. Speaker, earlier today, I had the pleasure of joining Brent Mansfield, the co-founder of LunchLAB and elementary school teacher, as he and a number of students ran 200 laps of the lawn of Parliament in support of our national school food program.
Earlier this year, our government made the national school food program permanent. I rise today proud of our government's ongoing commitment to strengthening access to nutritious food in schools across our country. The future starts with our children. Ensuring their bellies are full so they can focus on learning is essential.
I want to thank Brent, as well as the Coalition for Healthy School Food, the Ottawa Network for Education and all teachers and advocates who advocate with passion and dedication for school food across the country.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, Canadians are hungry, literally. They are hungry, yet putting food on the table is beyond their ability and their means. Food Banks Canada released a report showing that food bank visits have increased by 9% since this Prime Minister took office. There are 2.35 million visits in a single month.
The Prime Minister promised that he would be judged by the price at the grocery store, so what is the verdict according to all the people lining up?
Joël Lightbound LiberalMinister of Government Transformation
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my colleague for his question. He is right: The government and all parliamentarians need to make fighting this country's affordability crisis a priority.
At every opportunity, however, members of his party have voted against highly concrete measures that are helping the neediest Quebeckers and Canadians cope with the rising cost of living.
For example, his party's 10 Quebec members voted against 300,000 Quebeckers who now have access to the Canadian dental care plan. These 10 Quebec members voted against $900 million in Canada child benefit payments. It is high time that they backed up their words—
The EconomyOral Questions
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, crisis? What crisis? Yesterday, the Prime Minister voted against a motion that would have recognized the affordability crisis.
He refuses to even acknowledge that there is a crisis, even though the number of people needing to visit food banks has more than doubled in the past seven years and is up another 9% this year.
The Prime Minister promised that his grand programs and fine words would make life affordable, so where is the affordable food today?
Joël Lightbound LiberalMinister of Government Transformation
Mr. Speaker, for 20 years, this member has been debating semantics in the House. However, for 20 years, whenever the time has come to actually support people, he has not stepped up.
He did not step up for the 12 million Canadians who have access to the Canada groceries and essentials benefit or for the six million children who have access to the Canada child benefit. I should also mention the 400,000 children who are benefiting from Canada's national school food program. These are concrete measures that are having a direct impact on the lives of families in Canada.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, Canadians are hungry, literally. They cannot afford to feed themselves. Today, Food Banks Canada released a report revealing that the number of visits is up 9% since the Prime Minister was elected on the promise that he would make food affordable. There were 2.35 million visits in one single month, and food banks are literally running out of food.
The Prime Minister said on his first day in office that he would be judged by the price at the grocery store, so what is the verdict according to the 2.35 million people lined up at food banks?
Evan Solomon LiberalMinister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario
Mr. Speaker, before I answer, I want to thank the hon. member for the work he has done in his riding at CFB Wainwright. We all stand with the families who lost loved ones and the families of the injured. We thank him for the work he has done in the community, and we all stand together on that tragedy.
In terms of affordability, the government has taken multiple measures on affordability, and we look forward to the opposition at least once supporting those measures, whether it is our national school food program, the dental program or child care. Just once we would love to see the opposition support affordability measures.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, this is more proof that the Liberal government and the Prime Minister are out of touch, as Canadians are out of food and out of money.
Food Banks Canada's CEO said this report “is the story of what happens when millions of people are out of options.” She also said, “In the past, most people in Canada could absorb a small financial setback... those days are over. Canada’s bleak new reality is that millions of people are making impossible trade-offs every day as they choose between food or rent”.
How could the Liberal government and the Prime Minister vote yesterday against the basic recognition that we are in an affordability crisis?