House of Commons Hansard #157 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was online.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Bill C-41—Proposal to Apply Standing Order 69.1 Conservative MP Andrew Lawton asks the Speaker to divide Bill C-41 into separate votes on MAID eligibility for people with mental illness and advance requests for people who later lose capacity. 1400 words, 10 minutes.
Safe Social Media Act Second reading of Bill C-34. The bill would establish online safety duties for social media and chatbot services, require safeguards for children under 16, speed removal of specified harmful content, and create a commission to oversee compliance and penalties. Liberal speakers say it supports families and addresses risks such as exploitation, bullying and harmful algorithms; Conservatives and the Green Party support examining protections but raise concerns about privacy, enforcement, exemptions and decisions deferred to future regulations. 61200 words, 7 hours in 2 segments: 1 2.
Protecting Young Persons from Exposure to Pornography Act Second reading of Bill S-209. The bill requires commercial pornography websites to use age-verification or age-estimation measures to restrict minors’ access, with safeguards for personal privacy and penalties for non-compliance. Members broadly support its goal of protecting children, while the government also points to related online-safety legislation. The House passes the bill at second reading and refers it to committee. 6600 words, 45 minutes.
The Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia
It being Wednesday, we will now have the singing of the national anthem, led by the hon. member for Argenteuil—Papineau—Des Collines.
[Members sang the national anthem]
Ron McKinnon Liberal Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam, BC
Mr. Speaker, on Saturday, British Columbians voted for change. I would like to take this opportunity to welcome and congratulate Mr. Doerkson's government in waiting.
I would also like to welcome back Mike Farnworth, my own MLA in Port Coquitlam. It has been a pleasure to work with Mike these past 11 years.
I welcome Ryan Peterson, the new MLA for Coquitlam-Burke Mountain. Ryan and I have known each other for as long as I have been in office.
Another welcome goes to Matt Liang, the new MLA for Coquitlam-Maillardville, who I look forward to getting to know as well.
Lastly, let me thank outgoing MLAs Jodie Wickens and Jennifer Blatherwick, who have served with great conviction and great integrity these past years. Their contributions to our community will be noted for years to come.
All in all, let us all work together to build Canada strong.
Gabriel Hardy Conservative Montmorency—Charlevoix, QC
Mr. Speaker, this week a great Quebecker was inducted into the Quebec sports hall of fame. I am talking about Luc Brodeur‑Jourdain, three-time Vanier Cup champion with Laval University's Rouge et Or and three-time Grey Cup champion with the Montreal Alouettes, twice as a player and once as their coach.
Six championships is quite the career. However, behind these achievements is a man with a big heart, a respected leader and a team player who believes in hard work, perseverance and commitment. Luc is the kind of guy who comes home after a Grey Cup victory and then spends the next morning giving the staff a hand and washing dishes at Pause Café, the café his wife Marie‑Élaine owns in Saint‑Hyacinthe. “As long as it helps,” he likes to say.
Luc is just an ordinary guy who is actually extraordinary. He is a man of the people, a true Maskoutain who is proud of his roots and stands up for his community.
No matter what challenge Luc takes on, he can be sure that the entire Conservative caucus will stand with him in his next victory. I congratulate him once again on his induction. He is now part of Quebec's sports history.
Judy Sgro Liberal Humber River—Black Creek, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solidarity with the courageous people and political prisoners of Iran and all those peacefully calling for freedom, dignity and human rights.
According to Amnesty International, 20 prisoners are at imminent risk of execution. The growing international support for the “no to execution Tuesdays” campaign, including the participation of United Nations special rapporteurs, sends a powerful message that the world is paying attention and that even prisoners' voices will not be silenced.
I commend those participating in this hunger strike and all those who continue raising awareness of the widespread human rights violations and executions carried out by the Iranian regime.
The persecuted men, women and children of Iran are not alone. Canada will continue to advocate for human rights, democracy and the protection of Iranians. Together, we must work toward a future of peace, freedom, justice and hope for all Iranians.
Costas Menegakis Conservative Aurora—Oak Ridges—Richmond Hill, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Oxi Day, October 28, a defining moment in modern history and a day of immense pride for the Hellenic Canadian community and for all Hellenes worldwide.
On this day in 1940, when faced with an ultimatum from fascist forces to surrender their sovereignty, the people of Greece responded with the resounding word oxi, or “no”. That courage changed the course of World War II and stood as a beacon of resistance, proving that freedom and democracy are worth fighting for and prompting the great Winston Churchill to say that it is not that Greeks fight like heroes; it is that heroes fight like Greeks.
Today, the Greek community across Canada shares the same spirit of strength, honour and philotimo, a commitment that has helped build this country.
To all Canadians and to all Greeks across this great country and around the world, I say this:
[Member spoke in Greek and provided the following translation:]
Long live freedom. Long live Greece. Long live Canada.
[English]
Peter Fonseca Liberal Mississauga East—Cooksville, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of my constituents, Alessia Commisso, an extraordinary young Canadian whose courage, determination and generosity are an inspiration to all of us.
Living with Leigh syndrome, a rare and progressive disease that has affected her mobility and sight, Alessia refuses to let challenges define her future. As a volunteer at Toronto's FIFA World Cup activities, she helped fans navigate the stadium and experience the excitement of the world's game. Her dedication earned her the recognition of being one of Toronto's FIFA World Cup 2026 Unsung Heroes.
Alessia is pursuing studies in event management at Humber Polytechnic and dreams of helping organize major events herself. She reminds us that true greatness is not measured by the obstacles we face, but by the difference we make in the lives of others.
I am proud to recognize Alessia Commisso and her remarkable contribution to our community and to Canada.
Kerry Diotte Conservative Edmonton Griesbach, AB
Mr. Speaker, this scene plays out nationwide: desperate, addicted people using drugs openly in public. It is not fair to our communities, and it is not fair to people struggling with addictions, yet for too long, it has been tolerated, until now. The Edmonton Police Service has pioneered a bold new program. It does not allow open drug use. Instead, police take people who are high on drugs off the street. They bring them to a stabilization centre. There, they get clean clothes, medical care and a chance at recovery.
Our communities should not have to put up with open drug use, but we should not turn our backs on people struggling with addictions either. I believe this program could soon spread nationwide.
I congratulate Chief Warren Driechel and the Edmonton Police Service for making safer streets and for saving lives, with real recovery.
Emmanuella Lambropoulos Liberal Saint-Laurent, QC
Mr. Speaker, today, Greeks around the world proudly commemorate the famous “No” or “Oxi”, a historic moment that symbolizes the courage, determination and spirit of resistance of the Greek people.
On October 28, 1940, Mussolini gave the Greek prime minister Ioannis Metaxas an ultimatum, demanding that Greece allow the Axis forces to enter its territory and occupy strategic positions under the threat of war. Faced with this threat, the Prime Minister responded decisively, “Then it is war.”
As Franklin Roosevelt alluded to, at a time when much of the world had lost hope, the Greek people dared to challenge the perceived invincibility of the Axis forces. The Greeks fought with extraordinary heroism, holding the Germans back for six weeks, significantly influencing the outcome of World War II. Their courage has inspired nations and serves as a powerful reminder that even in the darkest moments of history, the human spirit's determination to defend freedom can prevail.
[Member spoke in Greek]
[English]
Harb Gill Conservative Windsor West, ON
Mr. Speaker, in Canada today, thousands of people are struggling to find a job. In just two months, 110,000 Canadians have lost their jobs, with 68,000 people losing their jobs in September alone. That is 110,000 families wondering how they are going to keep a roof over their head and food on their table.
A year and a half ago, the Liberal Prime Minister told us he would get us a bigger, better deal; all we had to do was put our elbows up. We cannot feed a family with empty promises or pay a mortgage with illusions. In Windsor last month, more than 1,000 people lined up at 3 a.m. just for a chance to work at the local Costco. The promise of Canada was not that government would make life easy for us. It was that hard work would give us a fair shot at getting ahead.
Conservatives are here to cut red tape and get projects moving. We know that Canadians have the determination and the ability to build a better future. What they need right now is for the inept Liberal government to get out of the way.
Claude DeBellefeuille Bloc Vallée-du-Haut-Saint-Laurent, QC
Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 50th anniversary of the Société de recherches historiques de Pointe‑des‑Cascades. This historical society has developed vibrant historical sites, like the Centre d'interprétation et d'accueil du canal de Soulanges and the Parc des Ancres in Pointe‑des‑Cascades, a unique open-air museum.
During an event to mark this occasion, I was impressed to learn about the involvement of Jean‑Pierre Poirier. From the very beginning, he has embodied the passion, rigour and perseverance that have allowed the Société de recherches historiques de Pointe‑des‑Cascades to become a key component in the efforts to preserve regional heritage. He has devoted more than 50 years to documenting, protecting and passing on local history. Thanks to him and the loyal volunteers and partners, our precious maritime heritage is being protected.
The organization's 50th anniversary also coincides with Mr. Poirier's own celebrations. I want to thank him for his outstanding dedication, his passion and his public service. Thanks to him, our history lives on and is being passed on with pride.
Amandeep Sodhi Liberal Brampton Centre, ON
Mr. Speaker, today I rise with great sadness to commemorate the sudden loss of a beloved community member, Maryam Muritala. Maryam's smile brightened every room she walked into. She was a vibrant part of our community in Brampton. She was an advocate, a leader and an entrepreneur whose hard work and dedication inspired those around her.
With her passion for leadership and business development, she founded Canada Vendors and Canada Business Forum, creating a place for making connections, creating business opportunities and supporting Black and Nigerian businesses across our country. Beyond her remarkable professional accomplishments, Maryam was a dear friend to me and to so many others. She was someone we could turn to for a conversation, a good laugh or a much-needed hug. Her passing leaves a tremendous void in our community, but her legacy will live on in the many lives she touched.
Maryam will be deeply missed. May she rest in peace.
Shuv Majumdar Conservative Calgary Heritage, AB
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister chose to borrow record amounts every year. Today, Canadians got the bill. The Bank of Canada has raised rates. A typical variable mortgage now costs $80 more a month, a line of credit costs $10 more and a car loan costs $5 more. That is more than $1,100 a year, on top of the $6,000 each family already pays toward interest on Liberal debt.
Growth is flatlining. Canada is growing at under 1%, Europe at 2% and the United States at 4%. Billions of dollars in industrial subsidies feed demand and inflation. Canada needs supply-side reform, competitive taxes, lighter regulation and a plan for transformational growth. Instead, the Prime Minister trafficks in promises of someday, maybe and never. What we are seeing is just the beginning.
How did the former central banker get it that wrong?
Bobby Morrissey Liberal Egmont, PE
Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to have been raised in a small fishing community on P.E.I. The fishing harbour is the centre of the community. Last week, I was in another fishing community, Miminegash, to announce a major reconstruction of the fishing harbour, the largest project ever announced for this coastal community.
For too many years, small craft harbours, the economic engines of coastal communities, have been underfunded by governments. I will express some disappointment that most members of the Conservative opposition, including those representing fishing communities, voted against the nearly $1-billion budget allocation in April, the largest budget ever for small craft harbours.
I want to express my thanks to the Prime Minister and my Atlantic caucus colleagues, who lobbied for and supported this major budget allocation. The Prime Minister recognized the economic value of the fishing sector, and his support was invaluable.
Anna Roberts Conservative King—Vaughan, ON
Mr. Speaker, today's interest rate hikes by the Bank of Canada are another blow to Canadians already struggling to survive. For seniors on a fixed income, this increase means choosing among mortgage payments, keeping a car on the road and putting food on the table. Maria, a senior from Vaughan, was forced from her home because she could no longer afford it. She now rents a basement from another senior who relies on that income to pay for her own mortgage, yet she also is struggling to survive. This is the reality of the affordability crisis under the Liberal government, which they voted against.
Liberals are making unkept promises while seniors are making the sacrifices. Conservatives are fighting for lower taxes, affordable homes and a Canada where seniors can retire with dignity and respect.
Mona Fortier Liberal Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester, ON
Mr. Speaker, tourism is Canada's second-largest service export sector, generating nearly $35 billion in spending by international visitors.
Today, tourism industry leaders are gathered in Ottawa for NorthStar, a national forum hosted by Destination Canada. In 2025, Canada welcomed 19.8 million international visitors, which highlights the importance of our tourism industry. We also have the privilege of welcoming 36 leaders in the House of Commons, and we welcome them to the national capital region.
Together, they form a true Team Canada for tourism, attracting visitors, creating jobs and helping diversify our economy.
Tourism is a core engine and key driver of Canada's economic growth and global competitiveness.
I thank these leaders who promote Canada around the world.
David McKenzie Conservative Calgary Signal Hill, AB
Mr. Speaker, Canada can be an energy superpower. Today the House has an opportunity to take concrete action toward that goal, not just give a speech, hold a press conference or make an announcement. Today the House will vote on repealing the west coast tanker ban, and I urge all members to do exactly that. The only effect of the tanker ban is to shut in Canadian oil production. It is time to recognize the value of our Canadian oil and gas industry, celebrate our world-leading responsible production, celebrate the men and women who produce energy for the world in all forms, and stop holding Canada back.
Some people say that the tanker ban protects the environment, but it does not prevent loaded oil tankers from sailing in the waters the ban covers. It is just ineffective legislation. The time has come to get it and the Liberal government out of the way of Canadian prosperity.
Dominique O'Rourke Liberal Guelph, ON
Mr. Speaker, teens today are awesome. Today I welcome 60 students from the Upper Grand District School Board who participate in the Beyond Borders leadership development program, an innovative grade 12 experiential learning semester that exemplifies how learning extends beyond books and classroom walls.
Through partnerships with businesses, universities, charities and community organizations, students tackle real-world challenges, explore future pathways and, most importantly, discover their own potential. Beyond Borders not only prepares students for what comes next but also teaches them the importance of giving back. Since the program's inception in 2012, participants have raised more than $1 million for community causes. I thank teachers Mike Parsons, Matt Mulhern and Cynthia McQueen.
Beyond Borders students prove that age is not a requirement for leadership, generosity or impact. The future is not waiting for them; they are already shaping it. Guelph and Canada are better for it.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, the Liberal Prime Minister spent, and now Canadians will have to pay. The Prime Minister has increased spending far beyond Justin Trudeau's irresponsible levels. In fact, he has doubled the deficit left by Mr. Trudeau, and we know that deficits fuel inflation. Inflation forced the Bank of Canada to raise interest rates on Canadians.
How much will Canadians have to pay before this Prime Minister stops spending recklessly?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, I thank the Leader of the Opposition for those questions regarding monetary policy. The Bank of Canada's message is that the impact on Canadian inflation is coming from outside Canada, but that the growth rate here in Canada will rise to 2% next year and the year after that thanks to the major policy changes implemented by the Government of Canada.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, he has just admitted that it is this government's policies, his government's policies, that have forced the Bank of Canada to raise interest rates at the expense of ordinary Canadians. Canadians already carry the most debt anywhere in the G7. Now they will be forced to pay more to the banks, while the Prime Minister celebrates. What a disconnect from the reality faced by ordinary people.
Will he acknowledge that Canadians are going to face hardship as a result of this increase?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, if there is a disconnect, it is between my words and his. The Hansard is there to sort that out. What is clear is that the Bank of Canada says that the growth rate here in Canada will rise to 2% next year and the year after that. This will be the highest growth rate in the G7.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, the Liberal Prime Minister spent, and today Canadians are paying the price. He doubled the deficit that Trudeau left behind, increased government spending to the highest share of GDP since 1996 and is threatening to add $700 billion more in debt. More deficits cause more inflation, which today caused the Bank of Canada to bring in more interest on Canadians.
How much will Canadians have to pay before the Prime Minister finally hits the brakes on his out-of-control Liberal spending?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, the Bank of Canada was very clear about the global causes of inflation and why it acted. It was very clear that our growth is going to pick up next year and the year following, the strongest in the G7.
Let us be clear about the fiscal record of the government: the lowest net debt in the G7, the second-lowest deficit in the G7, operational spending down from 8% to 2%, a 10% cut in the civil service and a 20% cut in consultants, $60 billion of savings. That is even before the budget next week. We are building Canada strong—
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, how completely out of touch that is. Canadian families are the most indebted anywhere in the G7, and today they will go home to learn that their mortgage payments, car payments and line of credit payments will go up because the Prime Minister could not control his spending. He doubled Trudeau's deficit and has imposed a new fuel tax that is driving up the cost of diesel to 30¢ higher than in the U.S., which is one of the causes the Bank of Canada cited in raising rates on Canadians today.
Will the Prime Minister get his hands out of the pockets of Canadians so they do not have to pay more in their rates?