House of Commons Hansard #147 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was c-39.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Electoral Integrity and the Alberta Referendum Heather McPherson (NDP) seeks an emergency debate on Alberta’s referendum, citing invalid mail-in ballots, accessibility barriers, a data breach, alleged foreign interference and separatist collaboration, and questions about electoral integrity and national unity. 400 words.
Building Canada Strong Act Second reading of Bill C-39. The bill proposes to streamline federal reviews and approvals for major projects, coordinate consultations, modernize transportation and trade rules, and amend labour-relations provisions. Liberal members say it will reduce duplication and provide decisions within a year while maintaining environmental standards and Indigenous rights. Opposition members raise concerns about ministerial discretion, environmental safeguards, Indigenous consultation, workers’ right to strike, accountability, and whether the changes will deliver projects. 59400 words, 7 hours in 2 segments: 1 2.
Ukrainian Heritage Month Act Third reading of Bill S-210. The bill designates September as Ukrainian Heritage Month to recognize Ukrainian Canadians’ contributions, celebrate their culture and history, and promote education about their heritage. Members across parties support the measure, also citing the importance of acknowledging Ukrainians’ resilience and Canada’s ties to Ukraine. 6800 words, 1 hour.
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]
Elizabeth May Green Saanich—Gulf Islands, BC
Mr. Speaker, earlier today, five members of Parliament from this place, from five different parties, were deeply honoured to welcome to this place former Afghan members of parliament. All these former MPs are women. All of them lost their role as parliamentarians in the blink of an eye on August 15, 2021, when the Taliban again seized power and declared a war on women, a genocide on women.
These former Afghan women MPs inspire us. We were deeply honoured as a team to work together across party lines to help get them entry to Canada and safety, but the work is not done. We do not sit back and congratulate ourselves as long as women and girls in Afghanistan cannot go to school. We cannot forget them. We cannot turn our page and say that was then and this is now. Now is the time for action to protect the women and girls of Afghanistan.
Sophie Chatel Liberal Pontiac—Kitigan Zibi, QC
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Trevor Greenway, editor-in-chief of The Low Down to Hull and Back News in Wakefield. Trevor won first place at the Canadian Community Newsmedia Awards for his powerful reporting on health and suicide in the Gatineau hills, in particular among men. Mental health is important, and his reporting gave a voice to grieving families and shone a light on the barriers people still face today when seeking help. This award confirms something our community has known for a long time: Local journalism matters.
Congratulations to Trevor for his well-deserved national recognition. I thank Trevor for giving a voice to our community.
Scott Anderson Conservative Vernon—Lake Country—Monashee, BC
Mr. Speaker, Canada is facing a drug crisis that is destroying lives, families and communities. Families are watching loved ones struggle with addiction, while communities face open drug use, crime and disorder. We want to show compassion, but compassion means helping people overcome addiction and rebuild their lives, not accepting addiction as the status quo.
We need to put treatment and recovery first, crack down on the criminals who profit from addiction, and restore safety and order for our communities. There is nothing compassionate about a system that allows people to remain trapped in addiction without a clear path to recovery. Every Canadian struggling with addiction deserves hope, dignity and a real opportunity to recover. Canadians deserve safer communities and a federal government that puts treatment, recovery and public safety first.
Kevin Lamoureux Liberal Winnipeg North, MB
Mr. Speaker, I am loving it. McDonald's Corporation Canada is visiting Parliament Hill today. Let us look at some of the base numbers. It has 100,000 employees across the country. When we think of products from Canada, let us think of Canadian hamburgers, potatoes, chicken and eggs, with 85% of what is sold through McDonald's coming from Canadian producers. As a corporate citizen, I think of Ronald McDonald House and the many contributions to our health care system that have been made through Ronald McDonald House.
For 35 years, I have used my local McDonald's as a meeting place for my constituents. I can tell the House that it is a great place to have fellowship with the community, with friends and with family, and so much more.
McDonald's Corporation Canada is having an open house later on this afternoon. I would encourage all members to get out and support it.
Dean Allison Conservative Niagara West, ON
Mr. Speaker, In September, I held one of the most important events, which touched many Canadians' lives: the Allison Inquiry. There was one purpose to this inquiry: to listen to folks who were injured by the COVID injection.
For four days, we heard heart-wrenching testimony, leaving many of us in tears. Several witnesses testified on behalf of family members who had died. Crystal testified on behalf of her brother, Scott Gorry. Scott worked on Parliament Hill for years. When he learned of the inquiry, he wanted to be a witness. Sadly, on July 4 of this year, Scott tragically passed away due to side effects from the COVID injection. It was a devastating story. All stories were difficult, but I truly believe they needed to be heard, and they were, all around the world.
I want to thank all the witnesses who made it from across the country and all of my MP colleagues who attended. I thank Shawn and Teresa Buckley for their incredible dedication. I thank all the volunteers who made this inquiry possible. Finally, those of us who serve in public life know how important the support of our family is. There are long days and many times away from home, so I want to thank my wife, Rebecca, for her unwavering support, for her encouragement and for standing beside me throughout it all.
Louis Villeneuve Liberal Brome—Missisquoi, QC
Mr. Speaker, today I would like to pay tribute to Suzanne‑Marie Landry.
Suzanne‑Marie devoted much of her life to promoting culture in the Eastern Townships and in my riding of Brome—Missisquoi. She was passionate, engaged and determined. She always focused on helping others thrive by providing encouragement and motivation. Suzanne‑Marie was a cultural dynamo with a zest for life. How sad it is that she was taken from us far too soon.
Suzanne‑Marie understood that culture brings us together, gives us a way to tell our story and breathes life into our regions. She left behind a precious legacy and a lasting imprint on everyone who crossed her path. On the day she died, she called me to ask if I was going to see the show in Bromont that night. I told her that, unfortunately, I had an event to go to and that we could talk the next day. I never had a chance to speak with her again.
I want to thank my friend Suzanne‑Marie. May she rest in peace.
Mel Arnold Conservative Kamloops—Shuswap—Central Rockies, BC
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to salute the sockeye that return every fall to the world-famous Adams River, known as the richest 300 acres in the world. This return is the final chapter for thousands of sockeye that hatched in the river four years ago before beginning their epic journeys through the Thompson and Fraser rivers and Pacific Ocean. After swimming thousands of kilometres, the weathered sockeye finally return home to initiate the next generation.
In early October, people from the Secwépemc and Shuswap welcome locals and visitors from around the world to witness this extraordinary spectacle of life and death against the backdrop of fall colours. Salute to the Sockeye events run from October 9 through October 25 at the Adams River and include a welcoming ceremony, interpretive and educational displays and scenic walks along the riverbank, where salmon can be seen doing what comes naturally. I encourage everyone to join in the Salute to the Sockeye events in the heart of the riding of Kamloops—Shuswap—Central Rockies and to witness the beauty of the salmon, the people and the scenery.
Taleeb Noormohamed Liberal Vancouver Granville, BC
Mr. Speaker, on October 12, Ismaili Muslims here in Canada and around the world will commemorate the 55th birthday of His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan, our 50th hereditary imam.
As many in the chamber will remember, His Highness visited Canada twice this year at the invitation of our Prime Minister. These visits reinforced the importance of the enduring relationship between the Ismaili Imamat and Canada, grounded in the shared set of values of improving the quality of life of others, of building prosperity sustainably and responsibly, of leading with conviction and humility and of building big things together. All of this was manifested in a set of agreements to work together to build affordable housing for Canadians and to work together abroad to bring peace, stability and security to those most in need.
His Highness's birthday is a moment to recognize his leadership, his commitment to Canada and his deeply held conviction that by working together across our differences, we build a better world for all.
I invite all members of the House to wish His Highness a very happy birthday, and wish all Ismailis across Canada salgirah mubarak.
Roman Baber Conservative North York, ON
Mr. Speaker, it has been three years. We remember the execution of teenagers at a music festival; the slaughter of men, women, children and babies; and the hostages, tortured, who were killed in Gaza, all murdered because they were Jews.
Since October 7, the intifada has been globalized. Jihad is on the move. The hate that targets Jews is not just limited to Jews. We remember 9/11, the Boston Marathon, the London buses, the Madrid trains and the German Christmas markets. We remember the shooting right here on Parliament Hill.
Many proud Canadians, including Muslim Canadians, came to Canada to escape jihad. We all live peacefully side by side. A school in my riding got shot at three times. We must please confront the intifada before it is too late.
We must never forget. May all of their memories be a blessing.
Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe Bloc Lac-Saint-Jean, QC
Mr. Speaker, it is a privilege to rise today to acknowledge the presence on Parliament Hill of former Afghan women parliamentarians. These women were able to escape Afghanistan thanks in part to the efforts of a small group of parliamentarians, a group of which I am proud to be a member.
They were members of the Afghan Parliament until the fall of Kabul, when they were forced to flee their country. There were seven of them, but only six managed to escape the Taliban. On January 15, 2023, we heard the tragic news that Mursal Nabizada had been brutally murdered in her home at the age of 32, along with her bodyguard. I was deeply saddened by her passing, but I am proud of what we accomplished. We demonstrated that, regardless of political affiliation, the common good must always come first.
We drew courage from the example of a woman who should have been here with us today but sadly is not.
That is why I wanted to say a few words in her memory and pay tribute to all the women and men who risked their lives for democracy and freedom.
Sima Acan Liberal Oakville West, ON
Mr. Speaker, last week, I had the honour of standing at the RCMP Depot in Regina as Troop 44 graduated after 26 demanding weeks of training. These new Mounties have chosen a life of service, protecting our communities, upholding the law and contributing to the public safety and national security of our country.
Behind every new constable also stands a family that has supported them and sacrificed with them, and that will continue to do so as they begin their postings across Canada. I want to recognize the instructors and staff at the Depot who prepared these officers for the tremendous responsibility they now carry.
To the members of Troop 44, wear the red serge with pride, serve with courage, integrity and compassion. Always remember the trust Canadians place in them.
Congratulations, Troop 44. We are proud of them, we are proud of our Mounties and Canada is grateful for their service.
Anna Roberts Conservative King—Vaughan, ON
Mr. Speaker, Barry from Vaughan recently reached out to my office. He is 72. He worked hard his entire life. He paid his taxes, saved responsibly and worked toward owning a home he could retire in. He did everything right, but today, he is still carrying a mortgage and considering selling his home because rising costs have made retirement hard to afford.
Under the Liberal government, seniors are paying more and being remembered less. Why did the government forget about the people who built this country? We are calling on the Liberal government to adopt our Conservative economic action plan to lower costs, cut wasteful spending and restore affordability for Canadian seniors. Seniors like Barry deserve to retire with dignity and security.
Conservatives will never forget the seniors who built this country, and we will always stand up for them.
Wade Chang Liberal Burnaby Central, BC
Mr. Speaker, public servants are Canadians serving Canadians. This summer, I met with public servants and their families in Burnaby Central. I heard about long commutes, caregiving and balancing work and family. I also heard about something important: pride in their work.
Those conversations highlighted the potential value of flexible work arrangements. Where operationally appropriate, they can support caregivers, people with disabilities and those facing long commutes, while helping reduce unnecessary travel and emissions. Our government has a responsibility to ensure that Canada's public service is productive, accountable and delivering results. A strong public service is built around effective service to Canadians. Flexible work can be one tool when it supports operational needs and helps deliver results.
As parliamentarians, our role is to set direction and understand how that direction is experienced by the people who carry it forward. I will continue to bring their perspectives to this House.
Burton Bailey Conservative Red Deer, AB
Mr. Speaker, fuel costs have hit record highs, and working Canadians are paying the price. Diesel has gone up 80% in a year. Farmers are spending thousands of dollars a day to keep feeding the country, and those costs hit every grocery bill.
Canada should have some of the most affordable energy on the planet, but a decade of Liberal blocking, stalling and delaying has led us here. Foreign wars outside of our borders should not dictate Canada's ability to be a self-sustaining energy superpower.
The Conservatives have an emergency fuel relief plan to support Canadian diesel. We would fast-track permitting to build pipelines, refineries and energy storage, eliminate all federal taxes on diesel at least until Canada Day and increase production to one million barrels per day so that Canadians are never dependent on foreign oil again.
Today, the Liberals can vote for the Conservative motion to give Canadians relief. Will they?
Tatiana Auguste Liberal Terrebonne, QC
Mr. Speaker, this past weekend, Terrebonne was transformed into a magical wonderland for Souffle magique des sorcières, a family event that drew over 3,000 visitors, both young and old, and gave them the opportunity to enjoy a unique experience filled with magic and wonder.
The event was a huge success thanks to the dedicated individuals who devote their time and energy to helping our community thrive. I want to sincerely congratulate Corine Beltrami, president of Événements citoyens, and all of the volunteers, artists, partners and others who helped make this year's event such a resounding success.
Initiatives like this one help families create special memories, bring generations closer together and help make Terrebonne a warm, vibrant and welcoming community.
I want to congratulate the entire team and thank them for showing everyone what a great community Terrebonne is.
Joël Godin Conservative Saint-Augustin—Portneuf—Jacques-Cartier, QC
Mr. Speaker, as elected officials, our number one responsibility toward the voters who put their trust in us is to do everything we can to improve their daily lives. Today, after question period, we will be voting on a motion moved by the members of the official opposition. It calls on the government to implement practical measures to reduce the cost of diesel.
At a time when Canadians are being hit hard by inflation, lowering the tax on diesel could have an immediate impact on the operating costs of our farmers, truckers and businesses. Ultimately, it would help lower the cost of the groceries families buy every week, which means that every generation would benefit: our families, our young people and our seniors.
I urge the Liberal government to support our motion. When we have an opportunity to help Canadians save money and enhance our energy self-sufficiency, we would do well to work together without partisanship. Let us put Canadians' interests first.
Leslie Church Liberal Toronto—St. Paul's, ON
Mr. Speaker, three years ago today, on October 7, eight Canadians were among the nearly 1,200 people murdered and well over 200 others taken hostage in the deadliest attack against Jewish people since the Holocaust. Hamas's attack deliberately targeted civilians and inflicted profound suffering on Jewish families in Canada, in Israel and around the world.
Hamas's terror also had a much more pernicious goal of dividing us from one another. Anti-Semitism has surged onto our streets and into communities, like it did in Belleville only 17 days ago.
Today, we remember all of the victims of October 7 and commit ourselves to honouring their memory by exposing hate and standing up for our fellow Jewish Canadians, who, like every Canadian, should be able to live every day of their lives freely, proudly and in peace.
May their memories be a blessing to us all.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, I want to start by wishing you, the Prime Minister and all Canadians a happy Thanksgiving.
Unfortunately, for many families, the cost of their Thanksgiving meal will take some of the joy out of the day. According to Dalhousie University, the cost of a Thanksgiving meal has risen by 10% since last year. One year after this Prime Minister came to power, despite his promises on affordability, things cost more.
When will Canadians be able to afford a Thanksgiving meal?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, first of all, I would like to join the member for Toronto—St. Paul's and all members of the House in marking this tragic anniversary.
I would also like to join the Leader of the Opposition in wishing all Canadians a happy Thanksgiving. The government has taken measures to help with affordability, to the tune of $20,000 per family.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, this Liberal Prime Minister is costing Canadians dearly. He is all talk and no action. He is also out of touch with reality. He is out of touch when it comes to food and also when it comes to housing.
According to a Habitat for Humanity survey conducted in 22 countries, Canadians are the most likely to have given up on the dream of home ownership. They are twice as likely to have abandoned that dream as people in half of the 22 countries surveyed.
When will the Prime Minister stop making big promises and creating more bureaucracy and start increasing the supply of homes that people can buy?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, here is what is really happening for Canadian families. I just got here, and this week, 12 million Canadians received cheques from the Government of Canada through the Canada groceries and essentials benefit.
When it comes to housing affordability, we are building affordable housing through Build Canada Homes.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, in English, I wish the Prime Minister, the Speaker and all Canadians a beautiful Thanksgiving.
However, Canadians will not want to give thanks when they walk down the grocery aisles and find out that the cost of a Thanksgiving meal is up 10% since last year. All of this is under the Prime Minister's leadership since he promised he would be judged by the prices at the grocery store. He is out of touch and Canadians are out of money.
We have heard all of the grand promises and the big spending. What Canadians who sit around that table with empty wallets want to know is when they will have the result of affordable food.
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, I join the Leader of the Opposition in wishing all Canadians a happy Thanksgiving.
Some 12 million Canadians will have just received from the Government of Canada the essentials benefit of $170 for an individual and $240 for a family, and 22 million Canadians have had their taxes cut. All Canadian families, on average, get $20,000 in support with child care, the national food program, dental care and the national child benefit.
That is a country that takes care of each other. That is a country to be thankful for.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, he is out of touch and people are out of money. Giving back a tiny fraction of what the government takes away will not cover even one mortgage payment, and that is if people can afford a home.
Today, we have a report from Habitat for Humanity, which did a survey of 22 nations and found that Canadians were the most likely to have given up on the dream of home ownership. It said 56% of them believe they will never own a home, which is twice the average of the international community. This is after the Prime Minister promised that housing would be affordable.
When will we have an end to the promises and of home ownership—