Is there unanimous consent?
House of Commons Hansard #77 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was benefit.
House of Commons Hansard #77 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was benefit.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Canadian Multiculturalism Act Second reading of Bill C-245. The bill proposes to exempt Quebec from the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, allowing Quebec to apply its own model of interculturalism. Bloc Québécois members argue this respects Quebec's distinct nationhood and linguistic identity. Liberal members counter that multiculturalism is a shared Canadian value that strengthens diversity and can coexist with French in Quebec. Conservative members criticize Liberal policies but emphasize unity within multiculturalism. 7200 words, 1 hour.
Protecting Victims Act Second reading of Bill C-16. The bill aims to reinstate mandatory minimums, strengthen victims' rights, and address gender-based and intimate partner violence, and child protection. Conservatives argue it contains a "poison pill" allowing judges to override mandatory sentences and criticize Liberal "soft-on-crime policies" for rising crime rates. Liberals accuse Conservatives of "filibustering". The Bloc raises concerns about federal funding for provincial justice administration, while the Green Party questions the effectiveness of mandatory minimums. 8600 words, 1 hour.
Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Act Second reading of Bill C-19. The bill, Canada Groceries and Essentials Benefit Act, proposes to replace the existing GST credit with a more generous benefit to help low- and modest-income Canadians afford groceries and essentials. The Liberal government states it will increase the benefit by 25% for five years starting in July 2026 and provide a one-time payment equivalent to a 50% increase this year. Conservatives argue the bill is a "band-aid solution" that fails to address the root causes of food inflation, which they attribute to government policies and taxes. The Bloc Québécois supports the measure for vulnerable families but suggests monthly payments and questions the bill's timing and impact on seniors' benefits. 32300 words, 4 hours in 2 segments: 1 2.
Voting Procedures in the House—Speaker's Ruling The Speaker rules on voting procedures, clarifying that an electronic vote counts if an in-person vote is invalid due to the member not being in their seat. The Speaker emphasizes proper decorum during recorded divisions. 500 words.
Requirement of a Royal Recommendation for Bill C-222—Speaker's Ruling The Speaker rules Bill C-222 requires a royal recommendation and clarifies voting procedures, stating electronic votes can be valid if in-person votes are not legitimate, prompting discussion among Members on decorum and rules. 1100 words, 10 minutes.
Some hon. members
Agreed.
Jean-Denis Garon Bloc Mirabel, QC
Mr. Speaker, I will try to make the most of the five minutes I have before question period.
The situation with Bill C‑19 is a bit like Groundhog Day. The Liberals have decided to send out cheques and this is not the first time they have done so. This time, we have to give the government credit. In the midst of a purchasing power and cost of living crisis where people know that, even if inflation is kept under control, prices have gone up and will not be coming back down, the cheques will help give some relief to those who need it most, particularly families with children.
However, as I was saying earlier, this is an expensive measure. The cheque being sent out just before June alone—I do not want to sound cynical, but we have seen the Liberals write cheques just before elections before, and we hope that is not the intention here—represents $3.1 billion in the current fiscal year. The government will then make this measure permanent by increasing the amount of the cheque known as the GST rebate by 25% each year. Although the government is renaming this cheque, the GST rebate cheque is a measure that was introduced when the GST was created, and it remains the same measure.
It should be noted that the Bloc Québécois requested a similar measure in 2022, in the midst of an inflation crisis. At the time, the Bloc Québécois asked for two things. First, we asked for an increase in the GST rebate when inflation, as measured by the consumer price index, exceeded the Bank of Canada's target range, or above 3%. We also asked for something important, and that is where there is a real missed opportunity in this bill. We asked for the cheque to be paid more frequently. Rather than being sent every three months, we wanted people to receive their cheque every month.
That is important. In a context where people cannot pay for groceries, where they are forced to buy groceries on credit, to go into debt and to pay 22% interest to banks, which are friends with the Prime Minister, where people are having trouble buying groceries every week, how can we tell them that they will only get help every three months? Should they just go hungry for 89 days and kill the fatted calf on the 90th day? That is not exactly realistic. I am using biblical references because I know the Conservatives will like that and that it is very educational. People are struggling to put food on the table. That is what the debt levels are telling us. These people will pay 22% interest while waiting for their cheques to come in.
Furthermore, beyond the band-aid solution put forward today, the Prime Minister has also refused to regulate interchange fees that small businesses have to contend with, and which are passed on to customers. Extremely high interchange fees stem from limited competition in the banking sector and are therefore passed on to customers, who can now use this cheque to pay these fees. We get it. That is the logical conclusion of things.
Canadians currently have a debt-to-income ratio of 176%. This means that for every dollar of net income earned in a year, Canadians have $1.76 in debt. That also masks the growing wealth inequality. Today, the richest 20% of Canadians hold 70% of the wealth. Why am I saying this? First, because I have 50 seconds left, that part is true, but also to say that this measure falls short.
I will have the opportunity to finish my comments after question period.
David Myles Liberal Fredericton—Oromocto, NB
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark the passing of gunner Sebastian Halmagean, a brave member of the Canadian Armed Forces. Gunner Halmagean, originally from Hamilton, Ontario, was based at the 5th Canadian Division Support Base Gagetown in Oromocto. He had just deployed to Latvia on Operation Reassurance, his first overseas deployment, with a strong sense of duty to serve his country.
His death is a profound loss to the Canadian Armed Forces community, particularly to those who served alongside him as he embarked on a promising career.
Our thoughts are with his family, his loved ones and all those who served alongside him. I join all members of the House in offering my sincere condolences to gunner Sebastian Halmagean's family. May his service never go unrecognized. May he rest in peace.
Chris Lewis Conservative Essex, ON
Mr. Speaker, Essex has recently lost three amazing individuals.
Sandy Repko was known and decorated for her tireless commitment to her community and her willingness to serve others. At the hockey rink or the basketball court, the council chambers or a fundraiser, Sandy was there with a smile, helping anyone who asked.
Tomi Hulkkonen embodied what many of us strive to become. He was a loving husband to Tiina and father to so many, a God-fearing man and a fearless leader of his brothers and sisters at United Brotherhood of Carpenters and Joiners of America, Local 494. My private member's bill, Bill C-241, will forever be Tomi's.
Tom Kissner was my brother in firefighting for many years. I am sure his finest memories were of walking the streets of Kingsville with the love of his life, Robin. He was quiet, but his presence was respected. He taught through example.
Sandy, Tomi and Tom were each my friend and mentor in their own special way. I thank them for leaving the world a better place than they found it. They are each truly missed.
Judy Sgro Liberal Humber River—Black Creek, ON
Mr. Speaker, today I rise to recognize an important development: the decision by the European Union to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization. This decision reflects the courage and determination of the Iranian people, who have endured the IRGC's repression for decades, including the tragic loss of life during the January 2026 uprising. For more than 20 years, democratic opposition leaders and thousands of parliamentarians from around the world have called for this designation, noting the regime's destabilizing activities across the Middle East.
This listing must be accompanied by further steps: closing the regime's diplomatic facilities, expelling its agents, cutting off its financial networks and recognizing the right of Iran's youth to resist tyranny in the pursuit of a democratic republic grounded in human rights. Canada acted by listing the IRGC in 2024, and today I call on the United Kingdom to follow suit and register the IRGC as a terrorist entity.
Ned Kuruc Conservative Hamilton East—Stoney Creek, ON
Mr. Speaker, I solemnly rise in the House today to offer my most sincere and heartfelt condolences to the family of Canadian Armed Forces gunner Sebastian Halmagean, or as we knew him, Sebi.
A resident of Stoney Creek and someone I have been privileged to know and watch grow up since he was five years old, Sebastian was a gunner posted to the 4th Artillery Regiment of the Royal Canadian Artillery. He was on his first overseas deployment in Latvia, where he unfortunately passed away. Sebastian had long felt the pride and the calling for service to his country and was an outspoken advocate for more young Canadians to join the armed forces. Sebi loved his country and our military. He was a wonderful son and friend and a loyal soldier.
I ask colleagues to please join me in sending our condolences to the family and loved ones of Sebastian Halmagean and thanking them for his service. He will be remembered for his bravery and his loyalty to his country.
Sebi is a Canadian hero. May God rest his soul.
Linda Lapointe Liberal Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, QC
Mr. Speaker, I would like to draw the House's attention to a great source of pride for Canada and for my riding of Rivière-des-Mille-Îles. Deux‑Montagnes native Mikaël Kingsbury has been named a flag bearer for Team Canada at the Milano Cortina 2026 winter Olympics, which begin at the end of this week. Mikaël Kingsbury is an exceptional athlete and freestyle skiing icon who epitomizes excellence, perseverance and personal achievement. His remarkable career has inspired an entire generation of young people to believe in their dreams and strive for excellence.
On behalf of the people of Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, I would like to sincerely congratulate him. I wish great success to him and all the Canadian athletes competing in the Olympics, which kick off this week.
Helena Konanz Conservative Similkameen—South Okanagan—West Kootenay, BC
Mr. Speaker, Similkameen—South Okanagan—West Kootenay is not just home to the most beautiful rivers, lakes and valleys in all of Canada. It is also home to world-class athletes.
First, I want to congratulate my local hockey team, the Penticton Vees. The Vees have a long history of hockey in Penticton. In 1955, they won the world championships; in 2012, they won the national championships; and now, in their first season in the WHL, they just completed a 14-game winning streak. Go, Vees, go!
Then there are siblings Jasmine and Rémi Drolet from Rossland, who will be going for gold at the Winter Olympics this month in cross-country skiing. I thank them for their hard work. The whole community will be cheering them on. No one will stop Canada when we go for the gold.
Rob Oliphant Liberal Don Valley West, ON
Mr. Speaker, community organizations contribute to our lives in countless ways. At my annual New Year's levee, we celebrated 16 organizations in Don Valley West with anniversaries from five to 75 years in 2025 and 2026.
Today, I want to lift up five that are celebrating this year. Flemingdon Community Support Services, which works with some of our community's most vulnerable people, and the York Mills Chinese Community, which ensures newcomers have a great start, both have 10 years of service. For 15 years, the Canadian Language Museum has promoted all languages used in Canada. The Leaside Garden Society has been beautifying our community for 40 years, and Glendon Campus of York University has offered 60 years of bilingual post-secondary education in Ontario.
These organizations enhance our community and provide opportunities to meet, learn and grow. It was a pleasure to honour their contributions in our community, and it is a privilege to stand in this chamber and recognize their success.
John Williamson Conservative Saint John—St. Croix, NB
Mr. Speaker, in the last year alone, the price of groceries has gone way up again. Families are spending over $1,000 more on groceries today than just a year ago. The Liberals say it is not their fault, but that is not true. Canada has the highest food inflation in all the G7. Why are Canada's food prices so high? It is because the Liberals put a tax on food packaging, they put taxes on the farmers and the truckers who deliver our food to grocery stores, and they will not increase competition in grocery chains.
Will the Liberals back our Conservative plan for food affordability, which would let Canadians keep more of their hard-earned dollars, or will Liberals keep inflating food prices with ever-higher taxes?
Alexis Brunelle-Duceppe Bloc Lac-Saint-Jean, QC
Mr. Speaker, Michel Marc Bouchard, the little guy from Saint‑Coeur‑de‑Marie who became an internationally acclaimed playwright, is making Quebec culture shine on the world stage.
His name now proudly appears on the sign of the community and cultural centre of the city of Alma. Michel Marc Bouchard, a giant of Quebec culture, has always promoted love in all its forms in over 25 plays that have earned him numerous awards, both here and abroad.
Even though his plays have been performed on the world's great stages, Michel Marc Bouchard's hometown holds a special place in his heart. As he says, “I return every year. I make my way back to Lac‑Saint‑Jean, like how we find our way back to an old song we had forgotten. I come back to breathe in the air of the place where I grew up. I return to the familiar laughter and silences that sometimes speak louder than words.”
Michel was always able to depict reality through the rules of theatre, which often speak louder than words themselves. I want to thank Michel for his work, his artistic bravery and his love of Quebec and Lac‑Saint‑Jean.
Jessica Fancy-Landry Liberal South Shore—St. Margarets, NS
Mr. Speaker, as we observe Black History Month, I rise today to recognize the enduring contributions, resiliency and legacy of Black communities in Nova Scotia and across Canada.
In South Shore—St. Margarets, we are home to a significant chapter in Black Canadian history. The Black Loyalist Heritage Centre in Birchtown preserves the stories of the Black Loyalists, men, women and children who sought freedom, built communities and helped shape this country despite immense injustice. Once the largest free Black settlement in British North America, Birchtown remains a powerful symbol of perseverance and hope. I want to recognize the staff, volunteers and descendants who ensure that these stories are never forgotten.
Last fall, I was also honoured to attend the unveiling of the No. 2 Construction Battalion monument in Shelburne, commemorating Canada's first and only all-Black military battalion.
Black history is Canadian history. This month is a time to learn, reflect and share.
Kevin Waugh Conservative Saskatoon South, SK
Mr. Speaker, my province of Saskatchewan has long held the distinction of feeding the world, yet Canada today has the distinction of leading the G7 in food inflation. Food prices in Canada are rising twice as fast as they were when the Prime Minister took office. In Saskatoon, there are over 24,000 visits a month to the food bank. That is a record high, and it is climbing.
Rising food prices are a direct result of the industrial carbon tax, which drives up the cost of equipment, fertilizer and food processing. Conservatives are ready to fast-track through Parliament proposals that would reverse the highest food inflation in the G7. Let us start by eliminating the industrial carbon tax and the 17¢-a-litre fuel standard tax, boosting competition in grocery chains, and cutting red tape for all farmers.
Charles Sousa Liberal Mississauga—Lakeshore, ON
Mr. Speaker, it is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Miguel Domingos. A cherished leader and musician, he was a pillar of the Portuguese community.
Miguel was a maestro of his beloved Banda do Sagrado Coração de Jesus of Toronto for decades and the conductor of the Banda do Senhor Santo Cristo. In their words, he stood at the helm of these marching bands, guiding their musicians with passion and an unwavering love for music. Under his baton, the bands not only flourished musically but also served as a vital touchstone for the community. Miguel's powerful operatic voice and leadership ensured that their cultural traditions remained alive, bringing joy and a sense of belonging to countless festivals, processions and concerts. His legacy is written in the notes he taught and in the camaraderie that he fostered among the band members he mentored.
He will be remembered not only for his musical talent but also for his dedication to the arts and his commitment to preserving our unique heritage. He was a dedicated husband and a loving father. Our deepest condolences go to his extraordinary wife, Pitty, their children, family and countless friends. May Miguel rest in eternal peace.
Shuv Majumdar Conservative Calgary Heritage, AB
Mr. Speaker, with hope and unity, and rhetoric over results, Conservatives are returning to Ottawa ready to fight for Canadians. This weekend's convention sent a clear message with nearly 90% from across our country supporting our leader, which is a landslide mandate for unity, hope and results.
We can contrast that with 10 years of Liberal failure. Housing is out of reach. Food is unaffordable. Crime is rampant, and immigration is broken. The Prime Minister changed the rhetoric, but not the reality. He grows government, divides Canadians and blocks projects.
Conservatives empower people. We would cut taxes, cut red tape, lower costs, unlock our potential and our ingenuity, and get our resources to market. This is the momentum we are seeing from Calgary, united around work, family and country.
To those carrying the country on their backs and feeling unseen, underappreciated and overworked, Conservatives see them. Conservatives will fight for them, and we will restore the promise of Canada for them.
Bienvenu-Olivier Ntumba Liberal Mont-Saint-Bruno—L’Acadie, QC
Mr. Speaker, February is Black History Month. It is an important time to recognize Black people's contributions to Canada's history, culture and development.
From labourers to artists, from entrepreneurs to community leaders, Black people have helped build Canada from east to west, including in my riding, Mont-Saint-Bruno—L'Acadie.
This month is also special to me personally.
For me, this moment is meaningful. It is a moment of pride, gratitude and responsibility.
After living here in Canada for 15 years, rising to speak in the House of Commons during Black History Month is a huge achievement for me.
This month invites us to reflect and reminds us of the importance of fighting racism and continuing to work toward equity, inclusion and justice.
Together, we must keep moving forward toward equity, justice and dignity for all.
Together, let us continue to build Canada strong.
Grant Jackson Conservative Brandon—Souris, MB
Mr. Speaker, what a weekend it was in Calgary. There were thousands of delegates, hundreds of observers and a resounding 87% in support of the leader. I send my thanks to the Conservatives. If there is one thing clear from this weekend, it is that the Conservative Party is a united, energetic, younger and more diverse party than ever before, and that is a direct result of this leader and his efforts.
Now that our members have made that clear, and the Liberals' fear and smear campaign dies with a whimper, let Parliament get to work. Conservatives have endorsed hopeful solutions that would ensure the return of safer streets, as well as more job opportunities and affordable home ownership for young people. These hard-working men and women who do everything right and are too often left behind by these Liberals are the people who have joined our party, who showed up in Calgary, who support this team, who knocked on doors from coast to coast, who demand action and expect results. To them I say we see them and we hear them. We are ready to get the work done, and under this leader, they will never be left behind.
Brendan Hanley Liberal Yukon, YT
Mr. Speaker, dance, dansez, dance is the spirit of the upcoming 13th annual Yukon African Music Festival.
Who would have believed, in the cold, dark days of early February, that Yukon's wonderful African community would bring light, music, dance and pure joy to chase away the winter blues?
As we observe International Development Week and Black History Month, the Yukon African Music Festival, organized by Yukon's TELIYA International Society, highlights the rich variety of African culture. Award-winning artists from around the globe will be on stage or showcasing their work, bringing Yukoners of all backgrounds together in honour of African heritage. Beyond dancing and music, TELIYA is offering workshops and events about Black history, African culture, social change, leadership, music and youth empowerment.
I ask members to join me in congratulating Leonard Boniface and the board of volunteers with Yukon's TELIYA International Society for putting together yet another amazing event. Asante sana. I will see members on the dance floor.
Melissa Lantsman Conservative Thornhill, ON
Mr. Speaker, today is Groundhog Day and, right on cue, the government is back with the same recycled ideas on grocery prices.
The Liberals promised a grocery rebate years ago, and food bank lines got longer. They spent years talking about affordability, and prices kept climbing. The Liberals promised action, but after all of that bluster, groceries will cost a family of four more than $1,000 extra this year compared to last.
Now they are back at it again offering the same inflationary plan, $10 a week off a $300 grocery bill, and that is not even for everybody. Why are Canadians supposed to believe the Liberals this time?
François-Philippe Champagne LiberalMinister of Finance and National Revenue
Mr. Speaker, it might be that my colleagues are more concerned about their own future, but on this side of the House, we are concerned about the future of Canadians.
There is a lot to rejoice in today. That is why the Conservatives are so enthusiastic. It is Monday, and we have good news. We had second reading of Bill C-19. That is why all the Conservatives are smiling. They know that helping 12 million Canadians is why Canadians sent us here.
We are going to build a strong Canada, and we are going to build strong families, because we believe in Canada.
Melissa Lantsman Conservative Thornhill, ON
Mr. Speaker, I do not think the minister grasps the irony of today. In 2023, that same finance minister promised that he would bring price stability to Canadians. He summoned the grocery CEOs to Ottawa, promised competition and affordability, and then delivered two more years of whatever that was.
Now in Canada, we have the highest food inflation in the G7 and over two million people are lined up at a food bank every single month. The groundhog saw his shadow today. Will the finance minister finally see his, or will Canadians get the same Trudeau policies that we have had for 10 years?
François-Philippe Champagne LiberalMinister of Finance and National Revenue
Mr. Speaker, I am so happy to see that some Conservatives are actually reading and listening to what we are saying. They should listen to Canadians, because perhaps that would help them.
Twelve million Canadians would benefit from our measure. This is not something to shout at. This is something to rejoice. On this side of the house, we meet Canadians where they are. Canadians have told us, “Give us a boost. Give us a bridge.”
We are going to build a stronger economy in the G7. We are going to be here for Canadians. We are going to build Canada strong.
John Barlow Conservative Foothills, AB
Mr. Speaker, the Liberals are literally the definition of insanity.
Three years ago, the finance minister promised Canadians that the Liberals would solidify food prices. Today, he is tabling the tired Trudeau policy that failed the first time. The only results of Liberal policy are that Canada has the highest food inflation in the G7, twice that of the United States, and Canadian families are paying almost $18,000 a year just on food.
Will the Liberals support a real affordability plan and cancel their hidden taxes on food, or will they continue with this insanity?
Patty Hajdu LiberalMinister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario
Mr. Speaker, the Daily Bread Food Bank, Food Banks Canada, Food, Health and Consumer Products of Canada, and Roots Community Food Centre, in my own riding, are all food centres that have praised the work of the government and the new groceries and essentials benefit, which many are saying will provide relief exactly when people need it.
Across the aisle, Conservatives talk, but do they ever support a good idea? No. They have no idea what to do. All they know how to do is oppose and deny the help their own constituents want and need.