Debates of April 21st, 2026

Syria

[Michael Guglielmin, Conservative, Vaughan—Woodbridge, ON]

Mr. Speaker, it is always a pleasure to rise on behalf of the constituents of Vaughan—Woodbridge.

Today, I rise on behalf of the numerous members of the Kurdish community in my riding who are deeply concerned about the ongoing crisis in Syria. They are concerned for the safety, the political rights and the future of the Kurdish people in Syria. They are alarmed about the armed conflict going on there and the intense internal persecution of their people. The petitioners are calling on the government to recognize this fact.

Religious Freedom

[Garnett Genuis, Conservative, Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan, AB]

Mr. Speaker, I have a number of petitions I would like to present to the House today.

The first petition is from citizens who are deeply concerned about the Liberal attack on religious freedom contained in Bill C-9. They are concerned that Bill C-9 could be used to criminalize passages from the Bible, the Quran, the Torah and other sacred texts. They observe that the state has no place in the religious texts or teachings of faith communities, and that freedom of expression and freedom of religion are fundamental rights that must be preserved.

The petitioners call on the government to protect religious freedom, uphold the right to read and share sacred texts, and prevent government overreaches in matters of faith.

Eritrea

[Garnett Genuis, Conservative, Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan, AB]

Mr. Speaker, the next petition is from members of the Eritrean community who have been following efforts by this government to strengthen and deepen diplomatic relationships with Eritrea.

The petitioners want to bring the attention of the House to human rights concerns with respect to Eritrea. It has been ruled by an authoritarian, brutal dictator under an authoritarian system for the last 30 years, with no constitution, no election, no parliament, no freedom of the press and no freedom of movement and association. They note that Eritreans continue to flee indefinite military conscription, religious persecution and political repression. They highlight how those who have managed to flee the country still face intimidation and extortion from representatives and agents of the Eritrean regime in the diaspora, and that families in Eritrea are also harassed and forced to pay tens of thousands of local currencies because their children have fled. They are also concerned about various forms of foreign interference that are driven by the regime in Eritrea, various other human rights abuses, and the malicious conspiracy between Eritrea's dictator and Vladimir Putin that threatens the security of other peoples in Africa and around the world.

Therefore, the petitioners call on the government to engage Eritrean political and human rights activists and pro-democracy groups, take a leadership role against the joint actions of this dictator and Vladimir Putin against western countries and countries in Africa, investigate foreign interference of the regime in Canada, and enforce Canada's asylum laws against those who explicitly provide material and political support to this regime. They want to see Parliament and the government advocate for the release of Swedish Eritrean journalist Dawit Isaak and 11 imprisoned Eritrean parliamentarians, and strengthen sanctions against human rights abusers in Eritrea.

Falun Gong

[Garnett Genuis, Conservative, Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan, AB]

Mr. Speaker, the next petition I am tabling draws the attention of the House to the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners, which is a movement that seeks to simply follow principles of truthfulness, compassion and forbearance.

In particular, the petitioners draw the attention of the House to recent incidents, including bomb and shooting threats targeting Shen Yun, a classical Chinese dance and music performance presented globally by the Falun Gong community.

Therefore, the petitioners call on the Government of Canada to publicly seek the end of the persecution of Falun Gong, impose sanctions against the regime related to the persecution of Falun Gong practitioners and undertake stronger measures to protect victims here in Canada.

[The Speaker, Francis Scarpaleggia]

Unfortunately, we have to stop here. We will pick up where we left off after question period.

Lawful Access

[Sima Acan, Liberal, Oakville West, ON]

Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the House referred Bill C-22 to the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security. As a proud member of the committee, I am committed to strengthening public safety and ensuring that our law enforcement agencies have the tools they need to protect Canadians. I carry with me the voices of the residents of Oakville West, who trust us to act decisively in the face of evolving threats, and that is exactly what we are delivering as a government.

Bill C-22 is an important piece of legislation that would give law enforcement legal access to certain information or to intercept communications in support of investigations into crimes and threats. Tonight, the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police is hosting a reception to discuss the vital importance of this legislation. I want to encourage all my fellow parliamentarians who want to learn more about lawful access to attend, get informed and support Bill C-22.

Let us give law enforcement the modern tools it needs to keep our communities and Canadians safe.

Firefighters

[John Brassard, Conservative, Barrie South—Innisfil, ON]

Mr. Speaker, this week, the International Association of Fire Fighters is holding its 33rd legislative conference in Ottawa. As a former firefighter and president of Markham Local 2727, I know the work IAFF members are doing this week, meeting with MPs from all parties, is critical to improving firefighter health and safety, as well as ensuring the financial security of Canadian firefighters, their families and the families of members who have been lost in the line of duty, either by accident or illness. Their advocacy reflects the same commitment to service they bring to their communities every day.

As the member of Parliament for Barrie South—Innisfil, I want to thank both the Barrie and Innisfil firefighters associations and their members, IAFF Local 1753 and Local 3804, for the work they do in increasingly difficult circumstances and for their charitable fundraising to help those in need.

Finally, I want to thank every IAFF firefighter in Ottawa this week and general president Ed Kelly for their service, their advocacy and their unwavering commitment to firefighter safety. I thank them for looking out for our families.

Brantford Bulldogs

[Larry Brock, Conservative, Brantford—Brant South—Six Nations, ON]

Mr. Speaker, the Brantford Bulldogs are off to the eastern conference finals tomorrow after eight straight playoff wins. They have had a historic season, leading the eastern conference into the playoffs with an impressive 106 points and 48 wins, finishing atop the league.

Shift after shift, this team is working, skating and playing hard. They are winning battles, lighting the lamp and locking it down in their end. Back home in Brantford, we can feel it: the buzz in the arena, the roar of the crowd and a community rallying behind every goal, hit and save. This is playoff hockey at its best, and the Bulldogs are leading the charge. As a lifelong Brantford resident, I am proud to be a long-time supporter of the team that brings our community together.

I encourage players, coaches and staff to keep their sticks on the ice, keep grinding and keep bringing the heat to the eastern conference finals. Brantford is behind them all the way, and we are ready to see that J. Ross Robertson Cup come home.

Go, Bulldogs!

National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association

[Ginette Lavack, Liberal, St. Boniface—St. Vital, MB]

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the 30th anniversary of the National Aboriginal Capital Corporations Association. Founded through the vision and leadership of first nation and Métis leaders, NACCA has built a national network of 51 indigenous financial institutions, expanding access to capital for indigenous entrepreneurs and serving every province and territory.

In the 1990s, pioneering organizations such as the Alberta Indian Investment Corporation, Indian Business Corporation, Saskatchewan Indian Equity Foundation, Société de crédit commercial autochtone, Tale'awtxw Aboriginal Capital Corporation and Ulnooweg Development Group laid the foundation for this movement. Last year, their work generated $377 million in labour income and over $640 million in GDP, while strengthening community well-being.

Congratulations to NACCA on 30 years of impact, leadership and success.

Daffodil Month

[Peter Schiefke, Liberal, Vaudreuil, QC]

Mr. Speaker, as we recognize Daffodil Month, I rise to highlight the leadership of the Canadian Cancer Society and the many volunteers, patients and caregivers who have come to Parliament Hill for their annual day of advocacy.

Nearly half of the people in Canada are expected to be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime, and the Canadian Cancer Society is focused on saving lives, improving lives and driving collective action against cancer. As part of their actions, volunteer advocates from across Canada are sharing their stories, highlighting the critical role clinical trials play in bringing new life-saving treatments to people with cancer and how important it is to remove barriers in accessing these trials.

The Canadian Cancer Society continues to call for a stronger and more effective clinical trials system that puts patients first and accelerates innovation while strengthening Canada's health care system and economy.

I would like to thank these individuals for their dedication and hard work, which is helping to shape a future where Canadians will have quicker access to better cancer care.

Trans-Canada Highway

[Eric Melillo, Conservative, Kenora—Kiiwetinoong, ON]

Mr. Speaker, the Trans-Canada Highway is top of mind for the people of northern Ontario, whether for safety, economic security or nation building. During a 10-day stretch last winter, the region saw five collisions that resulted in eight fatalities. These types of accidents are far too common.

It is also the only east-west corridor in the country. When the highway is delayed just 30 minutes, it costs the economy nearly $50,000. With more opportunities in mining, forestry and nuclear bringing more traffic to the region, this impact will only become greater.

The Prime Minister speaks often of protecting our economic security and developing nation-building projects. Despite this rhetoric, no new pipelines have been approved, mines are not being permitted and the national highway continues to be ignored.

Improving the Trans-Canada in northern Ontario is a win for all Canadians. It will strengthen our economy and protect our sovereignty. If the Prime Minister is serious about nation-building projects, he should start in northern Ontario.

Tannis M. Richardson

[Ben Carr, Liberal, Winnipeg South Centre, MB]

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honour the life of Tannis M. Richardson, a remarkable Winnipegger whose legacy of service enriched our country. Mrs. Richardson was gracious, caring and deeply committed to others, dedicating her life to building a better community for all and inspiring others to do the same.

She was a tireless volunteer and leader, supporting organizations such as United Way, the Kidney Foundation and the Winnipeg Symphony Orchestra, and as a proud champion for the arts, she played an important role establishing the Winnipeg Art Gallery. Her work with Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and the creation of Manitoba's A Starry Starry Night gala fundraiser made a tremendous difference in the lives of countless families. Her contributions were recognized nationally as she was appointed to the Order of Canada in 2003.

Mrs. Richardson lived to be 99 years of age. In that time, she built a legacy defined by generosity and leadership. On behalf of the residents of Winnipeg South Centre, I extend my sincere condolences to her family and loved ones. May her memory be a blessing.

Daffodil Month

[Dan Albas, Conservative, Okanagan Lake West—South Kelowna, BC]

Mr. Speaker, while there is much we may debate in the House, today I want to begin with what unites us, which is standing with Canadians affected by cancer. April is Daffodil Month, a time for us to show support for Canadians living with cancer, their families and caregivers.

As the co-chair of the all-party parliamentary cancer caucus, I want to thank the Canadian Cancer Society for its leadership and non-partisan support.

I also recognize my co-chair, the member for Vaudreuil, and Senator Andrew Cardozo, as well as the patient advocates, researchers and volunteers who make this work possible.

Daffodil Month also reminds us why access to innovation matters. Clinical trials are often a last resort, and they can be a lifeline. As journalist Don Martin recently shared, a clinical trial can quite literally mean the difference between life and death, yet too many Canadians still face unnecessary delays. That is why the Canadian Cancer Society has set a big achievable goal: no more than 75 days from a clinical trial registration to enrolling patients. This means more trials, more innovations and more lives saved here in Canada. This is a goal we can achieve together.

Let us support the work of the Canadian Cancer Society and give those facing a cancer diagnosis hope.

Earth Day

[Patrick Bonin, Bloc, Repentigny, QC]

Mr. Speaker, April 22 is Earth Day. In Quebec, Earth Day is more than a celebration: it is a day of action.

In 2012, more than 250,000 people took to the streets throughout Quebec. Individuals, young people, families turned out to protect what we hold most dear: our planet. Those voices have not disappeared, but they have been ignored, just like the billions of people threatened by the climate crisis, who are being ignored by governments that are making different choices, choices that were influenced by nearly 1,000 meetings with oil and gas lobbyists in 2025.

We refuse to give up. Earth Day reminds us that change comes from commitment. We are fighting and will continue to fight against all odds to build a greener, fairer and more humane world and to remind everyone that it is time for this government to come back down to Earth, the only one we have.

Robotics

[Bardish Chagger, Liberal, Waterloo, ON]

Mr. Speaker, Team Dave is FRC Team 3683, the first robotics team at St. David Catholic Secondary School in Waterloo.

Team Dave's participation in the first robotics competition is what gives the team its structure, intensity and connection, but what stands out is how they balance their competitive drive with their culture of helping others. When asked, Team Dave shared that the most meaningful part of their season was supporting fellow teams across the Waterloo Wellington community. I have seen it.

Team Dave showcases the best of Waterloo and Canada. Team Dave is not just a team that builds robots. It is a competitive engineering program, a training ground for real-world problem-solving, a node in a global robotics network and an environment that develops both soft and hard skills.

In March, Team Dave won the Canadian Pacific Regional in Vancouver, B.C. I congratulate Team Dave. We look forward to seeing what comes next. We thank the sponsors, mentors, parents, teachers and supporters who never cease supporting Team Dave. I wish the team a happy sweet 16.

Fuel Taxes

[Steven Bonk, Conservative, Souris—Moose Mountain, SK]

Mr. Speaker, back home in Souris—Moose Mountain, farmers will be in the fields soon and are in the calving barns right now, spending long days and short nights doing what they do best, producing the food that Canadians rely on.

This year, like too many before it, they are doing it under the weight of rising costs that have been driven up by the Liberal government. Fuel power is everything in agriculture, in seeding, spraying, harvesting and hauling. When taxes drive up the cost of diesel, they drive up the cost of food. It is just that simple.

Canadians are already paying more at the pump, and Liberal taxes are making it worse, leaving us paying far more than our American neighbours. Now Liberals are offering a temporary break on only one part of one tax for one part of one year. That is not relief; that is an illusion. Farmers cannot plan a season on temporary measures, and families cannot budget on half steps.

Conservatives have a plan to remove these taxes in full, so farmers can produce and Canadians can afford to eat. When we support our farmers, we support families across Canada.

Daffodil Month

[Sonia Sidhu, Liberal, Brampton South, ON]

Mr. Speaker, in April, we wear daffodils as a symbol of hope for all those affected by cancer. Many families have been touched by cancer.

Daffodil Month brings Canadians together in that shared hope. Across the country, Canadian researchers are advancing new immune therapies and treatments.

Let us recognize the nurses and doctors across Canada who are working hard to support patients every day. In Sunnybrook, Dr. Arjun Sahgal and his team are treating cancer patients with advanced radiation technologies. Dr. Helena MacKay and her team are also improving cancer care with the new drug therapies.

I want to recognize local organizations such as Cancer Warriors, the Walnut Foundation, the Terry Fox Foundation and Canadian Cancer Society, along with the volunteers who are working hard on the ground.

Let us continue the fight so that, one day, we can live in a world free of cancer.

Iran

[Melissa Lantsman, Conservative, Thornhill, ON]

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister warned at Davos, no more going along to get along.

Then on April 10, Canada went along and got along. Iran, designated as a state sponsor of terror, whose Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is a listed terrorist entity in this country, was handed a UN seat shaping programs of women's rights and counterterrorism. Only one country objected, and it was not Canada.

The government's silence on Iran is a vote cast in its favour, no matter what it tells us. This is a regime brutalizing women for removing their hijab, running IRGC operatives in our streets, and fundraising, organizing and terrorizing our own people on our own soil. The Liberals have never had a single position on Iran, only whichever position costs the least.

The record never lies. Delay and silence are a quiet ballot cast for the tyrants. Iran knows it. Every time the Liberals are in the room, the tyrants keep winning.

Canadian Medical Association

[Hedy Fry, Liberal, Vancouver Centre, BC]

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to welcome to the gallery physicians from across Canada, part of the Canadian Medical Association—

[Some hon. members]

Oh, oh!

[The Speaker, Francis Scarpaleggia]

As the member knows, we cannot point out those who are in the gallery, but the member may restart from the beginning.

[Hedy Fry, Liberal, Vancouver Centre, BC]

Mr. Speaker, physicians from across Canada are here today as part of the Canadian Medical Association's Hill day.

My colleagues are here to deliver this message on behalf of their patients: medicare is in trouble, and we must fix it. I spent years as a physician, standing with patients in times of sorrow, joy, pain, birth and death. It was a privilege and an honour. I saw what happens when a system stretched past its limits is held together only by the dedication of those who deliver care. Our doctors know what is needed to build a more efficient, effective and equitable system.

Let us meet with them and listen to them. Let us end the toxic spread of health disinformation that erodes public trust and risks lives. Let us ensure access to care by all Canadians, especially the vulnerable and the stigmatized.

I ask colleagues to salute doctors across the country, who show up each day for their patients against all odds to deliver the care they need when they need it, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay.

The Economy

[Carol Anstey, Conservative, Long Range Mountains, NL]

Mr. Speaker, after years of the Prime Minister's recycled speeches and empty promises, Canadians are still waiting for relief that never comes. There was nothing new in his latest message; just the same words, while costs rise and families fall further behind. In March, Canada again had the highest grocery price inflation in the G7.

In Newfoundland and Labrador, families are paying more and getting less at the checkouts and at the pumps. We are in an entrepreneurial drought, with 55% of small business owners not recommending starting a business. Why is that? It is because this Prime Minister doubled down on deficits, printed money and kept taxes high, driving up the cost of everything. There are no major resource projects. There is no plan to get our energy to market. Fewer homes are being built, while young families wonder if they will ever afford one. Newfoundlanders and Labradorians do not need another empty Liberal promise; they need results.

Conservatives are fighting to end the waste, cut the taxes, unleash our resources, approve projects and build homes so Canadians can once again afford to live, work and raise a family.

2020 Shootings in Nova Scotia

[Alana Hirtle, Liberal, Cumberland—Colchester, NS]

Mr. Speaker, six years ago this past weekend, my community experienced unthinkable tragedy. Twenty-two lives were lost across Nova Scotia. They were neighbours, friends and family.

These past six years have delivered much pain, sorrow and confusion, but we have also witnessed extraordinary resilience, compassion and solidarity. We have supported one another through the darkest of days and found strength together that we may not have known we possessed. We learned that grief does not have a finish line, but neither does love.

Let us grieve, but not get lost in grief. Let us commit to working together toward the kind of community that honours every life lost.

The Economy

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, Canadian families should be able to fill their grocery carts without emptying their wallets. However, it came out yesterday that in March, Canada had the worst food inflation for the fourth month in a row. All the other G7 countries are facing the same global factors, such as wars and tariffs, but here in Canada, under this Liberal Prime Minister, Canadians are seeing the fastest price increases.

On March 25, the Prime Minister said that affordability was the best it had been in a decade. Does he still believe that to be true?