House of Commons Hansard #112 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was satellites.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Criminal Code First reading of Bill C-275. The bill, introduced by Conservative MP Blaine Calkins, amends the Criminal Code to define sexual assault material and establishes criminal offences for its creation, distribution, or possession to protect and support sexual assault victims. 300 words.
Canadian Space Launch Act Second reading of Bill C-28. The bill establishes a regulatory framework for commercial space launches in Canada to acquire sovereign launch capabilities and support economic growth. While supporting the goal of space development, Conservatives argue the legislation lacks national security safeguards and relies on excessive ministerial discretion, creating opportunities for patronage. Opposition members also express fiscal concerns, specifically questioning the cost and transparency of a government-funded launch facility lease in Nova Scotia. 36600 words, 5 hours in 2 segments: 1 2.
Spring Economic Update 2026 Members debate the Liberal government's spring economic update, highlighting a new sovereign wealth fund, housing initiatives, and defense spending. Liberals argue their plan maintains fiscal discipline while addressing affordability. Conversely, Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre characterizes the update as an irresponsible borrowing and spending agenda worsening inflation. Simultaneously, Bloc Québécois and NDP MPs criticize the lack of specific support for provinces and insufficient affordability measures, questioning the government’s overall fiscal direction. 24400 words, 3 hours.
Yvan Baker Liberal Etobicoke Centre, ON
Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the fourth report of the Standing Committee on Official Languages, entitled “Proposals from the House of Commons Standing Committee on Official Languages Regarding the Proposed Official Languages Administrative Monetary Penalties Regulations”.
Julie Dzerowicz Liberal Davenport, ON
Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the sixth report of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration, in relation to the motion adopted Wednesday, April 15, 2026, regarding Canada's immigration system.
Burton Bailey Conservative Red Deer, AB
moved for leave to introduce Bill C-275, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (sexual assault material).
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to introduce Melanie's law, my first private member's bill, to bring justice for victims of sexual assault.
The inspiration for the bill unfortunately arises from a feeling of dread. When a resident of Red Deer, someone I consider a friend, reached out to tell me about a network of abusers in Canada who drug their intimate partners, sexually assault them, film the assaults and distribute the videos online, I was shocked, not only because I learned that this is happening but also because it happened to my friend, the constituent's wife, in a previous relationship.
Imagine the anguish a loving husband feels upon discovering that his wife, the most important person in his life, was victimized without her knowledge, a profound violation that leaves justice feeling painfully out of reach. At the same time, his heart breaks for the unimaginable pain she endured, her peace of mind and sense of safety stolen from her.
Hearing their story, I felt compelled to help bring justice for Melanie and to do whatever I can to help heal their hurt. Melanie's law would put victims' rights first. It would create a definition of sexual assault material in the Criminal Code and make it a criminal offence to create, distribute or possess such material. We have a duty to ensure that people who commit these horrific crimes face real consequences and that victims are never treated as secondary to their abusers.
I urge all members of the House to support Melanie's law and deliver justice for Melanie and for the many others who have suffered in silence.
(Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)
Garnett Genuis Conservative Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan, AB
Mr. Speaker, tomorrow the House will begin debate on Bill C-260, the care not coercion act.
Reports, including many media stories, as well as evidence heard by parliamentary committees, have indicated the serious problem of seniors, veterans, people living with disabilities and those living in poverty being offered MAID, facilitated death, by bureaucrats when they are trying to access unrelated public services. These unprompted offers can cause serious distress, be coercive in nature and make it more difficult for people to access public services in the future. In fact the CEO of Inclusion Canada, Krista Carr, has testified that she hears weekly complaints from people with disabilities about this problem.
The petition highlights various other cases, including that of Christine Gauthier, a veteran living with disabilities who spent five years trying to get funding for a wheelchair stairlift from Veterans Affairs Canada. A caseworker offered her facilitated death instead. This is one of many instances of cases involving Veterans Affairs Canada.
Bill C-260, the care not coercion act, to prevent coercion of persons not seeking medical assistance in dying, would prevent these instances of coercion in which a bureaucrat offers medically facilitated death to people who are not seeking it.
The people who signed the petition want the House to support Bill C-260, the care not coercion act, as it begins debate tomorrow, and they want more action to combat the problem of MAID coercion.
Philip Lawrence Conservative Northumberland—Clarke, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a petition with respect to catastrophic birth injuries. The petitioners and signatories want to stand up for accountability and for the rights of people who have been affected by catastrophic birth injuries.
Richard Bragdon Conservative Tobique—Mactaquac, NB
Mr. Speaker, I rise on behalf of Canadians and residents of Canada to present a petition in the House of Commons calling upon the federal government and the House of Commons to recognize the efforts of the free people of Iran to establish an open, free democracy and to stand with the good people of Iran who have been longing, for 47 years, for freedom from the oppressive regime they have been under.
It gives me great honour to present this petition today on their behalf.
Brad Vis Conservative Mission—Matsqui—Abbotsford, BC
Mr. Speaker, today I rise to present three petitions.
The first petition is from the Mission Self Advocacy Group. Petitioners are calling upon the Government of Canada to significantly reduce administrative and paperwork requirements regarding the Canada dental benefit. They want the program to be more accessible and effective for low- and modest-income Canadians and those who have difficulty filling out the enormous amount of paperwork associated with the program.
Brad Vis Conservative Mission—Matsqui—Abbotsford, BC
Mr. Speaker, the second petition I would like to present on behalf of my constituents is regarding Bill C-218 and MAID. My constituents are deeply concerned about the proposed expansion of medical assistance in dying to individuals whose sole underlying condition is a mental illness.
Petitioners are calling upon the Government of Canada to support Bill C-218 and halt the expansion of MAID for people with only mental illness as their underlying condition.
Brad Vis Conservative Mission—Matsqui—Abbotsford, BC
Mr. Speaker, the third petition I would like to present is on behalf of the Miami River Streamkeepers. They are calling for sustained funding for conservation efforts at the local level to support British Columbia's iconic salmon species.
Bardish Chagger Liberal Waterloo, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise to present petition e-6898, a petition on social affairs and equality, initiated by Tanner Bergsma, a constituent of the riding of Waterloo.
Petitioners recognize that there are benefits within the country, but they feel that these benefits do not go far enough for the challenges they are facing.
Petitioners are calling upon the House of Commons and Parliament assembled to establish a national living benefit to ensure that all Canadians with disabilities and seniors receive a guaranteed income above the official poverty line. They would like it to be indexed to inflation, and they want to also ensure that it is protected from provincial clawbacks.
Kevin Lamoureux LiberalParliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
Mr. Speaker, I would ask that all questions be allowed to stand, please.
Questions on the Order PaperRoutine Proceedings
Questions on the Order PaperRoutine Proceedings
The Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia
[For text of questions and responses, see Written Questions website]
Steven MacKinnon LiberalMinister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
moved that Bill C-28, An Act to amend the Aeronautics Act and other Acts, be read the second time and referred to a committee.
Mr. Speaker, it is a great day for Canada to debate this bill. As we know, Canada has a long history of space exploration, a history of which we should be very proud. From Alouette 1, which made us only the third country in the world to launch a satellite into orbit, to the Canadarm, to the achievements of our astronauts, Canadians have always led the way to the stars.
We have built a reputation as a trusted partner in space exploration. We are recognized for our excellence in robotics, earth observation, satellite communications and bold science missions. However, history alone will not secure our future. Countries around the world are in a mad dash to secure their share in a rapidly expanding space industry. Businesses are investing billions of dollars and demand for launch services is skyrocketing, while governments, researchers and private companies are deploying satellites at an unprecedented pace. Canada cannot afford to sit on the sidelines.
Today, Canada is the only G7 country without its own sovereign space launch and re-entry capabilities. Right now, Canada has to rely on other countries to launch our satellites into orbit, even though the satellites support our infrastructure, our defence and about 20% of our economy. Canadian expertise, investments and jobs in this rapidly growing and important sector are leaving to go elsewhere, but today this would change, with the Canada space launch act.
The legislation would deliver sovereign launch capabilities for Canada, attracting billions of dollars in investments, creating good-paying jobs, strengthening our sovereignty and building on Canada's proud history of innovations in space. The global space economy is currently undergoing a rapid transformation and expansion. In just the next six years, the global space economy will grow by more than 215% and be worth $1.5 trillion. We must urgently act to advance the legislation, because if we delay, Canadians will miss out on this enormous economic opportunity. With the passage of the legislation, we could create thousands of jobs and build our own domestic industry that is projected to be worth $40 billion.
Sovereign space launch capabilities are not a partisan issue. They are a nation-building opportunity. I encourage all parties and all members of the House to support the Canadian space launch act, not just for our sovereignty and not just for our economy but for every Canadian who relies on the technologies and services that space enables.
The truth is simple. In 2026, space is no longer a distant frontier. It is an important part of our daily lives, our economy and our national security. Space is essential for our future. When Canadians tap their phone for directions, satellites guide them. When farmers optimize their crops, satellites provide the data. When we monitor wildfires, track marine traffic or respond to natural disasters, satellites are the backbone of our response. When planes cross the North Atlantic, satellites keep them connected and safe. When remote communities access broadband, satellites increasingly bridge the gap. When our armed forces operate at home or abroad, satellites provide the communications, navigation and intelligence they rely on.
Satellites are critical infrastructure. They are as essential to our economy and our well-being as roads, ports and power grids, but satellites are only as reliable as our ability to launch, maintain, defend and replace them.
This is why it is essential to have sovereign launch capability. By taking the appropriate steps, Canada will become a country capable of conducting commercial space launches, which will serve our national interests and support our allies.
An important first step is to implement the Canadian space launch act. This legislation is urgently needed to support new economic growth, acquire a sovereign launch capability and prevent Canada from being left behind. Without launch capability, our country and our space industries will remain dependent on foreign nations for access to space. This increases costs, lengthens timelines and creates greater uncertainty for the sector.
If we do not establish a modern and comprehensive framework for launches and re‑entry, we risk losing investment, talent and our competitive advantage. We risk seeing Canadian companies exporting their innovations abroad because they cannot launch them here at home. We risk becoming dependent on foreign launches at a time when access to space is becoming a matter of national security. We cannot let this happen any longer.
The Canadian space launch bill is about ensuring that Canada can seize the economic opportunity, while also keeping our investments at home and repatriating our world-leading Canadian expertise. It is about strengthening our competitiveness, our economy and our national security.
Now, some would ask: Why launch from Canada? The answer is simple, Canada has unique strengths that the world increasingly values. We have a long coastline that allows for safe launch corridors over open water. We have a stable political system, a predictable regulatory environment and, indeed, a highly skilled workforce.
As existing global launch infrastructure approaches capacity, international companies are actively seeking alternative launch sites in stable, trusted countries. Canadian space launches are a competitive advantage that we must capitalize on now. Other countries are already moving to develop their own capabilities. If we do not act now, we risk watching investment flow elsewhere, to jurisdictions that move faster, with clearer rules and stronger incentives.
Space is no longer a benign environment. It is increasingly contested, and our allies are investing heavily in space-based defence capabilities. They are strengthening their resilience against threats to satellites and ground infrastructure. They are ensuring they can quickly replace damaged assets, if required. Canada must do the same. A sovereign launch capability would strengthen Arctic domain awareness, support NORAD modernization, enhance our ability to monitor wildfires, floods and maritime activity, and ensure continuity of critical satellite services. It would contribute to NATO investment-sharing and capability targets.
It would also allow Canada to support its allies' launches, thereby strengthening our security partnerships and reinforcing our role as a reliable partner.
This bill lays the essential groundwork for safe, secure and responsible commercial space launches and re-entries directly from Canada. It establishes a modern framework that accounts for risks, aligns with international best practices and is backed by robust oversight.
This bill also recognizes that responsible authorization for space launch and re-entry operations requires that potential financial liabilities be properly managed and safeguards be established before they are needed. These amendments will establish an insurance and indemnification system tailored to the specific risks associated with space launches and atmospheric re-entry. This system would require operators to demonstrate financial accountability in order to protect Canadians and would reinforce Canada's commitment to act as a responsible space-faring nation. This bill allows us to establish such a framework in a manner consistent with international best practices and in a way that provides our space sector with the clarity and certainty it has long sought.
The Canadian space launch bill is built, therefore, on six core pillars: number one, clear authority to regulate launch and re-entry; number two, a modern licensing framework that reduces duplication and closes regulatory regulatory gaps; number three, safety and security requirements tailored to launch and re-entry activities; number four, a financial responsibility and indemnification regime aligned with international norms; number five, structured land use and site authorization processes; and six, oversight, compliance and enforcement tools to maintain public confidence.
Together, these pillars form the foundation of a safe, competitive and future-ready launch sector. Across the country, Canadian innovators are already stepping up. NordSpace, based in Ontario and expanding into Newfoundland and Labrador, is developing one of Canada's first commercial space ports, creating jobs, attracting investment and inspiring the next generation.
Reaction Dynamics, a Quebec-based company, is developing cutting-edge launch vehicles that require limited infrastructure, which could place Canada at the forefront of launch technologies.
For Telesat, a domestic launch capability would offer an additional reliable pathway to orbit for their lightspeed constellation, which aims to deliver high-speed Internet access to remote areas in Canada and around the world by 2030. These companies, and many others, are ready to grow in Canada and to compete globally. What they need is a modern legal framework that supports their ambitions, and that is what this legislation would deliver.
Again, this is not a partisan issue. It is a nation-building opportunity. Supporting this legislation means supporting economic growth, job creation, innovation, national security and sovereignty. It means ensuring that Canadian companies can compete on a level playing field. It means giving our researchers, our entrepreneurs and our armed forces the tools they need to succeed. It means positioning Canada as a space-faring nation, one of only a handful in the world. It means telling the world that when it comes to the new space economy, Canada intends to be a builder, a partner and a leader.
I encourage all parties to support this bill so that Canada can seize the unique opportunity that we have before us and strengthen our sovereignty in an increasingly complex world. Once the bill is passed, we will be able to develop detailed regulations and work with the provinces and industry to coordinate our efforts to support the development of launch sites and related infrastructure. This is the next chapter in Canada's space history and we cannot miss it.
Canada has a proud history in space, but history alone will not secure our future. We must act. We must modernize. We must seize the opportunity before us. The Canadian space launch act is our chance to do exactly that to build a stronger economy, a more resilient country and a more sovereign future. Let us take this step together.
Let us go down that road together. Let us be ambitious. Let us provide scientific and economic opportunities to young people who dream about space.
Let us ensure that, when Canadians look to the stars, they see a future built right here by Canadians, for Canadians and for the world.
Dan Albas Conservative Okanagan Lake West—South Kelowna, BC
Madam Speaker, the Conservatives agree that Canada has a proud history in space and that we have great talent and great opportunities in space. However, we have to set aside the past and future in terms of our idealism because what the minister was speaking about was sovereignty. We must be real. We must look at the bill as it is, right here and right now.
In the bill, the minister has not even defined what launch and relaunch are. The minister has not introduced a bill that would protect our sovereignty. There is no national security screening of payloads. A firm from another country could use any rocket launch as an ability to put a dual-use satellite into orbit, undermining our sovereignty, particularly when satellites are looking at the north. I would like the minister to address these subjects.
Steven MacKinnon Liberal Gatineau, QC
Madam Speaker, where am I to begin?
I suppose if we wanted to contemplate a number of things, like the member just did, we could. This bill would permit the establishment of a regulatory framework for space launches from Canada. I have outlined the scientific, the economic and, yes, the sovereignty rationale for putting in place this regulatory framework. What would follow are, indeed, rules.
Now, just to take but one example of what the member evokes, the Canadian Space Agency would be involved in examining payloads. I think the member underestimates the role of our own Canadian Armed Forces in launching satellites and enabling their launches from Canada, launching Canadian security material from Canadian spaceports. That is an important part of it. I will have the ability to go on further as we continue with questions.
Xavier Barsalou-Duval Bloc Pierre-Boucher—Les Patriotes—Verchères, QC
Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate the minister on his speech and on introducing this bill. I do not know whether he drafted it himself, but in any case, I believe it was something that needed to be done. As we know, humans have been exploring space for 60 years now, yet Canada still did not have any framework legislation on this matter. Now that gap will be filled.
With this bill, the minister is aiming to exempt projects from being subject to certain laws, including the Canadian Transportation Agency Act, which would not regulate space travel. While I can understand that not that many people will be travelling into space, that does not change the fact that this is part of a trend where the government is constantly trying to exempt certain projects or initiatives from certain laws.
In the future, it may be necessary to reinstate the role of the Canadian Transportation Agency if space travel becomes very popular and there are a significant number of travellers. Does the minister see this as something that is intended to be permanent?
Steven MacKinnon Liberal Gatineau, QC
Madam Speaker, I think it is important to point out that the safety of our communities, the safety surrounding space launches, is central to our process. We propose to create regulations specifically designed to reassure these communities that launches like these can occur safely.
Of course, the transportation-related work of the Canadian Transportation Agency involves what we might term “conventional transportation”. However, we think that specific regulations ensuring everyone's safety under this bill would be the best solution.
No, I did not draft the bill, since we have a space industry in Canada that was able to assist in drafting this bill, and I am very proud to introduce it on its behalf.
Kevin Lamoureux LiberalParliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
Madam Speaker, a year ago today, Canadians elected a new Prime Minister, and that Prime Minister talked about the importance of securing Canada and making Canada a stronger, healthier country. I think it is significant that today we are going into an area in which Canada has not been before, which has the potential to create thousands of jobs. It would put us with other G7 countries, recognizing that the ability to launch is necessary.
I appreciate the legislation. I am wondering if my colleague could provide his thoughts in terms of, when the Prime Minister talks about making Canada more secure, building jobs and creating opportunities, how the legislation plays into the agenda of the Prime Minister and the government.
Steven MacKinnon Liberal Gatineau, QC
Madam Speaker, my colleague hits the nail right on the head. This is a part of building Canada strong. This is about carving out a place to serve Canadians using Canadian hands, Canadian minds, Canadian ambition, Canadian technology and a Canadian supply chain that stretches right across this country. This would give Canada the ability to control end to end. We are already world leaders in satellites, robotics and space. Let us take our space assets and get them to the stars on our own.
Dan Albas Conservative Okanagan Lake West—South Kelowna, BC
Madam Speaker, the minister needs to talk about exactly why he has chosen the bill to give himself so much power. He would be approving permits and re-entries, launches, etc. The list goes on. Indemnification is essentially where the taxpayer offers insurance to private operators for indemnifying their launches. The way the bill is written, the minister could give special treatment to one firm and a different set of rules for another.
How can the minister look at this Parliament in the eye and say that he is trying to attract capital with such an opaque system that would be so arbitrary in how it will be applied? If we want to do well in space, we need to have the rule of law, not the rule of one minister, where he can pick and choose winners and losers.
Steven MacKinnon Liberal Gatineau, QC
Madam Speaker, I would encourage my hon. colleague to look around the world where space launches are permitted. Canada would do essentially what those other countries have done in terms of an insurance scheme and an insurance regulatory infrastructure. I would stress that private companies that are looking to launch satellites or other payloads would be required to have insurance that would protect from risks. The Government of Canada would, of course, assess their insurance and their coverage as it assesses the appropriateness of all of these launches.
The Minister of Transport regulates a lot of things in this country. The number one thing that we regulate is safety. We are here to protect Canadians, and the powers we deploy are specifically and principally in service of that objective of keeping Canadians safe.
Tamara Jansen Conservative Cloverdale—Langley City, BC
Madam Speaker, Canadians are being told that this is about building a space industry for the future, and of course, we all want to see Canada succeed in that space. However, they are also looking at this and asking a very basic question: How does a government end up committing $200 million of taxpayer money to lease a launch pad that is not even operational?
Is this what happens when we move away from a rules-based, accountable framework, like the one that was built under Stephen Harper, and toward a discretionary, cheque-writing approach that looks a lot more like a Liberal‑style “enriching close friends” type of government?
Steven MacKinnon Liberal Gatineau, QC
Madam Speaker, that is an interesting one. I want to acknowledge the member's, and perhaps that of other members of the opposition, devotion to following conspiracy theories online.
Let us talk about economic impact. In one of the great places in Canada, which is Nova Scotia, it could add 16,000 jobs and add $300 million to our GDP alone. It is currently under construction and set to be completed in 2028.
I will read a quote: “We are proud that Nova Scotia is home to Canada’s first commercial spaceport and recognize the critical role Maritime Launch [Services] will play in offering a satellite launch facility to the global market.” That was Premier Tim Houston in 2023.