House of Commons Hansard #113 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was debt.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Weights and Measures Act Second reading of Bill S-3. The bill seeks to [modernize trade laws] by updating regulations for digital and electric technologies. While generally supported, opposition members raised concerns regarding potential [bureaucratic overreach] and a lack of accountability. Specifically, Bloc and Conservative MPs highlighted the need for a fair [appeal process] for businesses after sharing anecdotes about negative experiences with Measurement Canada inspectors. It is now headed to committee for study. 10100 words, 1 hour.
Preventing Coercion of Persons Not Seeking Medical Assistance in Dying Act Second reading of Bill C-260. The bill, Bill C-260, proposes amending the Criminal Code to prohibit government employees from initiating discussions about medical assistance in dying (MAID) with individuals who have not requested information. Proponents argue this prevents the coercion of vulnerable citizens and veterans. Opponents, including the Liberal party, contend the legislation lacks an evidentiary basis, arguing that existing safeguards and training already address these concerns. 7900 words, 1 hour.
The Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia
It being Wednesday, we will now have the singing of the national anthem, led by the member for Kitchener—Conestoga.
[Members sang the national anthem]
Taleeb Noormohamed Liberal Vancouver Granville, BC
Mr. Speaker, British Columbia and Vancouver's Greek community lost a giant earlier this month with the passing of Andreas Arsoniadis.
Those of us who grew up in Vancouver remember Andreas not for his incredible skill with numbers or his entrepreneurial spirit but as the guy who was responsible for feeding us some of the most incredible food: Greek food, pizzas and the most generous portions one could ever imagine. He always greeted us with a big smile and welcomed us into his restaurant like we were coming home. For decade upon decade, he made sure that each and every one of us felt like we belonged when we walked into Andreas Restaurant.
He leaves a massive hole in the heart of the Greek community, of which he was a pioneer and a builder, and a massive hole in the hearts of his loved ones, including sisters Marikoula and Parthena; his children, George, Dimitrios and Kaity; his grandchildren, Mati, Anna, Mia, Amalia, Andreas and Adriana; his first great-grandchild; and so many people in our community who celebrated his life in Van Gran's St. George’s Greek Orthodox Cathedral on April 15.
We will all miss him dearly. May he rest in peace.
Terry Dowdall Conservative Simcoe—Grey, ON
Mr. Speaker, I am proud to announce this year's recipients of the Simcoe—Grey MP Community Leader Awards.
Nelly Galifi manages the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul food bank and volunteers for its response line, helping many community members in crisis.
Mary Beth Sharpe, for 19 years, managed the books at and lent her sewing skills to our not-for-profit Theatre Collingwood, as well as volunteering with local youth charity Home Horizon and the annual Coldest Night of the Year fundraiser.
Donna Baylis has for a decade organized the Creemore Community Christmas Dinner, as well as the annual Christmas markets and Breakfast with Santa events.
Congratulations to Nelly, Mary Beth and Donna. I thank them for their selfless dedication to our community.
I also want to recognize Nilo Ciotti, Canada's oldest living former CFL player, who turned 100 yesterday. I look forward to celebrating this milestone with him and his many family members and friends this weekend in Collingwood.
Salma Zahid Liberal Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East, ON
Mr. Speaker, I recently had the opportunity to meet Superintendent Locke and Sergeant Peterson of the Toronto Police Service 33 Division, join a ride-along and see first-hand the important work our officers do every day to keep our community safe.
Given heightened tensions, local police are increasing patrols around places of worship. We visited Temple Emanu-El synagogue, which faced multiple gunshots last month. Whether at a mosque, synagogue, church or gurdwara, everyone should be able to practice their faith in peace and safety.
I am grateful for the dedication of officers in protecting residents and responding to incidents with care and diligence. I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking our frontline police officers, firefighters and other first responders for their hard work to keep our communities safe.
Raquel Dancho Conservative Kildonan—St. Paul, MB
Mr. Speaker, more than two years ago, Earl Moberg, a beloved husband, father and grandfather from my community in Winnipeg, went missing in the middle of winter. He was living with dementia and, despite extensive search efforts, he was never found. He is presumed deceased.
Unfortunately this tragic story is not unique. By 2030, nearly one million Canadians are expected to be living with dementia. Many will go missing, and when they do, every minute matters. The risk of serious injury or death rises dramatically the longer they are not found.
Canada already has the infrastructure to issue rapid, geotargeted emergency alerts. What we lack is a coordinated national framework to use it for missing vulnerable seniors. My private member's bill, the silver alert national framework act, would fix that and require the federal government to work with provinces and police to ensure that alerts can be issued quickly and consistently across Canada.
This is about giving families a better chance to bring their loved ones home safe and alive. I urge all members to support the bill. Canadians who agree should contact their local MP and ask them to support Bill C-263.
Steeve Lavoie Liberal Beauport—Limoilou, QC
Mr. Speaker, today I want to highlight the success of the CEGEP Limoilou Titans, a women's hockey team from my riding of Beauport—Limoilou.
Last week, after dominating the playoffs from beginning to end, the Titans won the provincial college championship for the third year in a row. This victory is the result of strong teamwork, supported by the inspiring leadership of captain Rosalie Breton, who received the honour of being the playoff MVP. Aside from their great win, the Titans bring prestige to Limoilou and remind us of the importance of supporting and promoting women's sport, which plays a key role in the development of our young people.
I want to congratulate the players, coaches and staff on an exceptional season. Congratulations to the girls. Go, Titans, go!
Eric Duncan Conservative Stormont—Dundas—Glengarry, ON
Mr. Speaker, many people in our community know the decades of service to The Children's Treatment Centre by the legendary Angelo Towndale. I rise today not only to acknowledge his continued contributions but also to highlight someone else who is making a difference in the city of Cornwall and making lives better. His wife, Margaret Towndale, was recognized last week for celebrating an incredible 50 years of volunteering at the Cornwall Community Hospital as a valued member of the Auxiliary. For half a century, Margaret has been a constant presence every week, offering her compassion and unwavering commitment to patients, family and staff.
Fifty years of volunteering is not just a number. It is a lifetime of kindness, generosity and quiet leadership. It speaks to a deep sense of duty and care that has touched countless lives in Cornwall and beyond. Margaret's service reminds us all of the impact one person can make.
I thank Margaret and Angelo for everything. Their inspiration and dedication continue to motivate us all.
Wade Chang Liberal Burnaby Central, BC
Mr. Speaker, earlier this month, I had the honour of taking the floor at the Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Union in Istanbul. As an Asian, an immigrant and a proud gay member of the House, I stand here as proof that representation is about challenging barriers and changing systems.
Let me be very clear: The most powerful force in system change is mindset. Policy reflects mindset, funding follows mindset and programs are built on mindset. If we do not change how we think, we will reproduce inequality more efficiently. If we want different outcomes, we must redesign the system with intention. That means new voices, inclusive leadership and courage over comfort. When we change who decides, we change whom the system serves, and that changes everything.
I urge all members of the House to address barriers facing youth, women, persons with disabilities, immigrants, people experiencing homelessness, and 2SLGBTQIA+ individuals, and to act with urgency to remove those barriers.
Luc Berthold Conservative Mégantic—L’Érable—Lotbinière, QC
Mr. Speaker, “if we turn our backs on the Canadian wood products industry, we are sacrificing our industrial sovereignty and collective pride in favour of cheap imports”. That is a quote from Charles Laflamme, the general manager of South Shore Furniture, who sent a letter to the Liberal Minister of Finance in February. It was a cry for help from Mr. Laflamme, who was dealing with a shrinking U.S. market due to Trump's tariffs, as well as dumping by China and Vietnam, which are currently selling off products at fire sale prices on the Canadian market.
During the last federal election, the Liberal Prime Minister created the illusion that he was the best person to make a deal with the Trump administration. Here is where we stand one year later: Aluminum and steel tariffs have doubled, and new tariffs have been imposed on finished products and mould makers.
South Shore Furniture announced on Monday that it will be shutting down after 86 years serving Sainte‑Croix, in Lotbinière. That means 126 people are going to lose their jobs. It is time for action, not illusions. It is time to get real results for our businesses and for Canadians.
Mario Simard Bloc Jonquière, QC
Mr. Speaker, are you familiar with Angine de Poitrine, which roughly translates to “chest pain”? I am not referring to the medical condition, but to the duo made up of Saguenay natives Khn and Klek de Poitrine, the hottest music phenomenon on the planet.
They are blowing up on social media. Their song Fabienk has become the most viral hit on Spotify worldwide, and they top the charts in 50 different countries, including Canada, the U.S., France, Spain, Australia, and Chile. This is hardly surprising, considering that their music travels more than the Prime Minister.
In the Saguenay region, music is by no means a simple matter of “lah, lah, lah”. With Angine de Poitrine, it also includes “dada pythago-cubist mantra-rock”. Even the most eminent music experts are enthralled by all this innovation. The band's creativity would make Salvador Dali blush, and if Mozart were alive, he would call them geniuses.
Angine de Poitrine is a sign of Quebec's artistic ingenuity and offers further proof that where culture is concerned, our nation knows how to raise the roof and, who knows, maybe even build a country.
Michael Coteau Liberal Scarborough—Woburn, ON
Mr. Speaker, today I am so proud to rise to congratulate the newest inductees to the Scarborough Walk of Fame. This year's honourees are Trevor Godinho for arts and culture, Jesse Asido for business, Geetha Moorthy and John and Cathy Phillips for their community work, Andre De Grasse for his sports efforts, Stan Farrow and Dr. Malloy for education, and Fefe Dobson for entertainment.
Each of these remarkable individuals has demonstrated excellence, leadership and a deep commitment to giving back. Their contributions have left a lasting and positive impact in our community. Scarborough is so proud of them. They reflect the best of our community and indeed the best of Canada. I thank all this year's recipients for inspiring us to dream bigger, to give back and to continue to build a stronger, more vibrant Scarborough.
Ted Falk Conservative Provencher, MB
Mr. Speaker, there are moments in life when one looks back and says, “I could have. I would have. I should have.” We just could be at one of those moments.
The Liberal government is only cancelling a third of the gas tax and for only a third of the year. Canadians do not want to get fooled; they want to get fuelled. Inflation is hurting, and the government can make the right decision to change that. Removing the full 25¢-per-litre of gas taxes could help families get to their child's activities, drive to work and pick up groceries.
Conservatives want a country where Canadians do not have to choose between a full grocery cart and a full tank of gas. Removing all the taxes on gas and diesel for the rest of the year would save the average Canadian family $1,200 per year. That is a huge amount.
Let us not look back on this moment with regret. The Liberals must seize the moment, take our Conservative plan and provide real relief for Canadians today.
Maggie Chi Liberal Don Valley North, ON
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important work of the National Association of Career Colleges and its member institutions.
Career colleges are an important part of Canada's workforce strategy, delivering practical, hands-on training for jobs in high-demand sectors. Across the country, demand is growing for skilled workers in fields such as health care, skilled trades and technology. Career colleges are helping Canadians to build practical skills they will use on the job. This is where career colleges are making a real difference. They expand training capacity, respond quickly to evolving industry demands and create accessible pathways for working adults, newcomers and career changers, people who are ready to contribute and succeed.
As we look to the future, supporting the institutions that are training Canadians for in-demand careers will remain essential to our plan to build Canada strong for all.
Tony Baldinelli Conservative Niagara Falls—Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON
Mr. Speaker, Pete Townsend of The Who wrote the song Won't Get Fooled Again, which has these lines:
Meet the new boss
Same as the old boss
This costly credit card budget confirms that. Can members believe that the man who claims to be the smartest person in the room has doubled Justin Trudeau's deficit?
The Liberals are spending more on their servicing of the debt than they are on health care. These debt-servicing costs will be borne by our children and grandchildren, and they are going to bankers instead of being invested into the health care system to support Canadians from coast to coast.
For all the Liberals' new spending, there was no mention of Niagara, no mention of previously promised funding for the Shaw Festival, nor was there an extension of the critically important wine sector support program.
The self-proclaimed new Liberal government is just more of the same. It spends more and taxes more while Canadians get less and ultimately are simply left holding the bill. Canadians deserve so much better.
Mona Fortier Liberal Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester, ON
Mr. Speaker, I want to take a moment to pay tribute to Gérard Lévesque, who passed away recently. He was a committed Franco-Ontarian and active member of the community in my riding of Etobicoke—Lakeshore.
Gérard dedicated his life to defending and promoting Ontario's francophone community. As a seasoned lawyer, he was a strong advocate for access to justice in French and for French-language education in Ontario. We owe him a debt of gratitude. Gérard was a man of courage and conviction who never hesitated to take decisive action to advance language rights. His commitment has had a real and lasting impact on our community. I had the privilege of working with him, and he really believed in advancing the cause of the francophonie.
Beyond his career, Gérard also was a brilliant writer whose words inspired reflection and dialogue.
Today, we deeply feel his absence, but his legacy remains very much alive. It will continue to inspire future generations.
We offer our deepest condolences to his family, his friends and the entire community. We thank Gérard for everything he did.
Brad Vis Conservative Mission—Matsqui—Abbotsford, BC
Mr. Speaker, Canadians hoped for relief, but this spring economic statement delivers more of the same. The costly credit card budget means more debt, more costs, more spending and more taxes. Nothing has changed. After years of reckless Liberal policies, families are stretched thin and small businesses continue to struggle.
The CFIB said this update leaves “small and medium-sized firms stuck in the same old mix of red tape and high taxes”.
A year ago, the government promised major infrastructure to drive growth. It has failed to deliver, and there is still no credible plan to make its promises a reality. Instead, it has doubled Trudeau's deficit so life is more expensive for Canadians, and no major infrastructure projects are being approved.
Steven Guilbeault Liberal Laurier—Sainte-Marie, QC
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Ron Hallman on his retirement and thank him for his outstanding contribution to Parks Canada.
Ron has been leading this iconic institution with vision and rigour since 2019, and he has worked hard to protect and promote our natural and cultural heritage. He has held a number of important positions throughout his career in the public service, and he has always been driven by a deep commitment to Canadians.
His leadership has contributed to reinforcing conservation, enabling reconciliation with indigenous peoples and bringing Canadians closer to nature. As president and CEO of Parks Canada, Ron Hallman has demonstrated outstanding leadership and dedication to public service. His work has helped to protect some of our country's most treasured landscapes and historic sites for future generations.
On behalf of all Canadians, I thank him, but also his family, for years of service and wish him a well-deserved retirement.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, more costs, more taxes, more debt, more money on the credit card: This Prime Minister is just another Liberal. He has doubled Justin Trudeau's $31‑billion deficit to $65 billion, with $27 billion in new spending this year alone. Now he is forcing Canadians to pay $3,400 per family in interest on the debt.
Is there any limit on the Liberal credit card?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, there are no limits when it comes to what is possible for Canada. The economic update is the next step in our plan to make Canada stronger, more resilient and more independent. Half of the initiatives that we are implementing are designed to make life more affordable for Canadians, and we are strengthening Canada's fiscal position, which is the strongest in the G7.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, he just stole Justin Trudeau's talking points, although he has doubled Mr. Trudeau's deficit. Not only has this Prime Minister left Canadians with the worst food inflation in the G7, but his costly credit card budget is forcing Canadian families to pay $60 billion in interest on our debt. That is more than the government spends on health care and more than it collects in GST.
Canadians are paying more to bankers than they are to nurses and doctors. Why?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, I can sort of understand why the Leader of the Opposition is obsessed with my predecessor and obsessed with the past, but our government is focused on the future of this great country. We have a plan to strengthen our economic growth, which is the second fastest in the G7, and to strengthen our fiscal position, which is the best in the G7. We are going to build Canada strong for all.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, it is just that the Liberal Prime Minister has gone from writing Justin Trudeau's policies to plagiarizing his talking points. Actually, that is not fair to Justin Trudeau. This Liberal Prime Minister has done the impossible: He has doubled the deficit that Trudeau left behind. There is more cost, more debt, more taxes, more on the national credit card and more interest payments for Canadians.
Once again, with Canadians spending $3,000 per family on interest for the debt, is there any limit on the Liberal credit card?
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, in the face of a tariff war, and in the face of an actual war, this government has reduced the deficit by $11 billion. This government has reduced the level of debt across the entire forecast horizon. This government is on track to deliver $60 billion of savings for Canadians. This government is on track to reduce spending on consultants by 20%. This government will build Canada strong for all.
Pierre Poilievre ConservativeLeader of the Opposition
Mr. Speaker, the deficit Justin Trudeau had provided for this year was $31 billion. Yesterday, the Liberal Prime Minister provided a deficit of $65 billion, and 65 is bigger than 31. I will speak slowly for the Liberal mathematicians on the other side of the House.
As The Globe and Mail said, “In the upside-down land of the Liberals, a spending spree is a spending cut, blowing a windfall of billions of dollars is prudent and failing to prepare for a fiscal storm is, well, just good management.”
Mark Carney LiberalPrime Minister
Mr. Speaker, I will not go there.
This government is focused on affordability. Half of the measures in the update are to make life more affordable for Canadians. On June 5, I look forward to 12 million Canadians getting a cheque to help with groceries and essentials. There is also the lower cost of gasoline.
We are building the country strong for all, including Canada's youth with the biggest investment in apprenticeships in our history.