Debates of June 18th, 2026

Clean Water

[Leah Gazan, NDP, Winnipeg Centre, MB]

Mr. Speaker, this has been one of the most disappointing years of my nearly seven years in Parliament, watching the Carney government bulldoze constitutional rights and human rights. The final blow came this week when the Liberals tabled new water legislation after years of failing to end long-term boil advisories. This bill does not recognize safe, clean water as a human right for first nations. Worse, it limits protections to reserve boundaries while ignoring aboriginal title and the reality that pollution from resource extraction flows beyond reserve lines, contaminating the waters our nations depend on.

As the session ends, I will return home to Winnipeg Centre, which I have lovingly nicknamed “the centre of the universe”. It is a community built on care and solidarity, where we understand the importance of always placing community at the centre. I will rest, restore my spirit and return in the fall ready to keep fighting for a better future for everyone.

Stanley Cup

[Marcus Powlowski, Liberal, Thunder Bay—Rainy River, ON]

Mr. Speaker, if we as Canadians ask ourselves what things, what events, define who we are as a people, I think we would be hard-pressed to find anything more quintessentially Canadian than the triumphant moment when the captain of the Stanley Cup-winning team hoists the cup over his head. It is the moment many of us grow up dreaming about. Very few of us actually get to live that dream. However, one of my constituents did last Sunday, as Jordan Staal accepted the cup on behalf of the Carolina Hurricanes, hoisted it in the air and, for a moment, became king of Canada. Not only that, but he won the Conn Smythe Trophy as the playoff most valuable player. Sincerely, I think a lot of Canadians would agree with me in saying that life does not get any better than that.

I offer my congratulations to Jordan, and we look forward to him bringing home the cup this summer.

Cardiac Safety

[Alex Ruff, Conservative, Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound, ON]

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the family-run Tyson Downs Association for donating a new AED SaveStation at Harrison Park in Owen Sound. Tyson Downs was an exceptional 18-year-old athlete and lacrosse player who passed away suddenly in 2023 as the result of cardiac arrest. Yesterday, this new SaveStation was officially unveiled just outside the Harrison Park Inn in Owen Sound. It houses an automated external defibrillator that is now available to the public 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Harrison Park is one of the busiest public spaces in our community. Families, athletes, visitors and community groups use it throughout the year. In an emergency, having an AED close by can make the difference between life and death.

I want to thank the Tyson Downs Association, SaveStation, the Owen Sound Attack, the City of Owen Sound and everyone who helped make this possible. I congratulate them and thank them for helping to improve cardiac safety in our community.

FIFA World Cup

[Amandeep Sodhi, Liberal, Brampton Centre, ON]

Mr. Speaker, olé, olé, olé. Today I rise with great pride as Canada competes on the world stage at the FIFA World Cup. This year, team Canada includes six players from Brampton: Tajon Buchanan, Promise David, Cyle Larin, Liam Millar, Jonathan Osorio and Jayden Nelson. Their talent, discipline and dedication are a true reflection of the hard work that it takes to compete at the highest level. This is a remarkable achievement.

I would also like to take a moment to recognize the parents, coaches, volunteers and families who work day and night to support our young athletes and push them to believe in our country. To all of the players, Canada is cheering them on. On behalf of all members of the House, I would like to wish team Canada the best of luck as they represent our country on the international stage. Together, let us make Canada proud.

Go Canada, go!

Hockey Night in Canada

[Richard Martel, Conservative, Chicoutimi—Le Fjord, QC]

Mr. Speaker, after nearly 75 years, a chapter in history is coming to a close. Like so many Canadians, I remember how my family and I would be glued to the screen on Saturday evenings, watching the Montreal Canadiens led by Lecavalier, Garneau and Pagé.

When I was a coach, I watched Hockey Night in Canada. The brand remains a national legend, and its iconic theme song became our second national anthem. Led by memorable icons like Foster Hewitt, Bob Cole, Danny Gallivan and Ron MacLean, this broadcast perfectly connected our country.

It inspired thousands of young people to take to the ice and join in our national sport, which brings our francophone and anglophone communities together.

Even without Hockey Night in Canada on TV, its mission will continue to resonate from coast to coast.

Shawarma Fest

[Mona Fortier, Liberal, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs]

Mr. Speaker, I am sure you are one who appreciates a great shawarma. On June 7, the second edition of the shawarma festival was held in my riding in the Byward Market. More than 20,000 people attended. It was a massive success and a very tasty one.

A major highlight was the successful attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest shawarma wrap in the world, which reached an impressive length of 373.53 metres. Imagine that. This remarkable effort resulted in a total of 2,451 sandwiches that were donated to the Shepherds of Good Hope.

What is more, I had the privilege of serving as a judge to crown the best shawarma in Ottawa. After tasting nine shawarmas, Boustan took first prize, with 3 Brothers and Shawarma Palace coming in second and third, respectively.

I want to thank Moe Mosalam and the Giza Entertainment team for hosting an incredible event. This is proof that when our community comes together, we do not just break records. We build a stronger, more caring city for everyone.

Anniversary of Canadian Confederation

[Michael Barrett, Conservative, Leeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands—Rideau Lakes, ON]

Mr. Speaker, as Canada prepares to celebrate its 159th birthday, we have every reason to be proud of the country we call home. In Leeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands—Rideau Lakes, that story is written into our landscape. The Rideau Canal helped build a young nation. The Thousand Islands became one of Canada's great treasures. Our farmers have fed Canadians for generations. In every major conflict since Confederation, the men and women of our communities have answered the call to serve. Their story is Canada's story. It is a nation built with hard work by people who served when called and left a stronger country for the next generation.

As we look ahead to July 1, may we celebrate the courage, service and sacrifice that built the Canada we are all proud to call home.

College Innovation

[Ryan Turnbull, Liberal, Whitby, ON]

Mr. Speaker, I could not be more proud that Durham College is helping shape Canada's future through innovation, talent and technology. Under the leadership at Durham College's centre for innovation and research, its AI Hub and Mixed Reality Capture Studio are helping Canadian businesses adopt emerging technologies, improve productivity and bring new products to market.

As members of Tech-Access Canada, these centres connect small and medium-sized businesses, including those in my riding of Whitby, with specialized expertise, equipment and applied research support. Through our government's AI for all strategy and renewed financial support for the college and community innovation program in the spring economic update, which funds the Tech-Access centres, Durham College will be able to support hundreds of Canadian companies in adopting artificial intelligence, commercializing new technologies and competing globally.

I want to say, on behalf of all members on this side of the House, congratulations to Durham College for all the work it does to ensure that Canadian innovators succeed.

Philip Roderick MacAulay

[Greg McLean, Conservative, Calgary Centre, AB]

Mr. Speaker, today we honour the life and legacy of Philip Roderick MacAulay, a long-time president of the Royal Canadian Legion Calgary No. 1 Branch, who passed away on June 11. For more than 50 years, Phil dedicated himself to the Legion, serving veterans, supporting his community and working tirelessly to ensure that the branch remained a vibrant place. A proud navy veteran, Phil spent decades in service, including 20 years as branch president, and earned the Legion's Meritorious Service Medal.

We remember Phil for his humour, his generosity and his unwavering commitment to keeping the Legion relevant for all. Phil's loss will be deeply felt, especially by his wife of 37 years, Susan, who continues her own service to the Royal Canadian Legion Calgary No. 1 Branch. I will miss Phil at Remembrance Day ceremonies and Legion events, for he was a constant presence.

On behalf of this House, I extend our heartfelt condolences. May we all strive to carry forward Phil's spirit of service and remembrance.

Lest we forget.

Jérôme Dupras

[Patrick Bonin, Bloc, Repentigny, QC]

Mr. Speaker, it is official: Quebec has its own Leonardo da Vinci. I am talking about Jérôme Dupras, a researcher, professor, musician, and now, Quebec's chief scientist.

That is right, the bass player for the Cowboys Fringants, who is also an economic and ecological specialist and professor at the Université du Québec en Outaouais, was appointed chief scientist of Quebec. This great man, whose heart is in L'Assomption, will advise the government on scientific matters, lead the Fonds de recherche du Québec and promote science, particularly among young people.

It is not just the Cowboys' music being showcased on the world stage. Jérôme Dupras's expertise has earned him two major and prestigious research chairs, including one with UNESCO. This renowned scientist and influential artist is also a remarkable environmental entrepreneur and an exceptional communicator.

On behalf of the Bloc Québécois, and from one environmental activist to another, I wish my friend every success. May Quebec benefit from his sound advice.

Graduation Congratulations

[Jenna Sudds, Liberal, Kanata, ON]

Mr. Speaker, graduation season is under way, and right now, students across Kanata, Carp, Bells Corners and Stittsville are crossing stages, celebrating one of the biggest milestones in their lives. The class of 2026 has earned this. Years of hard work, perseverance, late nights and the friendships they built along the way have all led to this moment.

Whether they are heading to university or college, learning a skilled trade or doing something entirely new, the path forward is theirs to shape. The future is full of possibilities, and I have no doubt that each one of them will make a meaningful contribution to their community and their country.

I also want to thank the families, teachers, mentors and school staff whose support has helped make this achievement possible.

Congratulations, class of 2026. Be proud of all that you have accomplished. The future is bright, and I look forward to all they will accomplish.

Canadian Democracy

[Shuv Majumdar, Conservative, Calgary Heritage, AB]

Mr. Speaker, 1867 brought a sacred covenant, with free people governing themselves, rising above region and religion and building a sovereign nation on ordered liberty, under laws we wrote ourselves. That promise was betrayed by decades of central control.

The Laurentian consensus treated provinces as problems to manage. Resource wealth was redistributed, development was blocked and jurisdictions were ignored. It was an ideological project from Trudeau the father, which was continued by the son.

Canadians reject it. We hunger for restoration. Canada is the third-oldest democracy on the planet. It is the heir to the Magna Carta and the Declaration of the Rights of Man and the Citizen. Any self-respecting nation fights for its existence. Ours is a federation of equal partners and a vital contribution to the most successful civilization in history. It is being dismantled and it must be restored.

The choice is clear. Either we decline as a grievance-ridden middle power under central control or reclaim the strength and ambition of a rising major power. We will keep the promise of 1867, the promise of our founding and the promise for generations to come.

Stittsville Multicultural Festival

[Bruce Fanjoy, Liberal, Carleton, ON]

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to share good news. The fifth annual Welcome to Stittsville Multicultural Festival is taking place this Saturday, June 20, at Village Square Park in beautiful Stittsville.

The festival brings together residents from all over the region to celebrate diversity through cultural performances, food, music and local organizations. It showcases people and cultures that make our community a wonderful place to live, grow and thrive. I especially thank all the volunteers whose dedication over the years and hard work have made the Welcome to Stittsville Multicultural Festival possible each year.

I encourage everyone to bring family and friends to enjoy all the festival has to offer. It brings out the best of us, it shows the best of us and it is something we can all be proud of.

The Economy

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

Mr. Speaker, for whatever reason, the Prime Minister has told us affordability is the best it has been in decades. Perhaps if he spent less time in Europe, he might be aware that we now have full-time workers living in RVs and trailers. Families who do not have the benefit of luxury, million-dollar inflight catering are spending over 120% of their income on food and rent alone. Some Canadians, who are not Liberal friends or insiders and do not receive luxury Liberal appointments, have even turned to crowdfunding to make ends meet. In my riding, the Central Okanagan Food Bank is now serving 12,000 people. That is a 20% increase.

Despite record deficit spending after he promised Canadians he would spend less, the Prime Minister is the only G7 leader to take his country into a recession. Make no mistake. The Liberals' inflationary spending and antidevelopment policies created this recession and cost of living crisis. These are Liberal choices. Only the Conservatives will end wasteful spending, cut bureaucracy, restore accountability and replace Liberal excess with results.

50th Anniversary of the Olympic Stadium

[Marie-Gabrielle Ménard, Liberal, Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est, QC]

Mr. Speaker, believe me, there are many reasons to go to Hochelaga—Rosemont‑Est this summer. There are balcony concerts. There is the one-of-a-kind mobility scooter race—and, no, I am not making that up. There is also “Hochlag”, an outdoor wrestling event, where wrestling is a tradition that endures.

Today, I especially want to invite everyone to join in the celebrations of an iconic structure, not only for eastern Montreal, but also for Canada. I am referring to our magnificent Olympic Stadium, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer. In 1976, Montrealers, Canadians and the world discovered this engineering feat, designed by Roger Taillibert, during the Montreal Olympic Games. Over the summer, visitors will enjoy tours, exhibits and a large commemorative show.

The cherry on top is that, yes, the queen of the Montreal Games herself has confirmed she will be attending. I look forward to seeing our beloved Nadia soon. I will be holding a perfect score card of 10 when I get to greet her.

Public Safety

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Battle River—Crowfoot, AB]

Mr. Speaker, for over a century and a half, Canadians took for granted that when people came here from around the world, they left their problems behind. Foreign wars stayed on the other side of the pond, but after a decade of Liberal immigration, Liberal borders, Liberal catch-and-release crime and Liberal terror laws, those problems are coming here. Harassment, intimidation, guns for hire, shootings at homes, businesses and schools and foreign regimes paying for attacks on Canadian soil have become a regular story.

Canada's Persian community is one of the prime victims. The media reports that there are 700 IRGC-linked officials on the ground, and many more who are part of that regime, who continue to terrorize people and use the plunder they stole from the Iranian people.

It is time for real action. Finally set up the foreign agent registry, kick out all of the IRGC and other regime officials and prevent new ones from coming in. Then, and only then, will we make Canada safe at home and restore the promise here at home.

ALS Awareness Month

[Rob Oliphant, Liberal, Don Valley West, ON]

Mr. Speaker, June is ALS Awareness Month. As a progressive and fatal neurodegenerative disease, ALS, or Lou Gehrig’s disease, gradually reduces a person's ability to move, speak, eat and, eventually, breathe. Daily life changes within months of diagnosis, and life expectancy is dramatically reduced.

However, there is hope. Researchers are making impressive advances in ALS treatment. Last year, scientists at Sunnybrook hospital's Hurvitz brain sciences program in Don Valley West achieved a world first by non-invasively delivering immunotherapy directly to the brain of an ALS patient. Home to Canada's largest ALS clinic, Sunnybrook is steadily improving care for patients with ALS.

The ALS Society is central to this. To them, I say congratulations for nearly 50 years of advocacy representing Canadians with ALS.

Lastly, to patients with ALS, like the late Mauril Bélanger and my friend Chris May, and to their families, their courage inspires us every day.

The Economy

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, as this Prime Minister wraps up his third session, I am asking people a question. Are groceries, gas, and mortgage payments any cheaper? Are the streets any safer? Canada is the only G20 country in a recession. The Prime Minister has doubled the deficit. The cost of gas, groceries, and mortgage payments are nearing an all-time high.

Instead of more illusions, promises and excuses, will the Prime Minister stand up now to defend his disastrous record?

[Steven MacKinnon, Liberal, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons]

Mr. Speaker, since we are wrapping up a very productive session, I would like to wish the Leader of the Opposition and his entire family a wonderful summer. May he enjoy it just as we will all enjoy the time we spend with our families.

We introduced 21 bills during this 15-week parliamentary session. We carried out the most extensive criminal justice reform in Canadian history. We have helped lower the cost of living for millions of Canadians, and we will continue to work hard to keep making progress.

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, my question was for the Prime Minister, who missed his 100th question period to avoid defending his record on the cost of living, the Liberal recession, the doubling of the deficit—

[The Speaker, Francis Scarpaleggia]

It seems to me that some rules are being broken.

The hon. Leader of the Opposition may continue, but I would ask him to be careful.

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Battle River—Crowfoot, AB]

Mr. Speaker, I will be careful about the fact that the Prime Minister cannot defend the cost of living, which is skyrocketing, or the Liberal recession, which is the only one in the entire G20. Instead of offering illusions and making excuses, he should take accountability.

Will he stand up in the House of Commons and tell everyone when life will become more affordable and when the Liberal recession will end?

[François-Philippe Champagne, Liberal, Minister of Finance and National Revenue]

Mr. Speaker, during this final question period before the summer recess, I would have expected the Leader of the Opposition to thank the Prime Minister of Canada for the work he did at the G7 summit. We brought back 13 deals that will generate $5 billion. Of course, the Prime Minister of Canada is representing Canada at an international event today.

The 174 Liberal members on this side of the House are a team, a strong team that is always there to build Canada strong. We are going to build the strongest economy in the G7, and I hope the Leader of the Opposition will applaud this government's success.

[Pierre Poilievre, Conservative, Leader of the Opposition]

Mr. Speaker, as the Prime Minister ends his third session, I ask this question: Are our groceries, gas and mortgage payments more affordable than they were a year ago, and are our streets safer or more riddled with crime?

Aside from his endless announcements, excuses and promises, the Prime Minister has doubled the deficit and increased housing costs. Homebuilding is actually down. Gas, groceries and mortgage payments are nearing record highs.

Will the Prime Minister put aside the illusions and stand up in this House of Commons now and defend his disastrous results?

[Steven MacKinnon, Liberal, Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons]

Mr. Speaker, we are at the end of a session, and I wish the Leader of the Opposition, his colleagues and obviously his family a restful summer, as I wish for all my colleagues on this side of the House.

I want to point out that we are finishing one of the most productive legislative sessions in recent history. Twenty-one bills have become law through this chamber. We have passed the largest criminal justice reform in the history of Canada. Liberals are the law and order party now. We have put in place a series of measures to make life easier and more affordable for Canadians.

We are not stopping there. We are going to continue the work. We are going to build Canada strong, and we are going to make this country proud.