House of Commons photo

Crucial Fact

  • His favourite word was offence.

Last in Parliament September 2008, as Liberal MP for Welland (Ontario)

Lost his last election, in 2011, with 14% of the vote.

Statements in the House

Points of Order May 2nd, 2006

Mr. Speaker, in response to my supplementary question to the Minister of International Trade, the member for Vancouver Kingsway, I allege my honesty was impugned in that he referred to me as, “if this man was an honest man”.

I refer you, Mr. Speaker, to Marleau and Montpetit, page 525, where it states:

The proceedings of the House are based on a long-standing tradition of respect for the integrity of all Members...Personal attacks, insults and obscene language or words are not in order.

I respectfully suggest that the minister's comments are unparliamentary. I appreciate that they may be given in the heat of the moment, but I request that he would apologize and withdraw his remarks.

Softwood Lumber May 2nd, 2006

Mr. Speaker, NAFTA's dispute settlement mechanism and Canada's sovereignty over industry practices are both undermined by this deal. It includes an exit clause that workers say is code for the Americanization of Canadian forest policies. A spokesperson for 40% of the industry says this deal is the worst he has seen in 35 years.

I know the minister's pension is more secure now since Canfor is set to receive a nice cheque, but why did he sign a seven year sell-out that could permanently hobble Canadian producers?

Softwood Lumber May 2nd, 2006

Mr. Speaker, yesterday the trade minister defended leaving $1.5 billion of Canadian softwood money in Washington and the fact that Canadian softwood producers will have a full year delay before they get a penny back. He also defended the inclusion of a clause that allows the U.S. to veto Canadian forestry management practices or to help our industry in difficult market conditions.

With our dollar at a 30 year high, will the minister admit that this deal has left producers worse off than they were last Tuesday?

Petitions May 2nd, 2006

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 36, I rise in the House today to present a petition from the constituents of Welland riding.

The petition calls upon Parliament to lift barriers that prevent refugees from reaching Canada; provide national leadership to address the causes that force people from their homes and prevent them from returning; reform Canada's justice and refugee and immigration system to ensure full access to due process and fundamental justice; speed the immigration process for reuniting refugees and their families; and take further measures to help newcomers integrate into Canadian society.

Canada-U.S. Border Security April 11th, 2006

Mr. Speaker, a group of U.S. governors, senators and representatives announced plans to fight the congressional requirement for Canadians and Americans to present passports when crossing our common border. At least these American legislators recognize the devastating effect that passport entry requirements will have on trade and tourism.

This is in contrast to our own government that simply is throwing in the towel and running up the white flag. When will the Minister of Public Safety stand up for Canada?

Committees of the House November 28th, 2005

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 18th report of the Standing Committee on Justice, Human Rights, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness.

In accordance with the orders of reference of June 7 and June 27, and its mandate under Standing Order 108(1), the committee has established a subcommittee with a mandate to examine the process for appointments to the federal judiciary and make recommendations for reform.

I wish to thank the member for Charlesbourg--Haute-Saint-Charles, chair of the subcommittee, for bringing forward this initiative, and also the members of the subcommittee and the standing committee for their contributions.

I also have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 19th report of the Standing Committee on Justice, Human Rights, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness.

In accordance with the order of reference of Wednesday, May 4, the committee has considered Bill C-215, an act to amend the Criminal Code (consecutive sentence for use of firearm in commission of offence), and agreed on Monday, November 28 to report it with amendments.

Industry November 22nd, 2005

Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister of Industry. The Canadian Steel Partnership Council is holding its inaugural meeting in Ottawa this afternoon. Could the minister tell us how this new initiative will help support Canada's steel industry?

CKTB Radio November 17th, 2005

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in the House today to congratulate CKTB Radio on its 75th anniversary which was celebrated on November 7, 2005.

Indeed, CKTB has come a long way since its modest beginning in St. Catharines, Ontario on the second floor of the Welland House Hotel in 1930 when it was founded by Edward T. Sandall.

Over the years the radio station has expanded from a small remote station to a communications leader in the Niagara Peninsula. In 1936 CKTB became an affiliate of the new CBC network and since 1965 has been on the air 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. A reliable source for breaking news as well as a public, community and entertainment information beacon, the radio station reflects the lifestyle of Niagara. Its continuing presence will be welcome for years to come.

CKTB is to be commended for its exemplary years of community service. I congratulate the radio station, its employees and owner, Standard Radio Inc., on the occasion of this exciting milestone.

Committees of the House November 16th, 2005

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 17th report of the Standing Committee on Justice, Human Rights, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness.

In accordance with its order of reference of Wednesday, September 28 your committee has considered Bill C-53, an act to amend the Criminal Code (proceeds of crime) and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and to make consequential amendments to another act and agreed on Tuesday, November 15 to report it without amendment.

Committees of the House November 14th, 2005

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 16th report of the Standing Committee on Justice, Human Rights, Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness.

In accordance with its order of reference of Monday, November 15, 2004, your committee has considered Bill C-16, An Act to Amend the Criminal Code (impaired driving) and agreed on Thursday, November 3, 2005 to report it with amendments.