Pierre Pettigrew

[National Defence, October 14th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, the missile defence shield is an extremely important issue for all Canadians, and certainly for Quebeckers as well. We are in North America, and obviously the security, future and defence of our continent concern us.

Our government has been in discussions with the United States as to whether this defence shield is the solution of the future. We have always discussed the security of our continent in NORAD with the United States.

Changes are happening in the United States. They want to move in a certain direction. We are sitting down with the Americans. We have established very specific criteria for Canada's participation. The government will make its decision in due time.

[Foreign Affairs, October 13th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, there is an investigation underway at this time. Let us allow it to come to an end before pointing the finger at any Canadian companies. The United Nations is looking into it, and we will keep close tabs on the outcome. At this time, however, it is important not to sully the reputation of the Canadian companies.

[Foreign Affairs, October 13th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister uses all opportunities that he has with leaders whether in Paris or Moscow. We think the Prime Minister had a very good visit yesterday in Moscow, where he brought certain elements to the attention of President Putin.

On Iraq and the other subjects that the member is raising, we are of course always promoting full support for the work of the United Nations and for transparency on these issues.

[Ukraine, October 13th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, on September 21 our ambassador in Kiev declared publicly Canada's serious concern that the elections may fail to meet democratic standards.

The Government of Canada is sending about 40 observers, one of the largest contingents ever to observe the election. Our embassy is also leading an informal group of 25 diplomatic missions working together in Ukraine to monitor electoral developments.

Canada is actively engaged in efforts to encourage a free and fair election in Ukraine.

[Foreign Affairs, October 12th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, it is very important that Parliament express itself. The government has to take its responsibilities and govern the country. This is exactly the kind of democracy we have. Parliament expresses itself. Parliament legislates. The government has to respect its international obligations. It has to take the initiative and Parliament has the responsibility to keep it in check.

We are supporting a one China policy. The World Health Organization is an international body and this is the policy that directed our vote last time, as it has for the last 15 years.

[Foreign Affairs, October 12th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, for a number of decades in this country there has been a one China policy, which directed our vote at the World Health Organization last time as it has for the past many years that this vote has arisen.

We support the one China policy at the World Health Organization and elsewhere. However we appreciate very much our working and trade relationship with Taiwan. I think this reflects the view of Canadians.

[Foreign Affairs, October 12th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, the first election in Afghanistan has been a great success and according to reports received there was a high turnout, particularly by women voters.

Voting day was not particularly violent. This indicates the great determination of the people of Afghanistan and of the international community. The commitment of Canada and the rest of the international community has helped the people of Afghanistan take an important step forward during this period of transition.

Some candidates have alleged irregularities and these are being investigated. A Canadian diplomat will be among the three experts on the review panel hearing these complaints. In the meantime, all the signs coming out of the elections are quite positive.

[National Defence, October 6th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, it has been a longstanding practice that international treaties are the responsibility of the executive in our system of government. However, we have already had discussions on this.

Our tradition is a long-established one. In Canada, international treaties are the responsibility of the government.

Still, it is obvious that these debates and discussions are now taking place in the House of Commons, and this practice will continue. It is obvious that parliamentary committees will also do their work. However, the responsibility for international treaties rests with the government.

[Canada-U.S. Relations, October 6th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, this government is absolutely determined to continue to strengthen our relationship with the United States.

We have the best allies, the best neighbours. We will continue to build a strong North America. However we will want to make sure that all parliamentarians behave and we expect the same thing on the other side.

[Canada-U.S. Relations, October 6th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, I would like the Conservative Party and that member to get as outraged when sometimes some congressmen say outrageous things about Canada. Those things happen. Parliamentarians sometimes say things. They do not represent necessarily the view of our government. But they never get outraged when there are things said sometimes about Canada.

We will tell members one thing. Our government will continue--