Gérard Binet

[Grammy Awards, February 28th, 2002]

Madam Speaker, I would like to extend my congratulations to all the Canadian singers, musicians and composers who were nominated for Grammys at the 44th annual Grammy Awards last evening.

It was an exciting evening for Nelly Furtado. She received nominations in four major categories and won for best female pop vocal performance. Some 1.7 billion people watching the evening live heard her perform her song I'm like a bird . Cellist Denise Kjokic also performed.

Joni Mitchell received the Lifetime Achievement Grammy. This is the first time a Canadian musician has been awarded this recognition for his or her important contribution to the music industry. Joni is a singer, a songwriter and a painter. She has more than 20 albums to her credit and has been a presence in the Canadian music world for more than 30 years.

Please join with me in congratulating all of our Canadian musicians on their success at the Grammy Awards.

[Guaranteed Income Supplement, February 27th, 2002]

Mr. Speaker, the Bloc Québécois loves to stir up panic among seniors about the guaranteed income supplement. As soon as the report by the Standing Committee on Human Resource Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities was tabled, I took the initiative of informing seniors on their entitlement to these benefits.

My office received more than 425 calls, and after investigation it was found that only 5% of cases needed to be harmonized.

The Bloc Québécois loves to perpetuate myths among the population by playing on their vulnerability and insecurity, merely for political gain. This is unacceptable.

[National Flag of Canada Day, February 18th, 2002]

Mr. Speaker, last Friday was National Flag of Canada Day.

This day is an occasion to recognize the most important symbol of our country, the maple leaf. Along with the national anthem, the flag is the most important symbol of a country. The flag represents not just the land and the people, but also its values.

First raised on February 15, 1965, Canada's national flag symbolizes our hope for the future and our ability to triumph over hard times and remain strong in the face of adversity.

In this period of uncertainty, the Canadian flag assures us that our values and our way of life will not be jeopardized.

National Flag of Canada Day is a time to reflect on how tremendously lucky we are to live in this vast and magnificent land.

[Chrysotile Asbestos, February 6th, 2002]

Mr. Speaker, again in connection with our government's support in defence of the safe use of chrysotile asbestos, my question is for the Minister of Public Works and Government Services. What is the status of the policy on the safe use of chrysotile asbestos in federal government buildings?

[New York City, December 13th, 2001]

Mr. Speaker, on December 1, 2001, several thousands of Canadians took part in the “Canada Loves New York” rally to demonstrate their support of the people of New York. Canadian dignitaries and citizens made their way to ground zero during the celebrations, and a Christmas tree was put up over the ruins of what used to be the World Trade Center.

I am very proud to point out that this fir tree came from Plantation Lavertu in Weedon, in the riding of Frontenac—Mégantic. It is a great honour for the region to have been able to contribute in such a special way to this great demonstration of friendship by Canadians to their American neighbours.

Merry Christmas to my fellow residents of Frontenac—Mégantic.

[Dairy Industry, December 5th, 2001]

Mr. Speaker, on Monday, the appellate body of the World Trade Organization finally brought down a favourable decision on Canadian exports of dairy products.

This decision brings to an end the trade battle that has been going on since 1998 with the U.S. and New Zealand. It reverses the earlier decision by a special WTO group that Canada's milk export pricing practices constituted export subsidies.

This is excellent news for the Canadian dairy industry, which can now focus its efforts elsewhere, such as exploring new export markets.

This is good news for Frontenac--Mégantic. Congratulations to the Minister for International Trade on his excellent work.

[Privilege, November 27th, 2001]

Mr. Speaker, the words used by the member for Bas-Richelieu--Nicolet--Bécancour were these: “LeBlanc, tu es un crosseur”. I think this calls for an apology.

[Privilege, November 27th, 2001]

Mr. Speaker, I saw and heard the member for Bas-Richelieu--Nicolet--Bécancour use these very offensive words. In Quebec, these are the worst words you can say to someone.

[Liberal Party of Canada, November 27th, 2001]

Mr. Speaker, one year ago today, Canadians gave a third consecutive mandate to the Liberal Party of Canada, thus expressing their satisfaction with our government.

During the past year, we worked hard to continue on the same path. We made changes to the employment insurance program, helped farmers, provided funding for the arts and culture, cut taxes, lowered the debt, hosted the summit of the Americas and launched initiatives to protect the environment.

I am particularly proud of the measures taken to fight terrorism through amendments to the Immigration Act, the anti-terrorism bill and the legislation on public security. We are on the right track. Our government rose to the challenge.

One year ago, Canadians reiterated their confidence in the Liberal Party of Canada. They were right to do so. Our party is the one that is in the best position to see to their interests.

Once again, I thank the residents of Frontenac—Mégantic for putting their trust in me.

[National Addictions Awareness Week, November 26th, 2001]

Mr. Speaker, November 18 to 24 is National Addictions Awareness Week. The purpose of this event is to inform the public about the problems associated with addictions and to promote a lifestyle free of alcohol and substance abuse.

The event was created by the Nechi Training, Research and Health Promotions Institute in 1981. Since that time, it has become an important tool for co-operation and partnership between communities with a common goal.

An addiction is very harmful to those suffering from it and to those close to them. The image of a circle of individuals and families is ideal. It shows that addicts need support in their recovery.

Activities will be organized throughout the country. I urge Canadians to take part. Together, let us “Keep the circle strong”.