House of Commons photoLost his last election, in 2011, with 24% of the vote.
Marriage September 19th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, I think that this government's policy is clear and respects the two principles involved. These principles are the right to equality under section 15 of the charter and the protection of religious freedom, which is also a fundamental right.
That having been said, we have decided on this process on the basis of an analysis of section 15. We fundamentally believe that the bill referred to the Supreme Court is the way to go to ensure that all—
Same Sex Couples September 18th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, this government has made a clear and unequivocal decision. We are talking about a Liberal Party policy of recognizing marriage between persons of the same sex. This is a generous policy in that it complies with two fundamental principles that underlie our Constitution.
That having been said, prospective questions are hypothetical questions. l will repeat once again, however, that the reality of this government will also be the reality of the next.
Same Sex Couples September 18th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, I think that my position is well known, not only in this House, but also across Canada. As a government, we have decided to implement a process that is respectful of the courts, of the public at large and of all parliamentarians, who will get to participate in a free vote.
We are also talking about an established public policy recognizing mariage between persons of the same sex and the principle of equality. At the same time, this policy recognizes freedom of religion, which is also protected under the Canadian Constitution. This a rather well-balanced draft bill.
That having been said, what is true for this government will also be true, I would say, for future governments.
Canadian Grand Prix September 18th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, first, I said we are proud to celebrate Canada Day, and we are also proud to celebrate Quebec's national day. There are investments in both cases but there is no need for demagoguery.
The fundamental question is that some people want to shut down the Montreal Grand Prix because of the issue of the use of tobacco products. That is because of a contractual clause. The Canadian government has made a social choice in the name of public health. Are we to go back on our principles and our public health objectives?
As I said, it had already been delayed for several years. Still, we have to be serious about enforcing the law. Once again, if the private sector could contribute—
Canadian Grand Prix September 18th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, this government recognizes the importance of the Grand Prix, not only for Montreal, but also for Quebec and Canada.
This government, and the previous one, were able to obtain a delay in the implementation of section 24 of the act. That came from members of the Liberal caucus.
That being said, we are not going to commit public funds. But, as I mentioned just now, if the private sector is prepared to invest money and wants to meet with us, we will be pleased to sit down with them.
Of course, we cannot say no to a good thing. I think it is an interesting idea which has already been raised.
Canadian Grand Prix September 18th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, I think that we are all very proud to celebrate Canada Day, not only in Quebec but also across Canada, the same way we are proud of celebrating Quebec's national holiday on June 24. A great deal of money goes into such events.
We must respect that. But that having been said, we cannot say no to a good thing.
If the private sector, which shares our view that the F1 Grand Prix is a vital economic activity, is prepared to invest in it, it is more than welcome to do so.
Canadian Grand Prix September 18th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, first, the Canadian government has already taken positive steps on the issue of the Grand Prix. It will be remembered that, a few years ago, at the time when implementation of section 24 of the act was being discussed, a report was prepared specifically on this matter of sponsorship.
As we speak, I have already rejected on a number of occasions in this House the idea of public funding.
If everyone in the private sector wants to contribute, I think we would be prepared to sit down and see how far they are prepared to go. But once again, the level of funding required to have a race without brand names is extremely high.
Justice September 17th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for the question. It is a very important topic in Bill C-250.
I would like to tell the House that indeed we support the bill as amended. Of course when it is looked at, it is consistent with the government's position and policy. That bill will include sexual orientation in the hate propaganda provisions of the Criminal Code while protecting at the same time religious beliefs, that is to say, opinions and texts as well.
Marriage September 16th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, we said many times that it is a question of rights. We are talking about equality rights. It is a question of dignity as well. The course of action that has been chosen by the government is the right course of action.
We are striking the right balance with the draft bill because we are facing essentially two principles: equality rights as well as the protection of religious belief. We will obtain the opinion of the Supreme Court of Canada and then parliamentarians will have their say on a free vote.
Marriage September 16th, 2003
Mr. Speaker, the government has implemented a process. This process is clear and contains a clear policy. This process is a respectful one.
The government is seeking and will obtain the court's opinion on draft legislation. The Supreme Court's opinion will address the three questions it was asked. Then, obviously, once we have obtained the court's opinion, all parliamentarians will have the opportunity to take part in a free vote in the House.
In my opinion, the government has chosen a good process that respects the various parties involved.