Brenda Chamberlain

[The United Way, September 26th, 1994]

Mr. Speaker, the United Way touches the lives of many Canadians. The United Way in Guelph-Wellington provides benefits throughout our community.

This organization cannot survive without our generosity. Donations ensure that many agencies provide valuable service to thousands in need.

This year the United Way has set a target of $1,115,000 in Guelph-Wellington. Besides the needed financial support United Way agencies are supported by volunteers and devoted staff such as Morris Twist, executive director of the social planning council.

I urge the residents of Guelph-Wellington to continue the good work of the United Way. Our dollars go to ensuring improved social well-being for our neighbours and friends. This agency truly does care.

[Education, September 22nd, 1994]

Mr. Speaker, individual Canadians manage their responsibilities every day with enthusiasm and dedication and slowly make their mark on the people around them.

One of these individuals is Terry Lynch, director of education for the Wellington County Board of Education. Terry is bright, amazingly energetic, and has much to offer in common sense and determination. He has worked relentlessly to succeed in order to ensure that the board is the finest in the province of Ontario. I am proud to call Terry a friend.

As children across Wellington County return to school from their summer vacation, they should thank educators like Terry who work hard behind the scenes with endless energy to make their education experience rewarding and first class in order to prepare them to succeed in their future.

[Petitions, June 15th, 1994]

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 36, I am honoured to present a petition on behalf of 53 Canadians.

The petition asks Parliament to amend the Income Tax Act to exclude child support payments from the taxable income of custodial parents.

[Young Offenders Act, June 14th, 1994]

Mr. Speaker, recent polls have confirmed that Canadians are demanding action on crime and violence.

I applaud the Minister of Justice for his commitment to ensuring that Canadians will live without fear for their personal safety.

The red book has outlined many measures which will ensure our safety and security. A tough line on violence, stricter penalties, the reform of the Young Offenders Act and further control of violent pornography were all included in our campaign promises.

The government must continue to take the lead on addressing root causes of crime. Unemployment, hopelessness, the breakdown of families and the use of illegal drugs all contribute to a more violent and unsafe society.

Canadians are a non-violent and peace loving people. We must continue to respond with comprehensive, effective approaches to the issues of crime and punishment.

[University Of Guelph, June 8th, 1994]

Mr. Speaker, the University of Guelph has embarked on a strategic planning process which will create the blueprint for its development into the next century.

The university's planning process allows for consultation with university and non-university participants. The eight task forces will study a number of issues, including identifying external factors, assessing its values and culture, and identifying the strengths and weaknesses of existing programs and resources.

The University of Guelph is an important part of Guelph-Wellington. Its remarkable international reputation can only be enhanced by this process.

I congratulate the president of the university, Mordechai Rozanski, on this important initiative. This process will result in a clear vision of the values and the strengths of the university. It will prepare the staff and student body to meet the challenges of the 21st century.

[Supply, June 2nd, 1994]

Agreed.

[Supply, June 2nd, 1994]

Madam Speaker, the hon. member for Edmonton Southwest used the words quibbling and bickering several times. That concerns me. As a new member in this House I have heard a lot of quibbling and bickering and quite frankly, it has come from that side of the House.

A colleague from eastern Canada not so very long ago talked about the people whose livelihood in fishing had been suspended. They were glad this government was helping them, that it was willing to stand up for what we might call our brothers and sisters in our family. I believe Canada is a family. I think the Reform Party shares this view and believes that Canada should continue to be a family and live as one. As a family, sometimes it is important to help each other. When we talk about putting money into different parts of Canada sometimes that is the reality. In tough times we have to stick together and do what is right for the country.

Members have spoken today about history repeating itself. Many times in Canada's history it has been very positive to put money into different parts of Canada and to have jobs flourish and grow through that. Sometimes a hand up is a help.

Does the hon. member honestly believe there is a simple solution? Should people only look out for themselves in their own backyards and not for the rest of the people in the community or country? Does the member believe that being a grab all and keeping it for himself would promote growth and jobs?

[Youth Employment, June 2nd, 1994]

Mr. Speaker, the federal government continues to recognize the importance of our young people and is offering a number of programs which will assist them as they prepare to meet the challenges of the future.

Young people in Guelph-Wellington are concerned about employment prospects and look to this government for programs and ideas which will provide hope and opportunity.

I encourage our young women and men to believe in their future. I also encourage them to make use of their talents through volunteer experiences. Volunteering is an excellent avenue to gain experience and to establish a network in the real world of employment

At the same time there are a number of Canadians young and old who can benefit from the dedication and spirit of our volunteer activities. Young people should be encouraged to make a difference, get involved and create a better future for themselves while helping others.

[The Family, May 27th, 1994]

Mr. Speaker, this year Canadians along with all members of the United Nations celebrate the International Year of the Family.

The family has undergone tremendous changes since the days following World War II. Attempts to define what is now the traditional family would be most difficult.

The changes the family unit have endured have made it all that more important. All of us have been affected by changes to the family. An aging population, dual income families, women in the workforce and divorce have forced us all to look at families in a different light.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the families of members of Parliament. Our absence away from home, the challenges and demands of our position and the pressures of office all take a toll on our families. They share the responsibility of our public service. We as parliamentarians owe them a debt of gratitude for their service and dedication to the work we do and this should never be forgotten.

[Government Infrastructure, May 5th, 1994]

Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Works and Government Services.

It is widely accepted that a sound electronic infrastructure will greatly improve the efficiency of government. How is public works and government services taking advantage of tomorrow's technology to increase efficiency, improve services and reduce costs for the Canadian taxpayer today?