House of Commons photoWon her last election, in 2011, with 55% of the vote.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, we know that there have been many studies done. The studies are telling us that there are two major issues that must be addressed for Canadian women: violence against women and the economic self-sufficiency of women. That is why we are going to continue working to improve--
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, let me say that I cannot reiterate enough this evening that we believe addressing women and women's needs directly in their daily lives is the most effective way and is going to have a direct impact on improving their future.
I find it ironic that the member is talking about women's rights when it is her party which suggests that we abandon the women in Afghanistan. We have made great strides in improving the situation for women in Afghanistan. They are now, with micro financing, starting their own businesses. The young women are going to school. They have access to medical facilities.
This government will not abandon women in Canada or in Afghanistan.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, as I say, we have enhanced the support available to museums. We will respond to every application and give them due process and ensure museums are helped as much as possible.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, as I indicated, there is an enhancement to the assistance given to museums for student work. The program that was introduced by the Minister of Human Resources is to redirect the money that is necessary, not to advantage Liberal held ridings but to show that the work can be done where there is low employment and that employment will be given to those students with the greatest need.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, the reality is quite the opposite. In this budget we have enhanced the support for student apprenticeships in museums by $5 million. We are addressing a pent up demand that was left to grow by the previous Liberal government. That is why this sum will now be available to support student work in museums in every community across Canada. I know how valuable that work is to the museums and to the students.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, the Minister of Indian Affairs is committed to the aboriginal peoples. He is putting in programs that are meaningful and are going to really make a change.
We just do not talk; we act. I can assure members that the needs of the aboriginal communities will be met.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, we inherited a problem. It just did not start this year. We are supporting the women in their communities. We are providing programs that will enhance their skills training, their financial management abilities, their ability to get out there and—
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, as I have pointed out, we have put into place two programs: the community program and the partnership program. We have identified where the needs are.
When we came into office, we were told the two challenges facing women, the greatest challenge being violence—
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, I find it ironic that while her government and her party was in government she sat by and did nothing. We have seen aboriginal women be the victims of violence in Canada. It is appalling that we are on the list and have been denoted as not doing enough.
We are acting. We are committed and support Sisters in Spirit on an ongoing basis with funding. We also have instituted legislation which will protect aboriginal women and ensure they are safety in their communities.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, again, the business plan is coming as a result of a meeting that I head with the leadership of the aboriginal communities.
The previous government was going to go forward with a proposal on which the aboriginal community was not in unanimous agreement. That is not listening to the needs of the community.