House of Commons photoWon her last election, in 2011, with 55% of the vote.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, first of all, the court challenges program is before the court, so it is inappropriate for me to comment.
This government has a responsibility to make sure that the legislation we put forward for consideration in this House respects everyone's rights equally and that women are considered in the development of the programs in that legislation. We are acting on enforcing and implementing good legislation that is going to give opportunities to both men and women.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, as I have said, this government does not just talk about rights but makes sure that we act on those rights. We make sure that we deliver those rights to women. The previous government did nothing about matrimonial property rights for aboriginal women. Women's rights under the charter were not implemented for aboriginal women. Women's rights are going to be always--
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, we have a pay equity law. For over a decade the previous government did not ensure that the law was enforced. That is why we believe that reinforcing the existing law and then doing an assessment of that law are the proper steps to take. We want to make sure that legislation is implemented and enforced as well.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Speaker, as you know, this government does not believe in a pink book. It does not believe in a women's caucus. We believe that we stand equally with all of our colleagues, male or female.
We have a contribution to make. We have the skills, we have the talent and we have the determination to play our role. We welcome any woman who will step forward and do public service as we have done.
The women's program is also supporting organizations that are increasing the participation of young women and women into the political life. We have a member who is actually starting an initiative right here in this caucus.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, my expenses are fully disclosed. My expenses are because I am doing a job, and I am doing a respectable and dedicated job in the position that I hold. It is important that we have a government that recognizes the importance of arts and culture, heritage and museums, and all of those sectors that I am responsible for.
I do it diligently and I do it with efficiency, but I know that my first job is to make sure that taxpayers' dollars are going to serve the people they are intended to serve in every sector, in every arts community, and that is why I will continue to do this job responsibly. I will ensure that the programs we create are going to help those in the arts, culture, museums--
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, this is an opportunity given to the House to have meaningful discussions on issues that are important to Canadians. I find that questioning limo costs, et cetera, is a terrible disservice to Canadians and is taking advantage of this opportunity.
That is the party that has not yet accounted for $40 million of taxpayers' dollars going directly to the Liberal--
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, it was because I have family. I paid for those transportation costs personally with a personal cheque. I find it appalling that this member would question anybody's demonstration of affection for family members. I would also say that he does not understand. I fulfilled the requirements. I paid personally for those which were not related to my position.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, the member opposite fails to mention the 10 other meetings that I had during my visit to Halifax. In fact, I have nothing to hide here.
The former minister, the minister for the Liberal Party, racked up in the same period of time over $100,000 more than I have racked up for transportation.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, the information will be posted as required. I find it interesting that the member opposite is questioning when we do not take the extent of the full quarter. We post the information as we find that we can make it available.
Business of Supply May 16th, 2007
Mr. Chair, I find it ironic that the member opposite is questioning this when there are no charges being placed upon the Canadian public. Because I have great supporters in my riding, they provided transportation for me to those events.