Denis Paradis

[Sommet De La Francophonie, March 16th, 1999]

Mr. Speaker, this being the Semaine de la Francophonie, I would like to remind the House about the Sommet de la Francophonie, an important meeting held every two years and attended by leaders of French speaking countries.

Every two years, they meet for three days of discussions on topical issues.

Canada plays a key role in the Francophonie. This role underscores its commitment to promoting the French fact both at home and abroad.

As there are over 8.5 million French speaking Canadians, Canada's membership in this organization provides it with an international forum for its national views and an opportunity to promote the French language and culture worldwide.

Long live the Francophonie and long live Canada.

[Semaine De La Francophonie, March 15th, 1999]

Mr. Speaker, the Semaine de la Francophonie is a major contribution to the Canadian identity.

Incidentally, let me remind the House that the summit in Moncton will help the international community to get better acquainted with the various facets of the Canadian Francophonie and emphasize the important contribution of Acadians to our rich national heritage.

This summit will also give all Canadians the chance to show their pride and their sense of belonging while making new friends in the rest of the French speaking world community.

My best wishes go to all organizers of this event, which is of the utmost importance to all of us.

[Agriculture, March 3rd, 1999]

Mr. Speaker, on February 24, the Government of Canada announced that it will give $110 million to Quebec farmers to ensure their financial security.

Farmers in my riding of Brome—Missisquoi are very pleased about this news. The program will be administered by the Quebec government, through its own aid program for farmers hit by the farm income crisis.

Back in December, the Canadian government had announced the creation of a new program designed specifically to help those affected by the international financial crisis, particularly on the Asian market.

The Quebec Minister of Agriculture has joined the national program. This, in our view, is a fine example of co-operation between Ottawa and Quebec City, something that will serve first and foremost the interests of Quebec farmers.

[Regional Development Banks, February 17th, 1999]

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 32(6), I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the 1996-97 report on Canada's participation in regional development banks.

[Foreign Affairs, February 16th, 1999]

Mr. Speaker, to date, the government has written off over $1 billion for the poorest countries, and the government will continue to do so for them.

We have also set aside $145 million for countries like those in Latin America so they may buy food or equipment in the area of the environment. This is another way to help the poorest countries.

[1949 Asbestos Strike, February 16th, 1999]

Mr. Speaker, midnight February 14, 1949 marked the start of the asbestos strike in the Eastern Townships. This event, now 50 years behind us, had a significant social, political and religious impact on Quebec.

The asbestos strike marked a total change in mindset. From then on, major companies and government would have to respect workers' rights. This struggle for the recognition of Quebec workers was a difficult and complex one, for the Duplessis government wanted to force the unions to their knees.

Nevertheless, the outcome of this strike in Quebec was a transformation of labour relations in the workplace and an enhanced public awareness of the importance of trade unions in an industrial society.

[International Assistance, February 15th, 1999]

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question.

We are very concerned about the famine conditions in which over 80,000 inhabitants of Russia's far north find themselves. In fact, last January, Canada sent emergency humanitarian aid to affected communities.

I am pleased to announce today that Canada will contribute up to $5 million additional dollars through the International Red Cross. This assistance will go to the most vulnerable members of communities, that is, to children, the elderly, the disabled and the homeless.

[Canadian Farmers, December 2nd, 1998]

Mr. Speaker, I want to recognize today farmers across Canada and all those in Brome—Missisquoi. They represent a vital link in the agri-food chain and contribute to a complex system involving suppliers, carriers, processors, grocers and restaurateurs.

Despite our farmers' productivity, global circumstances beyond their control have them facing a financial crisis. Economic problems in Asia had a ripple effect worldwide, causing a decline in sales. Great crops are usually good news for farmers, but not this year. The loss of markets and inventory surpluses, combined with the effects of American and European subsidies, have caused a severe economic crisis in Canadian agriculture.

I sit on the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food and we have been listening to farmers and to their suggestions as to how this crisis might be resolved. I am confident we can respond to them quickly and adequately.

Let us put our heart where our mouth is.

[Election Campaign In Quebec, November 25th, 1998]

Mr. Speaker, it cannot be said enough: a vote for the PQ is a vote for Quebec's separation from the rest of Canada.

A vote for the PQ is a vote against Quebec's interests.

A vote for the PQ is a vote for continued insecurity and political instability in Quebec.

A vote for the PQ will mean time wasted for the next four years.

On November 30, I will be voting Liberal, because a Liberal government will work for economic growth and job creation.

In Brome—Missisquoi, that will be heaven.

[Election Campaign In Quebec, November 24th, 1998]

Mr. Speaker, the PQ is offering Quebec a program based essentially on the holding of a referendum leading to Quebec's separation from the rest of Canada.

On November 30, I will reject this option because I believe that Quebec can and must take its place within the Canadian federation.

Next Monday, the choice will be simple: the Liberal Party, to ensure economic growth, or the PQ, which is keeping open its option of separation for Quebec.

That is the real issue of the upcoming Quebec election. Our choice will be clear on November 30. In Brome—Missisquoi we will be voting Liberal.