Helena Guergis

[Banting Homestead Heritage Park, November 18th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, on November 14, World Diabetes Day and Sir Frederick Banting's birthday were celebrated for the first time at the birthplace of Dr. Banting in my riding of Simcoe—Grey. Members of the Banting family, the community and the Sir Frederick Banting Legacy Foundation celebrated in the newly restored octagonal drive shed at the Banting Homestead Heritage Park. In 2008, the Town of New Tecumseth purchased the homestead, and in 2009 I secured Banting's designation as a person of historical significance.

With the world watching, Canadians have the opportunity to help this $9 million fundraising project that includes the restoration of the farm house, construction of a heritage exhibit building, a diabetes outreach and learning clinic, support for research, and the creation of a new Banting legacy chair in pediatric diabetes research.

I encourage the government to support the preservation of his birthplace, this international landmark, to honour the legacy of a Canadian medical giant whose discovery of insulin has saved billions of lives worldwide.

[Protecting Children from Online Sexual Exploitation Act, November 16th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, I support this.

[The Environment, November 4th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission held public hearings on Bruce Power's proposal to ship radioactive materials on the Great Lakes and St. Lawrence River system.

Three of my communities are situated along the largest body of surface freshwater in the world. Mayors Anderson, Patterson and Cooper have expressed opposition and serious concern about the commission's reluctance to discuss this matter with them. To quote the town of Blue, “It's because of this lack of openness that the general public has lost trust in government and their agencies and their commissions”.

Will the ministers responsible commit to ensuring community leaders are fully included in the process so they may be in a position to address the real risks these shipments present to our constituents and the environment?

[Taxation, October 28th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, volunteer firefighters are critical in protecting lives and providing fire safety in small communities like Simcoe--Grey.

On average, each volunteer gives 443 hours of service, the equivalent of 60 workdays a year. Small communities are under severe financial stress. Replacing these volunteers with paid staff is not an option. One solution proposed by firefighters across the country is for a tax credit to help offset their personal costs.

Will the government stand up for our brave volunteer firefighters with a $3,000 non-refundable tax credit to help address the problems of retention and recruitment?

[Committees of the House, October 27th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, I will oppose.

[Committees of the House, October 27th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, I will be voting yes.

[Strengthening Aviation Security Act, October 26th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, I will vote in support of this motion.

[Canada-Panama Free Trade Act, October 26th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, I will vote yes.

[Transportation, October 21st, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, a cost-competitive transportation sector is a key component of the travel and tourism industry, generating billions in tax revenues.

Canada's existing airline policies have resulted in a drop from 8th to 15th place among the world's most visited destinations. Our tourist deficit has risen dramatically from $1 billion to $14.5 billion, and 2.5 million Canadians are now going to U.S. airports in order to travel on less expensive airline tickets.

When will the government live up to its commitment to eliminate or cut airport rents and excise fuel taxes so Canada can become globally competitive and a more affordable destination?

[Canada-Panama Free Trade Act, October 20th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, against.