Iqra Khalid

[Gender-Based Violence, March 25th, 2021]

Madam Chair, I would like to thank the member for her contribution to the all-party women's caucus and her great advocacy. What are the member's views on toxic masculinity and the culture of intimate partner violence and violence against women, and what would she propose we do to address this issue and take concrete action in combatting this?

[Committees of the House, March 12th, 2021]

Madam Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the sixth report of the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights in relation to the main estimates 2021-22, and its seventh report in relation to the supplementary estimates (C) 2020-21. The committee has considered the estimates referred by the House and reports the same back without amendment.

[Women and Gender Equality, March 8th, 2021]

Mr. Speaker, this International Women's Day comes after a long year of combatting COVID. Women have been at the forefront of the pandemic's impact. As we move forward toward recovery, can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Women and Gender Equality update the House on how the recent launch of the feminist response and recovery fund would provide support to essential organizations working on the front lines to ensure the safety and security of women?

[Coldest Night of the Year Walk, February 22nd, 2021]

Mr. Speaker, the COVID-19 pandemic has put a strain on food banks across Canada, but that did not stop them from keeping their doors open and working tirelessly to serve the most vulnerable of Canadians. Today I want to recognize Eden Food for Change, a remarkable food bank in my riding of Mississauga—Erin Mills that has been serving the needs of vulnerable residents for the past 30 years.

Over this weekend, Eden Food for Change hosted its annual Coldest Night of the Year walk against hunger and homelessness in a virtual and COVID-friendly manner. The goal of this event was to raise money for charities serving Canadians facing homelessness and hunger. This year, 188 walkers took part in this event, raising over $73,000.

I thank the incredible staff, volunteers and participants who made this initiative happen. They are saving lives each and every day.

[Mental Health, February 1st, 2021]

Mr. Speaker, speaking of bad heckling, the stats on mental health in Canada were concerning even before COVID-19. During these past 10 months, we have seen an alarming increase in the number of Canadians struggling with mental health, as well as an increase in substance abuse, overdoses and opioid-related deaths. This pandemic has left people isolated, anxious and uncertain of what the future holds.

Now more than ever, we need a national strategy to support mental health for Canadians. We need all levels of government, civil society and individual Canadians to come together to end stigma and increase the resources for mental health. There is help out there, whether it is through the Hope for Wellness Help Line, Kids Help Phone or family and friends. I would remind us to be kind to ourselves and to each other. It is okay to not feel okay all the time, and we are all in this together.

[Foreign Affairs, January 26th, 2021]

Mr. Speaker, more than two years have passed since Michael Kovrig and Michael Spavor were arbitrarily detained in China. The former minister of foreign affairs was right when he said, on the second anniversary of their detention, that these are two years that have been stolen from them. Canadians, including all members of this House, remain united in calling for their immediate release so they can come home and reunite with their families.

Can the Minister of Foreign Affairs please provide an update on the government's efforts to make that possible?

[Committees of the House, December 11th, 2020]

Madam Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the fourth report of the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights in relation to Bill C-6, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (conversion therapy).

The committee has studied the bill and has decided to report the bill back to the House with amendments.

I would also like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a very merry Christmas, happy Hanukkah, happy holidays and a hope-filled new year.

[Public Safety, December 4th, 2020]

Mr. Speaker, 31 years ago, 14 promising young women lost their lives in a heinous act of violence, misogyny and hatred. What motivated the killer was that these women had the audacity to pursue higher education. We must remember the tragedy of December 6, 1989, not only to continue fighting for the advancement of women in our communities, but also to strengthen gun control.

Could the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness please inform the House about what measures we are taking so that similar tragedies do not happen again?

[Committees of the House, November 25th, 2020]

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the fourth report of the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights in relation to Bill C-7, an act to amend the Criminal Code regarding medical assistance in dying. The committee has studied the bill and has decided to report the bill back to the House with amendments.

[COVID-19 Emergency Response, November 25th, 2020]

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the small businesses in Mississauga—Erin Mills, I would like to thank this government for the incredible support provided during this pandemic.

The Canada emergency business account has provided loans to organizations like the Gems Learning Institute, which allowed it to continue providing STEM education for youth this summer. The Canada emergency wage subsidy has covered up to 65% of wages for the loyal staff of Mulligan's Pub. Just this week we rolled out the Canada emergency rent subsidy, covering up to 65% of commercial rent and other expenses for businesses such as Orchid Nails & Spa.

These programs are a vital lifeline for small business owners in my riding and across the country. As we continue to weather the second wave of this pandemic and plan for Canada's recovery, I know that small businesses will continue to be a priority for our government.