Jacques Gourde

[Transportation, November 23rd, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, last week, the new Government of Canada took action to ensure public safety when the Department of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities announced $37 million to fund safety projects for the six largest urban transportation systems in Canada, including that of Montreal.

The strength of the Bloc, the party in eternal opposition, which will never be able to make a single decision for Quebec, is to throw out grandiose ideas like its high-speed train that will never go anywhere. In the real country of Canada, the Bloc remains silent, however, when Quebec benefits greatly from a federal initiative.

In this case, Montreal is getting $11.4 million or 30% of the total envelope, 30%, Mr. Speaker. This envelope will be divided between the Société de transport de Montréal, the Agence métropolitaine de transport and CN's central station.

This is just another concrete example of how Conservative members and ministers from Quebec are working in the interest of Quebec—

[Business of Supply, November 23rd, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, does my colleague recognize that a majority of Quebeckers would like a fresh start in our country, Canada?

People like me have chosen to go into politics simply to express their desire for real change in their life, in their future, for their children. Enough talking through our hats, enough posturing. On January 23, Quebec and Canada reconciled. Yesterday, I was proud to be a Quebecker and proud to be Canadian. Finally, for my parents, for my generation, for my children, I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

[Agriculture and Agri-Food, November 22nd, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, I would like to point out that, in its 16 years of existence, the Bloc Québécois has not introduced a single program to help farmers in Quebec. Unlike the Bloc, we went to see the farmers, we are in the process of negotiating with them and we are going to find a solution for Saint-Amable.

[Agriculture, November 10th, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, let us be honest. This hon. member does not have to live with the reality of Canadian agriculture.

Our government is aware of the problems. We are working hard day after day to help Canadian producers. We have the best programs currently available.

[Canadian Wheat Board, November 3rd, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, I have duly noted my colleague's question. I am convinced that our government will act in the best interests of this sector and I will refer the question to my minister so that he may respond next week.

[Agriculture and Agri-Food, November 3rd, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, I am inclined to believe that producers have seen just how quickly this government can do things. The minister has asked his officials to keep working closely with officials in Quebec on financial assistance above and beyond the existing programs.

Unlike the Bloc Québécois, we do not just talk, we can act.

[Agriculture and Agri-Food, November 3rd, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, I would point out to my colleague that this government worked quickly to limit the crisis that hit all of Quebec to just one region, allowing trade worth several million dollars to the province to resume. The government is looking at the issue of financial support above and beyond the programs that are already available to producers in the area under restriction.

[Laurent Guay, October 31st, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, today I am very proud to recognize the accomplishments of a talented young figure skater from Charny who has made thousands of Quebeckers so proud: 10 year old Laurent Guay.

Last weekend in Gatineau, he won his third gold medal in the 2007 Quebec sectionals. He competed against 20 other boys at the provincial level, setting himself apart with his combination jump, a double loop that earned him a personal best at the provincial level.

As the father of five children, I know how important it is to be present and to recognize our young people's efforts. I strongly support all those who, in pursuit of their dreams, make a considerable effort day after day to achieve their personal goals, big or small.

On behalf of all Quebeckers, I would like to congratulate 10 year old Laurent Guay of Charny once again on his determination and achievement. We wish him continued success.

[Agriculture and Agri-Food, October 27th, 2006]

Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the question.

To date Quebec producers have received $135 million. By year-end more than $300 million will have been put in the hands of our producers, and that is what our government can do.

The Bloc Québécois will never, ever, be able to establish a program to help Quebec producers.

[Agriculture and Agri-Food, October 27th, 2006]

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

We are aware of the problems of Quebec and Ontario farmers. At present our programs have already provided several millions of dollars to these producers and we will continue to listen to them.