Lawrence Cannon

[G8 and G20 Summits, June 10th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, we have already stated that the vast majority of costs associated with holding these two summits are security costs. We consulted experts, obtained information and followed recommendations.

We are going to ensure that these two summits provide the utmost security for all participants.

[G8 and G20 Summits, June 10th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, since my colleague is insisting, I will start all over again. The amounts that are mentioned cover signage and backdrops for four international events: the G8, G20 and B20 and the Youth Summit. In all, the backdrops will be used in seven places at the summits, in three hotels and on 30 premises. The costs include the production, installation and disassembly of more than 130 signs of various sizes. Some are 100 feet long and the banners are two feet by six feet. International summits require clear signage to ensure the safety of the—

[G8 and G20 Summits, June 10th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, I welcome the opportunity to set the record straight.

The costs quoted covered signage and backdrops for four international events, the G8, the G20, the B20 and the youth summit. In total, the backdrops will be used at seven summit venues, three hotels and over thirty rooms. Costs include production, installation and take-down of 130 signage items ranging in size from one piece over 100 feet long to pop-up banners that are 2x6 and include stands, plus 150 nameplates. I have not finished.

International summits—

[G8 and G20 Summits, June 10th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, as we have said on numerous occasions, a large portion of the costs that are associated with both summits are directly imputable to the security. As we have mentioned throughout the last number of question periods, these costs have been vetted. We have consulted with experts. These costs are in line with comparable summits that have been held elsewhere.

[G8 and G20 Summits, June 9th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, let us be clear here. A good part of the costs for the G8 will involve security matters. Another part will be involving the promotion of Canada, for which we are extremely proud.

I would invite my colleague to get on board to promote Canada and help us do the best thing possible. Of course, we know every time we have something that is put forward in the House, the NDP votes against it.

[Foreign Affairs, June 9th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, let us be clear. We fully support the free flow of humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza, but we also support Israel's right to inspect the ships to ensure that weapons and other military equipment do not reach Gaza.

[Foreign Affairs, June 9th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, yes.

[G8 and G20 Summits, June 9th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, once again, as I indicated, a majority of these costs are going to security, the security initiatives, for the purpose of protecting the people who are here. An amount of the money will be provided to promote our country to ensure that those people who come to Canada will be able to see Canada. At the same time, those who are viewers and spectators will be able to see Canada under that light.

I have a suggestion. If he is looking for a name for the lake, why does he not call it “lake Gomery”.

[G8 and G20 Summits, June 9th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, once again, we have been very open and transparent about our intention to promote our country. We will create ways to show Canada off to the world, and we will do that in the short time we have. Three thousand media people, a huge number of delegates and TV viewers around the world will see Canada at its best, and our government will make sure that happens.

[G8 and G20 Summits, June 9th, 2010]

Mr. Speaker, as I said, most of the costs are associated with security-related expenses. Some of the money will be spent on promoting our country. Most importantly, however, all of these expenses, all of that money was budgeted, and that party supported our budget yesterday.