Paul Martin

[Speech from the Throne, October 6th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, first I would like to congratulate the leader of the New Democratic Party, who is a new member in this House. I congratulate him on being elected.

Now, I can assure him that we are very concerned about the whole issue of greenhouse gas emissions and the Kyoto protocol. It is certainly our intention to meet our obligations.

[Speech from the Throne, October 6th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, not only is there no encroachment, but we have complete respect for all provincial jurisdictions, including that of Quebec.

I would like to take the opportunity in this House to congratulate Premier Charest on his leadership in bringing about the agreement on health. It sets a very important precedent from which all Quebeckers and all other Canadians will benefit.

[Speech from the Throne, October 6th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, is the leader of the Bloc telling us that health is not a priority for the people of Quebec?

Is he telling us that the environment is not a priority for the people of Quebec?

Is he telling us that the Canada's role in the world—the situation in Darfur, for example—is not a priority for the people of Quebec.

I am from Quebec and I can guarantee that these are priorities for Quebeckers.

[Sponsorship Program, October 6th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, not only was information not hidden, but this government has been very open and very transparent. Furthermore—and this is unprecedented—even cabinet minutes were disclosed to the parliamentary committees.

[Sponsorship Program, October 6th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, no such decision was taken, but I am glad to say that the Gomery commission is now well underway. I am sure that the information the hon. member is seeking will be forthcoming as the commission completes its work.

[National Defence, October 6th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, I am grateful to the Leader of the Opposition for asking the question and for his expression of regret. I know he speaks for this side of the House, as well as all us in the House.

I spoke to Commodore Pile this morning. It is difficult to maintain radio contact with the sub but he has assured me that in terms of heat and food, which at one point were in doubt, there is no problem. Medical personnel have now arrived on the ship and those who suffered smoke inhalation are being taken care of.

A British escort ship is alongside the Chicoutimi and as soon as the seas calm down it will be able to undertake the tow back to port.

[Speech from the Throne, October 5th, 2004]

moved:

That the speech of Her Excellency the Governor General, delivered this day from the Throne to the two Houses of Parliament, be taken into consideration later today.

(Motion agreed to)

[Oaths of Office, October 5th, 2004]

moved for leave to introduce Bill C-1, An Act respecting the Administration of Oaths of Office.

(Motions deemed adopted and bill read the first time)

[Election of Speaker, October 4th, 2004]

Mr. Speaker, you preside now over the first minority Commons in 25 years. When you return to your office you will find an appropriate congratulatory gift. We have sent you an extra strength bottle of painkillers. I hope you use them well.

I believe it is more than symbolic that the first act of this 38th Parliament was to re-elect a Speaker who during his first term was recognized and praised for his impartiality and his constructive approach to resolving disputes.

The challenge that confronts all members of our minority in the Commons is straightforward. It is to make this Parliament work for Canadians and to do so we will need to be able to forge a consensus. We will need to be constructive.

Mr. Speaker, you will face new challenges in this Parliament, as will all of us in the House. Minority government means increased responsibilities for you and for those of us in the government caucus, and indeed for all members.

The government can no longer be certain that it will secure passage of legislation. The opposition parties can no longer simply vote against government bills without consequence.

The dynamic has changed but change is often invigorating. As we begin the work of the 38th Parliament, I want you and all Canadians to know that we as a government are committed to doing what it takes to achieve progress for the people of this country.

I congratulate you, Mr. Speaker, and I wish you sound judgment and ample patience as you again take up your important duties.

[Election of Speaker, October 4th, 2004]

Now I can.

Mr. Speaker, I was delighted to hear your speech of recognition and gratitude. All of us in the House would have liked to have heard your campaign speech. I would have liked to have known what your promises were going to be.

We are delighted that you acknowledged your family in the gallery. We all hope that you will give us the same privilege. I remember you called me out of order in the last House for that very thing.