Alfred-Pellan  Madam Speaker, as the parliamentary session winds down, I want to take a moment to look back on our fantastic term in office. On top of our Liberal government's major accomplishments, like the Canada child benefit and the free trade agreements we signed, since 2015, Alfred-Pellan has seen a 186% increase in Canada summer jobs placements, more than $184,000 for seniors through the new horizons for seniors program, nearly $115,000 for accessibility upgrades, more than $760,000 to support deaf Canadians participating and competing in sporting events, and nearly $3.5 million to support businesses in Alfred-Pellan.

Brain Tumours  Mr. Speaker, today eight Canadians will learn they have brain cancer. That is 3,000 people per year. I am wearing a grey ribbon to raise awareness about brain tumours among Canadians. The diagnosis of a brain tumour, whether benign or malignant, slow-growing or aggressive, is devastating for patients and their families.

Laval Seniors' Association  Mr. Speaker, seniors across Canada deserve to be recognized for their contributions and their involvement. We also need to acknowledge the important work of associations and organizations that ensure seniors' well-being. Today I would like to talk about the Association pour aînés résidant à Laval, APARL, which is celebrating its 45th anniversary.

Mother's Day  Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, we will celebrate and thank mothers. Day after day, these women give their all unconditionally. I want to wish an early happy Mother's Day to all all mothers, especially my wife Rana and mia mamma Providenza. Cara mamma, I owe everything I am and hope to become to you.

National Volunteer Week  Mr. Speaker, from April 7 to 13, we are celebrating National Volunteer Week 2019 to thank the volunteers in our communities for their many contributions. This year's theme is “The Volunteer Factor—Lifting Communities”. Volunteers make a big difference for the people who need it the most.

Rep Day  Madam Speaker, I was at Laval's École Charles-Perrault to participate in Rep Day, an event organized by CIVIX. I spent some time with Grade 3 students to answer their questions about the role of parliamentarians and how Canada's Parliament works. One student, Léanne, wrote me to say that she liked when I answered questions, that she was excited to see me and that she would like us to pass a law to stop pollution.

Transportation  Mr. Speaker, in the last federal budget, the government promised to invest $300 million to increase the number of zero-emission vehicles. Given that the transportation sector accounts for 23% of our greenhouse gas emissions, could the minister tell us more about this new commitment?

Laval Status of Women Round Table  Mr. Speaker, I just want to start off by wishing my wife Rana a very happy birthday, with all my love. Today I want to highlight the work of the Table de concertation de Laval en condition féminine, or TCLCF. Equality, engagement and fairness are the central values of the mission of the TCLCF, which works to improve the quality of life and living conditions of Laval women.

Hooked on School Days  Mr. Speaker, this month, I would like to talk about Hooked on School Days, which took place from February 11 to 15. School perseverance is a demonstration that our kids are committed and determined to achieve their goals and nourish their dreams. It is this fire burning in their eyes that moves mountains and shapes the artisans of tomorrow.

Employment Insurance  Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise to speak to Motion No. 201, moved by our friend and colleague from Sydney—Victoria. As members know, the motion seeks to direct the Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities to undertake a study with two specific goals in mind: one, to analyze the possibility and practicality of extending the maximum number of weeks of employment insurance sick benefits for those with long-term illnesses; and two, to present its report to the House no later than six months from the adoption of this motion.

Petitions  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a petition signed by the residents and store owners of Alfred—Pellan. The petitioners are worried about the consequences of tobacco plain packaging legislation for their business. Indeed, many mom-and-pop businesses depend on premium cigar sales and could be at risk of having to close up shop.

The Economy  Mr. Speaker, the traditional drivers of growth are no longer sufficient in a digital economy. New technologies are changing the way we access information, shop, socialize and work. Artificial intelligence is helping doctors make more accurate diagnoses, helping farmers improve their crops and helping us find the shorter route to work.

Petitions  Madam Speaker, I rise today to present a petition from my constituents in Alfred-Pellan. They are concerned and would like to see innovative solutions adopted to better regulate the consumption of alcohol products, particularly beverages with high sugar and alcohol content. Thus, citizens ask the government to impose reclosable cans as a new standard for alcohol products to ensure the health and safety of all Canadians.

Congenital Heart Defects  Madam Speaker, on November 10, I had the honour of attending the fourth annual Gala de Talia. Talia Nahabedian is an inspiring girl and so full of life. Diagnosed with a severe form of tetralogy of Fallot, doctors expected her to live just a few years. She has definitely exceeded that expectation: we celebrated her 16th birthday at the gala.

International Volunteer Day  Mr. Speaker, today we celebrate International Volunteer Day and the important contribution volunteers make to our communities. Volunteers are kind and caring people who give their time to support causes they believe in. Volunteers help make our society stronger, more inclusive and more prosperous.