Reduction of Recidivism Framework Act  Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. member for his kind comments. I remember the visit we had very well, and the great work that local farm and Mr. Coburn have done in our region. Of course, there are other organizations that have made a great impact on this and continu

Reduction of Recidivism Framework Act  Mr. Speaker, there are so many I would like to thank for their contributions to helping make this bill possible. I think of my legislative assistant, Jesus Bondo, who put in countless hours, helping make this happen with many calls and a lot of engagement, a lot of study and a lo

Reduction of Recidivism Framework Act  moved that Bill C-228, an act to establish a federal framework to reduce recidivism, be read the second time and referred to a committee. Mr. Speaker, it gives me great joy to rise this evening to speak on behalf of my private member's bill, Bill C-228, an act to establish a fe

Fisheries and Oceans  Mr. Speaker, we have been hearing testimony at committee from sectors that have had little to no engagement with the minister over the ongoing fisheries crisis in Nova Scotia. No peaceful resolution will come if the minister continues to refuse meaningful engagement with all stak

Indigenous Affairs  Mr. Speaker, last week the Premier of Nova Scotia said to The Chronicle Herald regarding the fishing crisis, “We are in a position where [all parties] are not sitting at a table to find what is a workable solution.... This is only getting more entrenched.” He continued by saying,

Retirement Congratulations  Mr. Speaker, today I would like to pay tribute and give congratulations to one of the most important individuals in my life, my father. My dad, Gary Bragdon, after more than 50 years of dedicated hard work, will be retiring from the Nackawic pulp mill this weekend. He worked tire

Criminal Code  Madam Speaker, I absolutely concur that we have incredible people working in the health professions who truly walk through the darkest of times with people, providing them care and hope, and providing help for families as well as those who are in that valley of decision. I think

Criminal Code  Madam Speaker, again, understanding the sensitivities around this piece of legislation, what is important is that there are not enough adequate safeguards within the current bill. I believe there are inadequate supports as it relates to persons struggling with mental health relat

Criminal Code  Madam Speaker, it has been said the character of a nation is revealed in how it treats its most vulnerable citizens. It is my priority to ensure that this type of legislation has the proper safeguards to protect the most vulnerable in our society, like our seniors and those with

Lobster Fishery Dispute in Nova Scotia  Madam Speaker, I appreciated hearing the hon. member's insights throughout this discussion. I want to assure my colleagues that, absolutely, indigenous people have much to offer and care very much about the conservation of the species and the industry, as well as making sure th

Lobster Fishery Dispute in Nova Scotia  Madam Speaker, I concur that successive governments of various stripes and at all levels have not gotten it right many, many times as it pertains to reconciliation with indigenous peoples. We all bear responsibility for that. I think what is important is that, although we cannot

Lobster Fishery Dispute in Nova Scotia  Madam Speaker, let me start by saying that the indigenous right to fish is without question and has been firmly established. As a member previously mentioned, all acts of violence and arson are wrong. They are a crime and must be dealt with by the proper authorities. The safety o

Fisheries and Oceans  Mr. Speaker, the minister has had weeks to get to western Nova Scotia and resolve this crisis. The ongoing fisheries crisis is a direct result of the minister's and the Liberal government's inaction over the past five years. The minister has been in her position for over a year n

Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply  Mr. Speaker, I agree with the member. There have been some real unsung heroes in the midst of this crisis. I think of those who are in the non-profit sector and those in food banks who are helping meet the essential needs of people. Oftentimes, it goes unnoticed or not thought of

Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply  Mr. Speaker, I agree with the hon. member in that agriculture needs to become a much bigger priority for the current government. Rather than being an afterthought, it should be one of the first things that gets prioritized. Food security is so important. We do not want to just be