Oral Questions
Mr. Speaker, today is a great day for Canada. Consideration of the budget implementation act is nearly complete, and we can expect royal assent shortly. Families in my riding of Scarborough—Agincourt know we are investing in Canada's future, building an economy that is strong and resilient to global shocks, unlocking generational investments in our long-term prosperity, driving economic growth and…
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Mr. Speaker, this month, east and southeast Asian communities in Canada and around the world are celebrating Lunar New Year, one of the most important traditions across many cultures. This year, 2026, marks the year of the fire horse, a rare occurrence that comes just once every 60 years. The horse symbolizes energy, determination and freedom. The fire element is said to amplify these traits, brin…
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Mr. Speaker, during the Advent season, the themes of hope, peace, joy and love guide meaningful reflection and provide a unique opportunity for spiritual renewal as we await Christ's birth. Earlier this week, I had the pleasure of hosting Christmas on the Hill. Our caucus welcomed guests from across the country to celebrate the season with music, faith, food and fellowship. I am proud that our Cha…
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Mr. Speaker, across Canada our constituents, like mine in Scarborough—Agincourt, are voicing concerns about violent crime, repeat offending and the safety of their communities. These concerns are rooted in real experiences and in a desire to have a justice system that protects the public and upholds the rule of law. That is why I rise today to talk about Bill C-242, the jail not bail act, as part …
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Mr. Speaker, October is Women's History Month, and it is not over yet. Join me in celebrating all the amazing women and girls across the country, women past and present who have made groundbreaking discoveries in medicine, pioneered innovations in AI, championed in public service and so much more. On this side of the House, we invest in women's prosperity. We have contributed $7 billion through th…
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Mr. Speaker, [Member spoke in Mandarin] [English] Today, millions celebrate Mid-Autumn Festival. Not only is it an important celebration in Chinese culture, but similar celebrations are also held in Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese and other Asian communities. Like many traditional harvest festivals, it coincides with the full moon, and the focus is on family, food and prosperity. It is also known as …
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Mr. Speaker, right now trade diversification is top of mind for many of the small businesses in Scarborough—Agincourt and also for Canadians across the country. Our new Minister of International Trade has already met with counterparts and business partners in South America and Europe. Can the Minister of International Trade tell us how he plans to diversify Canada's trade portfolio in the current …
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the people of Scarborough—Agincourt for placing their trust in me a fourth time. Much appreciation and gratitude go to the many volunteers and supporters, the campaign team and my family, who all worked so hard to allow me to continue to be a voice in Ottawa and also in the riding. I am here for them and because of them. I want to welcome all the new constituents who have join…
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Mr. Speaker, last week, I was honoured to host Christmas on the Hill. We welcomed constituents with heartfelt personal reflections and joyous music from the All Nations Full Gospel Church Ottawa choir. We shared the warmth of the Christmas spirit, spoke about the importance of caring for others and celebrated the birth of Jesus. I also had the opportunity to formally introduce my motion, Motion No…
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Mr. Speaker, the government is introducing a two-month tax break for all Canadians. After all their talk about cutting taxes, one would expect the Conservatives to walk the walk and support this measure, but they voted against it. Can the Minister of Small Business speak more about what the government is doing to make life better and safer for Canadians and businesses?
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Mr. Speaker, last year, we announced a $471-million federal investment in Toronto through the housing accelerator fund to unlock nearly 12,000 new homes over the next three years and over 53,000 over the next decade. A few weeks ago, the Conservative leader announced his plan to shut down homebuilding by making dangerous cuts to federal housing investments. People in my riding of Scarborough—Aginc…
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Mr. Speaker, from the rising cost of living to climate change, we know that young people today face unique challenges. Their mental health needs are complex. Our government is making sure that young Canadians get the care they need, when and where they need it. It is a promise we put forward in 2021 to build a stronger, more resilient Canada. Today, the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions ann…
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Mr. Speaker, 27% of the residents in my riding of Scarborough—Agincourt are seniors. They remember when the previous government cut their pensions, increased the retirement age and made life more difficult for them. Since 2015, our government has provided much-needed relief for seniors. Can the Prime Minister remind Canadians of the concrete vision we have taken to support seniors across the count…
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Mr. Speaker, 750,000 Canadians have already received care through the Canadian dental care plan, and that number will keep rising. Almost 9,900 constituents in my riding of Scarborough—Agincourt have enrolled in the program. Many seniors have been able to get dental care after years of not being able to afford to. Can the Minister of Health update this House on how the Canadian dental care plan is…
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Madam Speaker, Scarborough—Agincourt recently lost a beloved community member. Darryl Harding dedicated over 30 years to coaching baseball at Wishing Well Park. His contribution to the Scarborough community and to the game of baseball was inspiring and his positive impact on youth will be felt for years to come. Darryl's work with the Wexford Agincourt Baseball League was a remarkable example of d…
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Mr. Speaker, today, we join millions around the world in celebrating the mid-autumn festival, also known as the moon festival or moon-cake festival. Not only is it an important celebration in Chinese culture, but similar celebrations are held by Korean, Japanese, Vietnamese and other Asian communities. This special day brings together family and friends. Thousands of people in Scarborough—Agincour…
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Mr. Speaker, congratulations to the class of 2024 in Scarborough—Agincourt and across Canada. Whether students are graduating from kindergarten, high school, college, university or any level in between, they can be proud of what they have accomplished. As graduates go forward, it is important to continue to be curious, to be helpful to others and to be willing to explore new paths. They have gotte…
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Mr. Speaker, congratulations to the Agincourt Community Services Association on its 50th anniversary. ACSA is dedicated to serving and uplifting those in need through an impressive array of critical programs, including youth empowerment initiatives, job training sessions, tax clinics, and emergency food and housing services. ACSA has strengthened our community by welcoming newcomers and providing …
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Mr. Speaker, we have launched and improved immigration pathways for Hong Kongers to make it easier for them to stay and work in Canada. However, applicants are at risk of falling out of status as they await a decision on their PR application. Canada has always stood shoulder to shoulder with the people of Hong Kong. What is our government doing to help them get out of precarious situations?
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Mr. Speaker, April is Cancer Awareness Month. Though the month is ending, the need for cancer awareness and education continues. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, two out of five Canadians will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetimes. In 2023 alone, an estimated 239,000 Canadians were newly diagnosed with cancer. Could the Minister of Health update the House on what our government is d…
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Mr. Speaker, recently, Scarborough faced the loss of a beloved educator and community leader. The news of Jay Williams' death at the age of 40 is a tragic loss for the community. Jay Williams was an educator with the Toronto District School Board, most recently working with the TDSB's Centre of Excellence for Black Student Achievement to develop strategies to dismantle anti-Black racism in schools…
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Mr. Speaker, no child should go to school hungry, but we know that, for many families, that is the reality. For parents of young children, a national school food program would help them feed their children and reduce their food costs. By providing consistent access to nutritious meals, we can set kids up for success. Can the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development update the House on…
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Mr. Speaker, on February 10, communities across Canada will ring in the lunar new year, also known as the spring festival. This year, we welcome the Year of the Dragon, which is associated with energy, good fortune and success. Lunar new year is traditionally celebrated for two weeks, ending with the lantern festival on February 24. This joyous time of the year includes gathering and feasting with…
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Mr. Speaker, this past Saturday was the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. As a mother of three young men, I raised my boys to be respectful of women and to recognize that eliminating gender-based violence is an issue for all people, regardless of gender. Can the Minister for Women and Gender Equality and Youth please provide an update on how we can raise boys and you…
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Mr. Speaker, economic reconciliation is a major part of the federal government's work to build a strong and sustainable economy. Yesterday, the government announced its fall economic statement. Can the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations inform the House on measures that support economic reconciliation?
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Madam Speaker, happy 55th anniversary to the Centre for Immigrant and Community Services. CICS was started by a few students back in 1968. Now it provides 20,000 people annually with newcomer settlement services, language training, employment support and community health and wellness care from eight locations in the GTA, including its head office in Scarborough—Agincourt. Under the leadership of A…
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Mr. Speaker, my constituents in Scarborough—Agincourt, Armenian Canadians and those across the country have been expressing their concern over the devastating situation in Nagorno-Karabakh. Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh have spent almost a year without fuel, food or medicine because of the blockade of the Lachin corridor. There is now an exodus of Armenian refugees with the resumption of military …
Read full speech →Private Members' Business
Madam Speaker, I am honoured to represent Scarborough—Agincourt and delighted to speak today about the progress of Bill C-295, an act to amend the Criminal Code regarding neglect of vulnerable adults. Bill C-295, introduced by my colleague, the member of Parliament for Vancouver Centre, seeks to criminalize owners and officers of long-term care facilities who neglect the residents in their care. W…
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Madam Speaker, this month is pride. Just last week, the pride flag was raised on Parliament Hill, showcasing our tremendous support of members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community, who continue to face systemic barriers. One in four entrepreneurs have faced discrimination or lost their businesses because of their 2SLGBTQI+ ownership. Can the Minister of International Trade, Export Promotion, Small Business …
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Mr. Speaker, this year marks the centennial of the Chinese Exclusion Act, a shameful chapter in our nation's history that we must not forget. Can the Minister of International Trade tell this House how our government is planning to commemorate the history of the Chinese Exclusion Act and what steps it is taking to continue supporting Chinese Canadians and their heritage?
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Mr. Speaker, Canadians across the country are concerned about foreign interference, and we know diaspora communities are especially vulnerable. Chinese Canadians worry about the impact on the local community and about friends and family abroad. Canadians I have spoken to want real solutions. Can the Minister of Public Safety share what the government is doing to protect and reassure Chinese Canadi…
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Mr. Speaker, as we recognize the beginning of Mental Health Week 2023, we remain committed to promoting positive mental health for everyone, including the 2SLGBTQI+ community, indigenous people and people of colour, groups that have already faced disproportionate challenges to their mental health due to discrimination and social exclusion. Could the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions please …
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Madam Speaker, I want to congratulate Bonnie Wong on her retirement. As the executive director of the Hong Fook Mental Health Association, Bonnie’s work has changed lives. Bonnie expanded culturally competent services for East Asian youth and seniors, launched three new satellite offices and established a nurse practitioner-led clinic to provide primary care access for the Scarborough community. B…
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Mr. Speaker, we have many fine universities and colleges in Ontario that are conducting space research. The hon. member mentioned post-secondary investments in his speech. Could the member elaborate on the research and training opportunities?
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Mr. Speaker, April is Daffodil Month. We recognize that cancer is a health issue that impacts nearly all Canadians, whether through a personal diagnosis or that of a loved one. I wear this pin in remembrance of my late husband, Arnold Chan. Today, Canadian Cancer Society representatives will meet on the Hill to discuss the importance of working to improve the lives of those affected by cancer thro…
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Mr. Speaker, members of the Armenian-Canadian community in my riding of Scarborough—Agincourt and beyond are concerned by the rising tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and the conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh. It has now been more than 100 days since the start of the Lachin corridor blockade. There is a growing humanitarian crisis and Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh are fearing that the conflict m…
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Mr. Speaker, we know that unaffordable child care has long been a barrier to enabling women's full participation in our workforce. Women should not have to choose between starting a family or starting a career. On this International Women's Day, can the Prime Minister inform the House of the progress made with the provinces and territories in making child care more affordable for the constituents …
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Madam Speaker, on January 22, the lunar new year arrived with firecrackers and confetti. I was fortunate enough to ring in the new year in my riding of Scarborough—Agincourt, which is home to one of the largest Chinese populations in Canada. In Chinese culture, the rabbit represents energy, beauty and tranquility. It is considered the luckiest animal in the zodiac. In Korean lore, the rabbit is qu…
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Mr. Speaker, a Scarborough—Agincourt constituent recently emailed me because he was distressed after reading about alleged illegal Chinese police stations in Scarborough and Markham. These alleged police stations or administrative centres are used to exert pressure on Chinese nationals located in Canada. How can we reassure Canadians who feel intimidated or coerced? Could the Minister of Public Sa…
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Mr. Speaker, as a result of the ongoing conflict in Nagorno-Karabakh, my Scarborough—Agincourt constituents and beyond are concerned about the 240 deaths and the many destroyed civilian settlements in Armenia. A ceasefire was agreed upon on September 14. However, recent reports suggest further escalation. Our government announced it will open a full embassy in Armenia, and we are actively engaging…
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Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize some heroes in Scarborough—Agincourt who have served our community well during the pandemic and now. I thank Lee Soda of Agincourt Community Services Association for the services given to newcomers, seniors, the homeless and tax clinics and for supporting women entrepreneurs. Alfred Lam, of the Centre for Immigrant & Community Services, has a community …
Read full speech →Routine Proceedings
Mr. Speaker, I put forward this petition on behalf of Canadians who signed in support of selecting Won Alexander Cumyow as the next face of the $5 bill. Mr. Won was the first Chinese Canadian to be born in present-day Canada. Despite being a trained lawyer, he was denied the opportunity to write the bar and practise law, because he was ethnically Chinese. A root cause of anti-Asian racism in Canad…
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Mr. Speaker, Scarborough—Agincourt is home to a large, vibrant Armenian community. Canada and Armenia have deep and long-standing people-to-people ties, and Canada must support Armenians' efforts to improve their democracy. Recently, special envoy Stéphane Dion submitted his report to the Minister of Foreign Affairs on how Canada can support Armenians in their efforts advance democratic progress a…
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Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 20th anniversary of Asian Heritage Month in Canada. It is a time to recognize the achievements and contributions of Asian Canadians. This weekend, I attended an event honouring Dr. Vivian Poy, the first Canadian of Asian descent appointed to the Senate. Dr. Poy's story is one of passion, creativity and achievement, and it was she who originally moved to designate M…
Read full speech →Private Members' Business
Madam Speaker, I am thankful for the opportunity to speak about a subject that is having a significant impact on many Canadian families. The COVID pandemic laid bare systemic inadequacies in Canada's long-term care system. It has taken the lives of some of Canada's most vulnerable citizens and forever changed the lives of families and caregivers. In my riding of Scarborough—Agincourt, we have seen…
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Mr. Speaker, for months Ontarians have been eagerly awaiting an update on the status of negotiations between provincial and federal governments on a child care agreement. This has been a significant issue for people in my riding of Scarborough—Agincourt because we know Ontario families have been paying some of the highest fees in the country. Could the Minister of Families, Children and Social Dev…
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Mr. Speaker, at the onset of this pandemic, our government acted swiftly by introducing emergency measures to keep Canadians financially afloat. While these benefits have been crucial for so many families, including those in my riding of Scarborough—Agincourt, I have personally heard from seniors that it has resulted in the reduction of the GIS payments they rely on to make ends meet. Could the Mi…
Read full speech →Orders of the Day
Mr. Speaker, many constituents have heard about the racial slurs against Ottawa residents. This is worrying for many people, especially people of colour. Could the hon. member elaborate on how the Emergencies Act can contain these extremist elements?
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Mr. Speaker, immigrants from coast to coast to coast have significantly contributed to the prosperity of this country and my riding of Scarborough—Agincourt. Last year we exceeded our goal of welcoming over 401,000 immigrants who will make Canada their home. This was a historical record that will help shape Canada’s growth. Can the Prime Minister update the House on our government’s plan to welcom…
Read full speech →Government Orders
Mr. Speaker, it is indeed urgent. I have had many phone calls from seniors. When I visit seniors' residences, affected seniors mention it is important that they be able to receive the funds. I would urge all members in the House to put their support behind this bill.
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