Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, I am sure you are one who appreciates a great shawarma. On June 7, the second edition of the shawarma festival was held in my riding in the Byward Market. More than 20,000 people attended. It was a massive success and a very tasty one. A major highlight was the successful attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest shawarma wrap in the world, which reached an impressive…
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Mr. Speaker, Canada has been taking concrete action to combat forced labour through the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act, which the Liberal government passed in 2024. Under this act, government institutions and businesses must report on the risks of forced and child labour in their supply chains, and outline the steps they are taking to address them. This is abo…
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Mr. Speaker, let me be clear, Canada and the United States share the goal of keeping goods produced through forced labour out of our supply chains. Canada already has strong protections in place, and we will take further action to strengthen them through new legislation. We will continue to work closely with our partners to uphold high labour standards and ensure fair rules-based trade.
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Mr. Speaker, today, I want to share the fact that Canada is taking concrete steps to support a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. We have joined forces with Australia and the United Kingdom to establish a new International Peace Fund. Canada will contribute $2 million over three years alongside its partners, and the funding will be provided to recognized and trusted civil so…
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Mr. Speaker, I have some good news for the national capital region and eastern Ontario. Collège La Cité has received an investment of over $1.6 million to improve access to oral health care. This funding will be used to establish a mobile dental clinic providing services directly in our communities, including services for seniors and children, to reduce barriers to care. Each outreach visit will b…
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Mr. Speaker, let me be clear. Canada and the United States share the goal of keeping goods produced through forced labour out of our supply chains. Canada, right now, already has strong protections in place. We will take further action to strengthen them through new legislation. We will continue working closely with our partners to uphold high labour standards and ensure fair, rules-based trade.
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Mr. Speaker, as I was saying, Canada's new government is hiring 1,000 new CBSA officers and investing over $670 million in the CBSA to keep our borders secure. We will continue to protect Canada's interests while upholding labour standards for all workers.
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Mr. Speaker, Canada has some of the most rigorous forced labour laws in the world, and we have been clear that we condemn forced labour everywhere it exists. Every good that enters the country is subject to rigorous import controls and screening. For example, Canada's new government is—
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Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the tabling of a white paper by the Réseau d'enseignement francophone à distance, or REFAD, on inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility in distance education. This document is the product of a collective effort. It highlights concrete issues facing francophone learners and institutions, especially in a minority context. In today's digital age, w…
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Mr. Speaker, I want to take a moment to pay tribute to Gérard Lévesque, who passed away recently. He was a committed Franco-Ontarian and active member of the community in my riding of Etobicoke—Lakeshore. Gérard dedicated his life to defending and promoting Ontario's francophone community. As a seasoned lawyer, he was a strong advocate for access to justice in French and for French-language educat…
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Mr. Speaker, it is tax season time, and this weekend we are once again supporting families in Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester through our free tax clinic, by helping them complete their income tax returns. This is an opportunity to support people who need some help filing their tax returns, because filing a return is essential for accessing important benefits like the Canadian dental care plan, the Canad…
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Mr. Speaker, Canada does not support Iran for positions of influence in the United Nations. Iran was nominated to the UN Committee for Programme and Coordination by acclamation. As the position was uncontested, there was no opportunity for a vote. The vote to elect nominated candidates will take place in the UN General Assembly in November. Canada works closely with partners to actively counter Ir…
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Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister has been very clear. We are currently supporting and making sure that civilians and civilian infrastructure are protected and that international law is respected, and we will stand for the safety and security of Canadians wherever they may be around the world. We will continue to monitor the efforts that are being made in Iran.
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Mr. Speaker, Canada is deeply concerned by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which is threatening global energy security and economic stability. As we have emphasized, Canada's focus is on ensuring the safe and unimpeded flow of energy and commerce in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. We urge all parties to de-escalate the conflict, and we will continue to work alon…
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Mr. Speaker, I am truly honoured to rise in the House to recognize the remarkable career of Saint‑Phard Désir. Mr. Désir served for 14 years as the executive director of the Centre d'établissement, de soutien et d'orientation communautaire, the CESOC. As he embarks on his well-deserved retirement, he leaves behind a legacy deeply rooted in service, engagement and compassion. Under his leadership, …
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Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister was clear. First of all, Canada was not consulted, did not participate, and has no plans to participate in the offensive actions against Iran. We support efforts to end Iran's nuclear program and decades of state-sponsored terrorism. Canada's priorities are clear. As the Prime Minister said, civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected, international law …
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Mr. Speaker, I believe the Prime Minister has been very clear: International law must be respected. There is a situation unfolding. I am not sure if we are talking about the sanctions lifted by the Americans on Russian oil, but we obviously condemn the strikes carried out by Iran against civilians and civilian infrastructure, specifically energy and maritime infrastructure in the Middle East. We k…
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Mr. Speaker, I am truly honoured to rise today in the House of Commons to mark International Women's Day, which took place on March 8. On Saturday, in my riding, we had the honour of celebrating and recognizing, for the fourth consecutive year, 19 exceptional women from Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester who actively contribute to our community. Through their commitment, leadership and dedication, they stre…
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Mr. Chair, I thought I was clear. The Prime Minister wants to ensure that Canadians are safe when they are deployed or when they are in the Middle East. We also want to make sure that this regime does not have the capacity to carry out the terrorist acts it is currently committing. That is why Canada listed the IRGC as a terrorist organization, among other things, to support efforts to prevent Ira…
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Mr. Chair, I will be sharing my time with the member for Saanich—Gulf Islands. Tonight's debate comes at a time of profound uncertainty in the Middle East. Canada's position on the current situation is clear: We are calling for de-escalation, we urge all parties to exercise restraint, and we reaffirm that the security and sovereignty of partners in the region must be protected. At the same time, C…
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Mr. Chair, from what I have observed this week, responses have been provided in both official languages. If my colleague has specific examples to share with me, I am more than willing to take a look at them. We are capable of providing our services in both official languages, and we must do so. If there is one thing I will do, it is ensure that this is the case. Now, if my hon. colleague has any e…
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Mr. Chair, the Prime Minister has been clear. At a time when Canadians are scattered across the region, we want to make sure they are safe. Obviously, we want to ensure an end to the regime, and we want to ensure that all regions of the country are secure. This evening, I had an opportunity to speak with Canadians about the importance of protecting Canadians currently in the region and of finding …
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Mr. Chair, the government is always ready to ensure that consular services are deployed in times of crisis. In this case, the Government of Canada was clearly ready to assess how many Canadians had questions and how many were asking for support to leave the region. Obviously, it has to be done safely. We also sent a number of officials to help those who were already working on the ground. The work…
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Mr. Speaker, I rise to mark Black History Month, a time when we come together to recognize the powerful contributions, resilience and legacy of Black communities across Canada and throughout the world. On Monday, in my riding of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester, we took some time to discuss, reflect on and honour Black brilliance across generations, from today's nation builders to tomorrow's visionaries. …
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Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge World Cancer Day, which took place last Wednesday. It is a time when the entire world comes together in the spirit of awareness, solidarity and hope. It is a day to honour those who have lost their lives and those who are still fighting and to recognize the caregivers who show extraordinary courage every day. In particular, we remember Terry Fox. His perseverance…
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Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to rise today to recognize the important work that Canadian civil society organizations are doing around the world in these difficult times. During this International Development Week, I want to recognize the critical contributions of hundreds of workers from these organizations across Canada and especially those from Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester. Canadian international as…
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Mr. Speaker, today I want to recognize Joanne Andrews for her 32 years of outstanding leadership at the Snowsuit Fund of Ottawa, an organization that, for 44 years, has been helping thousands of vulnerable children have access to warm snowsuits to weather our winters. Under her leadership, the fund has been giving out 16,000 snowsuits every year to children in need, bringing warmth, dignity and ho…
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Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness that I pay tribute to Rolande Faucher, a strong, dependable and passionate woman who was not afraid to speak her mind. A tireless activist, sociologist and researcher, she devoted her life to defending francophone interests and promoting education and culture in Ontario. Rolande was more than just a community builder and leader. She was an inspiring female role…
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Mr. Speaker, I am really trying to be clear. I want to be clear. Canada has an unwavering commitment to empowering women and girls, achieving gender equality, condemning all forms of discrimination and eliminating gender-based violence. That will never change. The minister emphasized that point at the United Nations, and I mentioned it earlier: Canada's foreign policy will be guided by three princ…
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Mr. Speaker, I just talked about values. Feminism is a core value of our government and an important part of our foreign policy. As we work to diversify our trade relationships and create opportunities for our workers, the Prime Minister has also been clear that Canada is strengthening its commitment to addressing gender-based violence and inequality at home and abroad.
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Mr. Speaker, give me a break. I want to be clear. Canada's commitment to empowering women and girls, achieving gender equality, condemning all forms of discrimination and eliminating gender-based violence is unwavering and will never change. As the minister pointed out in her speech to the United Nations, Canada's foreign policy will be guided by three principles: defence and security, economic so…
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Mr. Speaker, Canada remains committed to the Paris Agreement and the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Domestically, the Canadian economy has grown while becoming significantly less carbon-intensive thanks to cleaner energy, better technologies and innovation. Our climate competitiveness strategy builds on this progress and positions Canadian businesses to play a leading role in the global trans…
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Mr. Speaker, as we did this week, Canada continues to play a constructive and collaborative role. The Canadian delegation attended COP30 with its international counterparts, indigenous communities, other levels of government, civil society, labour groups and other stakeholders to ensure that we move forward from commitment to implementation. We are therefore going to continue advancing toward our …
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Mr. Speaker, since October was World Menopause Month, I would like to draw attention to this important issue that affects the health, well-being and financial security of millions of women across the country. The conversation about menopause gained real momentum last month. Menopause is a natural life phase that affects the body, the mind and our emotional well-being, yet many women still go throu…
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Mr. Speaker, we are investing in major projects. We are also making many investments in budget 2025, including a 15% clean electricity investment tax credit available to Crown corporations like Hydro-Québec, as well as $17.2 billion over 10 years for housing- and health-related infrastructure, such as hospitals, universities and CEGEPs. We will continue to build strong communities by investing $51…
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Mr. Speaker, Canada condemns the civil war and violence currently ravaging Sudan. It needs to stop. We are horrified by the recent attacks in El Fasher and condemn the alleged massacre of more than 2,000 civilians. We urge all parties to respect international law, protect civilians and immediately allow humanitarian aid to have unimpeded access. Canada will continue to support the Sudanese people,…
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Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by thanking the member for Vancouver East for introducing Bill C‑233, an act to amend the Export and Import Permits Act, as part of Private Members' Business. I have heard many comments about this bill from people in my riding of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester. It is clear that Canadians are deeply concerned about our country's role in global security and the responsible exp…
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Mr. Speaker, ensuring the vitality of francophone minority communities remains a priority for our government, and francophone immigration is an essential part of achieving this goal. As we celebrate National Francophone Immigration Week, it is important to remember the progress that has been made and the next steps to be taken. Thanks to the 2026-28 immigration levels plan announced in the 2025 bu…
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Mr. Speaker, the people of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester have started a petition. I am pleased to present a petition signed by 1,765 Canadians regarding the eligibility rules for the GST new housing rebate for first-time homebuyers. The petitioners note that the rebate is based on the purchase agreement date rather than the closing date, which unfairly excludes many first-time homebuyers of preconstruc…
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Mr. Speaker, I am very honoured to rise to pay tribute to the late Hon. Bernard Grandmaître, the guardian of the French language and the father of Ontario's French Language Services Act. This great Franco-Ontarian recently passed away at the age of 92. Born in Vanier, he dedicated over 30 years of his life to serving in public office, first as mayor and then as a provincial MPP. His greatest legac…
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Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to a remarkable Canadian who once worked right here in the House of Commons as a stenographer. As he listened to debates in the House, Alphonse Desjardins grew aware of the problem of access to credit and the devastating impact of usurious loans. He undertook a vast study on the co-operative model. Over the course of his research and discussions with numerous Europea…
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Madam Speaker, I would first like to thank the member for Jonquière for introducing Bill C‑228, which is a private member's bill. I am grateful for his work on this important and timely issue. The debate on this bill touches on fundamental principles of our democracy and our constitutional framework. In a global context marked by geopolitical uncertainty, it is essential to ensure that Canada's tr…
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Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Thérèse Frère, a proud Franco-Ontarian from Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester who passed away recently at the age of 98. Her courage and resourcefulness were put to the test when her husband passed away suddenly, leaving her to support six young children under the age of 13 alone. This strong and resilient woman worked in education before moving to the field of visual …
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Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is focused on protecting Canadian jobs, workers and businesses. We have stabilized supply chains through initiatives like our strategic response fund. We have provided direct support to affected industries like steel, aluminum, manufacturing, auto and agriculture. We are doing this all while maintaining Canada's enviable fiscal position and AAA rating. We are Canada…
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Mr. Speaker, I want to dig in a little more on prevention. My colleague mentioned how important prevention is, and how it has to be part of this bill and other bills the government brings forth. I have been meeting with many national organizations representing women in different spaces, and they are also advocating not only for prevention but also support. I would like to hear my hon. colleague on…
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Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 32(2) and consistent with the policy on the tabling of treaties in Parliament, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the treaties entitled “Agreement on the Establishment of the International Vaccine Institute”, done at New York on October 28, 1996, as amended as of November 16, 2022; “Agreement between Canada and the Republic of Poland for…
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Mr. Speaker, Glory to my fair flag,the flag of Ontario's francophonesI raise my flag high So all can seeThat I am Franco-Ontarian! Today we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Franco-Ontarian flag, a powerful symbol of our identity, our pride, and our contribution to Ontario's rich culture. As a proud Franco-Ontarian, I wish to pay tribute to all the communities and francophiles who contri…
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Mr. Speaker, each year, during the third week in September, we celebrate National Payroll Week, which is a moment to recognize the professionals who ensure Canadian workers are paid accurately and on time. The pay cycle is more than just an administrative process; it is a cornerstone of employee well-being. It guarantees accuracy, transparency and trust, enabling workers to meet their daily needs,…
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Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ken Dryden, whose passing is a profound loss for Canada. I had the privilege of working with Ken and witnessed first-hand his thoughtfulness, intellect and dedication. He was deeply committed to improving sport culture and advancing efforts to better protect athletes from concussions. While many will remember him as a Hall of Fame goaltender and six-time…
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Mr. Speaker, as the school year ends, I rise to congratulate the graduates in Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester. Earning one's diploma is something to be very proud of. They worked hard, overcame challenges and continued to persevere. Today they are celebrating much more than a diploma. They are celebrating the efforts, growth and discoveries that brought them to this point. It is also the beginning of a n…
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