Oral Questions
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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, …
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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 …
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Statements By Members
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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.
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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 …
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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,…
Read full speech →Private Members' Business
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Routine Proceedings
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Private Members' Business
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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 …
Read full speech →Oral Questions
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…
Read full speech →Government Orders
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…
Read full speech →Routine Proceedings
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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,…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
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…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, it is with a deep sadness and a heavy heart that I rise in the House today to mark the passing of a dear friend, A Plant: a respected entrepreneur and realtor, a community builder, a generous mentor and a tireless force for good in the national capital region. AJ, a servant of God, dedicated his life to helping others by supporting local food banks and charities, helping families find…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, it is with great humility that I rise today for my first statement in this 45th Parliament. I am very grateful to the voters of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester for placing their trust in me for a fourth term. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of hundreds of volunteers, my campaign team and my family. I welcome the community of Blackburn Hamlet, which is now…
Read full speech →Speech from the Throne
Mr. Speaker, congratulations on your new mandate. I want to take this opportunity to thank the people of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester for putting their trust in me. I will work very hard these next few years. Over the past few weeks, Canadians across the country and in the riding of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester that I represent sent a clear message. We need to be united, sovereign and responsible. We need…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
Mr. Speaker, yesterday, I had the pleasure of visiting dental assistant students at Willis College on the first anniversary of the launch of the Canadian dental care plan. Thanks to this program, more than three million Canadians are now able to see a dentist. One in four Canadians were not going to the dentist because of the cost. Could the minister explain how the program is making life more aff…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I rise today to pay tribute to renowned Franco-Ontarian journalist and columnist Denis Gratton, who left us on December 7. A native of Vanier, Mr. Gratton was a towering voice for the Ottawa—Vanier community and for Ontario's francophones. A veteran scribe for the daily newspaper Le Droit, he not only wrote about the realities of everyday life but also…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
Mr. Speaker, the government has introduced a GST break that will put money directly into the pockets of Canadians, especially the families who need it most. Unfortunately, we know that the Conservatives voted against this measure and continue to vote against the affordability measures we are putting forward. Can the minister explain how all of us in the House can support Canadians in these difficu…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
Mr. Speaker, the Conservatives weep crocodile tears when they talk about affordability for families. However, when the time comes to help all Canadians, they are missing in action. Our government has brought in $10-a-day child care, a national school food program and dental care, all measures that the Conservatives do not support. However, we need to do more. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Michel Breau, a man with a big heart, a proud Acadian, and an exceptional community builder in Ottawa—Vanier, who passed away on October 29 after a battle with cancer. He was an entrepreneur at heart who owned his own car rental and maintenance franchise. A long-time volunteer with the Gloucester Cougars, Michel was dedicated to giving young people every…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
Mr. Speaker, over the course of the First and Second World Wars, more than 300,000 Canadians in uniform left Halifax bound for Europe. Canada has hundreds of thousands of veterans, each with their own story. Every year, Veterans' Week is an opportunity for us, as Canadians, to reaffirm that we have the right and the duty to reflect on the sacrifices of all those who served and continue to serve. W…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, ensuring the vitality of francophone communities outside Quebec is a priority for our government. Immigration is an essential and powerful tool for achieving that goal. Thanks to the immigration targets planned for 2025‑27, francophone permanent residents will account for 8.5% of all permanent residents admitted to Canada outside Quebec in 2025, 9.5% in 2026 and 10% in 2027. These tar…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, I rise with great sadness to honour to Ethel Côté, who passed away after a battle with cancer. Her family paid tribute to her memory, saying that her unwavering commitment to educating, listening to, supporting and, above all, inspiring everyone she met has left an indelible mark on the lives she touched. A pioneer of the social economy, she founded several organizations, including Mé…
Read full speech →Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, the next Canada carbon rebate arrives in Ontarians' bank accounts on October 15. Ontario families of four will receive $280 next week. This year, families in Ottawa—Vanier and other Ontario families are receiving a total of $1,120. The Conservatives want to let their wealthy friends off the hook and make the middle class pay the price. The Conservatives know that middle-class Canadian…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
Madam Speaker, wildfires are becoming more and more unpredictable. As keepers of the land, indigenous communities have long held deep local knowledge to mitigate their impacts. Earlier this week, the Leader of the Opposition tokenized indigenous cultural practices when it comes to protecting the environment. To the Minister of Indigenous Services, why is it important that first nations take the le…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
Mr. Speaker, Canada's small and medium-sized businesses keep our country's main streets alive, create well-paying jobs and make the dream of entrepreneurship a reality. These businesses need to thrive so that they can continue to be the foundation of our communities and our economy. Can the Prime Minister tell Canadians what measures have been taken to support small and medium-sized businesses?
Read full speech →Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, behind every paycheque there are thousands of Canadians working hard to ensure accuracy and timeliness. I rise today as a proud supporter of all payroll workers, many of whom are women dedicated to the vital role of payroll. From September 16 to 20, the National Payroll Institute is celebrating National Payroll Week. To mark the occasion, President and CEO Peter Tzanetakis is here in …
Read full speech →Statements by Members
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honour Marlene Catterall. A trail-blazing role model for Canadian women, she served on Ottawa city council and was a member of Parliament for 17 years. An accomplished parliamentarian, Marlene preferred to be known as a community activist. She fought for justice, lobbying for the release of constituent Maher Arar from Syrian prison. As Canada's first female chief gover…
Read full speech →Oral Questions
Mr. Speaker, the pandemic and the war in Europe have caused a global inflationary crisis. Our government has endeavoured to curb inflation, and our plan is working. Canada was the first G7 nation to lower its interest rates. The only thing that the Conservatives know how to do is make cuts. Can the Prime Minister tell us our plan for making life more affordable for Canadians?
Read full speech →Government Orders
Mr. Speaker, I listened carefully to my colleague's speech. I found it somewhat interesting to hear him talk about the dream of home ownership, of owning a house. For several years, the government has had a plan to build more housing. In budget 2024 alone, we are increasing the number—
Read full speech →Government Orders
Mr. Speaker, as I was saying, my hon. colleague was talking in his speech about the dream of home ownership. For several years now, the government has been working to build new homes so that both younger and older people can have the opportunity to own a home. For example, the 2024 budget includes investments in the housing accelerator fund, which will help municipalities. Can the member tell me w…
Read full speech →Government Orders
Madam Speaker, I am pleased to rise in the House to discuss the government's efforts to protect our democratic institutions. As members know, Canada has an enviable international reputation because of the stability of its system and democratic institutions. It is important to remember that we have a strong electoral system built on a proven legal framework, and that Elections Canada is a high-cali…
Read full speech →