//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFirearmsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1015)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I rise to present a petition drafted by a group of students from Colonel Gray High School. A few weeks ago they invited me to talk to their class so I could explain the process of presenting a petition in the House of Commons. I have here the result of their work.These students are studying law in their French immersion program. Their teacher is Gary Connelly, and the student who led this effort is Shaeya Thibodeau.I want to thank and congratulate this group of young citizens who collected 781 signatures, mostly from Prince Edward Island.The petitioners are calling on the House of Commons to pass Bill C-71, which bans military-style semi-automatic firearms in Canada, restricting the use of these weapons to military personnel only.Automatic and semi-automatic weaponsBanC-71, An Act to amend certain Acts and Regulations in relation to firearmsPetition 421-04844LindaDuncanEdmonton StrathconaPaulManlyNanaimo—Ladysmith//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada-United States-Mexico Agreement Implementation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (2125)[English]Madam Speaker, I could not resist standing, because there was so much boom and bust and bluster from the member for Durham that it provoked me to ask a question.There was a lot of fiction and very few facts in his remarks this evening. The fact of the matter is that we should be thanking the Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the negotiating team for getting a pretty darn decent agreement at the end of the day. The Conservatives, on the other hand, in the initial stages of the negotiations, were taking the position that we should just cave in and give the Americans what they wanted.The member for Durham talked about supply management, but what did President Trump put on the table when he was speaking with the dairy farmers from Wisconsin? He said he wanted the supply management system gone in its entirety. That is not where we ended up. We saved supply management. Yes, we gave a little bit of access, but we saved the system and negotiated a good agreement for Canada.C-100, An Act to implement the Agreement between Canada, the United States of America and the United Mexican StatesCanada-United States-Mexico AgreementGovernment billsSecond readingSupply managementTrade agreementsErinO'TooleHon.DurhamErinO'TooleHon.Durham//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada-United States-Mexico Agreement Implementation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (2325)[English]Mr. Speaker, I hope this is parliamentary, because I would like to quote the hon. member for Fredericton, who said that the member for Durham talks all kinds of crap.C-100, An Act to implement the Agreement between Canada, the United States of America and the United Mexican StatesCanada-United States-Mexico AgreementGovernment billsSecond readingTrade agreementsErinO'TooleHon.DurhamGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada-United States-Mexico Agreement Implementation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (2325)[English]Mr. Speaker, I apologize. I was trying to make the point that the doom and gloom from the member for Durham and what he tries to allege as facts are not facts at all.I would give him credit in terms of the shipbuilding deal. The Conservatives like to talk about that deal. That is because the best proposal in terms shipbuilding came from the Irving shipyard in Atlantic Canada, and I congratulate the shipyard for putting that proposal in. What the member for Durham failed to mention was that the lowest spending in Canadian history in terms of the military in this country was under the Stephen Harper government, in which he was a member of cabinet.The member also mentioned that the United States spends more on agriculture than Canada does on the military. That, in fact, is true. However, for farmers in this country, for primary producers in this country, who he talks about from time to time, the Harper government, under the leadership of Gerry Ritz as minister of agriculture, cut the safety net for farmers in this country by 50%. What a failure.The member loves to talk about the section 232 tariffs. Who negotiated those tariffs away? The fact of the matter is that this Prime Minister and this Minister of Foreign Affairs negotiated those tariffs away. They protected Canadian interests so that we could move ahead with prosperity.Some hon. members: Oh, oh!C-100, An Act to implement the Agreement between Canada, the United States of America and the United Mexican StatesCanada-United States-Mexico AgreementCustoms tariff and customs dutiesGovernment billsSecond readingTrade agreementsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersFisheries ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1050)[English]Mr. Speaker, I enjoyed the member's remarks. There has been a lot of discussion by a number of people from the west coast not so much on the Senate amendments but on the Fisheries Act itself and where it is going. I am from the east coast and I agree with the member that more always can be done. What was not mentioned in a lot of the comments that have been made trying to get over the damage done by the previous government in terms of fisheries habitat and so on, is the fact that saving fisheries habitat at my end of the country is different from that at the member's end of the country. We have small brooks, small streams, even smaller fish.I wonder if the member could talk about how important habitat restoration is beyond economic issues. There is the recreational fishery. Families enjoy going fishing. We need a healthy fish habitat in order to have that. I wonder if he might comment on that area, that it goes beyond just the economics of fishermen that one would think would be related to the Fisheries Act but to the community itself and the individuals that live in them.C-68, An Act to amend the Fisheries Act and other Acts in consequenceConsideration of Senate amendmentsFisheries and fishersFisheries stocksGovernment billsHabitat conservationRichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West KootenayRichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West Kootenay//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1215)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 31st report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill C-101, an act to amend the Customs Tariff and the Canadian International Trade Tribunal Act. The committee has studied the bill and has agreed to report it back to the House without amendment.I expect this will be my last report in the 42nd Parliament as committee chair. Therefore, I want to take this opportunity to thank the several clerks and the many analysts from the Library of Parliament who worked with us during this 42nd Parliament for all their hard work during sometimes inhumane hours, four pre-budget consultations, four budgets, four budget implementation acts and much more.I also want to offer a sincere thanks to members of all parties and their staff as well as to my staff for their hard work and sincere efforts in working on the finance committee.8510-421-607 "Bill C-101, An Act to amend the Customs Tariff and the Canadian International Trade Tribunal Act"C-101, An Act to amend the Customs Tariff and the Canadian International Trade Tribunal ActCustoms tariff and customs dutiesInternational tradeStanding Committee on FinanceMattJenerouxEdmonton RiverbendBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—Lacombe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNorthern Economic DevelopmentInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, the expansion of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency is yielding great results. We not only made CanNor funding ongoing for the first time, but we also increased it. I cannot talk fast enough today to list all of the investments, but I can name a few. There are millions for our tourism industry for marketing support to Northwest Territories Tourism, to more specific funding for our amazing Snowking, boosting arts and crafts in Inuvik, the pavilion in Hay River, campground investments in Tulita and Wrigley, and support for Ulukhaktok to help provide services to cruise ship tourists. The investments include $2.7 million to the Government of Northwest Territories for advance work on the Slave Geological road. There is Canada 150 funding of over $2 million for much-needed improvements to the Girl Guides camp, the Deline cultural centre, and the trail system in Fort Smith. Support for CanNor is support for northern economic development. It is great to see the support that this side of the House has for economic development in the north.Canadian Northern Economic Development AgencyGovernment programsStatements by MembersIreneMathyssenLondon—FanshaweMattJenerouxEdmonton Riverbend//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersP.E.I. Business Hall of Fame LaureatesInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, today I recognize this year's laureates for the P.E.I. Business Hall of Fame. Jack and Carlotta Kelly founded Bulk Carriers (P.E.I.) Limited in 1970 from the basement of their house. Today, the company has over 150 employees, 100 tractor-trailers and a reputation for trust and excellence across the country. Kevin and Kathy Murphy are hospitality all-stars. After opening their first restaurant in 1980, the Murphys quickly expanded their operation to include hotels, restaurants and breweries across Atlantic Canada. Sadly, inductee Kathleen “Kay” MacPhee died last month. Kay used her expertise and passion as a teacher to create literacy software for children, helping her hearing-impaired son Lowell and countless others develop reading and language skills.Each of these laureates reflects the best the island has to offer. They have made enduring contributions to Canada. Congratulations to all.Business developmentEntrepreneurship and entrepreneursStatements by MembersMarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersFisheries ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1720)[English]Madam Speaker, I rise on a point of order. I realize the Chair offers a fair degree of latitude with respect to relevance and repetition, but perhaps you could bring the member back to the Senate amendments to the Fisheries Act. I do not see the link between forestry layoffs and the Senate amendments to the Fisheries Act, but I expect you will have him explain that to us.C-68, An Act to amend the Fisheries Act and other Acts in consequenceConsideration of Senate amendmentsFisheries and fishersGovernment billsPoints of orderRelevancyToddDohertyCariboo—Prince GeorgeCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management Act [Bill C-88—Time Allocation Motion]InterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2100)[English]Madam Speaker, in the previous government, Bill C-15 was created in 2014 with complete disregard for the land claims agreements. The Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act was created through the negotiations of land claims, and it certainly destroyed the trust factor with indigenous people in the Northwest Territories. I want to ask the member if she would talk a little about how Bill C-88 would re-establish trust with indigenous people in the Northwest Territories, protect their constitutionally protected land claims and self-government agreements and restore legal certainty.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsDownload responsibilityLand managementLand useMackenzie ValleyMotionsNorthwest TerritoriesReport stageThird reading and adoptionTime allocationCarolynBennettHon.Toronto—St. Paul'sCarolynBennettHon.Toronto—St. Paul's//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management Act [Bill C-88—Time Allocation Motion]InterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (2115)[English]Madam Speaker, I rise on a point of order. I take offence to the fact that the member feels that I, as an indigenous person, belong to him. I also take offence to the comment that because the minister is wearing an indigenous scarf, it is offensive. That is totally wrong and unacceptable. I would ask the member to retract those statements.Aboriginal peoplesMembers' remarksPoints of orderReport stageThird reading and adoptionCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2205)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate being able to use the rest of my time on Bill C-88, which would amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act. This is a very important piece of legislation in my riding of Northwest Territories. The Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act is the legislation that defines our unique system of land and water management in Mackenzie Valley, which is most of the Northwest Territories.I had left off yesterday discussing the previous amendments made in 2014 to the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act. The current amendments would not only fix the terribly thought out board amalgamation amendments of the previous government, but would also reintroduce all of the other proposed improvements to and modernization of the act that were halted with the NWT Supreme Court injunction.These amendments were initially brought in by the members opposite, so I really cannot understand why they would be against Bill C-88. It must be their resistance to getting rid of the superboard and affirming the importance of the regional panels as set out in the constitutionally protected land claim agreements.Other amendments in Bill C-88 clarify board composition when special representatives are added to the boards and provide for board member term extensions to allow for the completion of ongoing proceedings. The amendments also allow for the creation of an enforceable development certificate scheme to clarify expectations for developers and enforcement agencies, following the environmental assessment. The development certificate amendment process provides for the reconsideration of specific elements of a project rather than having to undergo a full project environmental assessment for technological or environmental changes. Regional study provisions, if employed, would simply add valuable information to the regional data centre that could help inform responsible development.The regulation-making authorities for administrative monetary penalties and cost recovery are also proposed in this bill and are consistent with modern-day approaches to resource management in other parts of the country. All northern partners, including industry groups, would be involved in the development of these regulations, which would provide further clarity on expectations, roles and responsibilities.As we all know, there are those across the aisle who seem to not want to have a robust, inclusive and effective regulatory process in the Northwest Territories. The resulting ill-informed and cherry-picking amendments to the MVRMA were brought in by the previous Conservative government in 2014. The Conservatives' goal was to move decisions away from regional community members and restructure the land and water boards with a complete disregard for land claim agreements. As history has shown, the Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories had a problem with that. Indigenous governments have settled land claims. Canada and the NWT government worked very long and hard to conclude these agreements. They cannot be ignored for expediency, for political gain and pandering to interest groups. As we have seen in this case, and we will see in the future if required, if any level of government thinks it can just set them aside when convenient, it will end up before the courts and will not like the outcome.Bill C-88 is not just about keeping decision-making in the hands of those who know best, the indigenous and northern people; it is also about targeted improvements to the regime as a whole. These amendments do both.I thank everyone here today for their continued support. Hopefully, we will see some new supporters here today. These amendments would right past wrongs and certainly improve the regulatory system in the north. I certainly want to highlight the initial work that the Tlicho government has done to spearhead the court challenge of the ill-conceived Conservative amendments back in 2014, which stopped the superboard from ever being created in the first place. Their successful injunction at the Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories suspended those flawed provisions from being enacted.(2210) Finally, I would like to thank the Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs for bringing them forward. I wish him well and look forward to seeing and working with him in the future.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsComprehensive land claimsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyProvincial and territorial boards and agenciesThird reading and adoptionGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (2210)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to correct the hon. member. There are not only two parts to this piece of legislation. There are actually three. The first part is referring to the superboard. The second part contains the eight regulatory items that were brought forward by the previous Conservative government that I think everybody agreed to and were focused on. When the bill came forward it had the superboard attachment. In Bill C-88, we have a further piece which is the Canadian Petroleum Resources Act. I believe that is the part the member is referring to.We heard loud and clear from the Premier of the Northwest Territories when he appeared as a witness in front of the indigenous affairs committee. The member was chairing the meeting so she was there when he said he appreciated how well the negotiations were going. There are negotiations that are happening with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation and the Government of the Northwest Territories and the federal government that will bring oversight and co-management abilities on the Beaufort Sea. This is a piece that was ignored by the previous Conservative government. The Conservative government would not put the Beaufort Sea discussions on the table. I find it very surprising when members are concerned about how we react to the discussions on the Beaufort Sea when the previous Conservative government would not include it. Neither would it include the Norman Wells oil fields, two cash cows that generate revenue. They were left out. They were not part of the deal. The Conservative government would not let them put these items on the table, but our government has.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyThird reading and adoptionCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-Patrie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (2215)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would argue that this is UNDRIP in action. This includes all of the indigenous governments in the regulatory process. Every government that has agreed to and signed on to the land claim agreements is involved in the regulatory process in the Northwest Territories. Fifty per cent of the seats are guaranteed for indigenous people. We have a resource revenue-sharing component in the Northwest Territories. I do not think any other jurisdiction has that, a revenue-sharing component for indigenous people. They get 20% of the Government of Northwest Territories' share.This is the best example we could have when it comes to inclusion of indigenous people. I think it is a model that other jurisdictions, including the hon. member's province, could look at using. Other countries have come to look at how we operate and how we include indigenous people. They see it as a very good model that we should share with other jurisdictions.Aboriginal rightsAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsComprehensive land claimsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyThird reading and adoptionAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatrieLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (2215)[English]Mr. Speaker, it took many years to get to the point where the management and decision-making around resource development in the Northwest Territories could be agreed to in the form of the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act. The government of the day agreed to it, signed on to it, only to renege a couple of years later, saying it was going to make changes, while not consulting with anybody. A consultant was brought in from Alberta, a consultant who specialized in oil and gas and knew nothing about land claims or self-government or any kind of legislation in that area.I think it shattered the trust of all the indigenous people who were involved with the Mackenzie Valley resource management boards and also the people who were involved in the creation of the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act. It has taken a long time. People wonder why it has taken so long to bring Bill C-88 back to the table. We had to deal with the trust factor. We had to convince indigenous people that we were serious and that we were not going to do what the previous government did, and that we were going to sort out all the issues before we got here.Now, every indigenous government that has a role in the Mackenzie Valley boards supports this legislation. They have taken out ads in newspapers stating that they support it. The Government of Northwest Territories supports it. Industry supports it. It provides reassurance that they know the process and everybody is comfortable with it.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsComprehensive land claimsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyThird reading and adoptionGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestPatKellyCalgary Rocky Ridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (2220)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am aware that Bill C-15 was a Conservative bill that really shattered the confidence of the indigenous people in the Northwest Territories.It was a bill that never should have come forward. It is a bill that we are trying to correct today. There is an opportunity for my honoured colleague from across the way, who I travel with most weekends to return home, to support this bill. He has the opportunity to stand up now and support Bill C-88. I would appreciate it if he would do so. I think he knows the bill. He knows how important it is to the Northwest Territories. I think he is quite supportive of indigenous governments and resource development.This would provide reassurance. I would ask the member to stand up and support this bill. Let us clear up some of the wrongdoings from the past.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyThird reading and adoptionPatKellyCalgary Rocky RidgeCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (2220)[English]Mr. Speaker, the member fails to point out that the moratorium was only on new exploration licences in federal waters. She does not point out the fact that there was no activity. There were no applications in sight. Historically, over the five years prior to that, it was $7 million. There is no economic boom if they are only going to find $7 million spent in the Northwest Territories as a whole on oil and gas. Therefore, there was a natural moratorium.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyThird reading and adoptionCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooKevinWaughSaskatoon—Grasswood//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2350)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Yukon for his very good presentation on Bill C-88.I want to ask the member about the unique co-management systems that we have in the north across the board, and why the co-management system for resource development is so important to us in the north. Could he elaborate on that a little bit?Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyProvincial and territorial boards and agenciesThird reading and adoptionLarryBagnellHon.YukonLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (2350)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to touch on an issue that comes mostly from industry. I meet quite often with the Chamber of Mines. It attends a lot of the round tables and has very strong opinions on resource development and the economy. So does the Chamber of Commerce. They always talk about the need to address a number of things if the north is going to become more economically secure. The first thing is to address the issue of cost through infrastructure, mostly transportation infrastructure. The second thing is to sort out and resolve land tenure, compensation and self-governance with the indigenous people. They claim, and I agree with them, that certainty is a big issue and that we should not change the system we have. Everyone is comfortable and familiar with it.Would the member agree that keeping the system, with the changes in Bill C-88, would give legal certainty to industry and all northerners, including the indigenous governments?Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsFederal-provincial-territorial relationsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyThird reading and adoptionLarryBagnellHon.YukonLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersSecond ReadingInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1945)[English]Madam Speaker, one thing I can certainly say about the member for Abbotsford is that he can string quite a line together, but not with much fact. The facts of the matter are that pretty nearly all during the Harper years we had huge trade deficits. The member talked about the TPP. It was this government that had to complete the negotiations because the Conservatives could not. He talked about the 46 different trade—C-101, An Act to amend the Customs Tariff and the Canadian International Trade Tribunal ActCustoms tariff and customs dutiesGovernment billsInternational tradeSecond readingTrade policyCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersSecond ReadingInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1950)[English]Madam Speaker, the member talked about the 46 different trade agreements the Conservatives signed. We did some research when the Conservatives were still in government. Do members know how much trade that really amounted to? It was four and a half days' trade with the United States. They are just numbers on the table. They are not really effective agreements. Four and a half days' trade with the United States was all the Conservatives negotiated.Why does the member for Abbotsford not admit that the Prime Minister and the international trade minister completed the deals that the Conservatives could not complete? They also stood up to Donald Trump the way he should be stood up to.C-101, An Act to amend the Customs Tariff and the Canadian International Trade Tribunal ActCustoms tariff and customs dutiesGovernment billsInternational tradeSecond readingTrade agreementsTrade policyCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingEdFastHon.Abbotsford//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2110)[English]Mr. Speaker, I will leave Canadians to interpret and translate what the member has said.I want to point out a couple of things that he failed to mention. First, the Conservatives were in power for the 10 years, when these discussions were going on, and really did not do anything to help the economy. In fact, they left it in shambles. The member also pointed out that the bill and the changes made would influence the activities in resource development in the Northwest Territories. I should remind him that it was his government that created the Mackenzie Valley resource management boards and negotiated, through land claim discussions and negotiations, to come to this arrangement. They decided they wanted to change it. I was in the indigenous affairs committee when the contractor who was hired by Minister Strahl to go out and consult was presented. He talked about the direction he received from the minister. He was not totally clear, but he was told to fold all the regional boards and set up one super board. He was also talked about the rounds of consultations he had in the Northwest Territories. From what other witnesses said, he had set up two rounds of consultations. One was with the indigenous governments, where everybody who was in the room was against the changes that included doing away with a regional board system and bringing in a super board. In the second round of consultations, everybody showed up except the consultant who was hired by the Conservative government.When I asked the consultant about the report he presented and how he recommended that this was what everybody wanted when everybody was against it. He claimed that people said one thing in public, but whispered something else in his ear. I am very disappointed that the member views including indigenous people in the consultation and regulatory process as a hindrance. Why does he see the involvement of indigenous as an attack on industry, as were his words?Aboriginal peoplesAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyProvincial and territorial boards and agenciesPublic consultationThird reading and adoptionAnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingRobertSopuckDauphin—Swan River—Neepawa//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2145)[English]Mr. Speaker, in committee, we heard quite a few presentations, and most were favourable to Bill C-88. We heard from the premier, stating that he was happy with the negotiations on oversight and management of the Beaufort Sea, and that things were going well. Along with Grand Chief George Mackenzie from the Tlicho government, they talked about how they needed to see this move forward through the legislative process and receive royal assent in this Parliament. The negative implications of the status quo would be significant. If the bill is not passed in this Parliament, rising in June, indigenous rights and other federal-territorial initiatives, such as the five-year review of devolution agreements would be compromised.Does the member agree with the premier and the grand chief that the negative implications of the status quo are significant?Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyThird reading and adoptionRichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West KootenayRichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West Kootenay//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2205)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to correct the member. She mentioned there were two aspects to this legislation, but there are three. First, it would repeal the restructuring of the superboard. Second, regulatory items negotiated with the Conservative government of the day, which we consider positive, are included. Third, changes are proposed to the Canadian Petroleum Resources Act.I was very pleased to hear the hon. member talk about the need to listen to people who were impacted. In 2014, the consultant who was hired heard many presentations in the first round of discussions, during which indigenous governments and the Government of the Northwest Territories sat in the same room. All governments there indicated they did not support the changes. There was not one word of support at that time. However, the consultant still chose to recommend that changes be made in three different sections of the bill.Bill C-88 is an important bill. It is now supported by the Government of the Northwest Territories, which has provided written support. The Tlicho government, the Gwich’in government and the Sahtu government support it. All the impacted indigenous governments, along with the Government of the Northwest Territories, support it.Now that the member has been reassured that governments in the Northwest Territories support Bill C-88 and that it is positive, will she vote to support it?Aboriginal peoplesAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyPublic consultationThird reading and adoptionCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2235)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think I heard the member say that she agreed with the courts. I interpret that to mean that she views the creation of the superboard as something that, in hindsight, was wrong. I would like the member to remind us how many regional boards the previous legislation, Bill C-15, was going to kill in anticipation of the creation of the superboard.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyProvincial and territorial boards and agenciesThird reading and adoptionMarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2255)[English]Mr. Speaker, Bill C-88 is intended to enhance the involvement of indigenous people in the regulatory process. When changes were brought forward by the Conservative government in 2014, everyone was against them, including industry. They were saying, “Do not change the process. This is a process they are familiar with. Everyone is used to it. Let us continue to use it.”However, the government of the day decided to get rid of the regional boards. It said that land and water boards were not needed. It wanted to have one superboard and it plowed ahead, even though everyone recommended against it.When I hear the hon. member talk about disdain for industry by introducing this bill, it makes me wonder why she would say that when industry supports the bill. When she says that the bill is going to be detrimental to industry, she is forgetting that the bill is going to enhance the involvement of indigenous people. Is she saying industry is more important than the indigenous people of the north?Aboriginal peoplesAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyProvincial and territorial boards and agenciesThird reading and adoptionKellyBlockCarlton Trail—Eagle CreekKellyBlockCarlton Trail—Eagle Creek//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2310)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to ask the hon. member about the changes brought forward in 2014 to the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act. The act was created through the negotiation of the land claim agreements, which are constitutionally protected. The Conservative government of the day decided to move forward and make changes, which were challenged.Why did the Conservatives make these changes and expect them to stick, when they knew that they were breaching the Constitution?Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyThird reading and adoptionBobSaroyaMarkham—UnionvilleBobSaroyaMarkham—Unionville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2340)[English]Mr. Speaker, the member mentioned the impact the moratorium had in the north. I just wonder, when the Conservatives are talking about the fiscal and economic impacts to the north that the moratorium has caused, if they have really looked at the history of what was being invested in the north.In 2011, the whole program was cancelled. In 2012, there was $7 million spent in the north, which benefited the north. In 2013, there was no program. In 2014, it was postponed. In 2015, it was postponed. I would suspect the member would agree that there was actually a natural moratorium happening because of the oil prices.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyThird reading and adoptionJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilJohnBrassardBarrie—Innisfil//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (2345)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to express my support for Bill C-88, which would amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act.For too long, indigenous people have been left out of the planning and decision-making that directly affects their lands and communities and the ways in which they express and nurture their culture and traditional ways. Historically, the model for managing resources in the Northwest Territories did not give meaningful consideration to indigenous participation; environmental safeguards were not sufficient and economic gains were not distributed fairly. It is not uncommon to hear elders speak of past developments occurring against their will and, in some cases, allowing destruction of traditional land use areas or family dwellings. Decisions did not provide for input from community members and did not consider local or traditional knowledge. Most decisions were not made by people who resided in the north. A host of abandoned projects leave reminders that environmental safeguards were not in place to protect and respect the resources that indigenous peoples have relied on for centuries. Resource royalty schemes and impact benefit agreements were not in place to allow for shared economic opportunities. The personal accounts shared by indigenous peoples at public meetings, workshops and other meetings evoke historic wounds. They provide insight as to why community members are apprehensive about government-led processes. That was the old way of doing business before the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act, a piece of legislation established in 1998 that created the existing integrated co-management system where comprehensive land claim agreements are the underpinning of the system. It is a leading global example of a collaborative decision-making system that guarantees the participation of indigenous peoples. Modern treaties clarify how resources will be co-operatively managed, how parties will work together to make decisions, and how economic measures are to be implemented. The regime involves land and resource ownership and access, land use planning, permitting and licensing, environmental assessment, and wildlife and renewable resource management. Co-management boards made up of members from federal, territorial and indigenous governments and organizations participate in the decision-making processes. In some cases, these co-management boards are responsible for developing policies and guidelines that shape how resources are managed in the north. It is a participatory system that gives everybody the opportunity to offer their knowledge and expertise. Elders, harvesters and community members can offer their knowledge orally, in their language, in their communities, to board members they know and trust and create the opportunity for better decisions that are supported regionally.Since enacted, the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act regime grew, learned and has support from all sides, aboriginal communities and governments, territorial government and industry. The system was working as intended.However, there are those that do not want a robust, inclusive and effective regulatory process and they set about on a so-called road to improvement. The amendments brought in by the previous Conservative government to move decisions away from regional community members and restructure the land and water boards was simply a backward move reminiscent of the bad old days. Under the guise of “streamlining” and “efficiency”, the Conservatives parachuted this amendment into the much wanted NWT Devolution Act. Amalgamating the boards without the consent of indigenous partners would destroy these opportunities and, as a result, would also jeopardize industry's desire to do business in the north.The bill before the House today seeks to undo the board restructuring provisions. It seeks to maintain the existing regulatory board structure that was negotiated through land claim agreements.Bill C-88 would acknowledge and support the rights of indigenous and northern peoples, would honour existing agreements, would support a system that local people believe in, and would continue to provide for communities to make meaningful decisions about their lands, about their lives and about their future. That would be a significant and desirable outcome of this bill. (2350)Bill C-88 would repeal the provisions that sought to amalgamate the boards and would reintroduce the regulatory elements to function under the existing four-board structure. However, the bill would do more than that. In fact, there are many provisions that would modernize and improve the system that were also put on hold. The elimination of regional land and water boards would have violated the terms of these agreements.By reversing the provisions that sought to restructure the board, Bill C-88 would honour the terms of the land claim agreements as well as the commitment of this government to move forward with reconciliation. Bill C-88 would authorize the Government of Canada's moratorium on oil and gas activity in the Arctic offshore to enable a science-based review. The review would incorporate traditional Inuit knowledge, which is known as IQ, or Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit. Developed over millennia of Inuit expertise and interaction with the land, IQ emphasizes collaboration, stewardship, resourcefulness and the acquisition of skills. Including IQ in the review of development projects in the Arctic would clearly support reconciliation.The United Nations declaration calls for meaningful consultation, respectful relationships and the consent of indigenous peoples before proceeding with economic development projects. The consultant who was hired to do the work on Bill C-15 openly admitted that he received direction from the previous minister. He said that he may have heard it or he may not have. I take it that it was clear to him what his job was. Before he even started the consultations, all of us in the Northwest Territories knew what his goal was. He came and met with the cabinet I sat in, and we all questioned why he wanted to change the board system to a superboard. This was before he even started consultations. Everyone in the north knew what his marching orders were.It was very interesting to see the report and to hear him speak before the committee. He stated that the Conservative government did not follow his wishes and that he had, in fact, recommended that a land use plan for every indigenous government be put in place right across the north prior to moving forward with a superboard concept. However, the government of the day decided that it did not want that part. It just wanted to move forward with the superboard. The consultant who was hired had no experience dealing with indigenous governments. He was an oil and gas specialist who operated in Alberta. When the consultant came north, his first meeting resulted in all governments at all levels stating very clearly that they did not want to see the changes. They did not want to see this concept of a superboard move forward. He did not show up for the second meeting. Everyone else showed up, but there was no consultant in sight. He did not come. The report came forward saying that the government should change the system and that it did not work well. When I questioned the consultant at committee, he stated that indigenous governments said one thing in public but came to him afterward and whispered that they loved this whole change. I have not found that anywhere when I have called indigenous governments about that message. Nobody will take ownership of those words. I do not know how one can write a report when one never heard it publicly, and I do not know how a government can follow a recommendation when there was really no quality process.(2355)In closing, I want to point out that there is a difference in the way our government does consultation versus how the Conservative members across the way do it. They brought forward a flawed system that did not take into account any of the indigenous governments' positions and they did not respect any of the words that were brought forward to them. We have now a process where all of the indigenous governments are in favour. We have the Tlicho, the Gwich'in, the Sahtu and the Government of the Northwest Territories. The Premier of the Northwest Territories appeared at the Standing Committee on Indigenous and Northern Affairs. The Premier of the Government of the Northwest Territories said that he supports Bill C-88 and wants it to go forward. The grand chief of the Tlicho appeared— Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsComprehensive land claimsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyProvincial and territorial boards and agenciesThird reading and adoptionJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThird ReadingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (2355)[English]Mr. Speaker, this bill has the full support of the Government of the Northwest Territories. It has the full support of the people of the Tlicho nation. The grand chief appeared at committee and stated that. The Gwich'in people are in support of it, and the Sahtu are in support of it. Many members across the way mentioned that Merven Gruben, the mayor of Tuktoyaktuk, appeared at committee, which he did. He spoke long and passionately about what is happening in his riding, but he also spoke about how he supports Bill C-88. I know, because I asked him the direct question and he responded saying, yes, he does support Bill C-88.We have a lot of information and words being spoken here that do not quite adequately reflect what has taken place up to now historically. There are three versions of this bill. The first version was the creation of the superboard. Why did we need a superboard? There was no support for it. It was not an idea from the Government of the Northwest Territories, it was not brought forward by industry and it was not brought forward by the indigenous government. Who wanted it? It was not raised by anybody. It was brought forward by the Conservative government, and it was part of the marching orders provided to the consultant who was hired and had no experience dealing with indigenous people at all. He had no experience with land claims. He could not even reference any parts of the land claim. Why was he hired? It is pretty obvious. If all of us in the Government of the Northwest Territories of the day knew what he was doing and what the end result would be before he even started; it is pretty obvious.There is the second piece that was brought forward in this bill, and there are still some parts of it that were discussed and negotiated with the Conservative government of the day. There are eight regulatory items, and they are all in the devolution act. I should point out that the devolution act is being held up because of this legislation not moving forward. We need to see that happen. These would be carried into the Mackenzie Valley resource management act, and I will list them quickly: the regional studies—Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsComprehensive land claimsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyProvincial and territorial boards and agenciesThird reading and adoptionGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1155)[English]Madam Speaker, this government has made the largest investment in fleet renewal for the Canadian Coast Guard in its history.We are putting forward a plan that will provide the Coast Guard with the right equipment while promoting economic growth and creating good-paying jobs across the country. The fleet renewal is needed, as the average age of large ships in the Canadian Coast Guard is 38, and they are nearing the end of their service lives. This government is reinvesting in the Coast Guard to protect the communities that are affected and the people who make their living on the water.LifeguardsNational, provincial and territorial parks and reservesOral questionsPacific Rim National Park Reserve of CanadaGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniDaneLloydSturgeon River—Parkland//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBudget Implementation Act, 2019, No. 1InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1050)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is really appropriate to be splitting my time with the member for Surrey--Newton, because he is on one coast of Canada and I am on the other, and just like this budget, we cover the country from coast to coast.It gives me great pleasure to speak to Bill C-97. This bill does what we set out to do in 2015, building on our series of budgets to grow the economy, so needed after the disastrous decade of the Harper years. The measures in Bill C-97, to be implemented by the budget implementation act, would do what Liberals do best: investing wisely and working with the private sector, the provinces and communities to strengthen the social and economic fabric of this country.The prudent investments in this bill build on the fall economic statement, which I think could have been called a business budget. Part 1 of the budget implementation act relates to that fall economic statement. The fall economic statement strengthened the very core of the business community's ability to compete by challenging head-on the U.S. tax reforms. It did many things, but I will name three: one, allowing businesses to immediately write off for tax purposes the full cost of machinery and equipment used in the manufacturing and processing of goods; two, implementing a new accelerated investment incentive, an accelerated capital cost allowance across all sectors of the economy; three, launching an export diversification strategy. That really assists our businesses in terms of being able to retain capital, attract investment, invest in new equipment, machinery and technology and be competitive in export markets. That just touches on three of the points in the fall economic statement.From strengthening business opportunities in the fall economic statement, this bill seeks to give greater opportunity to Canadians and communities. In fact, I think this section of the bill could be called “the people's budget”. For my province, Prince Edward Island, over a four-year term in government, major federal transfers of equalization, the Canada health transfer and the Canada social transfer, have increased by $93.4 million to $647 million.Of course, colleagues know from the smiles they see on people's faces in their communities and their ridings that the legacy program of the Canada child benefit has made a huge difference for families all across the country. Nine out of 10 families are better off. On Prince Edward Island, for families with children, the Canada child benefit has meant $100 million over the last year tax-free to those families. That is investing where the money needs to be invested. The money that goes into those families' pockets is spent in the local economy. It assists their children in child care and education, and it makes a much more progressive economy. Money is actually then spent in the community.However, this Liberal government did not stop there. We know that early learning and child care are critical to give children the best start in life. Therefore, the Government of Canada and the Province of Prince Edward Island have signed an agreement that allows for the transfer of $10.6 million over three years for regulated early learning and child care, to give children their best start in life.(1055)Let me turn to the other end of the age spectrum, to seniors, who have been so instrumental in building this country we are so fortunate to call home.The budget provides additional funding, increasing the funding for the new horizons for seniors program by $20 million per year. It is an excellent program. It works in every riding. I encourage seniors groups and others to apply for that funding, because not only is it an expenditure spent in the local economy, but also it assists seniors with the programs they need. This program has a solid record of improving the quality of life of seniors and promoting their participation in communities and the workforce.The budget implementation act goes further and proposes a series of measures to help Canadian seniors keep more money in their pockets by ensuring they receive the Canada pension plan benefits they are entitled to and stay active and be a valuable asset in their community. This builds on the concrete steps we have taken to improve the retirement security of Canadians. I will turn to the budget. I know there are members on the other side who love to read this almost daily. With respect to retirement security, page 62 lists measures that will really help seniors.The government is enhancing the Canada Pension Plan, which will raise the maximum CPP retirement benefit by up to 50% over time. It is restoring the eligibility age for OAS and GIS benefits to 65. It is increasing guaranteed income supplement top-up payments by up to $947 per year for single seniors, and introducing legislative changes so that couples who receive GIS and allowance benefits and have to live apart for reasons beyond their control can receive higher benefits based on their individual incomes. Investing in the lives of seniors has been the focus of this government's emphasis, with the Prime Minister appointing a minister of seniors to ensure that programs and services are designed to respond to the needs of seniors.I will quote from page 70 of the budget document itself, for those who wish to refer to the page.These further investments amount to $40 billion for the 10-year national housing strategy, which will help ensure that vulnerable Canadians, including low-income seniors, have access to housing that meets their needs and that they can afford; $6 billion over 10 years for home care, to allow provinces and territories to improve access to home, community and palliative care services; $77 million in additional funding for the enabling accessibility fund, to improve the safety and accessibility of community spaces; making it easier to apply for employment insurance caregiving benefits, and introducing a new employment insurance caregiving benefit of up to 15 weeks to support individuals who are providing care to adult family members. That is important to do.For communities directly, this budget tops up the federal gas tax refund by $2.2 billion. It doubles the amount for most communities, large and small, and is money they can invest in infrastructure, business and to make their communities more economically sustainable. In P.E.I., that amounts to $16.5 million in added investments for communities.Basically, Bill C-97 touches all segments of the economy, as well as people and tax measures that allow our businesses to be more competitive. It challenges, head on, the tax reform in the United States.(1100)This is a budget implementation act that is building on the foundation we have already put in place as a government and putting our country in a place where it can be prosperous and successful in the years to come.Benefits for childrenBudget 2019 (March 19, 2019)C-97, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019 and other measuresGovernment billsNew Horizons for Seniors ProgramPensions and pensionersSenior citizensSplitting speaking timeTaxationThird reading and adoptionSukhDhaliwalSurrey—NewtonZiadAboultaifEdmonton Manning//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBudget Implementation Act, 2019, No. 1InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1100)[English]Mr. Speaker, it was indeed a great pleasure to be on the finance committee and travel the country with the member. We were in his hometown in Alberta at one point, where people talked about many of the issues that the member raised.The fall economic statement is where the measures were put forth in terms of the accelerated capital cost allowance and being able to expense investments in new equipment for manufacturing and processing. That is where we see the measures in place that will keep the business community competitive even given the kinds of tax reforms that have taken place in the United States.In terms of the other measures that the member mentioned, employment insurance payroll deductions have in fact declined. That is one thing this government has done on a consistent basis. The CPP is an investment in retirement. It should ensure that employees will have some security. They know they will have more security in their retirement years.All the measures we put together are good for the business community, and I am proud of that. On productivity, yes, we need to do more.Budget 2019 (March 19, 2019)C-97, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019 and other measuresGovernment billsManufacturing industryThird reading and adoptionZiadAboultaifEdmonton ManningDanielBlaikieElmwood—Transcona//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBudget Implementation Act, 2019, No. 1InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1105)[English]Mr. Speaker, that question relates to a critical issue, but we have obligations. When people cross the border, they are immediately arrested and checked to ensure they are asylum seekers, and that is important to do. We meet our international human rights obligations as a government, and we enhance that in this particular budget by making clear what the rules are. We have also increased the funding to enable border agents and the RCMP to take the measures they need to in order to ensure that our country is secure and that the human rights of those entering the country are protected.BordersBudget 2019 (March 19, 2019)C-97, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019 and other measuresGovernment billsIllegal migrantsThird reading and adoptionDanielBlaikieElmwood—TransconaPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInfrastructureInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, we know that northern communities face unique economic and environmental challenges as well as a lack of modern public infrastructure and that this government has plans to address these challenges. Investing in local green infrastructure projects helps grow the economy and improve the quality of life for those living and working in Canada's north.Can the Minister of Rural Economic Development please update this House on recent investments this government has made to improve water quality for future generations in Canada's north?Diesel fuelGovernment assistanceNorthern CanadaOral questionsRemote communitiesRenewable energy and fuelBernadetteJordanHon.South Shore—St. MargaretsBernadetteJordanHon.South Shore—St. Margarets//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal Records ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1545)[English]Madam Speaker, I find it quite fascinating to hear the member for Yellowhead say that Bill C-93 does not go far enough, that it should include some minor offences and that processes should be free and easier to get at. I invite him to comment on the measures taken by the previous Conservative government, a government of which he was a member. It jacked up application fees, increased the waiting time to the point where the backlog is substantial, as is the hardship for many of the people in the very situations he described. That is the record of the Conservative government.How does he square that with the position he has taken on this bill?Application processBacklogsC-93, An Act to provide no-cost, expedited record suspensions for simple possession of cannabisCannabisCriminal record suspensionFeesGovernment billsPossession of a controlled substanceThird reading and adoptionJimEglinskiYellowheadJimEglinskiYellowhead//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersConvention on the Rights of Persons with DisabilitiesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform the House that Prince Edward Islander Hannah MacLellan will be representing Canada at a UN conference on the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in New York next week.At 20, Hannah has already made her mark in P.E.I. politics. She was the driving force in the adoption of a bill known as Hannah's Bill, which passed through the P.E.I. legislature in 2016.While working toward a degree in human rights and disability studies, Hannah has been an active member of the Carleton University Young Liberals and is a valuable employee in my office. She has been a fixture in the gallery of this place, especially during the debate on the government's bill to create a barrier-free Canada. Hannah most recently represented the riding of Cardigan in Parliament for Daughters of the Vote, where she gave an impassioned speech on Bill C-81. I am proud to say that persons with disabilities have a formidable advocate in Ms. MacLellan. Today also happens to be her birthday. I wish Hannah a happy birthday.C-81, An Act to ensure a barrier-free CanadaMacLellan, HannahMilitants and activistsPersons with disabilitiesStatements by MembersKellyMcCauleyEdmonton WestPeterFonsecaMississauga East—Cooksville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessEnergy CostsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1345)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his speech. I particularly appreciated the last part, where he paid tribute to his mother in such a touching way. I offer him my condolences and thank him for his words.I would like to ask my colleague a few questions. First, does he believe that pollution should be free?My second question is about the second part of his motion and its benefit to Canadians. It is obvious that the wealthy will benefit most from this motion. Removing the GST from home heating bills will obviously help those with large homes. As for those living in seniors' residences, where the cost of heating is included in the rent, they will not benefit at all.In his opinion, is this fair?Carbon pricingCarbon taxConsumer priceGoods and services taxM-230Private Members' MotionsBernardGénéreuxMontmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-LoupBernardGénéreuxMontmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-Loup//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessEnergy CostsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1350)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to debate a motion bought forward by the member opposite. The motion highlights the very different visions we have for Canada's future and the future our children and grandchildren.The motion before us today, which calls to repeal the federal price on carbon pollution and remove the GST on home energy purchases, would seem to suggest that pollution has no cost and that it is free. It would also undermine a key feature of the GST that allows it to function effectively and fairly. The motion would undermine a vital part of Canada's plan to act on the real and serious threat posed by climate change.It was wisely said by the late U.S. Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan that “Everyone is entitled to his own opinion, but not his own facts.” Certainly, people are entitled to their opinion that the Earth is flat, that the moon is made of cheese or that pollution has no cost. However, at the end of the day, we defer to science. We look at the facts and we look at the evidence. That is the basis of our government's policies. We base them on the evidence before us.The fact is that manmade climate change is real. It is causing more frequent and devastatingly extreme weather events and it is making it harder for people to live today. That is the global scientific consensus on this.Moreover, the costs associated with climate change are growing every year, with higher costs for health care, emergency services, structural repairs, insurance premiums and food as a result of climate change. All told, climate change is expected to cost Canada's economy $5 billion annually by 2020. The facts do not stop there.We know that climate change is real and manmade, but we also know how to make fast and meaningful change. Canadians cannot wait. We need action now. The expert consensus, based on evidence and supported by Nobel Prize-winning economists is clear. The most effective and economically sound way to address the consequences of climate change is to put a price on carbon pollution, which is the primary driver of manmade climate change. That is precisely what our government has done. Despite the efforts of the opposition and their allies, it is no longer free to pollute anywhere in Canada. This is an approach based on science, based on years of building a co-ordinated, international approach to stopping climate change before it is too late; based on respecting the autonomy of provinces and territories to choose a system that works best for them and meets a certain standard; and based on ensuring that every dollar directly collected under the federal system will be returned to the province or territory it came from, either to the provincial government in jurisdictions that have requested the federal system or by giving the bulk of the direct proceeds of the price on pollution directly to individuals and families in the form of climate action incentive payments. This is money that ensures middle-class Canadians are not carrying the brunt of pollution pricing.As the independent Parliamentary Budget Officer noted, most households will get back more money in climate action incentive payments than they would pay in increased costs from the carbon pollution pricing system. For Canadian businesses, carbon pollution pricing delivers economic benefits as well. It encourages Canadians and businesses to innovate and to invest in clean technologies and in long-term growth opportunities that will position Canada for success in a cleaner and greener global economy.This presents significant opportunities for Canadian companies to tap into the global market for low-carbon goods and services, which is currently estimated to be worth over $5.8 trillion. In provinces that have not take action to meet the Canada-wide federal standards for reducing carbon pollution, our government will provide a portion of the proceeds from the federal carbon pollution pricing system to support small and medium-sized businesses.These outcomes are not just fair for Canadians. They are good for the environment, they are good for our future and they are good for the economy.(1355)By undermining these outcomes, Motion No. 230 would be bad for the environment, bad for our future and bad for the economy.Canadians understand that a clean environment and a strong economy go hand in hand and that their quality of life today and economic success tomorrow rests on the commitments to protect our natural legacy and preserve our environment for future generations.That is why the government has made significant investments to protect Canada's air, water and natural areas for our children and grandchildren and to create a world-leading clean economy.To combat climate change, in budget 2017, the government increased financing support for Canada's clean technology sector by making available more equity finance, working capital and project finance to promising clean technology firms. In total, almost $1.4 billion in new financing was made available through the Business Development Bank of Canada and Export Development Canada to help Canadian clean technology firms grow and expand.If that is not enough reason to oppose the motion, it is also bad from a tax policy perspective. As we know, the GST is a value-added tax that is applied to the purchase of goods and services in Canada. Applying the GST to as broad a base as reasonably possible is important in allowing its rate to remain low. Removing the GST from home energy purchases, as proposed in the motion, would erode the broad tax base that provides for a simple and efficient GST and would allow the GST to be set at a low rate. Removing the tax on home energy would favour wealthier Canadians and would provide no relief to those living in apartments, nursing homes or rental houses, where energy costs are included in the rent.Our government does want to help families with the cost of heating their homes, but this is not the right way to do so. Instead, we are starting by helping those who need it the most, providing tax relief from the GST to low and modest-income Canadians through the GST credit. The GST credit provides more than $4.5 billion in annual assistance to help offset the sales tax burden of low and modest-income families and individuals.Budget 2019 also includes measures to help make more homes energy efficient, reducing heating costs overall and helping us down a path to a greener Canada.Finally, I would like to point out that not only did the Saskatchewan Court of Appeal recently rule that the Greenhouse Gas Pollution Pricing Act was constitutionally valid, but it prefaced its ruling by saying that climate change caused by greenhouse gas emissions was “one of the great existential issues of our time”. While Motion No. 230 would have the government turn its back on this threat, Canadians know we cannot and we must not.We will move forward with our a plan, which is based on facts and evidence. I ask the House to vote against the motion.Carbon pricingCarbon taxClimate Action IncentiveClimate change and global warmingConsumer priceCostsEcotechnologyEnergy conservationGoods and services taxGovernment assistanceM-230Private Members' MotionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesTransfers to provinces and territoriesBernardGénéreuxMontmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-LoupPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1) I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, two reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group.The first report concerns the U.S. congressional meetings held in Washington, D.C., U.S.A, from November 26 to 28, 2018.The second report concerns the U.S. congressional meetings held in Washington, D.C., U.S.A, from February 26 to 27.8565-421-59-60 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at U.S. Congressional Meetings, held in Washington, D.C., from November 26 to 28, 20188565-421-59-61 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at U.S. Congressional Meetings, held in Washington, D.C., on February 26 and 27, 2019Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthBobZimmerPrince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodVeterans AffairsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that our government is committed to making sure we deliver for veterans. Yes, we did invest 10 billion new dollars, which included $42 million to address the backlog. We hired 630 new front-line staff because there was a major reduction in front-line staff.It is also important to realize the 66% increase in applications to Veterans Affairs because Veterans Affairs says yes more often. We take care of our veterans.BacklogsOral questionsVeteransVeterans benefitsRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—Langford//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodThe EnvironmentInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, we continue to ensure the sustainability of aquatic ecosystems. We understand the importance of fishery resources in the Cowichan River to local indigenous groups and the local community. We are aware of the issues regarding the low summer flows and the threats to fish and fish habitat. The department and the minister have attended meetings with local indigenous groups and provincial and local governments. We are actively engaged in ongoing discussions to find solutions and the possibilities of federal funding.Cowichan RiverDamsGovernment assistanceInland watersOral questionsRiversAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordCathayWagantallYorkton—Melville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodVeterans AffairsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, we have always made sure that we take care of our veterans, and we always will. The well-being and financial security of our veterans are vitally important.I want to be very clear. Injured veterans will be better off under the pension for life than they would have been under the previous government's policy. Our veterans took care of our democracy and freedom, and we want to make sure that we treat them in a proper manner, and we will.Disabled veteransOral questionsPensions and pensionersVeteransVeterans benefitsCathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodVeterans AffairsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's concern, but he is wrong. The Prime Minister indicated quite clearly that the pension for life will be much better and what is provided for veterans will be much better than it was under the previous government. That is what we promised, and I can assure the hon. member that it is what we will deliver.We have made sure, and will continue to make sure, that our veterans are cared for properly.Disabled veteransOral questionsPensions and pensionersVeteransVeterans benefitsAlupaClarkeBeauport—LimoilouJohnBrassardBarrie—Innisfil//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodVeterans AffairsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question, but it comes from a party that slashed Veterans Affairs. It slashed 1,000 jobs at Veterans Affairs and slashed the number of caseworkers, so veterans could not even apply. We have hired over 650 caseworkers. We have helped over 400 caseworkers to make sure that when veterans apply, they will be approved. In fact, Veterans Affairs is saying yes more often, not to mention the $10 billion we invested to make sure veterans are served properly.Disabled veteransOral questionsPensions and pensionersVeteransVeterans benefitsJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilBrendaShanahanChâteauguay—Lacolle//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1630)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 30th report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill C-97, an act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019, and other measures. The committee has studied the bill and has agreed to report it with amendments.I want to thank all committee members who put great effort into researching and debating the substantial budget implementation act. I have to admit that sometimes the debate at committee was boisterous.I also want to thank witnesses who brought forward their concerns and suggestions. Certainly, I must thank the legislative clerk and the Library of Parliament analysts for all the work they did on this matter.8510-421-574 "Bill C-97, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019, and other measures"Budget 2019 (March 19, 2019)C-97, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019 and other measuresStanding Committee on FinanceDavidMcGuintyHon.Ottawa SouthAnitaVandenbeldOttawa West—Nepean//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, the Department of Fisheries and Oceans works to manage risk with provincial authorities and stakeholders in the industry. With respect to sea lice, every single licensee has, as a condition of the licence, a requirement to monitor outbreaks of sea lice. Funding is in place and has been provided. All policy with regard to sea lice and aquaculture will be based on science and consultation with all appropriate stakeholders.AquacultureOral questionsSea liceWild salmonGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniDonDaviesVancouver Kingsway//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodVeteransInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, yes, there was a mistake made. I can assure my colleague that I talked to the veteran today. The veteran will be in Normandy.Afghanistan Memorial HallOral questionsAlupaClarkeBeauport—LimoilouPhilMcColemanBrantford—Brant//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersInfrastructureInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, today my P.E.I. colleagues and I welcomed the newly-elected Premier Dennis King to Ottawa, and we appreciate the collaborative tone he brought with him.With the mighty island leading the country in economic performance as he takes office, Premier King has large shoes to fill, and our government is ready and willing to support the many community groups and municipalities that are eager to get back to work improving their communities.The Canada-Prince Edward Island integrated bilateral agreement provides $366 million in federal funding over the next decade for cultural, rural and green infrastructure priorities as identified by provincial governments. Me and my P.E.I. colleagues share a common goal of helping islanders. I look forward to building on our enviable economic position by investing in rural infrastructure and sustainable community projects in my riding of Egmont.Federal-provincial-territorial relationsKing, DennisPremiersPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersLeonaAlleslevAurora—Oak Ridges—Richmond HillBorysWrzesnewskyjEtobicoke Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersGovernment PrioritiesInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, everywhere Canadians look, things are growing, but not just spring flowers. Canada's workforce grew by a record-smashing 106,000 jobs in April, bringing the number of jobs created since we formed government to over one million. This did not happen by accident. Our government put forward a plan in 2015, and we are seeing the rewards for Canadians. First, we cut taxes. Middle-class Canadians now pay less income tax than they did under Stephen Harper. Canadian small businesses now enjoy the lowest tax rate in the G7.We chose to invest in infrastructure and innovation, in science and R and D and in our primary industries. The fall economic statement gave business a competitive advantage. The Canada child benefit helps families raising children and distributes that money to the community.We are on the right track. Commitments our government made in 2015 are bearing fruit, as advertised.Government policyStatements by MembersGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestAndrewScheerHon.Regina—Qu'Appelle//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1530)[English]Madam Speaker, my hon. colleague indicates that there is some sort of distinction between consultation and engagement and that somehow this statute falls short. I am wondering if he has read the statute, in particular subsection 33(1), which says: In exercising the powers and performing the duties and functions assigned to the Minister by this Act, the Minister(a) shall cooperate with other ministers, boards and agencies of the Government of Canada, with provincial and territorial governments and with affected aboriginal organizations, coastal communities and other persons and bodies, including those bodies established under land claims agreements;It says “shall”, not “may”. The statute mandates engagement. There has been no amendment put forward to alter paragraph 33(1)(a). It addresses the very perceived problem the hon. member spent much of his speech talking about. Has he read that provision of the statute?C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsDecision-making processGovernment billsMarine protected areasPublic consultationToddDohertyCariboo—Prince GeorgeToddDohertyCariboo—Prince George//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1555)[English]Madam Speaker, I also would like to thank my colleague for his work on the fisheries committee. As a Newfoundland and Labrador member of Parliament, he would be abundantly aware that negotiations were successfully concluded recently between the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador and the Government of Canada with respect to the Atlantic Accord, including the designation of the Laurentian Channel marine protected area.Could the member speak to what he is hearing from his constituents with respect to the level of consultation, the level of engagement between the respective governments and the stakeholders for this to be allowed to happen?C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsDecision-making processGovernment billsMarine protected areasPublic consultationChurenceRogersBonavista—Burin—TrinityChurenceRogersBonavista—Burin—Trinity//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1605)[English]Madam Speaker, lest I be accused of stirring the pot, since my colleague talked about the Conservatives' passion for the environment, I would just like to take a look at the track record with respect to MPAs. The targets were established in 2010. The Conservatives were in power for five years after that. The amount of marine areas that were protected was 1% and now we are at 9%. What does that say about the passion for the environment, and how does that align with the views of my colleague's constituents?C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsMarine protected areasChrisBittleSt. CatharinesChrisBittleSt. Catharines//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1625)[English]Madam Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for his speech and his passion for this topic. It is very clear that he has an extensive background and experience in these matters, as we heard in his speech. There were actually a couple of things in there that I could agree with. When he talked about how important the terms and conditions are, he was absolutely right. In any marine protected area, the restriction on any activities is tied to the conservation objectives of that marine protected area, and they are not uniform.There were a couple of things in particular that I wanted to ask my colleague about. One, he seemed to indicate that if this act passes, it will be possible for the government to shut down everything. No, what this bill does is give the minister the power to make an interim protection order. What that order does is freeze the footprint. Everything that was allowed in that area the day before the order is allowed the day after the order and for the next five years. Therefore, the suggestion that everything can be instantly shut down with the stroke of a pen is dead, categorically, wrong.The other thing my colleague said is that the government is going too fast on this. However, the average time for the establishment of a marine protected area in this country is seven to 10 years. Is that too fast?C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsMarine protected areasRobertSopuckDauphin—Swan River—NeepawaRobertSopuckDauphin—Swan River—Neepawa//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1700)[English]Madam Speaker, in view of the parliamentary secretary's long career in public service, at both the provincial and federal levels, I would like to ask a question that is in alignment with what our government is doing with Canadian values right now. We went through a period under Stephen Harper when science was cut; it was not respected and scientists were muzzled. We have reinvested in science; we have reinvested in conservation; we have reinvested in the oceans protection plan. I would like my colleague to first speak to that, its alignment with Canadian values and where they are now.Tied to that same theme, the fact is that Canada, as an international player in 2010, committed to these targets and in the last five years has made such remarkable progress. I would ask him to tie that in as well.C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsMarine protected areasScientific research and scientistsKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1725)[English]Mr. Speaker, my colleague from Vancouver Kingsway can always be relied upon to provide a thoughtful and thorough presentation, and this one was certainly no exception.I appreciate that he challenged the government to be bolder to ensure that some of the measures we seek to put in place cannot be reversed by a future government and to consider some of the specific matters he raised.I want to raise two specific points and ask him whether he agrees with them.Without this legislation, there is no protection until there is full protection. This legislation would allow for an interim protection order that would effectively freeze the footprint. Would the member agree that this is an important tool, given all the considerations he outlined in his speech?Second, he talked about what our standards should be and said that they should be more rigorous. Would he agree that in the approach taken by the government, the prohibited activities in any marine protected area should always be aligned with the conservation objectives?C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsDiscretionary powersGovernment billsMarine protected areasDonDaviesVancouver KingswayDonDaviesVancouver Kingsway//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1800)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to pick up on the theme raised by the member for Whitby. Canada recently co-hosted a conference in Nairobi, Kenya, on the sustainable blue economy. This is something that requires international co-operation and collaboration. It really is an opportunity for Canada to lead.I know the member for Niagara Centre is a very active supporter of the Chamber of Marine Commerce. There is probably no better poster boy for the economy and the environment going hand in hand with respect to marine matters than the member for Niagara Centre. I wonder if he could speak a bit about his work with the marine chamber and its relationship to a blue economy and the health of our oceans, which are all part and parcel of what we are debating here today.C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActChamber of Marine CommerceClimate change and global warmingConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsMarine protected areasMaritime economyPolitical leadership and leadersVanceBadaweyNiagara CentreVanceBadaweyNiagara Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1825)[English]Mr. Speaker, the hon. member is dead wrong. This piece of legislation would give the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard the power to freeze the footprint, so all of the activities going on in an area the day before he makes the order are allowed to continue the day after. For the member to say that the minister can, with a wave of a pen for some political motive, wipe out all activity anywhere he wants to draw a circle is dead wrong. When he says there is no requirement for gazetting, he is dead wrong. Once an interim order is put in place, the Canada Gazette process kicks in.None of what the member said is true, and it is absolutely offensive that it is allowed to occur in this place. I would urge the member to read the legislation.C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsDiscretionary powersGovernment billsMarine protected areasBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—LacombeBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—Lacombe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1005)[English]Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure today to speak to Bill C-55, an act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act. The bill would help protect our marine and coastal areas, and it would bring us closer to our 10% marine conservation target by the end of 2020.Before I get into the substance of the amendment and the bill, I would like to thank the sponsor of the bill in the other place. I know that it is because of her passion for protecting our marine and coastal areas that we are here today debating the bill before we can see it pass and in action providing interim protection for our oceans.While we commend the work of members of the other place and the important discussions that took place when the bill was under consideration in the other chamber, we are unable to support the amendments that were made at committee and subsequently passed.However, in debating the motion today, we are proposing an amendment that we believe would capture the intent of the amendment from the other place. The proposed amendment would, first, in line with the amendment on geographical location, require that the geographical location of a proposed area for interim protection be published when an order was made, along with other information relevant and necessary to the order. Second, as we have maintained, the amendment on consultations by the member of the other place representing Nunavut is indeed already covered by existing legislation and regulations. That is why our amendment proposes to require that consultations undertaken to establish the interim protection MPA be published upon an order being made. We have said repeatedly that consultations are required, so now the government would ensure that we showed that consultations had taken place for the interim protection MPA to be established in the first place.[Translation] Discussions in the other place looked at the importance of consultation and engagement, which will continue to be the foundation for establishing all marine protected areas, or MPAs, now and in the future.Bill C-55 does not weaken our commitment to develop MPAs in collaboration with governments, partners, stakeholders and the public. This bill does not take shortcuts in establishing MPAs. It does not eliminate any steps. In fact, it provides new tools to make sure we are protecting more of our marine environment.[English]As members know, the purpose of the bill is to allow the optional use of a new mechanism to provide interim protection for an ecologically sensitive marine area and to freeze the footprint of activities in the area following initial science and consultations with our many partners and stakeholders. This freeze on ongoing activities would be in place for five years, during which additional science and consultations would continue as part of the process to establish a permanent marine protected area.The proposed ability to provide interim protection is a common-sense approach that would respond to the reality that during the seven to 10 years it takes to establish an MPA, nothing is protected. With the new interim protection provision, some measure of protection would be provided, in the spirit of the precautionary approach.The bill would also modernize enforcement powers, which would bring the act in line with other environmental legislation. These new powers would be important for ensuring the effectiveness of our 13 current marine protected areas and for meeting each of their conservation objectives.The discussion in the other place on amendments focused predominantly on, one, ensuring that communities most affected were part of the consultation process, and two, fulfilling our duty to consult with indigenous peoples, as required under section 35 of the Constitution.(1010)[Translation]I would like to assure members of this chamber that our government takes both of these requirements very seriously. Engagement, consultations and consideration of socio-economic information and traditional knowledge are fundamental cornerstones to establishing marine protected areas and, indeed, for interim protection under this bill.I commend the members of the other place for their commitment to these issues and for ensuring that their regions are well represented in the debate on Bill C-55.[English]We consult and collaborate with a wide range of governments and marine resource users as well as other stakeholders, experts and the public at various stages, including the following: at the outset, to select an area of interest; when gathering information needed about the ecological importance of a sensitive marine area, the socio-economic conditions related to the area and any current or planned activities that may be of concern; when identifying initial boundaries and conservation objectives for an area based on the best available science, including traditional and local knowledge and a risk analysis; and when developing a proposed regulatory approach and studying the benefits and costs of such an approach. There is also a 30-day public comment period when the regulations are pre-published in the Canada Gazette. We consult on an ongoing basis to provide input to the development of the management plan for an area, and of course, MPAs are collaboratively managed with local partners once designated. Furthermore, sections 29 to 33 of the current Oceans Act explicitly outline required consultations. As pointed out by the sponsor of the bill in the other place, based on an analysis by Professor Nigel Bankes, from the University of Calgary, the change proposed by the member of the other place representing Nunavut is a piecemeal amendment that is counter to the spirit and intent of the proposed interim protection provision. It would only serve to slow down a process where the objective is to do quite the opposite, which is to provide early protection to areas on an interim basis and following the precautionary approach.[Translation]Senator Patterson’s amendment and, indeed, his explanation are based on the need to ensure that consultations take place. As I previously stated, sections 29 to 33 in the Oceans Act already provide for this, and all legislation must respect section 35 of the Constitution.[English]Furthermore, an amendment put forth by the member for Nunavut, which is based on a request from Nunavut Tunngavik Inc. and supported by the Qikiqtani Inuit Association, was passed by the House committee and would ensure that all interim protection orders would be consistent with existing land claim agreements. Therefore, I respectfully suggest that the amendment from the member of the other place is unnecessary. As Professor Bankes stated, it would add requirements to establishing interim protections that are greater than what is required when establishing a permanent MPA and would curtail the application of the precautionary approach. Professor Bankes writes:since the amendment is only proposed to apply to the creation of MPAs by ministerial order and not to the process of creating an MPA by Order in Council and regulation, it will arguably be more difficult to use the ministerial order process than the MPA by regulation process. [Translation]I hope members will agree that this is neither logical nor consistent with the purpose of the bill. As the parliamentary secretary on this file, it is my view that we cannot continue to allow areas of ecological significance to go unprotected. This bill helps to achieve that without shortchanging consultations with provinces and territories, indigenous peoples, coastal communities and stakeholders.(1015)[English]Many members will recall that in 2012, the commissioner of the environment and sustainable development commented on the slow pace of establishing marine protected areas in Canadian waters. The report stated: During the 20 years since Canada ratified the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity, 10 federal MPAs have been established by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Parks Canada as part of their marine protected area programs. Federal, provincial and territorial governments and non-governmental organizations are collectively protecting about 1 percent of Canada's oceans and Great Lakes through MPAs. At the current rate of progress, it will take many decades for Canada to establish a fully functioning MPA network and achieve the target established in 2010 under the United Nations Convention on Biological Diversity to conserve 10 percent of marine areas. It is worth noting that we have come a long way over the past four years since our government took office in that we have increased our marine protected and coastal areas from less than 1% to over 8%.[Translation] However, the process continues to remain long and comprehensive. It still takes years to establish an MPA, but under Bill C-55, we have an opportunity to provide early protection for sensitive and ecologically significant areas that support the health of our oceans and the coastal communities that depend on them. [English]The report by the commissioner of the environment and sustainable development also identified the following factors that affected the rate of progress in creating MPAs: prolonged jurisdictional negotiations, including unresolved land claims; a poor understanding by Canadians of the environmental and socio-economic benefits of MPAs; delays in the approval process; lengthy legislative and regulatory processes; and the competing interests of stakeholders.In terms of the latter point, I will refer to a letter submitted by the QIA, which represents over 15,000 Inuit, regarding the need to ensure that the interim designation process respects the rights of the Inuit. The letter expresses QIA's opposition to Senator Patterson's amendment. President Akeeagok writes: The further proposed amendment under consideration...would require the Minister to hold an additional public comment and consultation period before issuing an interim MPA order. We are concerned that this proposed amendment risks undermining the actualization of Inuit rights by conflating the requirement to uphold the rights of Inuit with a broader engagement with the interests of stakeholders. The current version of Bill C-55, sets out the appropriate hierarchy. West Coast Environmental Law also spoke out against the amendment in its letter dated March 20, 2019. It states: The proposed amendment would require the Minister to hold a public comment and consultation period before issuing an interim MPA order. We are concerned that this proposed amendment is redundant and, at worst, risks defeating the purpose of the interim MPA order. [Translation]Their letter also emphasizes that aboriginal rights and indigenous interests are, indeed, protected by the government’s constitutional obligations and the Oceans Act.As mentioned earlier, I believe this amendment represents a piecemeal effort to improving consultations and, rather than adding value to the process, is redundant and only serves one single section of the bill.[English]As Professor Bankes put it: The result of this amendment, if adopted, will be to create a stand-alone set of consultation provisions with respect to a single section and a single power within the statute. This is not a logical approach to address and improve the standard of consultation, nor an approach that will provide certainty with respect to consultation. It will simply beg more questions than it answers with respect to issues such as what the rules are (or should be) with respect to other powers within this same statute.I would also like to speak to the redundancy of the amendment regarding the requirement to post the approximate geographical location of a proposed protected area on the DFO website and to make a preliminary assessment of any habitat or species in that area before making an order for interim protection. Let me explain some of the reasons this is redundant.(1020)[Translation]We already meet the requirement to clearly identify and provide public information on the proposed boundaries for an area to be protected as well as details on the area’s important ecological features, such as its habitat and species. Developing and making this information available to the public is already required under the federal regulatory process, as outlined in the Statutory Instruments Act and the cabinet directive on regulations. [English]Marine protected areas are a globally and scientifically proven way to protect marine biodiversity and preserve special marine features. They also help restore our natural capital for the benefit of future generations, supporting the long-term sustainable use of our marine resources and the economic benefits this protection provides. This in turn has a direct and positive impact on coastal communities which rely on healthy oceans.In short, marine conservation is an essential and integral part of long-term economic planning and helps us better prepare for the impacts of climate change. However, all of this is a moot point if we do not have the right mechanisms in place to establish marine protected areas in a more timely fashion both when and where it is needed. It is simply not acceptable to wait seven to 10 years to protect ecologically sensitive areas in our ocean. Climate change, global warming and ocean acidification mean that time is no longer on our side, which is why our government has gone to great lengths and held extensive consultations to amend the Oceans Act. I submit that the two amendments put forward by the other place, while right in their intent, will actually hinder the work that needs to be done to protect our marine and coastal areas.[Translation]As such, we respectfully reject the amendment by the Senate and propose that an amendment that we believe fulfills the intent of the Senate amendment is accepted. This will help us protect our oceans in a more timely manner while we continue to consult with Canadians, apply the precautionary approach and make scientifically informed decisions. [English]I trust we can move forward with these important measures that are designed to protect our oceans and coasts for the benefit of all Canadians.Aboriginal peoplesAboriginal rightsBiodiversityC-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsDecision-making processGovernment billsHabitat conservationInuitLaw enforcementMarine protected areasPrecautionary principlePublic consultationJoyceMurrayHon.Vancouver QuadraMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1020)[English]Madam Speaker, there are a couple of parts to that question. First, the amendments that were brought forward by the Senate were clearly well-intentioned. The result of those amendments is that the government has proposed an amendment that is consistent with the spirit of the Senate. The slur against the Senate that it is constantly bypassed by the government is not a fair one.With respect to the identification of areas of interest, these are the subject of a rigorous process, a science and evidence-based process. Once an area of interest is identified, there is extensive opportunity for consultation before any step is taken subsequent to that. The indication that this is somehow arbitrary and immediate is disingenuous.C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsMarine protected areasScientific dataMarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf Islands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1025)[English]Madam Speaker, we, too, are very grateful to have someone of the calibre of the member for Beauséjour in our caucus and are fully aware of the substantial contributions he made while serving as the minister of fisheries, oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard. We share the anticipation of the hon. member with respect to the return of Bill C-68 to the House and the speedy passage of Bill C-55, and are grateful for her support in this regard.C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsMarine protected areasElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsChrisBittleSt. Catharines//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1025)[English]Madam Speaker, Canadians in general, and Prince Edward Islanders in particular, care about the health of our oceans. They care about biodiversity. They care about conservation.Any and all measures we take to be a responsible international partner with respect to marine protected areas and marine conservation targets are well received by a place like Prince Edward Island. Our very livelihood, our social fabric is inextricably intertwined with the health of our oceans. Therefore, this is important to Prince Edward Islanders, as it is to so many in coastal communities. C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsMarine protected areasChrisBittleSt. CatharinesPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1025)[Translation]Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question. As the hon. member knows, a group of experts made recommendations about rules governing marine protected areas. Those parts of marine protected areas already being used for exploration will not be counted toward the internationally recognized targets. We are taking this seriously. It is very important to have a strong economy and a healthy environment. It is possible to strike a balance between the two, and that is very important to our government.It is important to understand the rules governing marine protected areas.C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsMarine protected areasOffshore technologyOil and gasPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertMelArnoldNorth Okanagan—Shuswap//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersOceans ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1030)[English]Madam Speaker, the act sets out, in significant detail, the consultations that are required at every step of the process. Under existing Oceans Act MPAs, there is no protection until there is full protection. The measures that are contained in the bill before the House, in the amendment before the House, set out the process for consultation to ensure there is interim protection during that five to seven years before a full MPA becomes established. Therefore, this is not a shortcut; this is something that is done in the interests of conservation, in the interests of biodiversity and in full partnership with all stakeholders.C-55, An Act to amend the Oceans Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsDecision-making processGovernment billsMarine protected areasPublic consultationMelArnoldNorth Okanagan—ShuswapMelArnoldNorth Okanagan—Shuswap//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersPrince Edward IslandInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1105)[English]Madam Speaker, yesterday, in his hometown of Georgetown, P.E.I., Dennis King was sworn in as the 33rd premier of P.E.I., along with his cabinet. I rise to offer my congratulations to Premier King and his government. He has vowed to take a collaborative approach in his dealings with other parties and levels of government, and I stand ready to work with him to advance the interests of islanders. I also ask the House to join me in thanking Wade Maclauchlan for his service to our province. He has balanced the books and achieved remarkable success in employment, economic and population growth. After a distinguished career in academia, he took on what he referred to as his “retirement project”; the premiership of the province he loved. His incredible intellect, photographic memory and a killer work ethic have served islanders well. He left the place better than he found it. He poured his heart and soul into public service, and for that I offer gratitude and respect. Prince Edward IslandProvincial and territorial electionsStatements by MembersWayneLongSaint John—RothesayScotDavidsonYork—Simcoe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodVeterans AffairsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.): (1140)[English]Madam Speaker, this was a completely unacceptable mistake and the video was removed immediately. I can assure members that I and the people involved are very concerned, and we are taking steps to make sure this does not happen again.What we want to do is make sure it does not detract from the message that 74 years ago this week our soldiers liberated Europe. That is the important message. We will make sure that what happened with this ad never happens again.Oral questionsSecond World WarVictory in Europe DayDaneLloydSturgeon River—ParklandMichaelBarrettLeeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodVeterans AffairsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.): (1140)[English]Madam Speaker, of course I would do anything I could for our veterans, including apologizing for the likes of what happened. It is totally unacceptable. As I said, we will make sure that this does not happen again. I have instructed my deputy minister to find out what took place and what was missed. As I indicated previously, it is very important that we do not miss the true meaning of what happened 74 years ago this week and what our troops did to provide life for the European people. To liberate Europe was so important. That is what the message is all about.Oral questionsSecond World WarVictory in Europe DayMichaelBarrettLeeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau LakesCherylHardcastleWindsor—Tecumseh//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1200)[English]Madam Speaker, in actual fact this minister and this government have never stopped working with fishers and have never stopped working with conservationists.The B.C. salmon conservation and innovation fund is a prime example. There have been over 100 million federal dollars coupled with provincial dollars to address the challenges facing B.C. salmon. That work will continue. The consultation will continue. We are very committed to the restoration of Pacific salmon.British ColumbiaChinook salmonFisheries quotasOral questionsMelArnoldNorth Okanagan—ShuswapLucThériaultMontcalm//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1205)[English]Madam Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1) I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group.The first report concerns the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region's, PNWER, 28th annual summit, held in Spokane, Washington, United States of America, from July 23 to July 26, 2018.The second report concerns the 58th annual meeting and regional policy forum of the Council of State Governments Eastern Regional Conference, held in Rye Brook, New York, U.S.A., from August 5 to August 8, 2018.The third report concerns the annual National Conference of the Council of State Governments, held in Covington, Kentucky, U.S.A., from December 6 to December 8, 2018.8565-421-59-57 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region 28th Annual Summit, held in Spokane, Washington, from July 23 to 26, 20188565-421-59-58 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 58th Annual Meeting and Regional Policy Forum of the Council of State Governments' Eastern Regional Conference, held in Rye Brook, New York, from August 5 to 8, 20188565-421-59-59 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual National Conference of the Council of State Governments (CSG), held in Covington, Kentucky, from December 6 to 8, 2018Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingMichelleRempelHon.Calgary Nose Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is kind of rich to have our hon. colleague mention veterans affairs after what her Conservative government did to veterans affairs. It cut 1,000 jobs, cutting agents who work on pension benefits.We, as a government, allocated $10 billion of new money and allocated a pension for life. We have taken care of veterans in this country and will continue to do so.Canadian ForcesLegal proceedingsNorman, MarkOral questionsPolitical influenceCherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeErinO'TooleHon.Durham//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersThaidene Nëné National Park ReserveInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government has introduced amendments to the Canada National Parks Act in budget 2019 to take steps to establish the Thaidene Nëné national park reserve.I want to acknowledge the work done by our Minister of Environment and Climate Change, the Government of the Northwest Territories and the community and people of Lutselk'e, the Dene and Métis in their historical territory.Thaidene Nëné is a sacred place to the Lutselk'e Denesoline people. Fourteen thousand square kilometres will be designated as a federal national park reserve. The park reserve, near the eastern shores of Great Slave Lake, encompasses vast and extraordinary terrain, ranging from forests to tundra. There are cliffs and islands, lakes, rivers and waterfalls, and it includes the deepest fresh water in North America.Thaidene Nëné is also a culturally rich area, including the traditional and present-day hunting, fishing, gathering and spiritual places used by various aboriginal peoples.Congratulations to Lutselk'e and Chief Darryl Boucher-Marlowe.National, provincial and territorial parks and reservesStatements by MembersThaidene Nene National Park ReserveMattJenerouxEdmonton RiverbendMajidJowhariRichmond Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1000)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 29th report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill S-6, an act to implement the convention between Canada and the Republic of Madagascar for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income. The committee has studied the bill and has agreed to report it without amendment.While I am on my feet, I move:MotionThat the House do now proceed to orders of the day.8510-421-556 "Bill S-6, An Act to implement the Convention between Canada and the Republic of Madagascar for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income"Agreements and contractsDilatory motionsMadagascarMotion to proceed to the Orders of the DayRoutine ProceedingsS-6, An Act to implement the Convention between Canada and the Republic of Madagascar for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on incomeStanding Committee on FinanceTaxationKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersLifetime Achievement AwardInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate Boyd MacDonald of Crapaud, P.E.I., who was honoured recently by the Prince County Horsemen's Club with the Philip and Henry Doucette Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award.Boyd started his own horse stable in 1971 and gained his licence to drive horses two years later. He had over 1,000 race wins, all with his own horses. That is a feat very few ever achieve, but the bumps and bruises of horse racing never slowed him down. Boyd and his wife Claire, now 61 years married, also were successful farmers, establishing Boyd MacDonald Produce Ltd., which is still operating as a produce broker today. Starting his potato business by borrowing a neighbour's truck and hauling potatoes in the evening, he grew the business to two warehouses, employed over 20 people and grew 350 acres of those good Island spuds.Congratulations to Boyd on a well-deserved award, and for his outstanding contribution to the community and life on the Island.Awards presentationsHorse racing and equestrian sportsMacDonald, BoydPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersSheriBensonSaskatoon WestBenLobbHuron—Bruce//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodVeterans AffairsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is well aware that the previous Conservative government gutted the funding in the Department of Veterans Affairs. In fact, when it was done, there were only 190 case workers. Because of our investment in 2015, now there are well over 400 case workers at Veterans Affairs. In fact, we say yes to veterans when they come forward for help, which means that there is an over 60% increase in applications. Yes, we have supported and we will continue to support veterans in this country.Health services accessibilityOral questionsVeteransVeterans benefitsRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverFrançoisChoquetteDrummond//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government believes that environmental sustainability and economic growth must go hand in hand. In partnership with the provincial government, we created the B.C. salmon restoration and innovation fund, to which our government will contribute $100 million over five years, with provincial funding of over $42 million. We are also proposing $5 million in funding for the Pacific salmon endowment fund. Our government will continue to ensure that resources are managed sustainably and protected wisely so our children and grandchildren can benefit for years to come.British ColumbiaEndangered speciesOral questionsSalmonGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniRamezAyoubThérèse-De Blainville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBudget Implementation Act, 2019, No. 1InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1600)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure to rise to speak to Bill C-97, the budget implementation act. I had hoped to have an opportunity to speak to the budget itself, but that of course was denied as a result of the filibuster by the member for Carleton.It is a very good budget for Prince Edward Island, and it is a long time coming. During the Harper years, we were particularly hard done by in our province and in our region. Throughout the Harper years, we saw disproportionate cuts to the civil service. We saw cuts to the employment insurance program, which is so very important in seasonal economies such as the one in Prince Edward Island. We saw the closure of Veterans Affairs district offices, and this is something near and dear to my heart as the member of Parliament for Charlottetown. Charlottetown is the only place outside the national capital region that has a national headquarters of a federal government department. We are immensely proud that the national headquarters of the Department of Veterans Affairs is in Charlottetown, so it was particularly troubling to see that district office close. However, we fixed that.Also during the Harper years, we saw the closure of the citizenship office. Prince Edward Island was left as the only province in Canada without a citizenship and immigration office at a very time when immigration levels in our province were increasing to the point where we now have the highest per capita immigration in the country. However, we fixed that closure of the immigration office.We went through a period in the Harper years of the slowest economic growth since R. B. Bennett. We fixed that. We saw an accumulation of $160 billion in new debt during the Harper years, and high unemployment.In Prince Edward Island, there is an old adage that our economy is somewhat different. We are not subject to the swings we see in the rest of Canada. Therefore, when the economy goes in the tank, it does not dip as far in Prince Edward Island, and when the economy is on fire, it does not excel as much as it does in the rest of the country. Part of that could be because of the seasonal economy. Part of that could be because, until recently, there has not been a lot of industry outside of the seasonal economy. The government sector is quite important. The university sector has been quite important. We have seen that change.This economic boom, this period of unprecedented growth that we have not seen since the pre-Harper years and that we are experiencing right now, is different. Prince Edward Island is not only sharing in that growth; in many categories we are leading the country. We are leading the country with respect to increases in retail sales. We are leading the country with respect to economic growth. We are leading the country with respect to immigration growth. It has been said that the Prince Edward Island economy is on a tear. That is due in no small part to the economic policies of this government.Immediately upon being elected, this government brought in the Canada child benefit. I mentioned earlier the pride we have over the fact that there is a national headquarters for a federal government department in Prince Edward Island. The payroll at the national headquarters of the Department of Veterans Affairs is $100 million a year, and $100 million a year is very important to the economy of Prince Edward Island. Just to get a sense of the importance of the Canada child benefit, which was introduced immediately after our election, the amount of money that is brought into Prince Edward Island through the Canada child benefit is $100 million a year, the same as the payroll at the national headquarters. The difference between the Canada child benefit and the payroll at Veterans Affairs is that the Canada child benefit is tax free. That is one factor. There are multiple factors in the success of the P.E.I. economy in recent years, but one of them is the economic policies of this government.(1605)In a certain sense, we have also become victims of our own success. We share in the national housing crunch. The vacancy rate in the riding I am proud to represent is 0.3%. That is in part because of our growing population and the proliferation of Airbnbs. It is in part because there is so much construction happening around Prince Edward Island that it is very difficult to get tradespeople, in part because of our sky-high tourism numbers and in part because of the seasonal economy, which makes Airbnb particularly attractive.I indicated that we have in a sense become a victim of our own success. That is also the case with respect to labour shortages, which is why programs like the Atlantic growth strategy and the Atlantic immigration pilot have been so very important. It is also why programs like the Canada training benefit, included in this budget, will be very important to us. That success has also exerted a strain on our health care system, where it has become harder to get a family doctor. Fortunately, this budget also includes increases to the Canada health and social transfer, which will go some way to alleviating that pressure.This budget will allow Prince Edward Island to continue its impressive record. As I indicated, with respect to housing there is a 0.3% vacancy rate. There are substantial initiatives in the budget to address the housing crunch in this country, including measures to make housing more affordable for first-time homebuyers, including the retail finance initiative. These are all measures that are welcome and necessary, and for once they are measures that are important for a province that is sharing in the economic success we have seen. Under the reaching home strategy, a $3-million award, administered through the John Howard Society, was recently announced to tackle homelessness in Prince Edward Island. As I indicated with the rock-bottom vacancy rate in our fair province, this is desperately needed. The good people at the John Howard Society and the board that examines the proposals to attack homelessness are to be commended and supported. This investment will no doubt lift them up.The other thing I want to mention with respect to housing is something that was specifically mentioned in the budget. It is not very often that Prince Edward Island gets a specific mention in the budget, but there were at least a couple. One was with respect to new ferries for the passage from P.E.I. to Îles de la Madeleine and for the passage from Caribou Island in Nova Scotia to Wood Islands in Prince Edward Island. This is something that really has been the life's work of the hon. member for Cardigan.On the housing front, there was specific mention of a $50.8-million public housing project in Prince Edward Island. This public housing project is designed for people with complex multiple needs: social, medical and psychological needs. In part, this investment will replace the aging Hillsborough Hospital, but it will be much broader than that. It is an indication of where the government's heart and head are in supporting those who are most vulnerable and providing for those battling mental health, addictions and complicated problems.I want to close by mentioning two other specific things in the budget. There was specific mention of the Confederation Centre of the Arts. The Confederation Centre of the Arts was built as a monument to the Fathers of Confederation back in 1967. This budget included a $500,000 annual increase to the operating budget of the Confederation Centre of the Arts. (1610)The cultural industries are so important to my province, so important to my riding and so important to this country. I am proud, as a Prince Edward Islander, to be able to support this budget.Accommodation and hospitality servicesAirbnbBenefits for childrenBudget 2019 (March 19, 2019)C-97, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019 and other measuresCanada Health TransferCanada Social TransferCitizenship officeClosure of government operations and facilitiesConfederation Centre of the ArtsCulture and creativityDepartment of Veterans AffairsEconomic conditionsEconomic prosperityEconomic slowdownFerriesGovernment billsGovernment programsHealth care fundingHomelessness and homelessHousingImmigration and immigrantsMaritime transportationReaching HomeSecond readingService deliverySocial housingVeteransVeterans benefitsVulnerable personsJohnAldagCloverdale—Langley CityBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—Lacombe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBudget Implementation Act, 2019, No. 1InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1615)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for his excellent work on the fisheries committee.The challenge around chinook salmon is certainly a vexing one for this government. We are constantly trying to ensure the protection of our oceans and our biodiversity and the protection of aquatic species at risk while trying to minimize the economic impacts on marine industries. Protecting the species is a responsibility that is shared by all Canadians. Protection of the stocks in British Columbia is a priority for our government. We recognize the declining status of these populations and their importance. That is why these measures are necessary. They are responsible and science-based, and they are done in consultation with all of the stakeholders involved.Budget 2019 (March 19, 2019)C-97, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019 and other measuresChinook salmonEndangered speciesFisheries and fishersGovernment billsGovernment compensationSecond readingBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—LacombeGordJohnsCourtenay—Alberni//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBudget Implementation Act, 2019, No. 1InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1615)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I indicated earlier, we know that the closure of any commercial or recreational fishery has a direct impact on communities.The member was quite right when he talked about the cuts to science under the Harper Conservatives. We have hired 29 new scientists in the Pacific region, and starting this year we will invest over $100 million over five years, and $17 million per year in ongoing support for fisheries stock assessments and rebuilding provisions. Substantial investments are being made. This is a challenge. It is one on which we are getting the best science advice, and one on which we are doing our level best to consult with all of those who are impacted, including the fishers, indigenous communities, and provincial and territorial governments.Budget 2019 (March 19, 2019)C-97, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019 and other measuresChinook salmonEndangered speciesFisheries and fishersGovernment billsGovernment compensationSecond readingGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniKarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—London//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsThe EnvironmentInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1915)[English]Madam Speaker, Canadians see the very real impacts of climate change in our country, floods, droughts, forest fires and a melting Arctic, and understand the need to take action to ensure a sustainable planet for future generations. Canadians understand the importance of limiting the temperature increase to 1.5°C. That is why Canada supported this goal in 2015 in Paris. This was further emphasized last year when the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, IPCC, released its special report on a 1.5°C temperature increase. The IPCC's report makes it clear that we are the last generation to be able to act to prevent the worst climate change impacts. The Paris agreement is key to global efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C. That is why the Government of Canada worked with provinces and territories, with input from indigenous peoples, to develop Canada's climate plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% below 2005 levels by 2030. This landmark achievement is the first climate change plan in Canada's history to include joint and individual commitments by federal, provincial and territorial governments. Our plan outlines over 50 concrete measures to reduce carbon pollution, help us adapt and become more resilient to the impacts of a changing climate, foster clean technology solutions and create good jobs that contribute to a stronger economy. I am pleased to say that we have covered a lot of ground since launching Canada's climate plan and are starting to see results. To date, we have developed a pan-Canadian approach to pricing carbon pollution, as well as new policies, programs and regulations to reduce emissions in every sector of the economy. These include regulations for coal and natural gas-fired electricity, regulations to reduce methane emissions in the oil and gas sector, measures to increase the use of low-carbon fuels and funding for clean technology, renewable energy and energy efficiency. We have also established robust mechanisms to track and drive implementation of Canada's climate plan, including annual reports to first ministers and Canadians. As reported in Canada's most recent greenhouse gas emissions projections in December of last year, Canada's GHG emissions in 2030 are expected to be 223 million tonnes lower than projected prior to the adoption and implementation of Canada's climate plan. This improvement in Canada's emissions outlook reflects the breadth and depth of our climate plan. Canadians are asking that we do more. That is why we have created an advisory council on climate action to provide advice on how Canada can further reduce emissions from transportation and buildings, two of Canada's highest-emitting sectors.Adjournment ProceedingsClimate change and global warmingGovernment policyUnited Nations Climate Change ConferenceLindaDuncanEdmonton StrathconaLindaDuncanEdmonton Strathcona//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsThe EnvironmentInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1920)[English]Madam Speaker, budget 2019 proposed additional funding to support Canada's climate plan. This includes strategic investments that will make it easier and more affordable for Canadians to choose zero-emission vehicles. It also includes over $1 billion to support energy efficiency for residential, commercial and multi-unit buildings and funds to accelerate the development and adoption of innovative technologies and processes that seek to lower the oil and gas industry's environmental impacts.Adjournment ProceedingsClimate change and global warmingGovernment policyUnited Nations Climate Change ConferenceLindaDuncanEdmonton StrathconaTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersJosh and Oliver UnderhayInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to mark the tragic passing of Josh Underhay and his six-year-old son Oliver, on Good Friday, in a canoeing accident.Josh had an enthusiastic, almost effervescent personality.[Translation]He represented Prince Edward Island a few years ago here in Ottawa at the Teachers Institute on Canadian Parliamentary Democracy. He was passionate and keenly interested in everything. He invited me to speak to his French immersion class, and it was easy to see that his energy was infectious. He spoke several languages and was an incredible trumpet player.[English]He came by my office to lobby for a cycling lane on the Hillsborough Bridge and was conspicuously present when it was announced just a few days later. In his final days, Josh campaigned as a candidate in the P.E.I. election for the only reason one should: to make his community better.Josh and Oliver have left a gaping hole in the hearts of so many. Our hearts go out to Karri Shea and young Linden. Deaths and funeralsGreen Party of CanadaPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersUnderhay, JoshPhilMcColemanBrantford—BrantAlexandraMendèsBrossard—Saint-Lambert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1855)[English]Mr. Speaker, I will do my best.Our government is committed to protecting the health of Canada's wild and farmed fish from aquatic animal diseases. A stringent process exists to ensure the health of cultured finfish populations prior to their transfer into the marine environment.The applications for transfer licences are reviewed by a committee of experts from the department and the Province of British Columbia. All transfers of aquaculture fish must also comply with requirements of the national aquatic animal health program, which aims to prevent the introduction and spread of disease in Canada. It is co-delivered by the Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Fisheries and Oceans Canada.Our government is re-evaluating its decision not to test for PRV prior to transferring smolts to aquaculture marine grow-out facilities under section 56 of the fishery general regulations. We will complete this review by June 4, 2019. This work is currently under way and considers the latest scientific assessments of this virus.Our government understands that a strong, science-based approach to regulating the aquaculture industry is essential. That is why we have conducted and will continue to conduct extensive research to inform our policies and regulations. Specifically, we are actively investigating the potential impacts that PRV and other aquatic pathogens may have on various Pacific salmon species. This work will help us further improve our understanding of disease transfer risks between wild and farmed fish. In the near future, we will also clearly outline and explain how decisions on aquaculture are made, including how the precautionary approach is applied specifically for aquaculture decision-making when there is scientific uncertainty. This directly responds to recommendations from the commissioner of the environment and sustainable development, from the panel on aquaculture led by the chief science adviser, from stakeholders and from Canadians who have asked for more transparency on how aquaculture decisions are made, on the information that was used in making decisions and on how the precautionary approach was used.The framework for aquaculture risk management will outline a stepwise process to be followed, and it includes a commitment to publishing decisions, policies and the scientific advice that was received in support of aquaculture decisions. Our government is advancing this initiative in partnership with indigenous peoples, provincial governments, the public, industry, and environmental groups.In December 2018, the minister announced a new area-based aquaculture management pilot project. As part of that new approach, we will be working with the Province of British Columbia, first nations and industry to develop an indigenous monitoring and inspection program in the Broughton Archipelago. This program will provide opportunities for first nations to take an active role in monitoring activities for fish health, and it will support implementation of the government-to-government recommendations for the Broughton Archipelago.The restoration of our wild Pacific salmon stocks on the west coast of Canada is an extremely important priority. Our government is committed to supporting stocks that are in decline. Canada's wild salmon policy 2018 to 2022 implementation plan is a guide to addressing a range of issues, including science, habitat, assessments and the impacts of aquaculture and predation on wild salmon. We have made and continue to make unprecedented investments to support these issues.Our government will continue working with partners on aquaculture management and on supporting wild salmon populations—Adjournment ProceedingsAnimal diseasesOpen-pen aquacultureWild salmonGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1900)[English]Mr. Speaker, we have made no such refusal. Right now we are following the direction of the court, which found issues with the policy and the decision. However, what the court did not do was grant the request of the plaintiffs to require PRV testing in the transfer of all fish. It did not order that. It did find problems with the policy and problems with the decision, which we are currently revisiting. To be crystal clear, our DFO scientists, along with provincial and international colleagues, are conducting investigations to better understand the biology of PRV as well as other known potential pathogens in wild and farmed salmon in the Pacific Ocean. This work will further improve our understanding of disease transfer risk. Adjournment ProceedingsAnimal diseasesOpen-pen aquacultureWild salmonAnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBudget Implementation Act, 2019, No. 1InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1640)[English]Mr. Speaker, regardless of whether everything that was in the budget is in the budget implementation act, we have certainly set the direction we intend to go and where we will be after next October 21.The member is a great member of the finance committee. I know he strongly fought for many of the things that are in the budget implementation act, especially those things that relate to challenging the tax reform in the United States to keep capital in Canada, attract capital to Canada and allow our businesses to be competitive on an equal playing field with the United States.I wonder what the member has to say.Budget 2019 (March 19, 2019)C-97, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 19, 2019 and other measuresGovernment billsSecond readingTaxationFrancescoSorbaraVaughan—WoodbridgeFrancescoSorbaraVaughan—Woodbridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsAnimal WelfareInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1020)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to present a massive petition with more than 2,000 signatures, many of them from Prince Edward Island, with respect to animal testing for the safety of cosmetics. The petitioners point out that animal testing is not necessary to prove the safety of cosmetics, that a ban on cosmetics sold using animal testing would not affect sales and that signatories to CETA and many other countries have already adopted alternative measures or have banned animal testing for this purpose. The petitioners call on the House to support Bill S-214 to ban the sale and manufacture of animal-tested cosmetics in Canada.Animal experimentationAnimal rights and welfareBanCosmetic products and toiletriesPetition 421-03342S-214, An Act to amend the Food and Drugs Act (cruelty-free cosmetics)GordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniCherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—Pembroke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian Coast GuardInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, the Canadian Coast Guard members are at work every day across the country, and our government will continue to provide them with the tools that they need to keep Canadians and our waters safe and our economy moving. During the 2018 Arctic season, the Coast Guard was faced with more unusually difficult ice conditions than in other years, which led to some delay in resupply and escort missions. Canadians can be proud of the men and women of the Canadian Coast Guard and the important work that they do from coast to coast to coast.Canadian Coast GuardMaritime safetyOral questionsGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniEdFastHon.Abbotsford//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1705)[English]Madam Speaker, while I can appreciate that the member has never been in the north, he seems to say quite a bit about this legislation, which has been worked on for many years. Some of the work started during the days when the Conservative government was in power. Therefore, a lot of the pieces in the bill were started many years ago. I have been hearing quite a bit from the indigenous governments in my riding. They want the bill to move forward. I have also been contacted, probably on a monthly basis, by the Government of the Northwest Territories. The premier's office is saying that it wants it to move forward. We need the bill to move forward so we can get on with dealing with the issues challenging us in the Northwest Territories, especially in the area of devolution.Aboriginal self-governmentAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyNorthwest TerritoriesSecond readingLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableMichaelMcLeodNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1705)[English]The indigenous governments and the Northwest Territories are in a position to negotiate land claims and issues of compensation. It is also moving forward on discussions of self-government. It is able to share in resource royalties. It holds 50% of the seats in the regulatory process. That will also help it move forward on many of the areas that were left hanging from the time the last government was in place.I want to ask the member this. Could he tell me why he will not support the bill? It supports decision-making being done in the north and he has raised that as an issue. Will he support the bill since it would help the people in the north and the indigenous governments make the decisions that impact them in the Northwest Territories?Aboriginal self-governmentAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyNorthwest TerritoriesSecond readingMichaelMcLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1720)[English]Madam Speaker, the member provided lot of information. The indigenous governments in the Northwest Territories have all done a lot of work in moving toward land claims and self-governance. Many have signed agreements, expecting the Government of Canada to honour its portion of the agreements. Throughout the Conservative government, that did not happen. We even had the Auditor General's report, which said the government was not meeting its obligations.On the section that governed the creation of land and water boards in each region, we saw the previous government step in and create one board that would be a superboard to cover all aspects of what we were doing, even though that breached the agreement. We also saw the fiscal portion of the land claim agreements breached by a new policy that came in. The Harper government said that was what we were going to follow, regardless of what was in the land claim agreement. I find it ironic that the Conservatives are saying this is not in the best interests of the people in the Northwest Territories, when they were the ones who refused to include the Beaufort Sea in the negotiations. That was hands-off. We could not even talk about it. I know, because I sat in the seat for the Northwest Territories in that government. We also could not include the royalties coming out of Norman Wells. Those things were left off the table. Now we are hearing that we are doing something wrong by letting the people of the Northwest Territories make decisions.I want to ask the member whether he feel it is fair. The previous government created this really large confusion over this, to the point where it came to a standstill. Now that we have the indigenous governments of the Northwest Territories telling us they want to move forward, is it fair for the Conservatives to say we are doing something wrong?Aboriginal rightsAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsComprehensive land claimsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleySecond readingWilliamAmosPontiacWilliamAmosPontiac//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1730)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the member's history on this bill and the whole devolution process that happened in the Northwest Territories. I still think the devolution process has a long way to go. As I mentioned earlier, there are certain parts of the Northwest Territories that were off the table during discussions for devolving responsibility. They included the Norman Wells oil fields and the Beaufort Sea. The regulatory process in the Northwest Territories is a model that the rest of this country could compare notes on to see how well it works when it comes to the inclusion of indigenous people. It is also high time that we start looking at the work that is being done on traditional knowledge and the scientific research that is being done on the Beaufort Sea. We also need to start looking the devolution of responsibility for decision-making on the Beaufort Sea to the Government of the Northwest Territories, along with the indigenous government.I would ask the member to give her view on turning over all responsibilities to the people of the Northwest Territories.Aboriginal self-governmentAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyNorthwest TerritoriesSecond readingElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf Islands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersDaughters of the VoteInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1100)[English]Madam Speaker, over the past week, this very room housed 338 women from across the country for Equal Voice's Daughters of the Vote program. Through this program I had the opportunity to speak with Bronwyn Bridges, a young woman from the City of Summerside. As 338 women of different backgrounds and political affiliations sat in this House, they shared their priorities and vision for Canada's future. With these young women at the forefront of our next generation of leaders, our future is in good hands. Although, Bronwyn did not express any immediate plans to pursue a political career in our conversation, the qualities she demonstrated would serve her well in this or any other arena.I congratulate Ms. Bridges for her participation in this program and I thank all 338 women who made their presence known in Ottawa this week. Bridges, BronwynDaughters of the VoteEqual VoicePolitical leadership and leadersStatements by MembersStatus of womenJamieSchmaleHaliburton—Kawartha Lakes—BrockSheriBensonSaskatoon West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersThe BudgetInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1105)[English]Madam Speaker, desk-thumping and a filibuster have impeded the opportunity of Prince Edward Islanders to hear just how good budget 2019 is for our province. There was $10 billion in new dollars to tackle the national housing crunch, including in Charlottetown; $16.5 million from the federal gas tax, going directly to island municipalities for infrastructure; $50.8 million for public safety housing in Charlottetown to assist those with complex mental, physical and social challenges; and increased operational funding for the Confederation Centre of the Arts, which showcases Canadian talent, including the iconic Anne of Green Gables. To quote the late great Premier Joe Ghiz, Islanders have endured 10 long, hard, lean, mean, miserly, miserable Tory years, but no more. Budget 2019 is very good for the mighty island. Members do not need to take my word for it. They can hop on one of the two new ferries announced in the budget and see for themselves.Budget 2019 (March 19, 2019)Prince Edward IslandSocial housingStatements by MembersSheriBensonSaskatoon WestArnoldViersenPeace River—Westlock//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1135)[English]Madam Speaker, I would like to thank my hon. colleague for that question.The state of the salmon stocks in British Columbia is of great concern to this government. That is why we created the B.C. salmon fund that was recently announced. That fund will allow us to work with stakeholders, to work with harvesters and to work with environmental groups to find innovative solutions. That is but one example of the many steps that are being taken, all based on science, all based on consultation with indigenous partners and with stakeholders in the community.Cowichan RiverDamsGovernment assistanceInland watersOral questionsRiversAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordCharlieAngusTimmins—James Bay//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodSocial DevelopmentInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1145)[English]Madam Speaker, after a decade of the Harper Conservatives ignoring their needs in favour of boutique tax credits that only benefited the wealthy, our government has introduced measures that ensure that when lower-income workers file their taxes, they will get to keep more of their hard-earned paycheques. Will the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development tell the House how the new Canada workers benefit will provide real support to more than two million Canadians who are working hard to join the middle class?Benefits for childrenCanada Workers BenefitFamilies and childrenLow incomeOral questionsJean-YvesDuclosHon.QuébecJean-YvesDuclosHon.Québec//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1150)[English]Madam Speaker, my hon. colleague would be well aware of the various measures that have been taken by this government with respect to the protection and preservation of wild salmon in British Columbia. We are well aware of this decision. We are now determining what the next steps are. However, this government is focused on the preservation of wild salmon stocks in B.C.Animal diseasesOpen-pen aquacultureOral questionsWild salmonGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1205)[Translation]Madam Speaker, all the rules were followed. Both Health Canada and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency have very specific rules, and all such rules were followed throughout the process.Food labellingGenetically modified organismsOral questionsSalmonCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingMichelBoudriasTerrebonne//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1915)[English]Madam Speaker, our government takes the conservation and sustainable use of the Pacific herring fisheries very seriously. We are committed to ensuring the conservation of fisheries resources, and I would like to assure Canadians that this is central to the mandate of the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.The decisions we make about setting catch limits and implementing a fishery management plan for Pacific herring are informed by a rigorous and thorough process informed by science and input from a wide variety of first nations, commercial fishing interests and the broader public.Each year, scientific surveys are conducted in each of the five major Pacific herring stock areas, one of which is the Strait of Georgia. These surveys, along with biological sampling, inform the annual development of a peer-reviewed stock assessment by scientists at DFO. This stock assessment provides up-to-date advice on the health of each stock, which managers use to draft a fisheries management plan for each stock area that is consistent with the department's sustainable fisheries framework policies, which requires that we take a precautionary approach.Our draft management plan goes through a public consultation process to ensure that we account for important indigenous and local knowledge before making final decisions about fishery planning. This year, the peer-reviewed stock assessment estimates for Pacific herring indicate that the biomass of the stock in the Strait of Georgia is in a very healthy state. A limited roe herring fishery was proposed for the Strait of Georgia that ensured that a minimum of 80% of the estimated biomass was left in the water. This will ensure that there are enough herring left to spawn and sustain fisheries into the future and ensure that herring can continue to play an important role in the ecosystem as a source of food for many other species, such as salmon, seals, sea lions and humpback whales.Where evidence of concerns have emerged in the Strait of Georgia, we have responded. For example, we have implemented several closed areas where no herring fishery will be permitted to occur to protect sensitive spawning areas of localized Pacific herring populations. I can assure everyone that the decision to close an area is not taken lightly and is always grounded in scientific advice. Furthermore, over the past three years, the department has initiated a comprehensive renewal of its Pacific herring management regime through an extensive consultative process with first nations and fisheries stakeholders to ensure that it reflects the broadened goals Canadians have come to expect from fisheries resource management and the best available scientific advice about how we can achieve those goals. Our approach to the management of the fishery in the Strait of Georgia this year explicitly reflects this comprehensive work. More details about this can be found in the fishery management plan that was developed by way of a public consultation process and that has been widely circulated to all stakeholders. In closing, I would reiterate that the management decisions we made this year for the Pacific herring fishery are based on careful consideration of the concerns raised and the best available science.Adjournment ProceedingsBritish ColumbiaFisheries and fishersHerringMoratoriumGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniGordJohnsCourtenay—Alberni//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1925)[English]Madam Speaker, as I indicated in my remarks, all decisions with respect to fisheries management, including the decisions with respect to the herring fishery in the Strait of Georgia, are grounded in science. If my hon. colleague does not believe in science, that is up to him. We have also engaged in an extensive public consultation process. As I indicated, all of these things are factored into the management of the fishery, but first and foremost is that foundation in the best scientific advice available, which is in fact peer reviewed. We have and will continue to rely on science in these matters.Adjournment ProceedingsBritish ColumbiaFisheries and fishersHerringMoratoriumGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniSheriBensonSaskatoon West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersSpecial Olympics Medal WinnerInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a proud Islander to recognize Roy Paynter of Kensington, P.E.I., for his incredible accomplishments at the Special Olympics World Summer Games last month in Abu Dhabi. Roy brought home four medals in swimming: gold in the 200-metre freestyle, gold in the 100-metre breaststroke, silver in the four by 50-metre relay and bronze in the 100-metre backstroke.Roy earned his place on Team Canada through his strong showing at the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in 2018 when he took home five medals, including two gold. For Roy, the competition is not just about medals. It is about meeting new people, making new friends and being part of a team that supports each other in common goals. For Sarah, Roy's mother, who coached him all of these years, it was a proud moment.Roy is a role model and has made his country, his province and his community proud. On behalf of Canada, I say thanks and congratulations to Roy.Paynter, RoySpecial Olympics World Games summer 2019Statements by MembersSwimmingJamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—EastmanT.J.HarveyTobique—Mactaquac//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1655)[English]Mr. Speaker, I know the member for Carleton is talking about a lot of fiction today. It was not the Liberals who kept us here. It was the Conservatives who kept us here, whereby they voted against every good program that was in the last budget.Budget 2019 (March 19, 2019)Budget debatesWays and Means No. 27AnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingPierrePoilievreHon.Carleton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessBan on Shark Fin Importation and Exportation ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1835)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for presenting this bill and for his speech. He would be well aware that there are several municipalities in Canada that have attempted to deal with this through bylaws. I would invite him to offer some comment on the jurisdictions that are impacted and the reason for federal legislation, given that certain municipalities have attempted to take this on.ImportsPrivate Members' BillsS-238, An Act to amend the Fisheries Act and the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act (importation and exportation of shark fins)Second readingSenate billsSharkFinDonnellyPort Moody—CoquitlamFinDonnellyPort Moody—Coquitlam//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessBan on Shark Fin Importation and Exportation ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1840)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak to Bill S-238, an act to amend the Fisheries Act and the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act, also known as the ban on shark fin importation and exportation act. The Government of Canada remains strongly committed to managing shark populations worldwide, with conservation and protection goals a priority. Shark finning refers to the practice of harvesting sharks and removing fins from the live animal, only to return the debilitated animal, alive, to the water. The maimed animal then drowns as it sinks, powerless, to the bottom of the ocean. I hope that image causes distress. It should. Canadians have told us that they are appalled by it and that they want us to put an end to it. Bill S-238 aims to do that, and it is a good thing. [Translation]My House of Commons and Senate colleagues are probably all familiar with the film Sharkwater, which came out in 2007. This captivating documentary starring Rob Stewart and Paul Watson is at times so shocking that it is difficult to watch.The film follows the biologist-conservationist duo who joined forces to fight the poachers who kill animals illegally for their fins. The film, which contrasts gorgeous underwater scenes with images of horrifying animal cruelty, set off a global movement against shark finning.(1845)[English]This past fall, Mr. Stewart was again featured in a sequel to the same documentary, entitled Sharkwater Extinction. This more recent documentary exposes the continued, rampant existence of a significant illegal shark fin industry. At the core of this documentary is, once again, the cruel treatment of sharks and their rapid decline toward extinction. Also featured are the criminal conspiracies and the violent corruption, which often put Stewart and his crew at risk, that are linked to the still very lucrative illegal shark finning industry. Sadly, Mr. Stewart died in January 2017 while he was in Florida filming Sharkwater Extinction. The original documentary and its sequel are making their mark around the world. There is increased compassion and sympathy for the once feared and misunderstood shark and a growing concern that we are slaughtering them to extinction and governments are doing nothing to stop it. The fact is that in Canada, shark finning has been illegal since 1994. However, and this is where much of the concern lies, importing fins from other countries that do not ban the practice is still permitted. This has made it difficult for municipalities to impose bans through bylaws. In fact, since 2011, several Canadian cities have attempted to impose bans on possessing, selling or consuming shark fin products. Notably, Brantford, Oakville, Toronto, Newmarket and Mississauga, in Ontario, and Calgary, in Alberta, all had such bans at one time. Some still do today.[Translation]There are problems with local bans, however. Some have been challenged in court and overturned. While the courts agree that shark finning is inhumane, the main problem is that municipal governments have no authority over shark fin importation. The lack of legitimate finality at the local level means there is a growing need for a federal response to this important issue.[English]As we heard, in 2013 a private member’s bill to ban shark fin imports in Canada failed in this House. We are now faced with another opportunity, provided to us by Senator Michael L. MacDonald, in the form of Bill S-238. I ask that we carefully consider Bill S-238 and its proposed legislative solutions to the growing global issue of shark finning. This proposed bill to ban the importation and exportation of shark fins or parts of shark fins that are not attached to a shark carcass, or any derivatives of shark fins, has a tremendous amount of merit. It would indeed be an indication of Canada's global leadership and position against the cruel practice of shark finning to amend the Fisheries Act and enshrine the prohibition of shark finning in Canada. However, I carefully followed the debate on this bill in the other place and, as raised in the other chamber, Bill S-238's proposed amendments to the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act, WAPPRIITA, prohibiting the import and export of shark fins may be problematic. Implementing Bill S-238, as amended by the other place, has a number of implications. With respect to WAPPRIITA, the proposed amendments do not discriminate between sustainably harvested sharks and shark products, and shark fins that are the product of shark finning. This would be inconsistent with Canada's international trade law obligations because it would pose a risk of violating non-discrimination obligations. A ban on the import of shark fin products and their derivatives without banning all internal trade of the products would violate this obligation.(1850)[Translation]In fact, a study of the legal implications of an almost complete ban on the importing of shark fins by Canada, as proposed by Bill S-238, revealed that this would very likely result in the violation of our obligations to the World Trade Organization.Trade measures can be an effective means of fighting illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and of promoting sustainable fishing practices. However, these requirements must be consistent with Canada's international trade obligations as a member of the World Trade Organization. I am sure there is a way forward that will allow us to comply with our trade obligations and, more importantly, to put an end to shark finning.[English]I will take a few seconds at this time to summarize.Shark finning has been banned in Canada since 1994 through the licence conditions administered under the Fishery (General) Regulations, a regulation made under the Fisheries act.In 2016, Canada implemented a mandatory fins-attached management measure for all pelagic shark landings across Canada. All harvesters are required to land pelagic sharks with the fins naturally attached.Bill S-238 proposes to add a prohibition on shark finning in the Fisheries Act that would enshrine the ban of shark finning in the Fisheries Act, as well as banning importation through WAPPRIITA.The government is committed to ensuring that we end the practice of shark finning while ensuring we uphold our international trade commitments.[Translation]I am convinced that shark finning is a cruel practice. As a Canadian and a steward of our natural environment, I feel I have a responsibility to prevent cruelty towards any animal and the decimation of any species. That is why I look forward to a rigorous debate on this bill in committee. [English]Bill S-238 is a noble indication that Canadians feel the same way. Perhaps the means by which the bill proposes to achieve its ends are not perfect, but I believe it is our duty here in this place to find a way to do whatever is within our power to stop shark finning. I am confident that this is the right thing to do.BanCruelty to animalsEndangered speciesImportsPrivate Members' BillsS-238, An Act to amend the Fisheries Act and the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act (importation and exportation of shark fins)Second readingSenate billsSharkTrade agreementsWild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade ActWorld Trade OrganizationFinDonnellyPort Moody—CoquitlamRichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West Kootenay//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1255)[English]Mr. Speaker, on the same point of order, and I am not good in the French language, but I agree with the remarks of the member opposite. Mr. Speaker, I think you have to look at this motion and the source of the motion, which is the member for Carleton. As you stated, there are clearly errors in this, just as we heard in the speech earlier from the member for Carleton; there were factual errors in many areas of his remarks. However, in terms of the motion itself, there is no question. I chair the finance committee. The member for Carleton is on that committee. The motion was drafted in great haste, and you will see several motions that are just changing the number of days that the committee would travel. This is coming from a member who represents a party which is constantly blocking travel by the finance committee, and this motion, being written in haste, is all about trying to delay the debate on the budget, which was tabled this week, so that Canadians cannot hear about all the good things that are in that budget for Canadians.Agreements and contractsGovernment billsGovernment Business No. 28MadagascarMotion of instructionPoints of orderS-6, An Act to implement the Convention between Canada and the Republic of Madagascar for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on incomeSenate billsStanding Committee on FinanceTaxationTranslationTravel authorityBruceStantonSimcoe NorthBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNational Francophonie WeekInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1420)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, my riding, Egmont, has the largest francophone community on Prince Edward Island. As an Acadian descendant, Évangéline is part of my history. As her MP, I am pleased to speak French in the House for the first time in a long time to wish everyone a good National Francophonie Week.FrancophonesFrancophonie WeekStatements by MembersMarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1515)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group.The first report concerns the 73th annual meeting of the Council of State Governments' Midwestern Legislative Conference, held in Winnipeg, Manitoba, from July 15 to 18, 2018. The second report concerns the summer meeting of the National Governors Association, held in Santa Fe, New Mexico, U.S.A., from July 19 to 21, 2018. The third report concerns the 42nd annual conference of the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers, held in Stowe, Vermont, U.S.A., from August 12 to 14, 2018. 8565-421-59-54 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 73rd Annual Meeting of the Council of State Governments' Midwestern Legislative conference (CSG), held in Winnipeg, Manitoba, from July 15 to 18, 20188565-421-59-55 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Summer Meeting of the National Governors Association (NGA), held in Santa Fe, New Mexico, from July 19 to 21, 20188565-421-59-56 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 42nd Annual Conference of the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers (NEG/ECP), held in Stowe, Vermont, from August 12 to 14, 2018Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupBorysWrzesnewskyjEtobicoke CentreYasminRatansiDon Valley East//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFinanceInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, thanks to the hard work of Canadians, Canada's economy is strong and growing, creating well-paying jobs for the middle class and people working hard to join it. [Translation]More Canadians are working, and families have more money to spend on what matters to them. [English]Could the Minister of Finance please update the House on the next steps in our proven plan to strengthen and grow the middle class?Economic conditionsMiddle classOral questionsJustinTrudeauRight Hon.PapineauBillMorneauHon.Toronto Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersIndigenous Languages ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1035)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the minister for bringing this important legislation forward. I come from the Northwest Territories. I grew up in an era when strapping and spanking was common practice in the school I attended for speaking any word that was not English. I am a product of that time. I have lost two indigenous languages through that process. I have lost the ability to speak my mother tongue, which is the Michif language, and I am glad it is incorporated in this document. I also lost the ability to speak to the language of the Dehcho Dene, which both of my parents spoke.In the Northwest Territories, we have done a lot of work in recognizing indigenous languages as official languages. We have 11 official languages, nine of which are indigenous. I see in the legislation that there is an ability to work with jurisdictions to enhance what they are already doing. Maybe the minister could talk about how this would help places in the Northwest Territories that are very intent on saving languages. We have languages there that may have 10 years before they disappear. There is a real sense of urgency. Once these languages disappear, nobody else can speak them in other parts of the world. Could the minister respond to that?Aboriginal languagesC-91, An Act respecting Indigenous languagesGovernment billsHeritage languagesLanguage policyNorthwest TerritoriesSecond readingPabloRodriguezHon.Honoré-MercierPabloRodriguezHon.Honoré-Mercier//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersIndigenous Languages ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1540)[English]Madam Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Labrador. First of all, I want to say mahsi cho.Today is a great day. It is with great pleasure that I rise to speak in support of Bill C-91, the indigenous languages act. This legislation supports a revitalization of indigenous languages, which have deteriorated over the years because of the racist and discriminatory policies of successive governments. Three languages were spoken in my home when I grew up: English; the language of the Dene, the Dehcho Dene; and the language of the Métis, Métis French, Michif. It all kind of came to an end when I started school, because during that era, we were not allowed to speak anything except English. If we were caught or reported for speaking anything but English, we were strapped with an 18-inch, three-inch wide rubber strap. There was no defence. We were guilty. It did not matter if we did it or not. A lot of my colleagues would sometimes falsely report their fellow students. They wanted to see them get strapped. There was no way to get away from it. If the principal came out, grabbed us and brought us to the front of the class, and we fought back, he would hit us wherever he could. However, if we let him, he would just strap us on the hands. Usually it was four straps per hand. The only time we could get him to stop was if he drew blood. A lot of my colleagues would take a piece of their hair and put it on their hands to see if they could get their hands to bleed so that after the first strap, they would not be hit anymore.Why did this happen? Why did we have to go through this? It is because past policies were designed to strip away indigenous identity and discourage the use of traditional languages. This bill is intended to support and promote the use of indigenous languages. It recognizes that languages are fundamental to the identities, cultures, spiritual beliefs, relationships to the land, world views and self-determination of indigenous peoples.Throughout the government-led engagement sessions on this legislation, which I think took a total of two years, it was stated that language was integral to who one is as a person, to who we are as a people and to individual and collective pride and strength. Indigenous youth across Canada need to be exposed to their histories through language and must be supported in their efforts to learn their languages and have pride in their cultures. If they park their languages to survive, they also park a big part of their culture, which is something I have learned from my experience.Acknowledging the importance of indigenous languages in Canada will allow for healthier indigenous people and communities and a healthier country as a whole. There have been many studies done on the use of indigenous languages and their role, or lack of a role, in the issue of suicide. Many studies have shown that indigenous communities in which a majority of members report conversational knowledge of an indigenous language also experience low to absent youth suicide rates. By contrast, in those communities in which fewer than half the members report knowledge of the language, suicide rates are up to six times higher. The Assembly of First Nations' report on its national engagement sessions regarding this act states:Language learning and identity reunification can be sources of healing. Schooling—residential schools, day schools, public schools, technical schools—were sources of disrupting Indigenous language use as a natural process. These institutions made us ashamed to speak our languages and parents were made to believe that their languages would harm their children and keep them from succeeding. Language revitalization can be used to help mitigate other issues such as addictions; people with a strong sense of language have better physical and mental health.Past studies and reports have acknowledged the importance of youth and intergenerational learning to the revitalization of indigenous languages.(1545)The 2005 report “Towards a New Beginning" by the Task Force on Aboriginal Languages and Cultures calls for funding for immersion programs for children and youth. The task force report reminded indigenous communities to be more mindful of children and youth by stating:Go home to your communities and do not forget the youth. They sometimes get forgotten and shouldn’t be. They’re important and they’re the next generation. We need to ask the youth what they need and want, and get them involved and get them excited about this.I have heard chiefs in my riding talk about encouraging people to talk to youth and talk to their children, to say one word or one sentence in their indigenous language, because it does not cost anything. In the report, elders urge educational institutions to encourage youth to take leadership roles in language preservation. It is important to recognize that youth need access to sufficient financial support to assist in their language journeys so they can learn, use and promote their languages.Through this bill, the Government of Canada has committed to supporting the efforts of indigenous people to reclaim, revitalize, preserve and maintain their languages in a variety of ways, including by implementing measures that would facilitate the allocation of funding.A recent report published by the First Peoples' Cultural Council, entitled “Indigenous Languages Recognition, Preservation and Revitalization”, stated:Youth energy is a driving force for language revitalization. It needs to be encouraged.Young people need to be encouraged to take control over their languages, as they are the future of this country and will be responsible for the future of indigenous languages.In 2016, Canada officially adopted the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, which proclaims:Indigenous peoples have the right to revitalize, use, develop and transmit to future generations, their histories, languages, oral traditions, philosophies, writing systems and literatures, and to designate and retain their own names for communities, places and persons.The declaration also asserts:States shall, in conjunction with indigenous peoples, take effective measures, in order for indigenous individuals, particularly children, including those living outside their communities, to have access, when possible, to an education in their own culture and provided in their own language.The bill recognizes the urgent need to support the efforts of indigenous people to reclaim, revitalize, maintain and also strengthen their languages. Indigenous youth and all peoples in Canada need to be supported in their efforts to reclaim their languages. Indigenous communities have been working diligently to revitalize and reclaim their first nations, Inuit and Métis languages, and it is important to acknowledge their work. The role of elders and language keepers is also very important to the languages of indigenous people in Canada, and their efforts should not be overlooked.This legislation must be implemented with urgency to provide the necessary support for indigenous people before the language keepers are gone. I urge all hon. members to respect and honour the energy and perseverance of indigenous youth by acting swiftly to adopt this legislation.I will conclude by reminding members that this bill is long overdue. We must continue to recognize the importance of indigenous language revitalization and the invaluable effects it has on indigenous youth, indigenous communities and Canadians. We have to hurry, because many of our indigenous languages depend on it.Aboriginal languagesAboriginal peoplesC-91, An Act respecting Indigenous languagesEducation and trainingGovernment billsHeritage languagesSecond readingSplitting speaking timeSuicidesYoung peopleNathanCullenSkeena—Bulkley ValleyArnoldViersenPeace River—Westlock//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersIndigenous Languages ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (1550)[English]Madam Speaker, since I come from a colder part of Canada, for sure I have to be a lot tougher than he is in Alberta, where they get spoiled with warm weather.I cannot speak for the Premier of the Northwest Territories. I am going to assume that he is very excited that we are looking at coming forward with a strategy. We announced money in 2016 and 2017 for the Government of Northwest Territories to put toward aboriginal languages. It was well received and is being well utilized, but of course, it is not enough and has not been enough for many years.We advocated for funding for the north during the time the Conservatives were in power, and it was not something we could obtain. We need money for language development, money for materials, money for instructors and money to train them. I am very happy that this is coming forward, and I look forward to the results.Aboriginal languagesC-91, An Act respecting Indigenous languagesGovernment billsSecond readingArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockNathanCullenSkeena—Bulkley Valley//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersIndigenous Languages ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (1555)[English]Madam Speaker, the Northwest Territories is in a different position than the rest of Canada. In the Northwest Territories, we have recognized 11 official languages, nine of which are indigenous. We recognize the Inuit languages as official languages. I think we are going to see a lot of discussion on this issue. Committees will be looking at it and making recommendations. I think the concerns of the ITK will certainly be considered. However, it is important that each indigenous government be involved. I look forward to the indigenous governments in my riding leading the discussion and developing the strategies that are going to be needed. There is nobody who can tell an indigenous government how to save its language except itself. We also need the commission to be in place to provide oversight. We as members of Parliament, we as the government, have to make sure that we are in a situation to provide the resources, such as funding resources, materials and the other requirements, the indigenous governments may need.Aboriginal languagesC-91, An Act respecting Indigenous languagesGovernment billsNorthwest TerritoriesSecond readingNathanCullenSkeena—Bulkley ValleyYvonneJonesLabrador//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to welcome all the dairy farmers from across Canada to Ottawa today. It is very important that their voices be heard, and our government has heard their voices. We have defended the supply management system from a strong American attempt to dismantle it. We understand that the supply management system is vital to our financial success. We will be fully and fairly supporting the supply management sector. That is why we have formed working groups, to make sure that the information came from the supply sector up to the government.Dairy farmingGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordRubySahotaBrampton North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Taxes]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1730)[English]Madam Speaker, I second the suggestion from the member for Windsor West, and I congratulate the member for Leeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes.I will be splitting the time with the member for Mississauga East—Cooksville.I welcome the opportunity to speak to this opposition day motion. However, I have to admit I am somewhat saddened that the official opposition, under the leadership of the member for Regina—Qu'Appelle, would allow such an absence of truth in the written and spoken word. I say that seriously. It is becoming very obvious that there has been a great attempt in recent weeks by the Conservative Party of Canada to misrepresent the work of the Liberal government in this the 42nd Parliament.Through my remarks today, I will deal, one by one, with the misrepresentations of the facts by the member for Carleton in his motion.In parts (a) and (b), he tries to allege taxes are higher. Nothing could be further from the truth. The truth is that starting off, in our very first budget, we reduced taxes for the middle class, while raising taxes on the wealthiest 1%. Specifically, the government lowered taxes on the middle-class tax bracket of $44,702 to $89,401 to 22%. An hon. member: Wayne, you can do better than reading notes of Gerry Butts. Hon. Wayne Easter: Maybe the member heckling over there would like to pick up the tax code and check the facts instead of listening to the rhetoric that comes out of the research department over there. All the Conservatives know how to do is not talk about facts but attack and misrepresent.In addition, this government introduced the Canada child benefit, which will help nine in 10 families. Better yet, we made it tax free. Those two measures will mean a typical middle-class family is now $2,000 better off per year than they were under the Harper Conservatives.In fact, for the member for Carleton's riding, the Minister of Finance told him in question period today that 30,000 people in his riding of Carleton had lower taxes and 16,000 children in that riding benefited as a result of this government's measures with respect to the Canada child benefit.The bottom line is that a majority of Canadians are paying a lower effective tax rate under this government as a result of the actions we have taken since 2015. Regardless of how the official opposition tries to confuse and fudge the numbers, those are the facts. Lower taxes for the middle class and better opportunities as a result for families moving forward are the facts.On his third point, the member for Carleton talked about the government's higher Canada pension plan premiums and used an exaggerated number out decades from now. Do the Conservative members not meet with seniors in their ridings? Do they not understand the facts on the ground, that people without pensions can hardly afford to put food on the table? The Canada pension plan changes are all about that. It is not a tax, but an investment in the future of seniors so future generations of MPs in our positions do not have to see the agony of people coming through the doors when they do not have the money in their pensions to meet the necessary essentials of life.The Canada pension plan is an important vehicle for retirement. Private pensions are disappearing across the country and around the western world. Pensions are a fundamentally important mechanism to ensure Canadians have security in retirement. Again, pensions are not taxes but investments in the security of seniors in the future. Members who are worth their salt have seen those seniors come into their office without the money to meet their needs.(1735)In their motion, the Conservatives came up with a number on cancelling the family tax credit. Again, they misrepresent the facts. We instituted, as I said earlier, the Canada child benefit, which has seen more money going to more families than before, stopped giving money to the highest-income families and has indexed that benefit to inflation. It is a more efficient model than the previous model, because it more effectively targets families and parents who need financial assistance.As stated earlier, in the riding of the member for Carleton, 16,000 children will benefit from the Canada child benefit. Is the member and the leader of his party telling families in his riding that they want to do away with that and go back to the old system where their benefits were taxed? Is that what the member is saying? There are consequences to some of these points that members opposite make.Conservatives talked about the cancelling of a couple of tax credits. Members on the opposite side maybe do not understand what a tax credit really is. Tax credits are only available to those who have the means to get them. In other words, they have to have a substantial income in order to benefit from them. That means that those who do not have that kind of income do not get the tax credits, and they are the ones who really need the chance to enter sports and other areas. Tax credits like the ones mentioned are marginal at best, because tax credits are only helpful to people who can afford the goods and services in the first place. If people want to sign their children up for summer soccer, send their children to university and claim eligible books or any other eligible deductions, they have to have already had the money to acquire those things in the first place. Tax credits do not assist individuals who are the most financially vulnerable. There are people who live paycheque to paycheque. They do not get the benefit from those tax credits, because they cannot afford to send their kids to soccer in the first place. That is not effective tax policy. We need effective tax policy, and we need to ensure there is fairness in the tax system. That is why the tax credits were done away with and we moved to the Canada child benefit and other means.The member's motion states that the government's higher employment insurance premiums lead to higher costs per worker. Do the members opposite believe they are telling the truth when they make that statement? Let me turn to insurance premiums in the documents from EI. In 2013 through 2016, the rate was $1.88. Today it is $1.62. Can members opposite not add and subtract? That is a lower rate: $1.88 down to $1.62. It means that the maximum annual employer premium has gone down from $1,337.06 to $1,204.31. That is not increasing premiums. Come on, folks. Let us at least lay out the truth in this place.As a final note, we in this government invest in Canadians and the things that matter most to them. We are keeping a close eye on our fiscal track, carefully managing deficits and protecting Canada's long-term fiscal sustainability, with a steady declining debt-to-GDP ratio. Canada has, by far, the lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio among the G7 countries.Across Canada, more Canadians are working, and middle-class Canadians have more money to save, invest and grow the economy. We will continue to stand up for the middle class, while the only plan of the Conservatives is austerity and cuts. As we have seen in this motion, we cannot believe what they claim to be facts, because they are, quite honestly, not truthful.Benefits for childrenCanada Pension PlanEmployment insurance premiumsMiddle classOpposition motionsSplitting speaking timeTax creditsTaxationMichaelBarrettLeeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau LakesK. KellieLeitchHon.Simcoe—Grey//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Taxes]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1740)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am absolutely surprised that I have not changed the member for Simcoe—Grey's mind. She must have under her pillow at night the research from the Conservative Party of Canada, which has absolutely nothing to do with the facts that I have laid out. I would ask the member for Simcoe—Grey to read the motion. She will see that the motion put forward by the member of Carleton is absolutely not factual. The member can go back and look at my remarks. Canadians are paying lower taxes today, but the 1% is paying higher, and we understand that. We have also invested in research for science. We have put money into the Canada child benefit, which benefits many families in the member's riding. We have had to get over the 10 years of cuts by the Harper government, of which she was a member when in cabinet. Canadians paid dearly for these cuts. Now we have to invest in Canadians' future, which is exactly what we are doing, and we are doing it while staying on track, managing our fiscal responsibilities well and keeping a lower debt-to-GDP ratio. Ours is the lowest in the G7. In fact, our unemployment rate is the lowest it has been in 40 years.Opposition motionsTaxationK. KellieLeitchHon.Simcoe—GreyBrianMasseWindsor West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Taxes]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1740)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am not sure what policy the government will be coming out with, if we are, but I will certainly tell the member where I am at personally.I believe that pensions should be paid into in the same way as CPP and EI premiums. They should be put into a fund and guaranteed to be there for the workers who work in corporations and other companies. If the company fails in those obligations, then the board of directors should be responsible for those obligations to those citizens for the work they did for those companies over the years. That is where I stand.Opposition motionsPensions and pensionersTaxationBrianMasseWindsor WestPeterFonsecaMississauga East—Cooksville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersMel GassInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the life of former MP Mel Gass, who recently passed away. Mel, a businessman, was elected three times as a Progressive Conservative and served the riding of Malpeque for nine years with distinction. As a member of several committees, Mel felt truly honoured to lay a wreath at Dieppe as chair of the veterans affairs committee, and he especially enjoyed his time as parliamentary secretary to the minister of fisheries and oceans. I can sincerely say that he stood up for fishermen in Canada and in his community. In 1989, Mel served as leader of the provincial PC Party.Returning to private life, Mel continued to operate Silverwood Motel and served as a local councillor. As well, he was president of the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island and was granted several awards for his work in tourism.Afflicted with ALS in recent years, he retained his good nature and sense of humour. His love of life, people and community always showed through for the proud Canadian he was. Our condolences go out to his family.Deaths and funeralsGass, Melbourne AlexanderParliamentariansStatements by MembersTomKmiecCalgary ShepardTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCharlottetown Urban Beehive ProjectInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, things are really buzzing in Charlottetown these days. Earlier this month, Charlottetown's urban beehive project, by Nine Yards Studio, was presented with a medal under the community initiatives award category at the 2018 National Urban Design Awards.Local architects Shallyn Murray and Silva Stojak created demonstration beehives that encourage a hands-on approach to bee education, allowing the public to see how honey is being produced, and to learn all about pollination and the industry of beekeeping. The hives are housed in Charlottetown's largest urban garden, the Prince Edward Island Farm Centre. Through Plexiglas windows, visitors can safely observe the bees working away in their hives. A hexagonal amphitheatre allows for even more learning opportunities.I extend my congratulations to the Charlottetown urban beehive project for receiving this prestigious award. It is a great example of how design can play an important role in our community, our development and our environment.Beekeeping and beekeepersCharlottetownStatements by MembersPatKellyCalgary Rocky RidgeMichaelMcLeodNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, two weeks ago, I was pleased to welcome the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations to my riding.We travelled to Norman Wells to celebrate the signing of the self-government agreement in principle with the Norman Wells Land Corporation. This is a significant step for the Norman Wells Dene and Métis, transferring authority for law-making and enforcement for those areas that are important to their rights as indigenous peoples. Entrenching this authority is important for future generations of the Sahtu, as well as for Canadians in general. We are building government-to-government relationships with indigenous peoples based on respect and understanding. This is what real reconciliation looks like. We need to keep working toward finalizing land claims and self-government agreements, not only because they strengthen local participation in decision-making, but because they also create certainty about the ownership, use and management of land and resources. Aboriginal self-governmentStatements by MembersSeanCaseyCharlottetownRobNicholsonHon.Niagara Falls//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, recently, the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, along with the Premier of P.E.I., signed a framework agreement with Mi'kmaq people to address outstanding issues of Mi'kmaq rights and title.The Mi'kmaq leadership see this agreement as the beginning of a process to determine how all P.E.I. Mi'kmaq, both on and off reserve, will benefit from their rights, today and into the future.Beyond this one agreement, could the minister explain the government's progress on renewing relationships with the indigenous peoples of Canada?Abegweit First NationAboriginal policyAgreements and contractsLennox Island First NationOral questionsPrince Edward IslandJonathanWilkinsonHon.North VancouverCarolynBennettHon.Toronto—St. Paul's//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersFederal Sustainable Development ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1810)[English]Mr. Speaker, one would think that was an election speech, because what we heard from the Conservatives was a lot of misinformation. If that party wants to talk about facts, Stephen Harper added $150 billion to the national debt. In terms of small business, look at the last fall economic statement, whereby we faced head on the challenges from the United States and increased capital cost allowances so that businesses in this country could move ahead.The member talked about the CPTPP. I would ask the member this. Who signed and negotiated it at the end of the day? Who did the final agreement on the CPTPP to accept that agreement and negotiate a good agreement, which the Conservatives failed to negotiate? It was the minister on this side of the House who did that.The future in this country is going to be a result of the Liberal government. Do not listen to the malarky we hear from the members on the other side, because they are just playing politics and giving false information, which I am surprised to hear from that member.C-57, An Act to amend the Federal Sustainable Development ActConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment accountabilityGovernment billsSustainable developmentTrade agreementsEdFastHon.AbbotsfordEdFastHon.Abbotsford//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPersons with DisabilitiesInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government has been working hard and making significant progress to remove barriers for persons with disabilities and to build a truly inclusive and accessible Canada. Could the Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Accessibility please update the House on our government's progress?Access for disabled peopleOral questionsPersons with disabilitiesGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestCarlaQualtroughHon.Delta//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is interesting to get a question like this from the hon. member, whose previous government cut $700 million from the agricultural envelope. They cut research, innovation and everything else they could cut in the agricultural sector to try to balance the books. We have defended and are going to continue to defend the supply management system in this country. We have indicated quite clearly that we fully and fairly support our supply-managed farmers. This government has supported and will continue to support the agricultural sector.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy industryFarming and farmersGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPensionsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, In 2016, our government reached a historic agreement with the provinces and territories to expand the Canada pension plan to protect income security for pensioners. That CPP expansion is supposed to begin this year, but the Conservative Party opposes that expansion, which will allow greater security for pensioners. Will the Prime Minister assure the House, despite the opposition from the Conservatives, that the CPP will be expanded as intended?Canada Pension PlanOral questionsPensions and pensionersJustinTrudeauRight Hon.PapineauJustinTrudeauRight Hon.Papineau//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1555)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1) I have the honour to present, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group. The first report concerns the 56th annual meeting with members of the U.S. Senate and the House of Representatives, held in Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, from June 15 to 17 of this year.The second report concerns the 71st annual meeting of the the Council of State Governments West (CSG West) , held in Snowbird, Utah, United States of America, from September 11 to 15 of this year.The third report concerns the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance Conference, held in Washington, D.C., U.S.A., from September 30 to October 2 of this year.8565-421-59-51 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 56th Annual Meeting with Members of the U.S. Senate and House of Representatives, held in Ottawa, Ontario, from June 15 to 17, 20188565-421-59-52 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 71st Annual Meeting of the Council of State Governments-WEST (CSG-WEST), held in Snowbird (Utah), from September 11 to 15, 20188565-421-59-53 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance (Can/AM BTA) Conference, held in Washington, D.C., from September 30 to October 2, 2018Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestStephenFuhrKelowna—Lake Country//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCanada Revenue Agency ActInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1815)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise briefly to speak to the bill and indicate that this particular piece of legislation has strong support from the minister and all members in the House. We support the bill and will not be putting forward any more speakers to speak to it as an indication of the support coming from this side of the House.C-316, An Act to amend the Canada Revenue Agency Act (organ donors)Organ donationPrivate Members' BillsThird reading and adoptionBardishChaggerHon.WaterlooLenWebberCalgary Confederation//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1510)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 27th report of the Standing Committee on Finance entitled “Cultivating Competitiveness Helping Canadians Succeed”. This report is the work of hundreds of Canadians who drafted over 500 submissions for the committee's consideration and approximately 300 witnesses who appeared before the committee from coast to coast to coast. I want to thank members from all parties for their efforts and a special thanks on behalf of the committee to the clerks, David Gagnon and Alexandre Jacques, and to the analysts from the Library of Parliament, Andrew Barton, Brett Capstick, Michaël Lambert-Racine, Shaowei Pu and Ryan van den Berg. Without the efforts of the Library of Parliament, this fairly massive project would not be possible and I want to sincerely thank them and other committee members for their work and Canadians for their presentations.8510-421-497 "Cultivating Competitiveness: Helping Canadians Succeed"Pre-budget consultationsStanding Committee on FinancePatFinniganMiramichi—Grand LakeBlakeRichardsBanff—Airdrie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, our hon. colleague is concerned, but our government has defended the supply management system against strong attempts by the American government to demolish it. We know that the dairy, poultry and egg farmers provide the highest quality for Canadians at a reasonable price and support rural communities. We are committed to fully and fairly supporting our agricultural sector and the supply management system. We have supported and will continue to support agriculture in this country.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryOral questionsProvince of QuebecSupply managementTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéPeterKentHon.Thornhill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question. However, the Prime Minister has been quite clear. The Minister of Foreign Affairs has been quite clear. Most cabinet ministers have been quite clear. We are going to fully and fairly support our dairy sector and the supply management system. We have supported and will continue to make sure we support our agricultural sector. My hon. colleague is well aware that, during the negotiations and before the negotiations, the American government clearly stated that its intention was to destroy the supply management system. We made sure that did not happen.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsGabrielSte-MarieJolietteLucThériaultMontcalm//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersTourism Employee of the YearInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to inform the House of something that should come as no surprise. A Prince Edward Islander has just been nationally recognized in the field of hospitality. Last week, Mr. Ian Cheverie was named Tourism HR Canada's tourism employee of the year. Mr. Cheverie is the guest experience manager and concierge at the storied Great George Hotel, which, it should be noted, had the honour of hosting several delegates to the Charlottetown Conference in 1864. In June of this year, Mr. Cheverie was inducted into Les Clefs d' Or, an esteemed society of concierges whose aim is the advancement of hospitality through a global network. After undergoing a rigorous two-year vetting process, Mr. Cheverie was granted a pair of crossed gold keys to mark this distinction. Prince Edward Islanders are a welcoming, hospitable lot. Ian Cheverie has taken these qualities and parlayed them into something worth of celebrating. I congratulate Ian. He has done us proud.Cheverie, IanEmployee of the yearStatements by MembersTourismBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—LacombeDenisParadisHon.Brome—Missisquoi//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think my colleague is well aware that we are the party that brought in supply management and we are the party that is going to defend supply management. It is important to note that during the NAFTA negotiations, the American government intended to destroy the supply management system and we made sure that did not happen.We understand there are impacts on our farmers and we are committed to fully and fairly supporting them and to make sure they continue to succeed.Farming and farmersGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsKarineTrudelJonquièreTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCarbon PricingInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, we campaigned on a promise to make sure that we would grow the economy and protect the environment at the same time, and that is exactly what we are doing.We know that Canadians are responsible stewards of the land, and that is why we have exempted farm fuel and gasoline under the federal backstop. We have also provided additional relief for greenhouse farmers for their propane.We will continue to support our agricultural sector in this country.Carbon pricingCarbon taxFarming and farmersOral questionsRosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterDeanAllisonNiagara West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessThe EnvironmentInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1110)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Courtenay—Alberni for his continued interest in combatting plastic pollution in our waterways and oceans.Our government shares the hon. member's concerns about the negative impacts of plastic waste and marine litter on the environment, and the Liberals will be supporting the motion. As we all know, plastics play an important role in society due to their low cost, unrivalled functionality and durability. However, the negative impacts of plastic waste and pollution in our environment are undeniable. Plastics do not belong in our waters or scattered around our land.We subscribe to the view that plastics that leave the economy as waste represent a loss of resources and value. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation estimates that between $80 billion and $120 billion worth of plastic packaging alone is lost from the global economy every year. Plastic production continues to grow, with about a 620% increase in growth since 1975, outpacing most manufactured materials. If current consumption, production and disposal rates continue, about 12 billion tonnes of plastic will be lost to landfills or the environment by 2050. In Canada, in 2014, approximately 90% of plastic waste was lost with only about 11% recycled. It is estimated that about 8,000 kilograms of our own plastic waste ends up as marine litter every year. With a growing economy and population, nationally and globally, we need to think differently about how we design, produce, recover and use plastics. A high point of our G7 presidency was the release of the Ocean Plastics Charter in June 2018. The charter has since been endorsed by 11 governments and 19 businesses and organizations worldwide, all committing to move toward a more resource-efficient and sustainable approach to plastics that will reduce plastic waste and marine litter. The charter includes ambitious targets and actions along the entire life cycle of plastics, from sustainable design, production and collection to management, as well as actions to advance education, research, innovation, new technologies and on-the-ground improvements. Actions to meet the charter targets need to happen on two fronts: internationally and domestically. Internationally, we continue to advance policy discussions and research in international fora so that our efforts are amplified along with others. For instance, we joined the United Nations Clean Seas campaign and pledged, with numerous others, to take action on marine litter. We participate in the United Nations Global Partnership on Marine Litter. We also contributed to the recently adopted guidance on fishing gear from of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. Canada also recently joined the Global Ghost Gear Initiative to tackle lost fishing gear, and we are working on scientific methods to detect plastics in dredged materials from ocean disposal sites. We need to innovate and embrace solutions across the entire plastics value chain and change our entire system to one with no waste. I am very pleased to note that Canada will be hosting the World Circular Economy Forum in 2020. This will offer a great opportunity to showcase Canadian progress on plastics while fostering dialogue on moving Canada and the world toward a circular economy for all materials, including plastics. To achieve this, we are working together with a broad range of stakeholders: industry, academia and civil society.Through the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment, we are working with provinces and territories to implement the newly launched CCME strategy on zero plastic waste. The next step is to develop a Canada-wide action plan to eliminate plastic waste, reduce marine litter and use a circular economy lens to address plastics throughout the value chain. The action plan will provide a platform for collaboration among different levels of government, industry and other stakeholders.(1115)Industry and Canadians have signalled they are ready to make the necessary changes. This means making plastic design and production more sustainable; improving collection, management systems and infrastructure; adopting a more sustainable lifestyle and creating awareness of environmentally sound alternatives and good practices; continuing to improve on our understanding of the issue and solutions through research and innovation; and finally, taking action to capture and remove the plastic litter that is already covering shorelines and our near-shore waters.To propel the full range of Canadian industry to action, we recently launched the Canadian plastics innovation challenge. The challenge will accelerate innovation in our country by providing over $12 million to Canadian innovators, entrepreneurs and businesses to tackle plastic challenges in seven key areas: separation of mixed plastics; food packaging; plastic wastes from construction activities; removal and management of ghost fishing gear and marine debris; improved compost ability of bioplastics; recycling of glass fibre-reinforced plastic; and sustainable fishing and aquaculture gear.The federal government is also leading by example. We have committed to divert at least 75% of the plastic waste from government operations by 2030. This will be accomplished through changing our own practices as well as in the procurement of more sustainable plastic products such as those that are reusable, recyclable, repairable or are made with recycled plastic content.This adds to other federal efforts, including pollution prevention legislation, such as our phased ban on microbeads in toiletries that came into effect this year; investments in waste and waste-water infrastructure to prevent debris from entering the environment; and raising awareness through public engagement and education.With respect to increasing awareness and community action among Canadians, in September we collaborated with five NGOs and launched an ocean plastics education kit for students and teachers to increase awareness of marine plastic litter and empower youth to develop solutions and take action.On Earth Day, we launched the Canadian dialogue on plastic waste. We heard from more than 1,900 Canadians about their views on ways to reduce plastic waste and pollution. We posted a summary of what we heard on our website. Participants across the country recognized the need to take prompt action on this issue and that no one solution would do the trick.We have supported community projects as well as national conservation initiatives. The Government of Canada is a partner with the Great Canadian Shoreline Cleanup that removes plastic litter and collects citizen science data. We are working with the United States and Mexico, through the Commission of Environmental Cooperation, to implement a pilot project in the Salish Sea watershed in British Columbia. The project will engage local decision-makers and the community to identify local plastic waste and litter challenges and implement small scale solutions.We also continue to advance science to support action on plastics. We also conduct and support research on the plastics economy in Canada and the impacts of plastic pollution in aquatic environments and fauna.This month, we hosted two scientific workshops with international and national experts to help inform our plastics science agenda. We discussed the state of current science on the effects of plastics in the environment, identified knowledge gaps and prioritized areas where we could take concerted action to strengthen our science. Strong science is the foundation of effective decision-making.We look forward to continuing action in these areas and working with partners in Canada and abroad to move to a circular plastics economy, one without plastic waste.We recognize that achieving a zero plastic waste future that is protective of the environment is multi-faceted. There is no one solution.To address the issue of plastic waste and its pollution, actions are required at each stage of the plastic life cycle. All levels of government, from municipalities to national governments, as well as industry, civil society and citizens have a role to play.The Government of Canada will continue to support action by these players and through its own efforts in sound science, research and development, funding, regulation and other policy levers to keep plastic waste in the economy and out of the environment. This is why today we will support the motion put forward by the member for Courtenay—Alberni.Coastal areasCosmetic products and toiletriesEventsFederal-provincial-territorial relationsFisheries and fishersGovernment accountabilityGovernment assistanceGovernment policyGreen economyInformation disseminationInnovationInternational cooperationM-151Ocean Plastics CharterPackaging and labellingPlasticsPlastics industryPrivate Members' MotionsSalish SeaScientific research and scientistsStatisticsWaste managementWater qualityRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverKarineTrudelJonquière//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1225)[English]Mr. Speaker, I remember when the decision was made many years ago. The leaders from the Northwest Territories were outraged. The Tlicho chiefs were very upset. The grand chief of the day, Eddie Erasmus, said, “We are Canada’s treaty partner. We thought the days of the government in Ottawa thinking it ‘knows best’ about our lands, resources and future were over when we signed the Tlicho Agreement. We won’t go back to the day....”Many leaders felt betrayed when the agreement was breached by this decision. They felt their constitutional rights were breached. The agreement was supposed to be protected by the Constitution.Could the member explain how something like this could happen when the an agreement is supposed to be protected by the Constitution? Agreements and contractsAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleySecond readingYvonneJonesLabradorYvonneJonesLabrador//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1250)[English]Mr. Speaker, in the member's statement, she talked about the self-economy for the north.I find it interesting, because the Beaufort Sea was not included in the devolution agreement, neither was the Norman Wells oil field. These are two economic drivers that could certainly contribute to the north. However, they were left out. In fact, this process where the decision was made to change the regulatory system so that we have a super board went directly against what was agreed to in the land claim. It went against the regulatory structure that was in the land claim. There were other things that the Conservatives tried to change, including the fiscal agreements. It was obvious that the Conservatives thought the environmental assessment process slowed down projects, and they wanted to gut it completely.Since the time the decision was made, we have seen that the system works fine. It works effectively and efficiently. Would the member agree that if she were to make this decision again, she would admit that she was wrong and that it would be left alone?Agreements and contractsAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsEnvironmental assessmentGovernment billsMackenzie ValleySecond readingCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1320)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to correct the member on his comment regarding the sets of negotiations going on in the Northwest Territories. We currently have 10 sets of negotiations going on. Some of them are fairly small. They are community self-governing negotiations. However, at the end of the Conservative government's last term, every set of negotiations was stalled. There were no discussions going on. I think we have to consider the view of the aboriginal people when it comes to the breach of what they thought were constitutionally protected agreements on their land claims and self-government agreements and also on devolution. Certainly the trust of aboriginal people was shaken to the core. A lot of people did not want to move forward.The member talked about some of the situations that could have been prevented. Could the member expand on what could be done to prevent situations like this from happening again? This certainly set us back a number of steps.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsLand managementLand useMackenzie ValleyPublic consultationSecond readingRichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West KootenayRichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West Kootenay//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1330)[English]Mr. Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Glengarry—Prescott—Russell.I am very proud to join my colleagues to speak in full support of Bill C-88 today. The Prime Minister stated that no relationship is more important to our government and Canada than the one with indigenous peoples. I am proud that we made that commitment and that we continue to strive to fulfill it. The bill before us today is an important part of this commitment to me and my constituents in the Northwest Territories. The Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act was originally passed in 1998. It provides for the establishment of an integrated system of land and water management for the Mackenzie Valley through a series of co-management boards, at which the Dene, Métis, territorial and federal governments share input and decision-making. Although the MVRMA was passed in 1998, the discussions on this type of land and water management system began in the early 1980s during the negotiations of the Sahtu Dene and Metis Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement.Regional land claim and self-governing regions in the NWT have boards, also called panels, that review and make recommendations about their lands. Unfortunately, regardless of the system that was in place after years of negotiation, a system that was working well and gave the indigenous people the right to oversee how their lands were used, the previous government decided to cut these boards out of the process. I am glad they were not successful.First, the Tlicho government filed an injunction, later joined by the Sahtu Secretariat. The Supreme Court of the Northwest Territories agreed and granted this injunction, so here it sits. These previous amendments were never brought into force and the regional boards continue to operate efficiently and effectively, as intended. Our government is dedicated to a renewed relationship with indigenous peoples in the spirit of reconciliation. One of the key elements in achieving true reconciliation is meaningful consultation. That requires real work. We are committed to restoring trust and further strengthening our relationship with indigenous partners in the Northwest Territories by supporting the integrated co-management regime for lands and waters in the Mackenzie Valley. We need to ensure that the management of our natural resources is done in a way that respects the inherent and treaty rights of the indigenous people. Through Bill C-88, we can ensure sustainable resource development while also protecting the long-term health and well-being of the environment. This proposed legislation was created in a spirit of reconciliation meant to help renew the relationship between the Crown and indigenous peoples in the Northwest Territories through mutual respect and co-operation. Bill C-88 is a direct response to the concerns of the indigenous governments and organizations respecting the legislative and regulatory framework flowing from their constitutionally protected land claims and self-government agreements. While the previous government ignored these concerns, we know that by working together we can reach a better result. The amendments proposed by this bill respect the integrity of the land claim agreements the Government of Canada and the Government of the Northwest Territories entered into in good faith. We have heard loud and clear from our indigenous partners that the dissolution of the Gwich'in, Sahtu and Tlicho land and water boards by the previous Conservative government denied indigenous groups their hard-won rights. We have also heard from them that it directly contravened their land claim agreements, which included the creation and management of these boards. Reconciliation is not an empty word to our government. Actions must follow words in order to move forward and work toward real, lasting and positive change in the relationship between Canada and indigenous peoples. The bill before us today proposes to reverse the board restructuring and reintroduce the other regulatory amendments that have also been on hold. Simply put, indigenous people have the right to oversee how their lands are used, and also to share in the wealth.Bill C-88 would integrate the perspectives of indigenous people into the future usage of lands and water on their territories by including and incorporating indigenous views and perspectives into the decision-making regarding land and resources.(1335)We must work together to improve the quality of life of indigenous peoples in Canada, and key to achieving this goal is indigenous control over indigenous lands. In order to protect the integrity of land claim agreements and treaty rights, the importance of engagement and consultation must be respected.The Gwich'in, Sahtu and Tlicho stood up and made it clear that they wanted their voices heard and their rights acknowledged and respected. This bill will ensure that they continue to have a say in what happens to the lands and water they preside over.I mentioned earlier that there are other amendments in this bill besides those aimed at fixing the restructuring part that has been on hold the past four or so years, so not all of the previous government's amendments were off base. However, they are all tangled up in their restructuring error.This bill reintroduces these amendments. There are regional studies, board term provisions and new regulatory authorities, to name a few. The amendment to the Canadian Petroleum Resources Act would enable the science-based review currently under way in the Beaufort Sea to be completed without interruption, while at the same time preventing the existing oil and gas rights in the Arctic offshore from expiring before the conclusion of the review. After a one-year consultation with existing rights holders, territorial governments and indigenous governments, everyone agreed on the importance of protecting the unique Arctic offshore environment while pursuing responsible oil and gas activity.True reconciliation cannot occur until indigenous governments and organizations are fully included in the management of lands and resources in the north. We need to bring the voices of indigenous people into the process in order to have a broader and more complete view of the future of Canada's natural resources. As the Prime Minister has said, “Together, we can build a world where the rights of Indigenous peoples are respected, where their voices are honoured, and where their communities thrive.”The bill we are debating today will ensure that the unique perspectives of indigenous governments, leaders and communities will be heard and listened to. I urge all of my colleagues today to recognize the importance of incorporating an indigenous perspective into the future decision-making of our natural resources sector and to support this important legislation.Aboriginal rightsAgriculture, environment and natural resourcesArcticC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsComprehensive land claimsDecision-making processGovernment billsLand managementLand useMackenzie ValleyNorthwest TerritoriesOil and gasPipeline transportationPublic consultationSecond readingSplitting speaking timeWhole-of-government approachRichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West KootenayCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (1335)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to point out first of all that the Beaufort Sea was not included in the devolution agreement. It was a real frustration to the Government of the Northwest Territories of the day that this one key component that would generate revenues was not included. The Norman Wells oil field was also not included as part of the devolution process.As we moved forward, the moratorium was brought forward. We should recognize that there was really no activity going on in the Beaufort Sea. I went back and looked at how much money was invested during the five years prior to that. In the five years leading up to this decision, $7 million was invested.I invite the member to visit some of my coastal communities in the Northwest Territories to talk with some of the Inuvialuit people living there. They are very proud and resilient. They want to have Canadian living standards, like everyone else. They want the economy to thrive. However, they also want to protect their traditional lifestyle. They are very good at hunting and fishing, and supplementing their incomes. They are worried now about climate change. They are worried about oil spills that we do not know how to clean up.This is timely. We now have the Government of Northwest Territories. We have the indigenous governments. We have the Inuvialuit doing a scientific review. A lot of work has been done, and we are in a better position to make a decision on this.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsDownload responsibilityGovernment billsLand managementLand useMackenzie ValleyNorthwest TerritoriesSecond readingCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooColinCarrieOshawa//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (1340)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I travel in my riding in the Northwest Territories, I talk to many people, including the the Chamber of Mines, and I meet with the chamber of commerce. I have talked with a lot of the organizations and industries in the Northwest Territories that want to expand. There are several very challenging factors for us in the Northwest Territories.One challenge is to have certainty with regard to the lands. We are experiencing several sets of negotiations, some of which have been ongoing for longer than 30 years, and industry would like to see certainty. Industry leaders want to see indigenous governments resolve the land tenure issue. That would provide certainty. The indigenous governments want to stand shoulder to shoulder with other governments to participate in the benefits that industry would bring, but they cannot do that until the land tenure issue has been resolved.The second issue that industry has flagged as recently as several months ago is that we need to invest more in infrastructure. If we are going to provide certainty through a settlement of land claims and self-government, we also have to lower the cost of exploration in the Northwest Territories. That means more airports, better airports, bigger airports. We also need proper roads. We only have 12 communities that are serviced by roads right now, and if we are going to attract industries, we are going to have to start providing transportation infrastructure so that they can come at a reasonable cost. Otherwise, it does not make sense for the industries to come when it costs them three or four times more to operate in the Northwest Territories, or anywhere in the north for that matter, than it does in other parts of Canada or the world. Those are the issues we have to sort out.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsCarbon pricingCarbon taxGovernment billsMackenzie ValleySecond readingColinCarrieOshawaFrancisDrouinGlengarry—Prescott—Russell//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1420)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government defended the supply management system against the U.S. government that indicated it wanted to dismantle it.We know that our dairy, poultry and egg farmers provide the highest quality of products for Canadians at a reasonable price and take care of our rural communities. We are committed to fully and fairly supporting our farmers to make sure they continue to expand in this country. We have and will continue to support our dairy farmers.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy industryFarming and farmersOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsGuyCaronRimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les BasquesGuyCaronRimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les Basques//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1540)[English]Madam Speaker, I appreciate the last part of the member's comments where he said we should let northerners decide about the north. I think that is certainly in order. I think that is what he should do also. He should support this bill and let the will of northerners decide. People of the north want to see changes to the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and see scientific review. I have had an opportunity to speak to the member many times over the last while and I think we share a lot of goals and aspirations. However, there is a difference between how the Conservatives see the north and the Liberals see the north. The Liberals see the north as a treasure. I think the Conservatives see the north as a treasure chest and want to remove any impediments that get in the way.I would ask the member why would he not support this bill in that light.Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleySecond readingJimEglinskiYellowheadJimEglinskiYellowhead//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1555)[English]Madam Speaker, I want to quickly remind people what the former grand chief of the Tlicho government said at the hearing. He stated:It took 13 years of negotiations, negotiations with Canada and the GNWT, to arrive at the compromise that could have true co-management in the Wek'eezhii region, what we call the heart of the territory...The board works and it works well, but Bill C-15 wants to take all that away. It wants to destroy what took so long to build. It wants to do so with no rational reason whatsoever. Bill C-15 seeks to destroy the Wek'eezhii Land and Water Board. It wants to terminate it and replace it with a super-board with jurisdiction over the whole Mackenzie Valley.I think everyone would agree that our board systems work well. They are effective and efficient. We are not sure why we would try to fix something that is not broken.Would the member agree that we should leave the system that is in place, retract what the Conservatives put in the bill, and let the boards operate with the northerners in charge?Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsDownload responsibilityGovernment billsLand managementLand useMackenzie ValleyNorthwest TerritoriesSecond readingGregFergusHull—AylmerGregFergusHull—Aylmer//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1610)[English]Madam Speaker, we recently heard of the oil spill on the east coast and that the weather prohibited the clean-up. I am not sure how they will clean up that spill. Could the member tell me what he would imagine would be a clean-up process for an oil spill in the Northwest Territories in the Beaufort Sea. There are no navigable aids, no response team and really no mechanism to clean up right now. How long would it take or would we even respond?Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyOil spillsSecond readingChrisBittleSt. CatharinesChrisBittleSt. Catharines//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1625)[English]Madam Speaker, I want to remind the member that the issue before the House today is the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act, which are very important to my riding. The member chose to speak mostly about Bill C-69.I also want to point out that oil exploration in the Beaufort Sea peaked in 2008. World markets declined, and in the previous five years leading up to that decision, only $7 million was spent on the Beaufort Sea, amounting to a little over $1 million a year to keep the licences and permits going. No work was created. After one year of consultation with existing rights holders, territorial government and indigenous governments, everyone now agrees how important it is to protect the unique offshore environment and that we need to pursue oil and gas development in a safe way.I totally agree with the member that the north should be keeping the royalties, but should we not also be deciding what is best for ourselves in the north?Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsMackenzie ValleyRoyaltiesSecond readingArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockArnoldViersenPeace River—Westlock//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMackenzie Valley Resource Management ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1705)[English]Madam Speaker, I heard the Conservatives mention a number of things in the last couple of hours regarding the north. They talked about oil and gas infrastructure in the Beaufort Sea. I should point out that there is no oil and gas infrastructure in Beaufort Sea. I heard them talk about sharing the resource royalties from the oil and gas, but there is none. They also talked about the concern that we shut down activity in the Beaufort. There is and has been no activity for a long while. I would like to ask the member if he would agree that we should instead shift our focus to investing in navigational aids, spill response, and necessary infrastructure, such as ports, and then should conduct a thorough, scientific review. We would probably have the support of northern communities behind us, knowing that we have a good plan. Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesC-88, An Act to amend the Mackenzie Valley Resource Management Act and the Canada Petroleum Resources Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsInfrastructureMackenzie ValleySecond readingKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1420)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is fully aware that we have strongly supported the supply management system in this country. We made sure that the American attempt to destroy our supply management system did not succeed. We also understand that dairy farmers have some problems and we are going to make sure they are fully and fairly supported.We will continue to make sure that we support the supply management system in this country.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government has defended our supply management system from the strong American attempt to dismantle it. Our poultry, eggs and dairy farmers provide the highest-quality products for Canadians at a reasonable price, and keep the rural areas strong. We understand there will be an impact on the farmers, and we are committed to fully and fairly supporting them to make sure the supply management system continues to expand through the centuries.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsXavierBarsalou-DuvalPierre-Boucher—Les Patriotes—VerchèresMarilèneGillManicouagan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is well aware that we are the party that implemented supply management, and we are the party that is going to defend it. It is important to note that the Americans wanted to destroy our supply management system, and our negotiators and government made sure that did not happen. We also understand that there will be an impact on our farmers, and we are committed to fully and fairly supporting them. We have and will continue to support the supply management system in this country.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestJennyKwanVancouver East//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessEnding the Captivity of Whales and Dolphins ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1735)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak to Bill S-203, an act to amend the Criminal Code and other acts, also known as the act for ending the captivity of whales and dolphins, or as we have heard, the Free Willy bill. It was introduced in the other place by the hon. Senator Wilfred Moore on December 8, 2015, and following his retirement was carried by Senator Sinclair.The bill proposes amendments to the Criminal Code, the Fisheries Act and the Wild Animal and Plant Protection and Regulation of International and Interprovincial Trade Act. Because I only have 10 minutes, I will refer to that statute from here forward as WAPPRIITA.The goal of these amendments is to end the captivity of cetaceans; that is, whales, dolphins and porpoises in Canada. Indeed, the stated objective of Bill S-203 is to gradually reduce and eventually do away with the practice of holding whales, dolphins and other cetaceans captive in Canadian facilities. Bill S-203 proposes amendments to the Criminal Code that would make it an offence to hold cetaceans in captivity. It proposes an amendment to the Fisheries Act that would prohibit the capture of a cetacean in order to take it into captivity. Finally, Bill S-203 proposes to amend the WAPPRIITA to prohibit the import of cetaceans into Canada and the export of a cetacean from Canada.[Translation]Bill S-203 is a response to growing public concern about the well-being of cetaceans. We now have a greater understanding and awareness of the nature of these animals and the living conditions they need to be happy and healthy. There is clearly growing support for the protection of whales and other marine mammals in Canada and around the world.[English]Since its introduction, Bill S-203 has undergone significant changes. Our colleagues in the other place, particularly through the consultations and study done by the standing committee, have sent us a bill that deserves our full consideration. Bill S-203 also now includes provisions that affirm the rights of indigenous peoples, many of whom feature whales as a central part of their culture and traditions.In order to enable certain critical conservation and research activities to continue, Bill S-203 includes provisions that would create exceptions where an animal is in need of rescue or rehabilitation. Cetaceans currently in captivity at Marineland and the Vancouver Aquarium would also fall under the exception clauses; that is, these facilities would not be closed down, leaving animals that have never known another home with no place to be cared for.We are surrounded on three incredibly wide-ranging coasts by spectacular oceans. These waters are home to 42 distinct populations of whales.[Translation]All of these animal species and many more are facing major threats. Global warming has affected water temperatures, and that is affecting the food supply. Illegal, unreported, unregulated fishing, accidental by-catch and entanglement in commercial fishing nets, declining food availability, noise pollution, habitat pollution and even collisions all pose a threat to cetaceans.(1740)[English]The conservation and protection of marine mammals in the wild, including cetaceans, has become a whole-of-government priority in Canada. This priority has been underscored by the increasing threats facing three endangered species of whales, the southern resident killer whales on the west coast, the North Atlantic right whales on the east coast, and the St. Lawrence estuary beluga in Quebec.The government's commitment to recovering and protecting Canada's whale species is reflected in the support provided through the $1.5 billion oceans protection plan announced by the Prime Minister in 2016, the $167.4 million whales initiative announced as part of budget 2018, and the recent announcement of $61.5 million for measures in support of the southern resident killer whale. Fisheries and Oceans Canada has been coordinating with other federal departments and provincial and territorial governments to advance other initiatives, including reducing vessel strikes and entanglement of the North Atlantic right whale, reducing contaminants affecting the St. Lawrence estuary beluga, and introducing amendments to the marine mammal regulations that establish minimum general approach distances for whales, dolphins and porpoises in Canadian fisheries waters.Bill S-203's focus is on the capture of wild cetaceans for the purpose of keeping them in captivity as an attraction, and the ongoing holding and/or breeding of cetaceans in captivity. As I have said, there are only two facilities in Canada that hold cetaceans in captivity, Marineland in Niagara Falls, Ontario and the Vancouver Aquarium in British Columbia. Marineland is a commercial facility that has approximately 60 cetaceans, including beluga whales, dolphins and one orca or killer whale. The vast majority of cetaceans held at Marineland are belugas. The Vancouver Aquarium is a not-for-profit facility. It has only one cetacean at its facility, a 30-year old Pacific white-sided dolphin that was rescued from the wild and deemed non-releasable. Earlier this year, the Vancouver Aquarium announced that it would no longer display cetaceans and would focus instead on its work on conservation and rescuing stranded and injured whales and dolphins. The Vancouver Aquarium works with Fisheries and Oceans Canada to rescue and rehabilitate marine mammals in distress. The Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard only issues licences for the capture of a live cetacean when the purpose is for scientific research or rehabilitation. In the past 10 years, only one such licence has been issued for the rehabilitation of a live stranded Pseudorca calf. It has been a matter of public policy for more than two decades that wild cetaceans not be captured and placed in captivity unless the goal is to rescue, rehabilitate and release them. Provincial and territorial legislative regimes in this area continue to evolve. In 2015, Ontario banned the buying, selling or breeding of orca whales. The province also amended the Ontario Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Act to increase protection for other marine mammals held in captivity.[Translation]This bill was debated in the other place, so we have debated the amendments to the Fisheries Act that the government introduced in the spring and summer.My colleagues may have noticed that some of the amendments put forward in Bill C-68 would achieve the main goal set out in Bill S-203: ending the captivity of cetaceans. Bill C-68 would do that without impeding the government's ability to do important scientific research.Bill C-68 also includes provisions that protect the rights of northern indigenous peoples to export cetacean products, such as narwhal tusks. (1745)[English]Bill C-68 would prohibit capturing a cetacean with the intent to take it into captivity. Exceptions are made for the minister to authorize an exception if a cetacean is injured, in distress or in need of care. The bill also proposes a regulation-making authority with respect to importing fish, including cetaceans. This regulation-making authority would allow the government to determine the circumstances under which a cetacean could be imported to or exported from Canada. For example, these movements may be permitted for purposes of repopulation or conservation. They may be prohibited if the intent is to display cetaceans in aquariums. These regulatory tools could also enable the government to authorize the import and export of cetaceans to sea sanctuaries should those facilities be established in the future.The former minister of fisheries, oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard has acknowledged that the amendments to the Fisheries Act proposed in Bill C-68 as they pertain to keeping cetaceans in captivity were inspired by Bill S-203, and in particular the bill's sponsor, retired Senator Wilfred Moore. There is no doubt that this government and Canadians from coast to coast to coast support the ban on the captivity of cetaceans for the sole purpose of display. That is why I look forward to supporting this bill to committee and participating in the debate that will occur there and hearing from witness testimony.CetaceansEndangered speciesInternational tradePrivate Members' BillsS-203, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and other Acts (ending the captivity of whales and dolphins)Second readingSenate billsElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsRobertSopuckDauphin—Swan River—Neepawa//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgEmergency DebateCanada's Oil and Gas SectorInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (2345)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have not been here for whole night, but I hear a lot of politics and a lot of solutions. That last speech goes to the politics. Everything the Liberals have done is bad. It did not mention what the Conservatives had done. That is what the member tried to say.This crisis has been a long time coming. This government has worked hard to try to get pipelines in place. I do agree with one thing the member said. She said to make it more certain and more stable with respect to where we were going with the energy industry and with pipelines. In fact, Bill C-69 is designed to find the balance between the environment and the energy industry and give that certainty for the future.I am pleased to have been in Alberta and across the country as chair of the finance committee. I have heard a lot from the energy industry in Alberta. It does need that stability and that certainty. I agree with that point. However, the only way we will get there is to find solutions in this place rather than playing this partisan political game, which comes as much from that member as anyone in the House.Emergency debatesEnvironmental assessmentLayoffs and job lossesOil and gasBruceStantonSimcoe NorthMichelleRempelHon.Calgary Nose Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersOrder of Military Merit RecipientInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise in the House today to recognize Major Trevor Jain, a doctor from Charlottetown. Major Jain is one of five members of the Canadian army recently awarded the officer level of the Order of Military Merit, the second-highest honour awarded by our Governor General to recognize outstanding military service.A surgeon with the Armed Forces, Major Jain serves in the 36th Brigade of the army reserves for Prince Edward Island, and was nominated by his fellow soldiers. His most recent deployment was to Iraq, where he served as a trauma team leader.When he is not serving his country as a reservist, Dr. Jain is an emergency physician at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital in Charlottetown, the program director of the bachelor of science in paramedicine program at the University of Prince Edward Island, and the medical director of the paramedicine program at Holland College.I ask the House to join me in congratulating Major Trevor Jain for his recent award, and to thank him for his dedicated service to our country.DoctorsJain, TrevorMilitary personnelOrder of Military MeritStatements by MembersErinO'TooleHon.DurhamAnne Minh-ThuQuachSalaberry—Suroît//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMotions in amendmentInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1225)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to take part in this discussion during the report stage of Bill C-86.In essence, Bill C-86 would implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27 and other measures. The bill builds on the commitments made during the last election and speaks to the government's plan to invest in the Canadian people to build an economy that works for everyone.Although not the topic for discussion today, the fall economic statement tabled last week, which among other things addressed a lot of the immediate business concerns regarding competition with the United States, should be added in. In doing so, one can really see that all of the actions put together, including in Bill C-86, really show Canada as the place to be. It is the country with which one can invest and invest with some security. It is a place to raise a family, It is a country with a bright future for its citizens, building on a progressive social and economic agenda that began with our policy thrust that followed the last election.Bill C-86 starts with improving tax measures for businesses and individuals to ensure every Canada has a real and fair chance of success. Through this bill, our government would improve access to the Canada workers benefit, modernize the federal labour standards and improve protection of bank consumers.The member opposite talked about the size of the bill, but to do all the things we needed to do and carry forward from the previous budget, it had to be a substantively sized bill.Through the bill, we would correct the damage done by the previous government against charities. The bill would now allow charities to pursue their charitable purpose, but also would allow them to be involved in the development of public policy. That will give citizens back their rights to participate fully in our democracy, even though they are part of a charity.The bill addresses pollution pricing. It further legislates gender budgeting and strengthens our capacity to advance gender equality with the creation of status of women as a department.The bill also addresses pay equity. The idea of equal pay for work of equal value is a very progressive step in this legislation. I want to highlight the bill's proposed measures to introduce this proactive pay equity legislation.Our government committed to tabling such legislation by the end of this year. Today we are living up that commitment as we have lived up to so many of our commitments we outlined in the last election. We are going above and beyond the current approach. We are moving from a complaints-based system to a proactive system, which will require employers to regularly review their compensation systems, identify inequalities between jobs mostly held by men and jobs mostly held by women and take action to eliminate them. In this way, we are presenting Canadians with balanced, meaningful and effective pay equity reform.In fact, the McKinsey Global Institute estimates that by taking steps to advance equality for women, such as employing more women in technology and boosting women's participation in the workforce, Canada would add $150 billion to its economy by 2026. The reality is that better equality for women means a strong economy for all Canadians.We are delivering a proactive pay equity regime that works for the diverse types of workplaces found in the federal jurisdiction, ranging from the public service to small businesses. As stated earlier, although it is very progressive legislation, it is also good for the economy.(1230)I want to take a moment and turn to a couple of areas that Bill C-86 builds on and adds to that are of special interest to the people in my province. I will start with the Canada child benefit, or CCB. Compared to the previous system of child benefits, the CCB is simpler, more generous, entirely tax free and better targeted to those families that need it the most. With the CCB, nine out of 10 families with children are now receiving more money each month than under the previous system. To ensure the CCB keeps up with the rising cost of living, we indexed it last summer, two years ahead of schedule. This means the Canada child benefit will provide even more financial assistance to the low and middle-income families that need it most, such as single parent families. The extra support it gives makes a big difference for those working hard to make ends meet, like single working parents. The additional support from the CCB helps pay for things that can make a real difference in a child's future, like nutritious food, sports activities or music lessons. The government also cut taxes for the middle class, and those cuts are now helping more than nine million Canadians. By this time next year, as a result of these two measures, a typical family of four will receive about $2,000 more each year in benefits than it received in 2015. However, there is another factor with respect to the Canada child benefit that is not often talked about, and that is the stress it takes away from the enjoyment of life for low-income families, the working poor that have children, and their ability to do the job and participate in the general community. The Canada child benefit lessens that stress. It gives them the opportunity to fully participate in the social and economic affairs of the nation. The bottom line is that this means more money in the pockets and bank accounts of hard-working Canadians, more money to help with the high cost of raising their children and more money for them to save, invest or spend in their own communities. We are seeing the benefits of that across the economy. Canada's economy is strong and growing, and our plan is working.The budget implementation act also includes an important measure that would directly invest in those Canadians who want to work. I am talking about the Canada workers benefit, or CWB, which would allow low-income workers to take home more money while they work. The new Canada workers benefit is a more generous benefit that will replace the current working income tax benefit as of next year. The CWB is designed to encourage more people to enter and stay in the workforce and to help more than two million Canadians who are working hard to join the middle class. Under the new CWB, low-income workers earning $15,000 annually could get almost $500 more in benefits in 2019 than they are getting this year. In addition, the CWB's expanded eligible income range will ensure that more workers are entitled to receive it. This will be a big improvement for those Canadians overall. Improvements in the new Canada workers benefit will lift approximately 70,000 Canadians out of poverty.Bill C-86, which we are dealing with at report stage, really builds on our commitments made in the last election. It is another step along in the process to ensure that all Canadians have the best chance to participate in our social and economic affairs as a nation, as well as to ensure families are more prosperous and have more tools at their disposal to participate in our great country called Canada. Benefits for childrenBudget 2018 (February 27, 2018)C-86, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018 and other measuresCanada Workers BenefitGovernment billsLow incomePay equityReport stageStatus of womenStatus of Women CanadaCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooTomKmiecCalgary Shepard//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMotions in amendmentInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1235)[English]Mr. Speaker, we have been very fortunate at the finance committee to have the Minister of Finance come before it many times. He was just there a short while ago for an hour, as were officials after that. I believe it was on the estimates and Bill C-86. As well, as a country, Canadians would want the minister to be out there talking about the programs the government is implementing.I want to come back to the first part of the member's question. Yes, we are certainly saddened about what happened in Oshawa with respect to General Motors. Things happen in an economy. Sometimes there is a shock to the economy. What this government is doing is investing in the economy so we can be assured, as a country, that we are not tied to one industry or one town. There is no doubt that the government will deal with that problem. We have always tried to be there for the workers in these kinds of situations and have made the necessary investments to ensure business can continue. The fall economic statement addresses that fact as well with respect to ensuring our industries are able to compete with those tax reforms south of the border.Budget 2018 (February 27, 2018)C-86, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018 and other measuresCommittee studies and activitiesEconomic statement 2018 (November 21, 2018)Government billsReport stageTomKmiecCalgary ShepardGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMotions in amendmentInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1235)[English]Mr. Speaker, what happened with respect to charities in the last term of Stephen Harper should be a subject the Conservatives want to avoid. The Conservative government, under Stephen Harper, clearly attacked the political rights of those who happened to belong to a charity. Was there a witch hunt against those charities by the previous government? I am not sure. However, the fact is that we are trying to allow those charities to do their charity work and also allow them to be involved in the political policy process, which is the essence of democracy. That is what the previous Conservative government tried to take away from those Canadians who belonged to charities. We are doing the right thing. I am absolutely proud of what we are doing to give charities the right to collect and do good work, but also to participate in the policy discussions of this nation.Budget 2018 (February 27, 2018)C-86, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018 and other measuresCharitable organizationsGovernment billsReport stageSocial economyGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanDanielBlaikieElmwood—Transcona//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1000)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 26th report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill C-86, a second act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018 and other measures. The committee reports the bill with amendments. While I am on my feet, I move, seconded by the member for Yukon:MotionThat the House do now proceed to orders of the day.8510-421-479 (Bill C-86, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018 and other measures)Budget 2018 (February 27, 2018)C-86, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018 and other measuresDilatory motionsMotion to proceed to the Orders of the DayRoutine ProceedingsStanding Committee on FinancePattyHajduHon.Thunder Bay—Superior NorthGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersMember for CardiganInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to honour my friend, Lawrence MacAulay, as today marks his 30th year as the hon. member for Cardigan. For those wondering, that is nine straight election victories, and he is gearing up for a tenth, but who is counting? Over the three decades he has represented Cardigan, he has served our country as secretary of state for veterans affairs, minister of labour, solicitor general and currently as minister of agriculture. On behalf of his friends and colleagues in the House, I thank him for his three decades of tireless work for his constituents, as well as all Canadians. I would also like to take a moment to recognize Frances, his wife of 46 years, who we all know is the real campaigner in the family, as well as his daughters Carolyn, Rita and Lynn. [Translation]Thank you for your excellent service, Lawrence. I wish you good health and all the best in the future.AnniversaryCardiganMacAulay, LawrenceMembers of ParliamentReferences to membersStatements by MembersTomKmiecCalgary ShepardGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodNatural ResourcesInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, far too many northern Canadians are energy insecure. Most communities in the Northwest Territories rely on diesel as their primary energy source, and several use diesel as a backup source for other aging energy infrastructure. Energy generation is both a significant source of carbon pollution and very expensive for families and businesses. Can the Minister of Infrastructure tell the House what the government is doing to help northern communities be more green and more sustainable while ensuring that they have a secure source of affordable energy?Government assistanceNorthern CanadaOral questionsRenewable energy and fuelGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestFrançois-PhilippeChampagneHon.Saint-Maurice—Champlain//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for Shefford and all of the members of the agriculture committee for their hard work on this very important issue. Together with my parliamentary secretary, we are working with Farm Credit Canada to reduce the stigma around mental health, with a publication delivered this week to all Canadian farms. We also announced a new partnership with 4-H Canada to support mental and physical health. We are working with Farm Management Canada to support the Canadian farmer. We will continue to work together to promote mental health in the agricultural sector.Farming and farmersMental healthOral questionsPierreBretonSheffordPeterKentHon.Thornhill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is well aware that the American government indicated quite clearly that it was going to destroy the supply-management system. We made sure as a government that it would not happen, and it did not happen. We do understand there is an impact on our farmers, and we are committed to fully and fairly helping them to continue to succeed. We have and will continue to support our agriculture sector in this country.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementFarming and farmersOral questionsProvince of QuebecSupply managementTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéRichardMartelChicoutimi—Le Fjord//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, everybody on the government side supports the supply-management system. It is unfortunate that not all among the Conservative opposition do. We understand what took place. The U.S. government indicated quite clearly that it wanted to dismantle the supply-management system. We made sure as a government that it did not happen.We also understand that our farmers are impacted by the new deal and we will fully and fairly make sure that they are—Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementFarming and farmersOral questionsProvince of QuebecSupply managementTrade agreementsLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 24th report of the Standing Committee on Finance entitled, “Confronting Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing: Moving Canada Forward”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to this report. This report accomplishes the five-year statutory review of the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. I have to send a heartfelt thanks to all members of all parties of the committee for their hard work in producing this report. This was a study where partisanship really did not intervene. I also want to thank the Library of Parliament staff who worked long hours to produce this end product.I also have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 25th report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Supplementary Estimates (A), 2018-19.8510-421-468 "Confronting Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing: Moving Canada Forward"8510-421-469 (Supplementary Estimates (A) 2018-19: Votes 1a and 5a under Canada Revenue Agency and Votes 1a and 10a under Department of Finance)Canada Revenue AgencyDepartment of FinanceMoney launderingProceeds of crimeProceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing ActStanding Committee on FinanceStatutory reviewSupplementary estimates (A) 2018-2019Supporters of terrorismDominicLeBlancHon.BeauséjourLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessNational Local Food Day ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1740)[English]Mr. Speaker, I really appreciate the hon. member's efforts in this regard. This would recognize farmers and producers for what they do, not only for their own local areas but for the economy generally. I have always found it strange that often we will be producing food in one area of the country and they will be producing it in another. Two trucks will be passing each other on the road, going in different directions, because of the brand that is on the label, so that one of the chain stores can sell that particular product. I know of situations where people could not buy Nova Scotia corn in Nova Scotia, because the chain stores had a contract to bring in Ontario corn. What sense does that make?This would not only recognize farmers but also, if we could have people buy local more often, actually lessen the trucking and help the environment. It would do any number of other things. It would recognize farmers locally for what they do. It would show people in the local area the quality of products they can get from their local farmers, and that is all to the better. I really appreciate and want to congratulate the member on his efforts.C-281, An Act to establish a National Local Food DayDistribution and service industriesLocal productsNational Local Food DayPrivate Members' BillsThird reading and adoptionWayneStetskiKootenay—ColumbiaWayneStetskiKootenay—Columbia//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersOceans Protection PlanInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today on the second anniversary of our government's historic $1.5-billion oceans protection plan.Since 2016, the plan has made clear and measurable progress to keep our oceans clean, safe and healthy.[Translation]We have taken bold action to protect our whales. We have invested millions of dollars to ensure that the courageous men and women of the Coast Guard have the tools they need to keep Canadians safe at sea.[English]We brought the regulations around shipping and marine safety into the 21st century, and we have invested millions more in environmental protections and cutting-edge research to ensure our actions are backed by sound science.These achievements in no way signify an end to our government's commitment to protecting Canadian waters, Canadian marine wildlife and the Canadian livelihoods that depend on both.We owe it to our children and to our grandchildren to ensure that they experience the wonders of our oceans first-hand and not through the history books.Canada's Oceans Protection PlanCoastal areasEnvironmental protectionMaritime safetyOceansStatements by MembersDavid de BurghGrahamLaurentides—LabelleJamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—Eastman//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersAgricultureInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, members of the fresh fruit and vegetable industry are with us today to celebrate Fall Harvest days on the Hill. The economic impact alone of the fresh fruit and vegetable supply chain is $14 billion in GDP. This industry is a huge employer for local economies, employing Canadians in both rural and urban Canada.These farmers sustain our people and others around the world. Their work can be gruelling, often fighting against the uncertainty of the elements to get the crop from the field to the fork, but we know that for many it is a labour of love and we here should appreciate all that goes into their efforts.I thank the people in the industry for what they do, providing fresh fruit and vegetables for the nutrition of all and keeping us all in good health.Farming and farmersStatements by MembersMarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonJohnOliverOakville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCanadian Agricultural Hall of FameInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate Dr. Wilf Keller, chair of the Agricultural Institute of Canada, on his induction into the Canadian Agricultural Hall of Fame for his contributions to the advancement of agriculture through numerous research initiatives. Dr. Keller is a giant in the scientific community, with over 40 years of experience including the study of genomics in canola improvement, the development of industrial bioproducts from vegetable oil, and the production of bioactive natural products in plants for enhanced human health and quality of life.Dr. Keller has received many accolades, including a lifetime achievement award by the Society for In Vitro Biology, the Saskatchewan Order of Merit and induction into the Saskatchewan Agricultural Hall of Fame. Today, we recognize Dr. Wilf Keller for his extraordinary career in the scientific and agricultural community.I would like to extend a big thanks to Dr. Keller.Agricultural researchKeller, WilfStatements by MembersJulieDzerowiczDavenportJohnNaterPerth—Wellington//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersWhalesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1100)[English]Madam Speaker, there are only 74 southern resident killer whales remaining in the wild. These highly social animals are facing an imminent threat to their survival and recovery. We need to act now to protect them. Since taking office, we have taken action to protect critical food sources and safeguard habitat. Our government has been working with industry scientists, advocacy groups and indigenous communities to try to reverse the alarming decline of the southern resident killer whale population, because we believe that only by working together can we tackle this problem. This week, our government introduced further measures to protect the whales, including the creation of new whale sanctuaries to give them space to live together, to feed and to raise their young. This past summer we also put in place new rules to keep vessels at a safe distance. After a decade of lost time under the previous government, I believe we owe it to our kids and grandkids to protect nature and the wildlife that depends on it.Endangered speciesEnvironmental protectionKiller whalesStatements by MembersGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniMichelleRempelHon.Calgary Nose Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment SpendingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1200)[Translation]Madam Speaker, Canadians can be proud to be represented by such inspiring, dynamic governors general. They provide a great service to Canada, and that is why they continue to be supported throughout the years after they have left. Clearly, Canadians expect transparency and accountability when public money is spent. We will carefully examine the support arrangements to ensure that best practices are being followed and that Canadians' expectations are being met.Government expendituresGovernor GeneralOral questionsRetirement termsGabrielSte-MarieJolietteSimonMarcilMirabel//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment SpendingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1200)[Translation]Madam Speaker, as I just said, we are very proud of our Governor General, who represents our country. We are reviewing the spending policy to ensure that it meets the degree of transparency that Canadians expect.Government expendituresGovernor GeneralOral questionsRetirement termsSimonMarcilMirabelElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf Islands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, we understand there will be an impact on farmers and we are committed to fully and fairly supporting them and to make sure that they succeed. We are forming working groups with the dairy producers and processors, poultry and egg producers and processors. Together we will help our supply-managed farmers and processors innovate, grow and remain competitive for generations to come. We will continue to support the agricultural sector and the supply management sector.Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific PartnershipDairy farmingDairy industryGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsKarineTrudelJonquièreRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNorthwest Territories Municipal ElectionsInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, many places across Canada held their municipal elections for mayor and council in the past couple of weeks, just as we did in my riding of Northwest Territories. I want to express my gratitude for all those who put their names forward to represent their neighbours and their communities.Running for election is one of the hardest job interviews, with no guarantee for success, and often coming at high personal cost, win or lose. I know this from experience, as a previous mayor.Last week, NWT ran up some impressive and historic numbers in municipal elections. The four largest cities and towns have elected female mayors. This means the salutation for over 70% of Northwest Territories residents to use when they address their community leaders is now “Her Worship”. This can only mean good things. I congratulate all of those who were elected. I look forward to meeting and working with them in the future.MayorsMunicipal electionsNorthwest TerritoriesStatements by MembersLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableJennyKwanVancouver East//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGrain TransportationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, we did exactly what we said we were going to do.We understand there is an impact on the farmers, and we are committed to fully and fairly supporting them to make sure they can continue to succeed.We are forming a working group with dairy processors and dairy farmers, and with poultry and egg farmers and processors. Together they will help our supply-managed farmers and processors innovate, grow and remain competitive and sustainable for future generations.We will continue to support our supply-managed sector, and every other agriculture—Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementFarming and farmersOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCarbon PricingInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, we campaigned on a promise that we would grow our economy and protect the environment at the same time, and that is exactly what we are doing. We know that Canadian farmers are responsible stewards of the land, and that is why we exempted on-farm fuel and gasoline under the federal backstop. We also provided additional relief for greenhouse farmers, and provided for small and rural communities. We have supported and will continue to support our farmers in this country.Carbon pricingCarbon taxOral questionsLarryMillerBruce—Grey—Owen SoundCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1) I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group. The first concerns the Western Governors' Association's summer meeting held in Rapid City, South Dakota, U.S.A., from June 25 to 27. The second concerns the 72nd Annual Meeting of the Council of State Governments Southern Legislative Conference held in St. Louis, Missouri, U.S.A., from July 21 to 24. The third concerns the Legislative Summit of the National Conference of State Legislatures held in Los Angeles, California, U.S.A., from July 29 to August 2. 8565-421-59-48 Report of the Canadian Parliamentary Delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Summer Meeting of the Western Governors' Association (WGA), held in Rapid City, South Dakota, from June 25 to 27, 2018Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersUkrainian InternsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1100)[English]Madam Speaker, today, I have the honour to rise and congratulate the Ukrainian interns working on the Hill as part of the Canada-Ukraine parliamentary program, whose time in Parliament is rapidly coming to an end. Established in 1991, this program over time has brought almost 1,000 young Ukrainians to Canada to learn about our system of government, our history and our people.A number of parliamentarians from all parties had the privilege of working with these talented young men and women. We sincerely thank them and hope that in their time here on the Hill they have learned from us, just as we have learned from them.This is the fifth time I have hosted an intern and I can attest to the fact that it is an excellent cultural and educational exchange between Canada and Ukraine, as well as an opportunity to deepen our national ties. I would like to thank my intern, Yaroslav, and wish all of them well in the future.Canada-Ukraine Parliamentary ProgramParliamentary democracyStatements by MembersUkraineStéphaneLauzonArgenteuil—La Petite-NationHaroldAlbrechtKitchener—Conestoga//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1510)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague, and I am sure he is also fully aware, that we are the party that implemented supply management and we are the government that protected it. My hon. colleague is also aware that when the negotiations started, the American government indicated quite clearly that it was going to end supply management, but we as a government protected it. We understand there has been an impact on our farmers and we will make sure they are fully and fairly compensated for their loss. We have supported, and will continue to support, our agricultural sector.Canada-United States relationsCanada-United States-Mexico AgreementFarming and farmersOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableLucThériaultMontcalm//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCorrections and Conditional Release ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1235)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak to Bill C-83, an act to amend the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and another act. The key point in this legislation relates to Correctional Service Canada's policies, especially the practice of administrative segregation. I should point out at the beginning that the bill would do four key things. One, it proposes to eliminate segregation, based on recent court decisions, and it introduces more effective structured intervention units. Two, it would better support victims during Parole Board hearings by, as my previous colleague mentioned, providing audio recordings of those hearings. Three, it would increase staff and inmate safety with new body scanner technology. Four, it would update Correctional Service Canada's approach on critical matters like mental health supports and indigenous offenders' needs. There are fairly extensive policies in this bill on both those latter points: mental health and indigenous offenders' needs.There has been much criticism of the policy on administrative segregation within the Correctional Service of Canada, and rightly so. I have listened to the debate on the other side, and some have said it is a necessary tool. I do not necessarily agree with that, but something certainly has to be done. In the previous Parliament, I was a critic for public safety and at one time served as solicitor general and was in charge of the Correctional Service of Canada, so I have read a lot of the criticism related to administrative segregation. We have to understand in this place that administrative segregation was there for very legitimate reasons: to protect the inmates themselves from the general population if they were causing trouble; to protect others in the general population from things that those people put in administrative segregation might otherwise have done; and to protect correctional officers from possible harm by moving these inmates to segregation. I understand those key points.I do not know if many people in this place have seen those segregation units in many of our federal penitentiaries and prisons. I have, and it would not be a great place to spend days on end without mental health services. In fact, as my colleague from Central Nova mentioned earlier, we have to understand that our correctional system in this country is not just about throwing somebody in a cell and throwing away the key. Our system is based on the premise of rehabilitation, and that is the ultimate objective. Yes, there have to be penalties, and severe penalties, for crimes done and, yes, some people stay in the system their whole life after they have committed a crime. However, we must keep in mind that many people, the great majority we hope, will come out and be productive citizens in society. That is what we have to attempt to do.Therefore, what this particular bill proposes is basically to try to put a new system in place, called a “structured intervention unit”, where people who have to be separated from the mainstream inmate population, generally for reasons of safety, will be assigned to a secure intervention unit but not in the same style as in the past.(1240)In addition to being assigned to that secure intervention unit, or cell, Correctional Service Canada would be mandated to provide them with rehabilitative programming, mental health care, and other interventions and services that respond to the inmate's specific needs. That especially relates to those with mental health problems, for whatever reason, and especially applies to the indigenous population, which has different customs and patterns. I have heard a lot of talk in this place about healing centres. The fact of the matter is they work, and we need to keep that in mind too.Beyond meeting those specific needs of an inmate, keep in mind that we want to protect the individual, the rest of the prison population and the corrections officers working in the system. Under this approach, it would be done in a different way from what is currently in place, as we would address the mental health care needs of inmates and could intervene with other services where appropriate.Beyond all of that, there are a number of reviews that have to take place. I have talked to a lot of corrections officers, and I can understand that when an inmate challenges them within the prison system, it is really hard not lose one's temper and to want to be vindictive. This is supposed to work at preventing that from happening as well. However, for the inmate, there are several reviews that would take place. There would be a review by the warden within five days, and there a couple of other reviews in place as well. This bill tries to move away from a system that we know has been challenged in the courts. Yes, we have appealed the decision in question, because we want to keep all options open. It is a system that has been strongly criticized by the correctional investigator, and this bill tries to come up with a better system that would work. In part, that is what this bill is about.In closing, as my colleague mentioned earlier, there is a real attempt to provide better services to victims in this bill. For example, the recordings of the Parole Board hearings would be provided so they could be reviewed in a quieter place at another time to see what was said. This legislation would add a guiding principle to the law to affirm the need for Correctional Service Canada to consider systematic and background factors unique to indigenous offenders in all the decision-making done within the system.This bill does not change the world. Keep in mind that we have a system of penalties in this country that, overall, is designed to try to make individuals who have committed a crime, for whatever reason, better citizens when they come out of prison, not better criminals. Our objective is to make them better citizens so they can contribute to their family, their own life's work and to the Canadian economy. This bill does not change the world, but it is a fairly major step forward in how we would handle inmates, how we would work with them within the prison system and how we would try to give victims better services. At the end of the day, this is a bill that members should support.C-83, An Act to amend the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and another ActCorrectional servicesCriminal justice systemCriminal rehabilitationGovernment billsImprisonment and prisonersSecond readingSolitary confinementStructured intervention unitSeanFraserCentral NovaMarkStrahlChilliwack—Hope//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCorrections and Conditional Release ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1250)[English]Mr. Speaker, I guess that is the difference in approach that we take on this side versus the opposite side of the House. We do not make laws based on one or two exceptions. We make laws on the population as a whole. I think that is what we have to do.There are exceptional cases. There is no question about that. The member made a point on the Pickton case and it is a valid point. However, this particular bill does not give Pickton more rights. He is still in the system and, yes, he may be provided more mental health services.I do agree with the member opposite that this is for protection. In most cases, it is for protection of the inmate themselves and also for protection of the correctional officers. I did not say that offenders are put in there because of the vindictiveness of correctional officers. Rather, they are put in there because they broke the rules within the system of Correctional Services Canada.However, we do have to recognize that the old system of solitary confinement, which I think is a better description, is not working. It is challenged in the courts. It does nothing in most cases for better mental heath and better rehabilitation and it has to be changed. What is put forward in this bill does it in a realistic way for all matters intended.C-83, An Act to amend the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and another ActCorrectional servicesGovernment billsImprisonment and prisonersSecond readingViolent crimeMarkStrahlChilliwack—HopeMurrayRankinVictoria//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCorrections and Conditional Release ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1250)[English]Mr. Speaker, this is one bill and one step forward. I think it is certainly a step in the right direction that will improve the lot of inmates who are in the prison system. As I said, in the bill we will also improve victims rights by getting the recordings. It may not go as far as the member opposite wants to go, but I think it is a fairly major step forward.C-83, An Act to amend the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and another ActCorrectional servicesGovernment billsImprisonment and prisonersSecond readingMurrayRankinVictoriaMurrayRankinVictoria//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, the health of our oceans and lakes is a top priority of this government. We have faith in the enforcement mechanisms we have in place within the Department of Fisheries and Oceans to address measures such as this. We will continue to monitor this situation and take the steps that are necessary to keep our oceans and waterways safe, clean and healthy.British ColumbiaEnvironmental contaminationMount Polley mineOral questionsTailings pondsFinDonnellyPort Moody—CoquitlamJulieDzerowiczDavenport//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that we are the party that implemented supply management, and we are the government that has defended supply management.It is important to note that the Americans wanted to destroy supply management. We did not let that happen. We understand there will be impacts on our farmers, and we are committed to fully and fairly compensating them to make sure they succeed. We have supported and will continue to support our farmers. Dairy farmingDairy industryGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsKarineTrudelJonquièreTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, we held extensive consultations, as my hon. colleague has said. We had 45,000 Canadians respond online and we had many round tables right across the country. I want to thank all the hard-working farmers, stakeholders, members of Parliament and Canadians who participated in this. We are currently working to develop a food policy with input from Canadians and stakeholders from our consultations.We are committed to developing a food policy that will put safe, top-quality food on Canadian tables right across this country.Agricultural policyFood and beverage manufacturing industryFood resourcesOral questionsAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, reducing food insecurity and food waste were among the topics discussed during the consultations. We are considering how these issues can be put together in a policy. We have indicated that we are going to put a food policy in place for Canadians right across this country that would put top-quality, safe food on the tables of Canadians. We have indicated quite clearly that we are going to do that, and we will do that.Food resourcesOral questionsWaste disposalRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéBlakeRichardsBanff—Airdrie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCarbon PricingInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's concern. Being a farmer, I fully understand that when there is snow on the ground and we cannot harvest our crops, it is certainly a difficult situation. We are monitoring the situation. There are programs that are available, but we hope they will not have to be used. It is important and hopefully farmers will be able to harvest their crops.Carbon taxCrop productionFarming and farmersOral questionsProfitsEarlDreeshenRed Deer—Mountain ViewJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern. I can assure him that we will continue to support the supply management system. There are some hits that the dairy farmers and processors had to take, and we will fully and fairly compensate the dairy farmers in this country. We have continued and will continue to take care of farmers in this country.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryOral questionsProvince of QuebecSupply managementTrade agreementsSimonMarcilMirabelSimonMarcilMirabel//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, again, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question. We understand, as I said, that farmers will have some hit, but what we will do is fully and fairly compensate the dairy farmers in this country. We have made sure and will continue to make sure that the supply management system thrives in this country.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryOral questionsProvince of QuebecSupply managementTrade agreementsSimonMarcilMirabelLucThériaultMontcalm//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I have said many times in the House, we are the party that implemented supply management and we are the government that did defend supply management. It is important to note that the American government indicated quite clearly at the beginning of these negotiations that its desire was to destroy the supply management system. We made sure that did not happen. We will fully and fairly compensate our farmers and make sure they continue to succeed. Also, the Prime Minister met with farmers today, with the dairy sector, and I have met with many of the supply-managed sectors across the country.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I have indicated clearly in this House many times, our party implemented supply management and we are the government that defended it.Also, it is important to note that the American government wanted to make sure that the supply management system was destroyed. We made sure that would not happen.As well, we will fully and fairly compensate farmers and make sure they continue to seed. We have and will continue to support the supply management system in this country.Canada-United States-Mexico AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsMaximeBernierHon.BeauceGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodThe EnvironmentInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, we accept the commissioner's report and recommendations, and we continue to take measures to look for more actions to protect our marine mammals, because we know that more work needs to be done. Our government understands the importance of open and transparent consultations to develop effective recovery strategies and action plans. We continue to protect our wildlife and biodiversity, including our endangered species. This means robust species at risk recovery plans, which include identification and protection of critical habitat to support species recovery. Endangered speciesMarine conservationMarine mammalsOral questionsFinDonnellyPort Moody—CoquitlamAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-Patrie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNorth Cape Fishing AccidentInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, as a person born and raised in a small fishing community, a tragedy like the one that occurred off North Cape, Prince Edward Island hits me very close to home. Last week, when the fishing vessel Kyla Anne capsized in rough waters and with it took the lives of Captain Glen DesRoches and Moe Getson, it reminded me of the risk faced by fishers and their families every time they take to the water. I would like to take this opportunity to send my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the two men lost in this terrible tragedy.I would also like to thank the countless community volunteers and professionals who were involved in the search and rescue efforts for the Kyla Anne.Deaths and funeralsDesRoches, GlenGetson, MauriceMarine accidentsStatements by MembersAngeloIaconoAlfred-PellanSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—Charlevoix//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMultilateral Instrument in Respect of Tax Conventions ActInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (for the Minister of Finance) (1000)[English]Bill C-82. Second reading moved that Bill C-82, an act to implement a multilateral convention to implement tax treaty related measures to prevent base erosion and profit shifting, be read the second time and referred to a committee. C-82, An Act to implement a multilateral convention to implement tax treaty related measures to prevent base erosion and profit shiftingGovernment billsMinister of FinanceMorneau, BillMultinationalsSecond readingTax avoidanceJenniferO'ConnellPickering—Uxbridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCharlottetownInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1100)[English]Mr. Speaker, imagine working on a cruise ship travelling to ports of call all over the world. Now picture pulling into port in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. This, of all places, was the city that inspired our Quebec-born singer/songwriter to write a song that has hit number one on French satellite radio. Karine Ste-Marie was on the Rotterdam cruise ship in 2016 when it visited our city. It was on a beautiful fall day where she found inner peace and the motivation to write a song called Charlottetown. [Translation]The song describes how Charlottetown helped her vanquish her demons and make peace with the past. It is a song about deciding to go back home and knowing what she had to do.Tomorrow night, Karine will return to Charlottetown to perform at the Cool Moon cultural festival.[English]I take this opportunity to publicly congratulate Karine on her success, and look forward to doing that in person tomorrow. City of CharlottetownStatements by MembersSte-Marie, KarineVocal musicArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockMatthewDubéBeloeil—Chambly//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodScienceInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1150)[English]Mr. Speaker, this government has made strong science-based decision-making one of its priorities. This was first demonstrated to Canadians when the government re-established the position of chief science adviser to Canada, which the Harper Conservatives got rid of.What else has our government been doing to ensure that science-based decision-making continues to be a priority?Department of Fisheries and OceansDepartment of the EnvironmentOral questionsScientific research and scientistsSpecial advisersAndrewLeslieHon.OrléansSeanCaseyCharlottetown//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodScienceInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1155)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank that upstanding member of Parliament from Prince Edward Island for that excellent question.Some of the many highlights of budget 2018 include $210 million for the Canada research chairs program and $1.2 million for granting councils, but there is more. Recently, the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard and the Minister of Environment and Climate Change announced the establishment of new departmental science adviser positions. These science advisers will play an important role in supporting quality scientific research within federal departments, which will help ensure that government science is fully available to the public.Department of Fisheries and OceansDepartment of the EnvironmentOral questionsScientific research and scientistsSpecial advisersRobertMorrisseyEgmontArnoldViersenPeace River—Westlock//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to say I appreciate my hon. colleague's question, but I do not. The fact of the matter is that we are the party that implemented supply management and we are the government that will support supply management. My hon. colleague is fully aware that supply management farmers supply top quality safe food for Canadians and receive appropriate return. We will continue to support supply management in our country.Canada-United States relationsNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsMaximeBernierHon.BeauceGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersOrange Shirt DayInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, this Sunday, September 30, we mark the annual commemoration of Orange Shirt Day. It started in 2013 when participants wore orange to commemorate survivors and raise awareness of the tragic legacy of Indian residential schools. This day was inspired by the story of a six-year-old girl named Phyllis Webstad, whose grandmother gave her a brand new orange shirt to wear proudly for her first day at the residential school in 1973. Phyllis's shirt was taken away on that day in an attempt to break the links to her identity, family and community. We share her story so that all Canadians can better understand the legacy of residential schools.This Sunday, I encourage everyone to wear orange and come together to remember residential school survivors and their families in the spirit of reconciliation.Aboriginal residential schoolsOrange Shirt DayStatements by MembersRobNicholsonHon.Niagara FallsAndrewScheerHon.Regina—Qu'Appelle//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I have said many times in this House, we are the party that implemented supply management and we are the government that is going to defend supply management. We understand that supply management is a model for the world. It supplies quality products at a reasonable price to the consumer and stability for the farmer.Farming and farmersOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsAnne Minh-ThuQuachSalaberry—SuroîtSvenSpengemannMississauga—Lakeshore//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I have indicated many times in the House, we are the party that implemented supply management, and we are the government that is going to defend supply management. We are fully aware that supply management provides quality product for the consumer and a reasonable return for farmers.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsProvince of QuebecSupply managementTrade agreementsSimonMarcilMirabelLucThériaultMontcalm//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, being a farmer and a former dairy farmer, I fully understand the quality of agriculture and the dairy farm supply management system we have in this country.Every member on this side of the House supports supply management. It is vitally important that every member on all sides of the House support the supply management system because it is very important for the country and for the agricultural sector.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsProvince of QuebecSupply managementTrade agreementsLucThériaultMontcalmHunterTootooHon.Nunavut//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersNational Defence ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1015)[English]Mr. Speaker, the bill proposes the introduction of a victim liaison officer. Could the parliamentary secretary tell us what the role of the victim liaison officer would be to ensure that no victim is left behind? C-77, An Act to amend the National Defence Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other ActsGovernment billsLiaisonMilitary justice systemSecond readingSergeCormierAcadie—BathurstSergeCormierAcadie—Bathurst//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary Delegations InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1205)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group. The first concerns the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance conference in Ottawa, Ontario, from May 6 to 8, 2018.The second concerns the U.S. congressional meetings held in Washington, D.C., United States of America, from May 15 to 17, 2018.The third concerns the 11th annual conference of the Southeastern United States-Canadian Provinces Alliance held in Mobile, Alabama, U.S.A., from June 3 to 5, 2018.8565-421-59-45 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance (Can/Am BTA) Conference, held in Ottawa, Ontario, from May 6 to 8, 2018 8565-421-59-46 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at U.S. Congressional Meetings, held in Washington, D.C., from May 15 to 17, 20188565-421-59-47 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 11th Annual Conference of the Southeastern United States-Canadian Provinces (SEUS-CP) Alliance, held in Mobile, Alabama, from June 3 to 5, 2018Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupBruceStantonSimcoe NorthKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1920)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Courtenay—Alberni for raising this issue.The government recognizes that indigenous peoples have a deep connection to oceans and waterways and that fishing is culturally and economically significant to their communities. In this context, a renewed nation-to-nation relationship with indigenous peoples based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation and partnership is a top priority for our government.As Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, and as a Canadian, I can assure the member that we are fully committed to advancing reconciliation, including working with the five Nuu-chah-nulth nations to exercise and implement their fishing rights.Over the past year, the Government of Canada has been taking concrete actions in the spirit of reconciliation with the five Nuu-chah-nulth nations. Since the spring of 2017, Canada and the five nations have been engaged, as the hon. member said, in recognition of indigenous rights and self-determination discussions. In fact, the parties signed a framework agreement in 2017 that forms the basis of ongoing negotiations. These negotiations have been instrumental in developing a common understanding of each other's perspectives in what are inherently complex matters.In March of this year, the former minister personally met with the leaders of the five first nations to hear directly from them their priorities for implementing their fishing rights. At that time, we were pleased to offer additional licences and quota for groundfish, salmon and shellfish to the five nations.In its April 19 decision in the Ahousaht case, the British Columbia Supreme Court clarified the nature and scope of the right of the five Nuu-chah-nulth nations on the west coast of Vancouver Island as:...a small-scale, artisanal, local, multi-species fishery, to be conducted in a nine-[nautical] mile strip from shore, using small, low-cost boats with limited technology and restricted catching power....The court found that Fisheries and Oceans Canada has taken useful steps in some fisheries to accommodate the rights of the five Nuu-chah-nulth nations. The court also noted that some improvements need to be made. In particular, the court found that DFO's Pacific salmon allocation policy was not justified in according priority to the recreational fishery over the five nations aboriginal commercial fishery for chinook and coho.As part of an immediate response to the decision, the former minister announced on the day the decision was released that he directed Fisheries and Oceans Canada to review the Pacific salmon allocation policy in collaboration with indigenous groups and all stakeholders to renew and co-develop this policy.While our government and the five Nuu-chah-nulth nations review the court decision and its implications, we will continue working together to advance reconciliation. We are committed to reconciliation and to advancing our relationship with the five Nuu-chah-nulth nations through accommodation of their fishing rights. Significant steps were taken in 2018 and further steps are being planned for next year.Court decisions help inform the broader process, which seeks to provide stability and predictability around the management of fisheries and oceans resources. We will continue to work with the five nations through negotiations to reach agreement on the implementation of their rights and provide the foundation for a strong and enduring relationship between Canada and the five nations.Aboriginal peoplesAdjournment ProceedingsBritish ColumbiaFishing rightsGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniGordJohnsCourtenay—Alberni//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1925)[English]Mr. Speaker, on April 19, 2018, the B.C. Supreme Court decision clarified the scope and nature of the rights of the five Nuu-chah-nulth nations.In his statement to the press on that same day, the former minister of fisheries and oceans spoke to the concrete actions that had recently been taken, including offers of additional licences and quota for groundfish, salmon and shellfish to the five nations in 2018 and a commitment to continue to implement their fishing rights in 2019 and beyond.The former minister indicated immediate action to review the Pacific salmon allocation policy in collaboration with indigenous groups and all stakeholders to renew and co-develop this policy.Our government is committed to reconciliation and to advancing our relationship with the five Nuu-chah-nulth nations to accommodate their fishing rights.Aboriginal peoplesAdjournment ProceedingsBritish ColumbiaFishing rightsGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, ensuring the protection of Canada's oceans and the sustainability of marine life are key priorities for our government. Our government is committed to the protection of Canada's resident killer whales and the recovery of these populations. Our government is working in partnership with indigenous peoples, key stakeholders, international partners and the province of British Columbia on immediate actions to reduce the impact of marine shipping and assist in the recovery of southern resident killer whales.Endangered speciesKiller whalesOral questionsFinDonnellyPort Moody—CoquitlamDarrellSamsonSackville—Preston—Chezzetcook//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersInfrastructureInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, this summer provided me with great opportunities to travel throughout the Northwest Territories to announce many important infrastructure projects of all sizes. Through the national trade corridors fund, we invested $102.5 million toward the Mackenzie Valley highway project. This includes construction of a bridge over the Great Bear River. From the small communities fund, we invested over $1.1 million in the community of Behchoko for its new six-bay garage to support the community's water and waste-water management. With $180,000 in support from the enabling accessibility fund, two churches, a museum and an indigenous council facility will be able to improve accessibility infrastructure for Canadians with disabilities with the installation of ramps and automated door openers.From nation-building projects, like the Mackenzie Valley highway, to ensuring all Canadians can access the services they wish, support for infrastructure in my riding has never been better. InfrastructureNorthwest TerritoriesStatements by MembersRonLiepertCalgary Signal HillJoëlLightboundLouis-Hébert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question. I can assure her that we have supported and will continue to support supply management and our farmers in this system. The Prime Minister, I myself, and many other ministers have indicated quite clearly that we have supported and will support the supply management system. It is important to note we are the party that fought to implement supply management. I can assure my hon. colleague that we are the government that is going to protect it.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsKarineTrudelJonquièreTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can indicate to my hon. colleague and the House that we are the party that fought to implement supply management. We knew the value of supply management and we are the government that is going to defend supply management. The Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and other ministers, including myself, have indicated quite clearly that we are going to defend supply management.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can indicate clearly that this House, the Prime Minister, all cabinet ministers and I have indicated quite clearly that we will fully support supply management. It is important to realize that we are the party that fought to implement supply management, and we are the party that is going to implement supply management. We in this government understand the importance of the supply management system in this country.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsSimonMarcilMirabelGabrielSte-MarieJoliette//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1510)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question. I cannot respond for the opposition if they are split on the supply management system. If the Conservative Party is split on the supply management system, that is most unfortunate. However, I can assure the House that every member on this side of the House of Commons supports the supply management system. They fully understand how important it is to the agricultural sector. This party fought to implement supply management, and this government will preserve supply management.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsGabrielSte-MarieJolietteHunterTootooHon.Nunavut//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that we support our world-class wheat farmers. We will work with our farmers and be ready to help them with any financial impact it might have. While we remain focused on the Canadian wheat farmers, the Conservatives have voted to take funding away from the Canadian Grain Commission, which is involved in testing processing and is essential in ensuring that our grain continues to be exported. That is shameful.ExportsGenetically modified organismsOral questionsWheat and wheat growingAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordMichelPicardMontarville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I certainly want to thank my hon. colleague from Montarville for all his support for the dairy farmers right across the country. It is truly sad that last week, the Conservatives voted to take funding away from the Canadian Dairy Commission, which is essential for the functioning of our dairy supply management system. The Conservative member for Beauce has again renewed his call for the elimination of supply management, calling our dairy farmers nefarious paper millionaires. We have supported and will continue to support our dairy farmers across this country.Dairy farmingDairy industryOral questionsSupply managementMichelPicardMontarvilleStevenBlaneyHon.Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1520)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group.The first concerns the 72nd annual meeting of the Council of State Governments’ Midwestern Legislative Conference held in Des Moines, Iowa, from July 9 to 12 July 2017.The second concerns the annual legislative summit of the National Conference of State Legislatures, NCSL, held in Boston, Massachusetts, from August 6 to 9, 2017.The third concerns the 57th annual meeting and regional policy forum of the Council of State Governments' Eastern Regional Conference held in Uncasville, Connecticut, from August 13 to 16, 2017. 8565-421-59-42 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the72nd Annual Meeting of the Council of State Governments' Midwestern Legislative Conference, held in Des Moines, Iowa, from July 9 to 12, 20178565-421-59-43 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual Legislative Summit of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), held in Boston, Massachusetts, from August 6 to 9, 20178565-421-59-44 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 57th Annual Meeting and Regional Policy Forum of the Council of State Governments' Eastern Regional Conference, held in Uncasville, Connecticut, from August 13 to 16, 2017Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupTerrySheehanSault Ste. MarieDenisParadisHon.Brome—Missisquoi//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government proudly supports our dairy farmers and the supply management system.Unfortunately, the Conservative critic, the opposition critic for economic development, has indicated quite clearly that he called for the end of supply management. He called dairy farmers nefarious paper millionaires. Conservatives cannot have it both ways. They either support the dairy farmers or they do not. It is obvious that the Conservatives do not support supply management.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsJohnBarlowFoothillsMarkStrahlChilliwack—Hope//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that on this side of the House, our government fully understands the importance of supply management. As I indicated quite clearly, we are the party that fought to implement it, and we are the government that is going to support it. However, when we have the economic development critic in the Conservative Party indicating quite clearly that supply management is nefarious and dairy farmers are nefarious paper millionaires, that is inappropriate language.As a government, we fully support supply management. We need the opposition's support.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsMarkStrahlChilliwack—HopeKarineTrudelJonquière//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I said many times in the House, our government strongly supports and is fully committed to maintaining the supply management system. The Prime Minister has indicated this clearly, as have I. Cabinet ministers, caucus, and our negotiators at the NAFTA table have also indicated this very clearly.It is important to note that this is the party that fought to implement supply management, and I can assure my hon. colleague that this is the government that will defend supply management.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—Bagot//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEmploymentInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, young entrepreneurs from across Canada are in Ottawa today to receive mentorship and to learn from business leaders. I am so pleased that one of those young entrepreneurs is Coltin Handrahan from my riding. He is aggressive, and he wants to build for the future.Would the Minister of Small Business and Tourism be so kind as to tell the House what the government has in mind to give these young folks the opportunities to build a more prosperous Canada?Business developmentEntrepreneurship and entrepreneursOral questionsYoung peopleMattDeCourceyFrederictonBardishChaggerHon.Waterloo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1200)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague from the Bay of Quinte for his engagement on this issue. We have said many times that there is no relationship more important to our government than our relationship with indigenous peoples. We know that indigenous languages are in danger across this country. That is why we are working with Métis, Inuit, and first nations leaders to co-develop the first indigenous languages act, and why we have recently announced the next phase of our engagement on this issue. Furthermore, we have invested a historic $90 million in indigenous languages initiatives. This is an essential step in our journey toward reconciliation.Aboriginal languagesOral questionsNeilEllisBay of QuintePatKellyCalgary Rocky Ridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsStatus of WomenInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1215)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present two petitions.The first is signed by folks in Prince Edward Island on the occasion of the G7 summit coming up here in Quebec. The petitioners are calling on the Government of Canada to invest in women in the poorest countries and they are calling on Canada to commit to a bold initiative at the G7 summit that enables at least 100 million women to learn, work, and increase their independence.Education and trainingGirlsGroup of SevenInternational development and aidLabour forcePetition 421-02431WomenHaroldAlbrechtKitchener—ConestogaSeanCaseyCharlottetown//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1220)[English]Mr. Speaker, the second petition is signed by 25 Prince Edward Islanders, who point out the record of General Jeffery Amherst in the 1700s, whose ultimate goal was to exterminate all indigenous peoples. The petitioners feel that the consultations that were taken in connection with the removal of General Amherst's name from a historic national site in Prince Edward Island were inadequate, and they are calling on the Government of Canada to remove the name Fort Amherst from the national historic site of Canada located near Rocky Point, Prince Edward Island.Aboriginal peoplesHeritage sites and buildingsPetition 421-02430Port-la-Joye-Fort Amherst National Historic Site of CanadaPrince Edward IslandSeanCaseyCharlottetownMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I assure my hon. colleague that what we have done has been a major asset to the Canadian agricultural sector.As my hon. colleague is well aware, the former Harper government cut close to $700 million from the agricultural sector. We will make sure that farmers have the seed they need. My hon. colleague is fully aware that the seed has to be certified.AntibioticsFeed grainsLivestock farmingMerchantsOral questionsLarryMillerBruce—Grey—Owen SoundLarryMillerBruce—Grey—Owen Sound//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question, but I cannot do a thing about his hair.However, I can tell him one thing we will do, which is to make sure that the agriculture and agrifood sector is supported by the government. We will make sure that we have science. We will also make sure that the CFIA will always ensure that any seed that is permitted for planting in this country will be certified. I am sure that my hon. colleague is not indicating that the regulatory process should be jeopardized.AntibioticsFeed grainsLivestock farmingMerchantsOral questionsLarryMillerBruce—Grey—Owen SoundJulieDzerowiczDavenport//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersBiosphere ReservesInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1355)[English]Mr. Speaker, this afternoon, I am pleased to be co-hosting, with members from all parties, a reception on the Hill recognizing Canada's 18 UNESCO biosphere reserves. These 18 biosphere reserves have the distinction of including both some of the most pristine ecosystems in our country and incredibly dedicated stewards of our lands and waters. Located on the southwest shore of the Great Bear Lake in the Northwest Territories, the community of Deline is home to our country's newest biosphere reserve, Tsá Tué. Designated by UNESCO in 2016, Tsá Tué is the first biosphere reserve in the world to be 100% indigenous governed. I invite all of my colleagues to join me in the Speaker's lounge after question period in celebration of our country's great biosphere reserves from coast to coast to coast. Mahsi cho .Biosphere reservesGwich'inLanguage other than official languageStatements by MembersUnited Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural OrganizationLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCarbon PricingInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1430)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is well aware that farmers are great stewards of the land. In fact, farmers have always been protecting the environment and have played a vital role in the fight against climate change. That is why gasoline and diesel fuel for on-farm use is exempt under the federal backstop. Unlike the previous Conservative government, the Harper government, which cut over $700 million from agriculture, our government has invested hundreds of millions of dollars in agriculture and agricultural research. Carbon pricingCarbon taxFarming and farmersOral questionsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestCandiceBergenHon.Portage—Lisgar//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, we have been very clear on this. We have continued to support and are committed to maintaining the supply management system in this country. The Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, and many cabinet ministers have indicated this. The negotiators at the NAFTA table have indicated this. It is important to note that it is the Liberal government that put supply management in place, and it is the Liberal government that will support supply management.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordKarineTrudelJonquière//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (2335)[English]Madam Speaker, I wish to advise you that I will be sharing my time with the outstanding member for Niagara Centre.I am very pleased to speak to Bill C-75. This legislation seeks, among other things, the streamline the criminal justice system and reduce case completion time.[Translation]Today I want to talk about Bill C-75's provisions on preliminary inquiries.[English]Currently, after an accused is charged with an indictable offence and they elect to be tried before a superior court, the accused or the crown can request a preliminary inquiry before a justice of the provincial court.[Translation]During the preliminary inquiry, the crown submits evidence and the accused may as well. The crown and the defence may cross-examine witnesses.[English]The purpose of the hearing is to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to commit an accused to trial. Preliminary inquiries have become a forum where the accused can discover the case against them, providing a candid forum for negotiation discussions and generating transcripts available at trial should a witness be unable to attend.At the conclusion of the inquiry, there is no guilty or not guilty decision. Rather, the accused is either sent to trial or discharged, meaning no further action is taken. Under existing law, preliminary inquiry is not available in all circumstances. For example, it is not available for indictable offences under the absolute jurisdiction of the provincial court.In light of the stringent crown disclosure obligations, the Supreme Court of Canada in a 2009 case, R. v. S.J.L., ruled that there is no constitutional right to a preliminary inquiry. (2340)[Translation]This process is not used the same way in all provinces and territories. Some jurisdictions, like New Brunswick, hold very few preliminary inquiries, while other jurisdictions, like Ontario, hold many. Furthermore, some jurisdictions, like Ontario and Quebec, have developed preliminary out-of-court examination procedures that complement, or, in some cases, replace, preliminary inquiries.[English]Under Bill C-75, the availability of preliminary inquiries would be restricted to the most serious offences punishable by life imprisonment, such as murder. Currently, preliminary inquiries consume significant time and resources due to scheduling issues, the complexity of the evidence, the number of witnesses to be heard, and/or issues to be resolved.In its Jordan decision, the Supreme Court of Canada established strict time frames within which criminal cases must be completed, beyond which the delay would be presumptively unreasonable and cases would be stayed. The court also noted that Parliament should consider the value of preliminary inquires in light of expanded disclosure obligations.Also, in its 2017 final report on delays, the Senate Standing Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs took a similar view as the Supreme Court of Canada in Jordan by recommending that preliminary inquiries be restricted or eliminated.[Translation]On a number of occasions over the course of many years, reform of preliminary inquiries has been the topic of discussion and consultation, for example, at federal-provincial-territorial meetings. Most recently, at their meeting in September 2017, the ministers pointed out that reforms were needed to limit the use of preliminary inquiries in the criminal justice system, since these inquiries can cause legal delays, and there are now other mechanisms that serve the same purpose.[English]Though these proposals clearly represent a significant change in how cases would be conducted, provincial and territorial justice ministers demanded bold reforms to bring about the transformation of the criminal justice system required to respond to the reality adopted in the Jordan decision, and our government took action. These bold reforms respond to calls not only from provincial and territorial justice ministers, but also from the Supreme Court of Canada and the Senate, acknowledging that transformative changes are required to bring about the change to the culture of complacency in regard to delays.Bill C-75 would fulfill our mandate to improve the efficiency of the Canadian criminal justice system by limiting preliminary inquiries to the most serious offences. This move would reduce court backlogs and ensure that victims would receive the justice they deserve in a timely manner. As noted by the Minister of Justice, restricting the availability of this procedure to offences punishable by life imprisonment would reduce their number by 87%, according to the Canadian Centre for Justice Statistics. Restricting preliminary inquiries, as proposed in Bill C-75, would reduce demands on provincial court resources and would have more serious cases heard more expediently in superior court.(2345)[Translation]This bill would also give the justice of the peace presiding over the preliminary inquiry more powers to limit the questions to be examined and to reduce the number of witnesses heard as part of the inquiry.[English]As such, Bill C-75 would streamline the conduct of preliminary inquiries and would reduce the number of cases in which some witnesses would have to testify twice. These changes would reduce the re-victimization of vulnerable victims and witnesses, such as children, and would protect them from long-drawn-out proceedings. Bill C-75 recognizes diverse views, from those who oppose any changes to the existing procedure to those who would completely eliminate this procedure. It would introduce a significant and bold response. Our balanced approach would maintain the preliminary-inquiry process for more complex and serious offences, where the jeopardy for the accused is the greatest. These reforms would not impact trial fairness. Furthermore, the flexibility for existing processes, such as out-of-court discovery, implemented in Ontario and Quebec, would not be impacted and would remain a practical option.[Translation]These reforms would make the courts' use of time more efficient by getting rid of procedural steps that are unnecessary for less serious offences. The proposed restriction would not fundamentally change the nature of criminal trials in Canada or evidence requirements for a guilty verdict against someone with outstanding charges, nor would it change the crown's responsibility to prove all the necessary elements of an offence beyond a reasonable doubt.[English]Canadians expect our criminal justice process to be just, equitable, and expedient, to protect victims, and to hold offenders to account. These reforms, together with the other measures in Bill C-75, would help achieve these expectations. Bill C-75 would ensure that the accused's charter right to be tried within a reasonable time was respected and that those involved in criminal justice proceedings were not subject to protracted criminal proceedings. I urge all members to support Bill C-75.C-75, An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act and other Acts and to make consequential amendments to other ActsCriminal justice systemGovernment billsSecond readingTomKmiecCalgary ShepardElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf Islands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (2345)[English]Madam Speaker, I personally had a hand in the consultations that led to this bill. The hon. member would know that before becoming Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, I was parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Justice and personally attended round tables that included members of the criminal defence bar in multiple provinces and territories throughout the country. There has been extensive consultation. I was personally party to those extensive consultations. I am also, as a result of being in that role, acutely aware of the very thorough and comprehensive work that is routinely done by the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights in this place, and I have every confidence that no stone will be left unturned in the course of the committee review of this bill.C-75, An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act and other Acts and to make consequential amendments to other ActsCriminal justice systemGovernment billsPublic consultationSecond readingElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (2350)[English]Madam Speaker, it is nice to be debating my friend from St. Albert—Edmonton on issues touching the justice file once more. I would say to my friend that he needs to look at the bill as a whole.I just gave a speech that focused very much on the elimination and reduction of the need for preliminary inquiries. My friend would be acutely aware that preliminary inquiries are most often conducted at the provincial court level. This is one thing that will be taken off the plate at provincial courts.The hybridization of offences will allow more plea bargains to take place. This will not only reduce the burden at provincial courts, but in many cases also dispense with the need for a trial.There are multiple steps and measures being taken within the bill as a whole, the cumulative effect of which will be to reduce court delays throughout the system.BacklogsC-75, An Act to amend the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act and other Acts and to make consequential amendments to other ActsCriminal justice systemGovernment billsSecond readingMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonVanceBadaweyNiagara Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNational Indigenous History MonthInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to invite members of the House, and all Canadians, to join me in celebrating National Indigenous History Month, beginning June 1st. This is a great opportunity to learn about the culture, traditions, and contributions of first nations, Inuit, and Métis in Canada. National Indigenous History Month marks a time to recognize the rich heritage and diversity of indigenous peoples, and promote respect, understanding, and appreciation. On June 21, people should be sure to share in the celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day by participating in an event held in their area. I encourage everyone to take part in the variety of unique events that will be taking place all month long.Mr. Speaker, mahsi cho.Aboriginal peoplesGwich'inLanguage other than official languageNational Indigenous History MonthStatements by MembersPeterVan LoanHon.York—SimcoeAngeloIaconoAlfred-Pellan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1425)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I have said many times in the House, our government strongly supports and is committed to the supply management system in this country. I myself, as well as the Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, cabinet ministers and caucus, and, indeed, the trade negotiators of NAFTA, have clearly indicated the Canadian direction.The Liberal government is the government that put supply management in place, and it is the Liberal government that will protect supply management.Aluminum industryCanada-United States relationsCustoms tariff and customs dutiesInternational tradeOral questionsSteel industryLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1425)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is well aware that Canadian farmers are great stewards of the land who know the importance of protecting the environment, and they are making vital contributions to fighting climate change.We know that farmers had some concerns, and that is why gasoline and diesel fuel for on-farm use are exempt under the federal backstop. Unlike the previous Conservative government, we have invested in agriculture research and science. In fact, it was the Conservative government that cut—Some hon. members: Oh, oh!Carbon pricingCarbon taxFarming and farmersOral questionsJohnBarlowFoothillsGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1430)[English]Mr. Speaker, I know my hon. colleague is well aware and understands that farmers are great stewards of the land. They understand how important it is to take care of our environment. Farmers have great concerns, and that is why diesel fuel and gasoline are exempt under our federal backstop.Through the federal government's investments, we are continuing to build a strong economy for our farmers while putting environmental protections in place. What we have done, as I indicated, is put more money into research and science in agriculture, which is vitally important.Carbon pricingCarbon taxFarming and farmersOral questionsCandiceBergenHon.Portage—LisgarPierrePoilievreHon.Carleton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1440)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, first, we would like to thank the chair of the CRTC, Ian Scott, and his team for their report, as well as all of the businesses and stakeholders who contributed to it.Our objective is to modernize our laws to protect and promote our 21st century culture. We will soon have news regarding the review of our laws. Unlike Mr. Harper's Conservatives, who made draconian cuts and waged a war against the cultural sector, we are taking action to help this sector and our artists.Electronic commerceForeign investments in CanadaInternetMedia streaming and webcastingOral questionsTaxationPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, first we would like to thank CRTC chair Ian Scott and his team for the report, and thank the many companies and creative industry players who contributed to it.Ultimately, our objective will be to modernize our laws for the 21st century in order to protect and promote our culture. We will have more to say on a review of the Broadcasting Act and the Telecommunications Act very shortly. Unlike the Harper Conservatives, who ignored these issues and did nothing but cut funding to culture for a decade, we are taking action and delivering for creators and Canadians.Electronic commerceForeign investments in CanadaInternetMedia streaming and webcastingOral questionsTaxationRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverJohnOliverOakville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (2405)[English] Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. member for Kootenay—Columbia for the question and for his interest in Gatineau Park.Gatineau Park is a stunning natural conservation area located just minutes from the centre of our nation's capital. As the Prime Minister has said, the park's trails, forests, and lakes are truly a jewel of the capital region. With its diverse ecosystems and heritage features, Gatineau Park is a prime destination that attracts some 2.6 million visitors each year.(2405)[Translation]Conservation and preservation have been a top priority ever since Gatineau Park was created. The National Capital Commission works with all stakeholders in order to ensure that the park's resources are conserved while offering visitors environmentally friendly recreational experiences.Gatineau Park's management plan, which was prepared by the NCC, establishes a vision of the park as a protected natural space managed mainly for conservation purposes. Recreation is secondary. Gatineau Park is the capital's conservation park.[English]As a result of this approach, all publicly held lands within Gatineau Park are reserved for park purposes. Any public infrastructure development is very carefully considered, with the overall goal of enhancing the conservation of the park's ecological integrity and cultural resources.[Translation]Furthermore, whenever possible, the NCC usually acquires privately owned properties located within the park boundaries for conservation reasons. In 2008, there were 405 private properties in Gatineau Park, covering an area of about 600 hectares. Since then, in accordance with its conservation goals for the park, the NCC has acquired more than a third of those properties. Today, there are just 344 private properties in the park, covering only 386 hectares.[English]The results of this emphasis on conservation have been positive. The 2016-17 “Report on Gatineau Park Ecosystems” found that the overall condition of the park is “good” and that this condition is stable. This is a clear improvement since the 2006 report, which found the park's condition to be “acceptable”. [Translation]As for the boundary issue, Gatineau Park has very clear and well-defined boundaries. They were officially established by the NCC's board of directors in 1997. In 2008, they were approved by the government as a legal basis for any future land acquisition by the NCC within the park. The organization manages the park based on those long-term boundaries. [English]To build on the successes achieved since 2005, the NCC is currently renewing the Gatineau Park master plan. Involving broad consultations with the public, local municipalities, the conservation community, user groups, and other stakeholder groups, the review process provides an opportunity to take the plan forward into the 21st century and preserve the health and integrity of the park for future generations.Adjournment ProceedingsEnvironmental protectionGatineau ParkNature conservationCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingWayneStetskiKootenay—Columbia//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (2405)[Translation]Madam Speaker, we are proud of the work that the National Capital Commission has been doing for many years to preserve the ecological integrity of Gatineau Park. The park is flourishing thanks to the NCC's long tradition of stewardship of green spaces in the capital.[English]As the conservation park of the capital, Gatineau Park's ecological integrity will always remain in the forefront, while still providing for public enjoyment. In fact, it is the NCC's conservation efforts and the work it does with different user groups to maintain the ecological integrity of the park that make Gatineau Park so popular.Adjournment ProceedingsEnvironmental protectionGatineau ParkNature conservationWayneStetskiKootenay—ColumbiaCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government supports and is committed to maintaining supply management. This has been a clear position throughout the NAFTA negotiations. Every member of our government fully supports the Prime Minister and this government's policies.This position is the opposite of the Conservative Party's, whose innovation critic, appointed by the Leader of the Opposition, is opposed to supply management. He even detailed the reasons why in a book that the Leader of the Opposition would not allow in public.On this side of the House, we all support supply management.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersTourism in Prince Edward IslandInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, winter has come to an end in most of the country and the tourism season is upon us. What better place to visit than my home province of Prince Edward Island, the garden of the gulf? In Cavendish, as many thousands have done before, people can tour the famous Green Gables grounds, visiting areas that inspired the classic novel. Along the 1,100 kilometres of coastline are local fisheries. Inland the farms grow food as fresh as the fish caught on the coastline. Experiential tourism is taking off. On a sunny day, people can kayak out to a clam bar, harvest some clams, and then return to shore and make some fresh clam chowder. Maybe some people would prefer to build a sensational sand castle in the iconic red sand of North Rustico Beach. Whether people want to spend a day relaxing on the beach, touring the birthplace of Confederation in Charlottetown, or golfing on courses with views like no other, as summer is near, they should come and find their island.Prince Edward IslandStatements by MembersTourismRosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterLisaRaittHon.Milton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 23rd report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill C-74, an act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018 and other measures. The committee has studied the bill and has decided to report the bill back to the House with amendments. 8510-421-400 "Bill C-74, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018, and other measures"Budget 2018 (February 27, 2018)C-74, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on February 27, 2018 and other measuresStanding Committee on FinanceJudy A.SgroHon.Humber River—Black CreekLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersAllan LingInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1105)[English]Mr. Speaker, I stand today to honour a lifelong friend and pre-eminent farm leader, Allan Ling, who passed away recently.Allan, a farmer, was a tireless advocate for the farming industry. Beginning with 4H, he then organized and served with the National Farmers Union, became chair of PEI Grain Elevators Corporation, worked with the PEI Agri-Alliance, and was the long-serving president of the Atlantic Grains Council. Added to this work was his work with the horse racing industry. He was one of the founding organizers of the Grain Growers of Canada, the umbrella organization that brought together industry players from across the country.There was not a federal minister since Eugene Whelan's time or a provincial premier since the seventies whose ear Allan had not bent on everything from research to marketing. He served his community in many ways, but first as a first responder. For Allan, there were no strangers, only friends he had yet to meet.His greatest joy, though, was family: his wife Jan, children, and grandchildren. Our condolences to all.Deaths and funeralsFarming and farmersLing, AllanPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersMarkEykingHon.Sydney—VictoriaKellyMcCauleyEdmonton West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1535)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1) I have the honour to present, in both official languages, four reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group.The first report concerns the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance conference held in Ottawa, Ontario, from May 7 to 9, 2017. The second report concerns the meeting with members of the United States House of Representatives held in Windsor, Ontario, from September 14 to 16, 2017.The third report concerns the annual National Conference of the Council of State Governments held in Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A., from December 14 to 16, 2017.The fourth report concerns the annual winter meeting of the National Governors Association held in Washington, D.C., U.S.A., from February 23 to 25.8565-421-59-38 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance (Can/Am BTA) Conference, held in Ottawa, Ontario, from May 7 to 9, 2017 8565-421-59-39 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation to the Meeting with Members of the U.S. House of Representatives, held in Windsor, Ontario, from September 14 to 16, 2017 8565-421-59-40 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual National Conference of the Council of State Governments (CSG), held in Las Vegas, Nevada, from December 14 to 16, 20178565-421-59-41 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual Winter Meeting of the National Governors Association (NGA), held in Washington, D.C., from February 23 to 25, 2018 Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestLeonaAlleslevAurora—Oak Ridges—Richmond Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Production of Documents on Carbon Pricing]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1515)[English]Madam Speaker, I have been listening to the remarks made by members opposite. We have been discussing this issue at finance committee for some time. That member's remarks go beyond the pale with respect to energy costs.What state in the United States has had carbon pricing for the longest time? It is the state of California. Yesterday, it became the fifth largest economy in the world, and it has had carbon pricing in place for a long time. We have to find the middle ground. I support pipelines, but if pipeline supporters continue to oppose doing the right thing with respect to climate change, we are not going to get them. If environmentalists continue to fight pipelines, then we will never get the carbon policy we need.For members opposite, let us trump to some common sense and find the middle ground, accept carbon pricing, and push for the need for pipelines to get our resources to market.Carbon pricingCarbon taxConsumer priceOpposition motionsPipeline transportationJodyWilson-RaybouldHon.Vancouver GranvilleBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—Lacombe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersSpring events in Prince Edward IslandInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1115)[English]Mr. Speaker, this past week, the spring lobster fishery in Prince Edward Island opened. This also marks the time of year when farmers begin cultivating their land.I would like to take this opportunity to wish all farmers and fishers a safe and productive season and remind Canadians that the hard work of these people is why Canada has a strong reputation for the safest, most abundant food in the world.I would also like to take a moment to recognize one farmer from my riding, Leo Handrahan, who harvested his first blueberries on the family farm near Tignish in 1966. Despite acknowledging that his first crop was not much, he persevered, helping to re-establish the crop in West Prince.He was recently given the Pioneer Award by the P.E.I. Wild Blueberry Growers Association, which recognizes individuals who have helped build and grow their industry. It is a well-deserved honour. I congratulate Leo Handrahan.Farming and farmersFisheries and fishersPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersPierrePoilievreHon.CarletonCandiceBergenHon.Portage—Lisgar//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodThe EnvironmentInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1125)[English]Mr. Speaker, in the last election, we campaigned on improving the economy and protecting the environment. We are protecting the environment, and we have the best growth in the G7. We have also not taken science money out of agriculture, like the previous Harper government did. We have added $100 million to the science budget in agriculture. We have and will continue to support the agricultural sector in this country.Access to informationCarbon pricingCarbon taxCost-benefit analysisOral questionsRosemarieFalkBattlefords—LloydminsterKevinWaughSaskatoon—Grasswood//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGordon BrownInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is with profound sadness that I stand in the House today to join my voice with others in paying tribute to our dear friend and colleague, Gord Brown. It is also with immense joy that I can share what a wonderful person Gord was in every imaginable way.First and foremost, on behalf of the Liberal Party and Liberal members both current and past, I extend our deepest condolences to his wife Claudine and his two sons Chance and Tristan.I first got to know Gord as members of the Canada-U.S. Inter-Parliamentary Group, in which we worked in common cause on Canada-U.S. issues for more than a decade. If memory serves, our first IPG meeting together was the New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers' Annual Conference in Prince Edward Island, when Gord accepted my offer to show him around the island. As everyone knows, while Gord was always willing to work with others across party lines, he was a true-blue Conservative through and through. Therefore, for Gord to hop in my red truck and do a couple of tours with me around the island was, to say the least, interesting, but a lot of fun. We repeated that experience years later when the Conservative Party held its national caucus meeting in Prince Edward Island. I did not mind driving up to the door of it in my red truck to pick up Gord Brown. However, I will have to admit that no matter how hard I tried, Gord was not about to change his political stripes. Gord would often speak about his riding, always emphasizing the Thousand Islands and how he could look across his yard and see the United States. He took great pride in introducing a bill to change the name of the St. Lawrence Islands National Park of Canada to Thousand Islands National Park of Canada. The bill became law in 2013 because of his hard work.Gord served as co-chair of the Canada-U.S. Inter-Parliamentary Group, and he worked tirelessly to make, sustain, and build relationships with our counterparts in the U.S. Congress. In fact, without question, he was one of our strongest ambassadors on U.S. issues, and not just within the IPG context. On more than one occasion, he travelled to Washington to play with the Republican representatives on their hockey team. Some say the Republican team referred to Gord as its “ringer”, and he loved that, and the representatives loved to have him. We would hear, in the discussions when we would meet the Congressional representatives in the U.S., about a number of them, but especially Gord, who played for their hockey team.Without a doubt, Gord loved hockey, and his son's hockey abilities were an endless source of pride for him. Often he would pull out his phone and show us pictures and videos of Tristan, at a very young age, in full hockey gear, racing up the ice. I imagine many in the House have seen those videos. Gord showed much pride in his family.In this place and on trips to the United States, Gord was always respectful of everyone and thoughtfully considered the viewpoints of others, even though he might not agree. That was the tenor of the man.Gord set goals and priorities and set out to achieve them in his political life. However, he was always clear about the importance of family and friends. For him, they always came first.He will be deeply missed by everyone who had the good fortune to meet him.Our condolences, again, to his family.Brown, GordonDeaths and funeralsReferences to membersTributesAndrewScheerHon.Regina—Qu'AppelleBrianMasseWindsor West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and AgrifoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1150)[English]Madam Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern. We do support supply management, and we support the dairy industry by implementing a program to make sure that the dairy industry remains on the cutting edge, with $250 million going to the producers and $100 million going to the processors.We have and will continue to make sure the supply management system remains strong in this country.Farming and farmersInternational relationsOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotToddDohertyCariboo—Prince George//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodForeign AffairsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question. I am a bit surprised, but I appreciate it. We are aware of India's moves on pea imports. For a party whose only agricultural idea I heard was how to end supply management, I am surprised that he would ask the question. We have and will continue to make sure that supply management thrives in this country.Customs tariff and customs dutiesExportsGrain legumeIndiaOral questionsLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodForeign AffairsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, again, I am surprised but pleased that he has some interest in the agricultural sector. We have and are going to continue to work with the Indian officials to rectify the situation. I would ask my hon. colleague and critic to make sure that his party supports supply management, because supply management is vital to the agricultural sector. This government has and will continue to support supply management.Customs tariff and customs dutiesExportsGrain legumeIndiaOral questionsJohnBarlowFoothillsHedyFryHon.Vancouver Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Papal Apology on Residential Schools]InterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1515)[English]Mr. Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Ville-Marie—Le Sud-Ouest—Île-des-Soeurs. I was a little reluctant to stand up today to speak to this motion. However, I felt it was my responsibility as an indigenous member of Parliament to talk about this very important issue, which has left its mark on our history. It is an issue we would rather move past. However, the issue continues to warrant recognition, and it is part of some very important recommendations that were made by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. This is number 58 of the 94 recommendations that were brought forward. We were all very happy to see the inquiry start in 2008. It was an opportunity to document and talk about the history of the residential schools and their impact. The conclusion of that report is also important to note. The commission found that the school system amounted to what was considered cultural genocide. There were many students who attended the different schools across the country over the years. A total of over 150,000 students attended residential schools. It was for a fairly long period of time. It went on for 120 years. Of those 150,000 students, 32,000 were sexually assaulted. Some of those people were my friends. Some were people I knew, people I grew up with. Almost everyone in my community attended residential school. Everyone from my generation or older attended residential school. Everyone in my family attended residential school. Everyone in my wife's family attended residential school. The residential school experience in the north is still very fresh. It is still very new and talked about, and the impacts are huge. I belong to the Deh Cho Tribal Council. I am a member of the Fort Providence Métis Council. My community is located on the Mackenzie River. We call it deh cho, which means “big river” in the Dene language. When the Catholics first came to my area in the 1800s, they settled along the shores of the Great Slave Lake, and my family, the people of the Deh Cho, were concerned. One of my great-grandmothers talked to the men in my community and said that the church could not stay there because it was not a good place to set up a community or a mission. They sent the men to convince the church to move to the present location of Fort Providence. It was fortunate that they did that, because the church would never have survived in the first location where they set up. It was a flood zone, and it was dangerous for ice. It was not a very good hunting spot. The church moved, and the small population in my community was very excited that the church was going to build a mission, because it was going to help the community and create opportunity for people to work. The first mission was built with many members of my community and surrounding areas. The different clans also had people working on the mission itself. In fact, we had a second mission built in 1930, and we also had a church built. It created enough activity to help people gain some extra money, because everyone was living on hunting, trapping, and gathering. There was some opportunity created because of the mission. However, I grew up in the community where the residential school was located. The Dene name for our community is Zhahti Kue, which means “the priest's house” or “the priest's community”. We do not like that. We would rather not use that name. We have told people in our neighbouring communities and everybody else that this is not a name we would like to be known for. (1520)We have a graveyard in our community which is still there. We have erected a huge cement marker and on it are all the names of the people who are buried there. People came from all over the north to Fort Providence to attend the mission. There were many young children who passed away. The names on this monument are names of families from all over the Northwest Territories. Some of the people were very young. Some were babies, and some were two or three years old. I do not know the history of why all these people passed away while in the care of the mission, but there were many. We have made it so people from different communities can come and look where some of their family ended up because nobody was shipped home.It is also important to note that this graveyard was also used by the mission for the priests and nuns who died while there. When they created a new graveyard they took all the nuns and priests out of this graveyard and set up another one, but left everybody else in the old graveyard.Soon after the mission was built, people started to realize the mission was not going to bring all the benefits and positive things people had expected. We started to hear the horror stories. I grew up listening to horror stories of children being abused while in the mission's care. Those acts were conducted by priests, nuns, and brothers who were part of the mission, part of the Catholic Church. There were really terrible things done to those children. There were children who were sexually abused and children who had bones broken. Children who had issues like bedwetting were grabbed and thrown in tubs of cold water and scrubbed with brooms. There were all kinds of mind games being played. There were children who were not allowed to sit in chairs and had to stand all day. They were only allowed to sit down when the priest was coming. There were all kinds of things going on.We are seeing the lasting effects. The fallout of residential schools is still very prevalent in our communities. Addictions are something we know are a result of residential schools. That is not the only cause, and there are other causes, but there is the trauma that was inflicted on the aboriginal population. It has really caused a lot of cultural disconnect such as loss of language, culture, and traditional abilities. Some of the hunting and trapping pursuits are no longer happening. We have lost a lot when it comes to pride in our identity. It has resulted in addictions, in suicides, and in many issues that are going to plague us for a long time.It really embarrassed us, in a way, to have housed a residential school in our community, a community we are very proud of. At the same time, our adults, our elders, were very helpless to stop the abuse. As a young child, I watched the float planes come in and the children would be gathered up. I watched as some of my family and friends cried and begged their parents not to be put on that plane. It really created a lot of hard feelings between the families.Our Prime Minister has talked to the Pope about an apology. I have real mixed feelings. We need the church to acknowledge there was wrongdoing. We need to acknowledge that the church has a responsibility for what has happened to many of the people who attended residential schools.(1525)It was very disappointing to have the Pope say that the church did not want to apologize. I think that members of the church have to speak up. We would then be able to accept the apology and be ready to move on.It is my responsibility to speak here today because historically, the people who made the decision to bring in the residential school policy were sitting in these very seats, one of which I now occupy. We want to make change. We have a number of recommendations to bring forward and things that we need to see dealt with. I am hoping that this will be one more that we will be able to put aside and thank the Pope.Aboriginal residential schoolsCanadian historyChild abuseCultural assimilationDrugs and alcoholFort ProvidenceOpposition motionsRoman Catholic ChurchSplitting speaking timeTruth and Reconciliation Commission of CanadaGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestJimEglinskiYellowhead//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Papal Apology on Residential Schools]InterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (1530)[English]Mr. Speaker, it was a huge moment when we had our former prime minister apologize to the people who went to residential schools. It went a long way in acknowledging that there was a wrongdoing. However, although the principles behind the residential schools were established by the government, they were run by the church. The church was in charge of who ran the residential schools, who worked with the children, and which priest or nun worked where. The issues that we are talking about, the abuse that happened, were done by priests, nuns, brothers, and others who were working for the church. They were part of the Catholic religion, and they were the ones carrying out what the government had put together as a policy. We have many people who are strong Catholics and still part of the church, and they need to know that the church has taken responsibility for its part, like we all have to.Aboriginal residential schoolsFrancis, PopeOpposition motionsRoman Catholic ChurchJimEglinskiYellowheadLindaDuncanEdmonton Strathcona//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Papal Apology on Residential Schools]InterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (1530)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I indicated earlier, I had mixed feelings about speaking to this motion and all of us in the House of Commons passing a motion to call on the Pope to issue an apology, because forcing someone to apologize does not really sit well with me. However, I think it is important that we flag the issue that the Pope has not really taken responsibility for what has happened in our communities.We have generations of people who attended residential schools. It is important to note that there were two phases of the residential schools. There were residential schools run by the church, but for the people of my generation who attended residential schools, by that time, the government had taken them over, and the program was more hospitable and things improved quite a bit. However, the church had a role. The people who worked in the residential schools and did so much damage were working for the Catholic Church, and I think the Pope needs to step up.Aboriginal residential schoolsFrancis, PopeOpposition motionsRoman Catholic ChurchLindaDuncanEdmonton StrathconaBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNorman PetersInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is with great sadness that I stand to recognize the death of Norman Peters, loved by all Islanders as the Bearded Skipper. Norman was a lifelong fisherman from North Rustico, serving as president of the North Shore Fishermen's Association for two decades, representing fishermen in many roles in the P.E.I. Fishermen's Association, and serving on many committees for his industry and the province. He was a giant as a representative for the lobster fishery on a trade mission to China. Norman was loved by all who met him. His image as the Bearded Skipper was seen as a Canadian symbol for the fishery. He inspired the building of a fishery museum in his hometown and ensured that the harbour was in good stead, and his fishing charters were an experience to behold, a fishing trip never forgotten by locals and tourists alike. Norman was active in his church and his community. No matter the cause, he would lend a helping hand.Our condolences go out to his wife Marie, son Corey, daughter Colleen, and family.Deaths and funeralsFisheries and fishersPeters, NormanPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersMoniquePauzéRepentignyTomKmiecCalgary Shepard//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, the fact is that we have consulted and we have over 40,000 replies. We consulted with people, the agricultural sector, and the food industry right across the country. Our government will put a food policy in place that will be a major asset to the food industry and Canada in general. Agricultural policyFood and beverage manufacturing industryFood resourcesOral questionsAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can understand my hon. colleague's concern. The only policy idea we heard from the official opposition, the Conservative Party, was how to dismantle supply management. I can assure her that we were the party that fought to implement supply management, and we are the party that will defend it.Aluminum industryCanada-United States relationsCustoms tariff and customs dutiesOral questionsTrade policyKarineTrudelJonquièreTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1510)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government believes that a sustainably developed resource sector is essential to the success of the Canadian economy. Getting this right requires us to work with indigenous peoples as equal partners through well-defined, predictable processes, like we do through co-management regimes across the north.Could the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs update this House on the steps taken to ensure co-management is at the forefront of discussions on northern resource development?Agriculture, environment and natural resourcesNorthern CanadaOral questionsSustainable developmentDominicLeBlancHon.BeauséjourYvonneJonesLabrador//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1155)[English]Mr. Speaker, what this government is doing is working with farmers to make sure that the millions of dollars that the Harper government cut from science is renewed. In fact, $100 million in agricultural science over the last two budgets have been implemented. There is $3 billion for the Canadian agricultural partnership, $75 million to increase trade, and I could go on and on.This government is going to make sure that Canadian agriculture expands and meets the $75 billion of exports by 2025. Working with our great farmers and ranchers, we will do that.Customs tariff and customs dutiesExportsGrain legumeIndiaOral questionsLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1155)[English]Mr. Speaker, Pulse Canada has been very supportive of the work the government has done to take this issue to the highest level when members went to India. We are very disappointed with the way the tariffs were implemented, but we are committed to working with our farmers and processors to make sure our industry grows. We are extremely concerned, as I said, with the way the tariffs were implemented, but we continue to work with Indian officials to make sure that we resume the trade in pulses.Customs tariff and customs dutiesExportsGrain legumeIndiaOral questionsJohnBarlowFoothillsDarrenFisherDartmouth—Cole Harbour//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by Members2018 Paralympic and Olympic Winter GamesInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, Canadians have proudly watched the Olympic and Paralympic athletes represent Canada at the Winter Games in South Korea. While I congratulate all competitors, especially those from P.E.I., I do want to single out Mark Arendz, who stood on the podium six times.Mark lived on a farm in the next community to mine, and I remember vividly the day word spread about the seven-year-old losing his arm to a grain auger. His family, his parents, and he accepted the challenges before him, and Mark insisted on learning all the life skills that came with being one-handed. Sport became his therapy, the biathlon shooting range his meditation. The results are individual gold, individual silver, three bronze, and one mixed-relay silver.Mark Arendz now holds the record for the most medals won by a Canadian in a single Paralympic Winter Games. Being selected as Canada's flag-bearer for the closing ceremony added to the honour. Mark is an inspiration and I congratulate him.Arendz, MarkParalympiansParalympic Games winter 2018Statements by MembersGaganSikandMississauga—StreetsvilleBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—Lacombe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersWorld Theatre DayInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, on March 27, we celebrate World Theatre Day.Canadians enjoy live theatre in communities large and small, including in my riding of Charlottetown. Locals, tourists, and Canadians from coast to coast to coast come to the Confederation Centre of the Arts to experience high-quality productions such as Anne of Green Gables–The Musical.[Translation]Theatre makes our communities vibrant and inclusive places. It helps us to reflect, express ourselves, and develop our creativity. Sharing our stories helps us better understand one another. It is a space where we can examine our societal issues and explore solutions.[English]In recognition of our love of theatre, I would like to celebrate our artists and creators, and all those who contribute to engage Canadians through theatre in their communities. I hope all Canadians take the time to enjoy a theatre presentation in their community on World Theatre Day.Statements by MembersTheatreWorld Theatre DayJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilDonDaviesVancouver Kingsway//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1555)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group.The first concerns the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region's 27th annual summit held in Portland, Oregon, U.S.A., from July 23 to July 27, 2017.The second concerns the 71st annual meeting of The Council of State Governments' southern legislative conference held in Biloxi, Mississippi, U.S.A., from July 29 to August 2, 2017.The third concerns the United States congressional meeting held in Washington, D.C., United States of America, from November 27 to November 29, 2017.8565-421-59-31 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region 27th Annual Summit, held in Portland, Oregon, from July 23 to 27, 20178565-421-59-32 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 71st Annual Meeting of the Southern Legislative Conference (SLC) of the Council of State Governments, held in Biloxi, Mississippi, from July 29 to August 2, 20178565-421-59-33 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at U.S. Congressional Meetings, held in Washington, D.C., from November 27 to 29, 2017Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupGengTanDon Valley NorthLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague and the House that our party is the party that fought to implement supply management, and will continue to defend supply management. As an example, when we put the program in place, we put $350 million in the program to make sure that supply management of the dairy industry remained on the cutting edge; $250 million to make sure the farmers stayed on the cutting edge; and $100 million to make sure that processors stayed on the cutting edge. We have and will continue to make sure that the supply management system remains strong in this country.Dairy farmingDairy industryFree tradeOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsKarineTrudelJonquièreGérardDeltellLouis-Saint-Laurent//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersConcurrence in Vote 10—Canadian Space AgencyInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (for the President of the Treasury Board) (3120)[English]Motion No. 35moved:That Vote 10, in the amount of $18,803,667, under Canadian Space Agency — Grants and contributions, in the Interim Estimates for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2019, be concurred in.Brison, ScottCanadian Space AgencyInterim estimates 2018-2019Interim supplyMotionsPresident of the Treasury BoardAnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (3745)[English]Mr. Speaker, on this point of order, the member was here when the motion was moved, but the member left before the vote, so the motion should stand.Interim estimates 2018-2019Interim supplyMember not in their seat during votePoints of orderJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1345)[English]Madam Speaker, I want to make some comments on one part of the member's speech. He must have read a different document than this budget document, which talks about equality and growth. He is certainly off the mark on so many of his points. This budget is all about growing the economy, assisting small businesses, assisting researchers, and increasing exports, and it is equal across the country.The member laughed about the Minister of Agriculture. I am a bit insulted by that. The Minister of Agriculture strongly supports supply management, which is key in the province of Quebec. The Minister of Agriculture was not in India, but negotiations were done and we enhanced our market opportunities in that market. This budget would increase research spending on agriculture institutions. I have seen several announcements where funding was increased for researchers at agriculture research centres across the country, the very areas that your former government cut.What you are seeing is—Agricultural researchBudget 2018 (February 27, 2018)Budget debatesEconomic prosperityFarming and farmersSupply managementWays and Means No. 19LucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersSouth Slave Arctic Winter GamesInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, I had the pleasure of attending the opening ceremonies of the 2018 South Slave Arctic Winter Games. This week, the towns of Hay River and Fort Smith will welcome nearly 2,000 athletes to compete in 19 sports, from hockey and gymnastics to dog mushing and arctic sports. The games will also put significant focus on culture and will include Dene drumming, indigenous dancing, and Métis fiddling. With teams from Alaska, Europe, Russia, and five provinces and territories, this is the largest sports and cultural event held in the Arctic.I would like to recognize the hard work of the organizing committee, the dedication of the volunteers, and the contribution of over $1.1 million from the Government of Canada for ensuring that these games are a success. I welcome the circumpolar world to the Northwest Territories and wish them the best of luck. Go, Team NWT.Arctic Winter GamesAthletesNorthwest TerritoriesStatements by MembersGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestMajidJowhariRichmond Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessBills of Exchange ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1855)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. member for bringing this bill forward.The member talked about the celebration of indigenous cultures as a key element of this, yet call to action 80 talks about reconciliation, residential schools, and the black mark on our history. I realize we have different national holidays with different purposes. Remembrance Day is a very solemn holiday, while New Year's Day is one that is very celebratory. It strikes me that in the true spirit of the calls to action that the real theme of a national holiday such as this one would be more akin to self-examination and reflection as opposed to celebration. Would the member care to comment on that?Aboriginal peoplesC-369, An Act to amend the Bills of Exchange Act, the Interpretation Act and the Canada Labour Code (National Day for Truth and Reconciliation)National Aboriginal DayPrivate Members' BillsPublic holidaysSecond readingGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill RiverGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessBills of Exchange ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1900)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak to Bill C-369, an act to amend the Bills of Exchange Act, the Interpretation Act and the Canada Labour Code (National Indigenous People Day), introduced by the member for Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River.The bill proposes to amend the Bills of Exchange Act, the Interpretation Act and the Canada Labour Code to modify the definition of holidays within each of these acts to include National Indigenous Peoples Day as part of these definitions. As a result, it would establish National Indigenous Peoples Day as a paid non-working holiday for approximately 904,000 employees working in the federally regulated private sector. This represents about 6% of Canada's workforce.[Translation]National Indigenous Peoples Day has been celebrated across Canada for 21 years. In 1996, the Government of Canada, in co-operation with national indigenous organizations, designated June 21, the summer solstice, as a day to recognize indigenous peoples in Canada. This day was designated National Aboriginal Day by way of a proclamation signed by the Right Hon. Roméo LeBlanc, the then Governor General of Canada, on the advice of the Queen's Privy Council. In 2017, the Prime Minister announced that the government intended to rename June 21 National Indigenous Peoples Day.(1905)[English]This day aims to highlight the unique and significant heritage, cultures, and contributions of first nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples. Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day fosters greater knowledge and understanding of our history and of the traditions and customs that played a key role in shaping the country we know today as Canada. It provides the perfect opportunity to learn about the people, places, and events that are a part of the history of our land and it permits us to realize the importance that diversity plays in our great country.[Translation]National Indigenous Peoples Day is one of the four celebrate Canada days. This suite of special days starts on June 21 with National Indigenous Peoples Day and includes Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24, Canadian Multiculturalism Day on June 27, and Canada Day on July 1. The celebrate Canada days put a spotlight on Canada's diverse cultures. They help us honour the heritage and backgrounds of those who came before us and those who continue to strive for a Canada that is reflective of all its citizens, a Canada that is truly inclusive.[English]Celebrations in 2017 were an opportunity for a greater number of Canadians to participate in activities in all parts of the country. Indeed, as we marked the 150th anniversary of Confederation, more Canadians than ever took part in community events and celebrations on National Indigenous Peoples Day. Through its celebrate Canada program, the Government of Canada made such investments so as to provide funding for over 1,700 community celebrations in 2017. Events were held in each province and territory. Additionally, high impact events marking the day were held in eight cities across Canada and were broadcast through a partnership with the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network and through social media. An unprecedented 1.2 million Canadians had the chance to take in these celebrations.[Translation]Every year, there is a wide range of activities on offer, including ceremonies, cultural displays, and stage performances. These activities highlight the traditions and contemporary vision of indigenous peoples. They give children and families a chance to taste foods, listen to stories, and marvel at the art and artistry of the descendants of the first inhabitants of this land.From traditional smudging ceremonies to concerts, National Indigenous Peoples Day showcases a broad spectrum of indigenous culture and proves that it is alive and important.[English]The legacy of residential schools is a stain on our past and we must seize every chance we get to rebuild relationships between indigenous communities and the rest of Canada. As the Prime Minister has stated, no relationship is more important to Canada than the relationship with indigenous peoples. In 2015, the truth and reconciliation commission presented a report that included 94 calls to action to redress the legacy of residential schools and advance the process of reconciliation. The Government of Canada committed to implementing these recommendations, including call to action 80 that urges the federal government, in collaboration with aboriginal peoples, to establish, as a statutory holiday, a national day for truth and reconciliation to honour survivors, their families, and communities, and ensure the public commemoration of the history and legacy of residential schools remains a vital component of the reconciliation process. (1910)[Translation]To that end, the hon. member for Desnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River has introduced a bill to make National Indigenous Peoples Day a paid statutory holiday for some of Canada's workforce, namely federally regulated private-sector employees. Under the Canadian constitutional framework, this is the first step in establishing a new statutory holiday. It is important to note that in order for us to designate this day as a paid holiday for all Canadians, federal public service collective agreements have to be amended, and the provinces and territories have to amend their respective laws if they have not done so already. I should note that June 21 has been a paid statutory holiday in the Northwest Territories since 2001 and in Yukon since 2017.[English]I am pleased to contribute to today's debate and to call upon the House to carefully consider all the implications of the bill before us. I think we can aspire to an outcome that is aligned with the commitment to renew the relationship between Canada and indigenous peoples based on recognition of rights, respect, and co-operation in the same way the designation of National Indigenous Peoples Day 21 years ago was the result of a process that engaged and co-operated with the community.150th Anniversary of Canadian ConfederationAboriginal peoplesC-369, An Act to amend the Bills of Exchange Act, the Interpretation Act and the Canada Labour Code (National Day for Truth and Reconciliation)Cultural diversityNational Aboriginal DayPrivate Members' BillsPublic holidaysSecond readingTruth and Reconciliation Commission of CanadaGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill RiverCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1200)[English]Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Rivière-des-Mille-Îles.I am pleased to speak to budget 2018, which lays out the government's plans to build on its previous budget and invest in our people, our communities, our resources, and give our citizens the best opportunities to drive economic growth going forward.I was privileged to chair the finance committee as it held pre-budget hearings across Canada in the fall. I want to thank all members on that committee and those from all parties who subbed in, for their work, their research, their witness selection, and their resolve to make recommendations to the government. Not always do members on committees agree, but we did have many good discussions and everybody's heart was on making the best report we could for the government's consideration.I would like to give special thanks as well to the many witnesses who spent endless hours preparing briefs and the many who appeared before committee. We heard over 300 witnesses in our pre-budget consultations. While travelling across the country during these consultations, we saw Canada's tremendous potential. Both the federal and all provincial governments have a role to play in assisting businesses and people to give them the best leg up and the best policy format on which to build economic growth.Not all of our great ideas in the pre-budget consultations or policy suggestions were put into our report or in fact into the budget, but they do provide food for thought for both this budget and for future developments, whether it is policy or budgets in the future.I certainly want to thank the Minister of Finance and Finance Canada for seriously considering the recommendations we did put forward. Many are woven through the budget proposals that are in the budget itself and will assist in achieving equality and growth, as the budget is titled.The budget proposes to invest. It looks to make Canada a leader on a number of fronts. It provides a good foundation for our kids and our grandchildren going forward.In our pre-budget consultations, we heard a lot about investing in science research, which really became to be known as the Naylor report. There was not one stop the finance committee made that the issue was not raised. The witnesses wanted us to expand on research.I want to quote from the budget itself, because this is one of the most fundamental policies put forward in the budget, “Canada's Fundamental Science Review, led by Dr. David Naylor”. It states: While Canada spends more on higher-education research and development (as a share of gross domestic product) than any other Group of Seven (G7) country, the Review identified a number of challenges that require urgent attention. These include declining funding per researcher and the need to fundamentally shift how, when and where Canada invests—encouraging more global collaboration, fostering more interdisciplinary research, and better supporting research that has the potential to be groundbreaking....In response, the Government is proposing measures to make Canada’s research environment more responsive, agile and modern in order to attract the world’s best researchers to Canada and take Canadian research to new heightsIn the budget, historic investments are proposed to support researchers. This includes more than $1.7 billion over five years to support the next generation of Canadian researchers through Canada's granting councils and research institutes.(1205)It also includes $1.3 billion over five years for investments in laboratory equipment and infrastructure that researchers rely on to this day. What we said in our pre-budget report was to use the Naylor report as a framework for the long-term support of science and research. We also added agricultural research into the mix.I went through that somewhat long explanation because I really think that is where some of Canada's greatest potential is. We have always, as a nation, been good at research and somewhat poor at commercialization. We are innovators, and we need to certainly get on top of the commercialization aspect. That investment will make a difference in our children's future. Not necessarily in the budget but also announced by the government, and tied to this whole research component, is the announcement of the development of superclusters in a number of areas, ranging from oceans research to agricultural research. That builds on the potential this country has. I think it is another great move.The budget has, as well, established programs to address the gender wage gap and to make progress toward equality in the workplace. It is another good move to find that potential in terms of getting others into the workforce, bringing more equality, and expanding our workforce and our business community and giving them the opportunity to grow, develop, and strengthen our economy. That is another good move in this budget. Simply put, the government is investing in Canadians in a responsible way. These growth-generating investments in people, communities, and the economy are being balanced by sound fiscal management. We are investing while at the same time driving down the debt ratio as a percentage of the economy. The government is taking the next steps toward equality and a more competitive, sustainable, and inclusive Canada, where science, curiosity, and innovation are working to drive economic growth.This past week I happened to attend what was called the Globe Forum in Vancouver. The theme was “The Leadership Summit for Sustainable Business”. Over 4,000 people attended, and the thrust of the conference was climate change and economic leadership. I bring this point up in the budget debate because what struck me at the Global Forum was the need to find balance. I also raise it because at that conference, there was a lot of talk about the oil and gas industry and renewable energy. One of the things that struck me at the conference was the desire to use our current natural resources as we have, in terms of being so fortunate to have oil and gas in this country, while always striving to build better technologies, with less greenhouse gases, etc., and to use those investments and returns to also improve on renewables. Although it is not really a part of this budget, it is part of the government's philosophy that we need to use what we have to build for the future. I see that I am running out of time, because there is so much to talk about in this budget, especially as it relates to Atlantic Canada. There are improvements in broadband, pre-apprentice training, skills development, and assistance for the regional development agencies, which are extremely important in my area in terms of assisting the business community and communities themselves in gaining economic opportunities and growing business in the future. In fact, last week I announced that the Thompson Potato Company has a new technology that will add value to its potato product as it goes to market.(1210)That is what this budget is all about: strengthening our economy and giving businesses and people the opportunity to grow the economy for the country as a whole and for themselves as businesses.Atlantic CanadaBudget 2018 (February 27, 2018)Budget debatesClimate change and global warmingEnergy and fuelPay equityPublic consultationScience facilitiesScientific research and scientistsStatus of womenWays and Means No. 19BruceStantonSimcoe NorthGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1215)[English]Mr. Speaker, just yesterday morning in my office I was going through some of the proposals that have come forward for the Canada summer jobs program. There are always more proposals than there is money available to assist. However, I want to say how important the Canada summer jobs program is. This government, early on, increased the funding for the Canada summer jobs program so that we could get more young people getting that experience in the workforce and the chance to get a leg up so that when they go to apply for jobs later on, they will have not only an education but experience. What I have seen with Canada summer jobs in my riding is that because of the efforts of this government, this Minister of Finance, and this Prime Minister we are able to add many more people who gain that experience as a result of the Canada summer jobs program than was the case in previous times.Budget 2018 (February 27, 2018)Budget debatesCanada Summer JobsCivil and human rightsGovernment assistanceStudent summer employmentWays and Means No. 19GarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanSheilaMalcolmsonNanaimo—Ladysmith//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1215)[English]Mr. Speaker, if there was ever a budget that emphasized women and their potential in the workforce or in being entrepreneurs or researchers, this budget is certainly it. I would just refer the member opposite to page 110 and the things talked about on that page: “helping women-owned businesses grow”; “increasing access to capital” for women; “enhancing data and knowledge” for women entrepreneurs; “improving access to federal business innovation programming”. Those are all our areas. Last week we had the opportunity to meet with people involved in the skills trades. There is pre-apprenticeship training for women who are involved in those areas. It goes without saying that this budget goes a long way to giving women more opportunities in the economy and in the business world. Budget 2018 (February 27, 2018)Budget debatesPay equityStatus of womenWays and Means No. 19SheilaMalcolmsonNanaimo—LadysmithLindaLapointeRivière-des-Mille-Îles//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Glengarry—Prescott—Russell for all his hard work for Canadian agriculture. Our government is committed to supporting clean technology in Canadian agriculture. Today, I was proud to join the member to announce an investment of $25 million to develop and adapt clean technology in Canadian agriculture. This would help our farmers stay on the cutting edge, grow our economy, and help more people join the middle class.Agricultural Clean Technology ProgramEcotechnologyFarming and farmersOral questionsFrancisDrouinGlengarry—Prescott—RussellJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, the budget builds on budget 2017 that identifies agriculture as a key sector. We invested $150 million in the protein supercluster. We invested $100 million in agricultural science after millions were cut from the budget by the previous government. We invested $75 million to promote Canada's trade with China. We invested $350 million to make sure our dairy industry remains stable, and to make sure it stays on the—Budget 2018 (February 27, 2018)Farming and farmersOral questionsLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, we know this is a serious situation. That is why we introduced Bill C-49 to establish a strong, reliable, and efficient grain transportation system for the long-term. The Minister of Transport and I have contacted CN to indicate how serious it is, and that it needs to move grain faster. I have spoken to grain farmers, and indicated to them that we are fully aware of the seriousness of the situation.C-49, An Act to amend the Canada Transportation Act and other Acts respecting transportation and to make related and consequential amendments to other ActsFreight transportationGrain handlingOral questionsRail transportation and railwaysRandyHobackPrince AlbertJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1500)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we know that the media sector is facing many upheavals because consumer habits are changing. That is why we have made a commitment to modernize our policies so that they address digital issues. The Prime Minister has been very clear on the tax issue. We made a promise, and we are going to keep it. We acknowledge that over the longer term, we will have to develop a comprehensive solution to the issue of taxing digital platforms, and we are not going to take a piecemeal approach.Electronic commerceForeign investments in CanadaInternetMedia streaming and webcastingOral questionsTaxationPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertNickWhalenSt. John's East//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Procedure and House Affairs]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1510)[English]No, Mr. Speaker, it is interparliamentary delegations.International and Interparliamentary Delegations ReportsReverting to previous itemGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1510)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group. The first concerns the Republican National Convention held in Cleveland, Ohio, United States of America, from July 18 to 20, 2016. The second relates to the annual summer meeting of the National Governors Association held in Providence, Rhode Island, U.S.A., from July 13 to 15, 2017. The third concerns the 41st annual Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers held in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, from August 27 to 29, 2017.8565-421-59-28 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Republican National Convention, held in Cleveland, Ohio, from July 18 to 20, 20168565-421-59-29 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual Summer Meeting of the National Governors Association, held in Providence, Rhode Island, from July 13 to 15, 2017 8565-421-59-30 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 41st Annual Conference of New England Governors and Eastern Canadian Premiers, held in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, from August 27 to 29, 2017Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNational Flag of Canada DayInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1400)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, 53 years ago today, the Canadian flag was raised on Parliament Hill for the very first time. Today, our flag is the strongest symbol of our Canadian identity. That is why, every year on February 15, we celebrate National Flag of Canada Day.[English]In my riding of Charlottetown, which was recently recognized by law as the birthplace of Confederation, there is immense pride in our flag. This pride can be seen while driving through the streets of our beautiful city, seeing our maple leaf proudly flying from peoples' porches. As our best and most talented athletes are currently wearing their red and white uniforms in Pyeongchang, this is perfect time to be celebrating the flag they so proudly wear.[Translation]I wish everyone in Charlottetown and across the country a very happy flag day.City of CharlottetownFlag of CanadaNational Flag of Canada DayBobZimmerPrince George—Peace River—Northern RockiesWayneStetskiKootenay—Columbia//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersIndigenous Peoples and Canada's Justice SystemInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1940)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the comments made by my former colleague on the indigenous affairs committee. We talked about a number of issues, and I know she is quite knowledgeable on the issues that are challenging aboriginal people across the country.I am one of the few MPs who still lives in an aboriginal community. Of the people in my community, 95% are indigenous, so I see these issues every day. Every month, once a month, we will see the court party come in by plane. It is almost a spectator sport, because the community pretty much has to shut down. I live in a small community of 800 people. If there is a callout for 200 jurors, the store has to shut down because all its staff has to show up. The school has to shut down because the teachers have to go. There is a list of people and the docket is so full that sometimes the court party will have to stay two or three days. Normally, the party will not, and it will have to come back, so the court list grows and grows. It is unfortunate because these are people I know. These are people who are related to me. These are my friends. We know the challenges in our communities. We know about the residential school fallout. We know about the addiction problems. We know about the sexual abuse. We know all these things exist, yet we continue to ignore them, and the system stays the same. A royal commission made recommendations 25 years ago that we have pretty much ignored up to now. We need to do more.I hear from women in my riding who cannot get child support or deal with divorce issues because they cannot manoeuvre in the system we have. How do people in a small aboriginal community out in the middle of the Northwest Territories in a remote situation get access? Over the years things have deteriorated. Support programs have disappeared. Native court worker programs are gone. How do they manoeuvre? They need someone to help them. Now is a good time to start moving forward.We need a system that allows our elders, who are much respected in our communities, to be part of the process, part of the solution. We need a support system that will deal with some of the people who end up in the correction facilities, the jails. I heard my colleague say that it is too slow, that we should have done more. Is now a good time to start the reforms to bring changes across the government, which includes justice?Aboriginal peoplesBacklogsConsideration in a Committee of the WholeGovernment Business No. 20Justice systemTake-note debatesCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersFisheries ActInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1035)[English]Madam Speaker, this new Fisheries Act has been well received on the east coast by fishers, particularly the protection it will afford to the owner-operator, which goes to the heart of our inshore fishery in Atlantic Canada.One of the issues there is concern on is that there is a hint of rescinding or transferring licences to new holders after a fixed period of time. Inshore fishers work for years to pay off the debt attached to their vessels, licences, and gear. They rightly see those assets as their only pension plan for their future.Could the minister elaborate on whether he is anticipating any changes that would impact on the ability of those inshore fishers to transfer their licences and receive remuneration for that?C-68, An Act to amend the Fisheries Act and other Acts in consequenceFisheries and fishersFisheries licencesFishing boatsGovernment billsInshore fisherySecond readingSelf-employed workersDominicLeBlancHon.BeauséjourDominicLeBlancHon.Beauséjour//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, the fact is, as I have said many times, we are the party that implemented supply management and we are the government that is going to protect it. We are going to put programs in place in order to make sure that our food and vegetable sector are also in the trade to export around the world. We also put a program in place after CETA to make sure that the dairy industry itself was on the cutting edge, $250 million. We put another $100 million in place to make sure that the processing sector was in place. We have and will continue to—Family farmsGovernment assistanceOral questionsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that the government is committed to the financial success of our fruit and vegetable farmers. We will be creating a single dispute resolution body, which should resolve the majority of non-payment incidents faced by our producers. Working with farmers, today we are going to make a number of announcements that will indicate just how much more we fully support the agriculture and agrifood sector across the country.Canada-United States relationsHorticultureInternational tradeOral questionsPerishable Agricultural Commodities Act (PACA)Perishable foodAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordEdFastHon.Abbotsford//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I assure my hon. colleague that we have been listening to farmers and that we are responding to farmers. In fact, we invested $100 million in agricultural science. That is much better than cutting some money in agricultural science. An innovations fund of $1.1 billion is available to agriculture. We have agreed with the provinces and territories to put the CAP, the Canadian agricultural partnership, in place; $3 billion for the agriculture and agrifood sector; and it goes on. In order to increase trade, we have approved CETA and we have agreed to the CPTPP.Farming and farmersOral questionsPublic consultationLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, we are extremely concerned and disappointed with India's increase in import duties, without any advance notice to Canada or any other nation. We are raising our concerns with the Government of India, including on a recent trade mission by the Minister of International Trade, who brought it up on every occasion.This week I was in Saskatchewan meeting with the pulse farmers and announced funding for market development. What we want to do is to create more markets for the pulse industry in this country.ExportsGrain legumeIndiaInternational trade missionsOral questionsTrade agreementsEarlDreeshenRed Deer—Mountain ViewTedFalkProvencher//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the hon. member for Miramichi—Grand Lake for his hard work for our farmers and ranchers throughout this country. Today, I am celebrating Canada's Agriculture Day by launching six federal programs under the Canadian agricultural partnership. The partnership will drive a strong agenda for the future of Canadian agriculture. These investments will ensure Canadian agriculture remains a leader in job creation and innovation and to make sure that we reach our target of $75 billion of agriculture and agri-food exports by 2025.Agricultural policyCanadian Agricultural PartnershipOral questionsPatFinniganMiramichi—Grand LakeSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—Charlevoix//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1200)[English]Mr. Speaker, the CPTPP gives farmers and ranchers across the country a great opportunity, and of course it would put dollars in their pockets. This government has supported, and will continue to support, the supply management system. It is the party that fought to put the system in place, and it is the government that will continue to defend it.Free tradeOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipSimonMarcilMirabelGabrielSte-MarieJoliette//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersArctic Inspiration Prize WinnersInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, Wednesday of last week was a big night for the Northwest Territories here in Ottawa. I was pleased to attend the Arctic Inspiration Prize ceremony on January 31, where two organizations from my riding were announced as winners. Dene Heroes Publication, whose project enables indigenous youth to contribute to books about inspiring people in their community, received $100,000. The grand prize of $1 million was awarded to the Arctic Indigenous Wellness Foundation. Their team is establishing a centre in Yellowknife that will provide traditional healing services to northerners. I say congratulations to both organizations, and I look forward to their continued success in the years to come.Arctic Inspiration PrizeNorthern CanadaStatements by MembersGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanStéphaneLauzonArgenteuil—La Petite-Nation//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersRoyal Canadian NavyInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, in mid-December I and three other MPs were fortunate to participate in the Canadian leaders at sea program through the Department of Defence.Upon boarding the submarine HMCS Windsor and sailing out of Halifax, the Windsor submerged in the Atlantic, and we experienced life on a submarine under the sea. Remarkable is how I would describe the crew as they avoided detection from surface vessels and helicopters and performed various other military exercises.After surfacing and being transferred to the frigate HMCS Toronto, we enjoyed some of that famous navy food, defended against mock night boarders, and had to be belted into our bunks to prevent being tossed onto the floor. On the Toronto we participated in and observed fire drills, the prevention of boarders, mock damage, electronic and air attacks, and general surveillance.The highlight was getting to know the men and women on board and their expertise. There is no doubt that we are in good hands with our navy. We thank them for their dedication.Canadian Leaders at SeaHMCS TorontoHMCS WindsorNavyRoyal Canadian NavyStatements by MembersK. KellieLeitchHon.Simcoe—GreyPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, this dairy agreement will give significant opportunity to our farmers and ranchers right across this country. The government fully understands the importance of the supply management system. In fact, this is the party that initiated supply management and this is the government that will defend supply management. That is why we are sitting down with the dairy industry across this country in order to work a plan forward, to make sure that the dairy industry and all our agricultural sectors remain strong in this country.Dairy industryFarming and farmersFree tradeOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased that the dairy farmers are here today. In fact, I have sat down with the dairy farmers, all of the supply sector, on numerous occasions.When this CPTPP has been signed, I will sit down and discuss the path forward, to make sure that our supply management that this party put in place, that this government will defend on a united front, I might add, and the agricultural sector, continue to thrive in this country.Farming and farmersFree tradeOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question because it gives me an opportunity to indicate in fact what we have done. We put a $350 million program in place and ordered that $250 million would be put to the dairy farmers in order to make sure they remain on the cutting edge. I can tell my hon. colleague and the House that $25 million of that has already been approved. What it is doing is making sure that the supply management sector in the dairy industry remains strong and on the cutting edge. Farming and farmersFree tradeOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableFrancescoSorbaraVaughan—Woodbridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question. The fact of the matter is, as I have said many times in this House, we are the party that fought to implement supply management and we are the government that is going to defend it. We have done that with action, with the innovation program for the dairy sector. The CPTPP gives opportunity for all the agricultural sectors right across this country, which is a significant opportunity. With that, we fully understand how important supply management is for this country. We have and will continue to make sure that we fully support the supply management program.Farming and farmersFree tradeOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéPeterFragiskatosLondon North Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Conflicts of Interest]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1545)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have been thinking about this for a long time and this motion is the opportunity to bring it forward.When are we, as parliamentarians, going to get over the gotcha politics on some issues? I know there has to be opposition, but the point I want to make is this. I do not care whether it is Stephen Harper, Paul Martin, Jean Chrétien, or the current Prime Minister. As a country, we should be proud that those prime ministers were and are secure when travelling. There is one reason 24 Sussex has not been fixed up for three decades. It is because if any prime minister did, it would not matter which party, the other opposition parties would stand up and say, “Look at the millions they are wasting.”Two Parliaments ago, cabinet ministers in the House were flying commercially when they should have been flying on the Challengers. The reason they were was the opposition parties. We would do the same if we were on that side. Any other country would ensure that their parliamentary secretaries or cabinet ministers could fly securely, that they could carry secure documents, and be proud of what they do for their country. We somehow have to rethink this. This is a matter of security for the Prime Minister. I am not going to get into the Ethics Commissioner's report, but this is a matter of security for the Prime Minister and we are belittling ourselves by the way we deal with some of these issues. The Prime Minister is flying around in an Airbus that is how old? I remember when Brian Mulroney bought that Airbus, for which he was attacked, so he did not change it to a more efficient aircraft, like a C Series Bombardier plane, that would have enabled us to fly proudly around the world. The Prime Minister knows the minute he does it, instead of advertising our products around the world and ensuring his own security, he would be attacked for doing it.I am saying that we need think about this and what we are doing to our cabinet and to our country with the way we handle these issues.Cabinet ministersConflict of interestExpensesGiftsOpposition motionsPrime MinisterReferences to membersReimbursementSecurity servicesTravelTrudeau, JustinLarryBagnellHon.YukonLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1500)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I thank my hon. colleague for Laurentides—Labelle for his question and his excellent work.Our government is proud of its nearly $600,000 investment to relocate the Centre d'exposition de Mont-Laurier. This investment will enable the centre to further diversify its programming and improve the quality of its educational activities. This is yet another investment our government has made in our creators as part of the creative Canada program.Centre d'exposition de Mont-LaurierGovernment assistanceMont-LaurierMuseums and galleriesOral questionsDavid de BurghGrahamLaurentides—LabelleLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsTaxationInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1830)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my hon. colleague from Sherbrooke for giving us a chance to talk about the many benefits of the agreement with Netflix. This government strongly believes that the establishment of a new Canadian business in the film and television production sector by Netflix is wonderful news for Canadian creators and producers, and ultimately for our cultural industries as a whole.The approval of this significant investment in Canada under the Investment Canada Act is yet another indication of our government's strong commitment to growing Canada's creative industries, with new investments that create more opportunities for creators and producers across the country. In fact, this major investment of a minimum of $500 million over the next five years on original productions in Canada will provide them with even greater access to financing, business partners, and ultimately new ways to connect with audiences across the globe.Such an unprecedented investment by a digital platform in Canada, a first of its kind for Netflix outside of the United States, is yet another confirmation to the world that Canada is a great place to invest, attesting to the creative talent of this country and the strong track record of our cultural industries in creating films and television productions that really stand out.[Translation]It is important to make a distinction between the cultural activities of Netflix Canada, which has committed to investing a minimum of $500 million Canadian in the production of Canadian-made films and television series, with the activities of its U.S.-based video streaming service. These are in fact two separate kinds of cultural activities.It is also important to reiterate that all businesses, including those involved in television and film production that set up and operate in Canada, must abide by the Canadian tax system, which includes GST. Given that Netflix Canada plans to operate a production company in Canada, it will have to comply with all GST-related rules, which could apply to its production activities in Canada.[English]Lastly I would like to point out that Netflix announced last week that it has acquired the award-winning Canadian film, Les Affamés, written and directed by Robin Aubert, one of the most unique voices in Quebec's cinema, to be made available on the international market as early as this coming March. This represents the first of many Canadian films and television series to be acquired or produced by Netflix Canada as a result of its significant investment announced last fall.Adjournment ProceedingsCanadian contentForeign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixTaxationUnited States of AmericaPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrookePierre-LucDusseaultSherbrooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsTaxationInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1835)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, Netflix Canada created a new film and television production company. This is great news for Canadian creators and producers.Once again, over the next five years, Netflix will invest a minimum of $500 million Canadian in original productions produced in Canada in English and in French for distribution on Netflix's global platform. [English]Let us not forget that Netflix already has a strong track record of investing in Canadian producers and content, with recent examples including Anne and Alias Grace with the CBC, Travelers with Showcase, and Frontier with Discovery. We believe that this significant investment in Canada demonstrates that Netflix is committed to continuing to be a meaningful partner in supporting Canadian creators, producers, and the Canadian creative expression.Adjournment ProceedingsCanadian contentForeign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixTaxationUnited States of AmericaPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrookeBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—Bagot//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1000)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1) I have the honour to present, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group. The first concerns the 10th annual conference of the Southeastern United States - Canadian Provinces Alliance, held in Toronto, Ontario, June 4 to 6, 2017. The second concerns the summer meeting of the Western Governors' Association held in Whitefish, Montana, United States of America, June 26 to 28, 2017. The third concerns the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance conference held in Washington, D.C., United States of America, October 1 to 3, 2017.I want to thank all the participants from all parties, because we really worked together on the objectives of Canada in those conferences. It was really collegial on all sides. 8565-421-59-25 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 10th Annual Conference of the Southeastern United States-Canadian Provinces (SEUS-CP) Alliance, held in Toronto, Ontario, from June 4 to 6, 20178565-421-59-26 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Summer Meeting of the Western Governors' Association (WGA), held in Whitefish, Montana, from June 26 to 28, 20178565-421-59-27 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance (Can/AM BTA) Conference, held in Washington, D.C., from October 1 to 3, 2017 Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupDenisParadisHon.Brome—MissisquoiJulieDabrusinToronto—Danforth//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for her question.[English]This trade agreement will open up doors for producers across Quebec and all across the country, whether it is beef, pork, grain, or our world-class maple syrup products. In Japan alone, tariffs of 70.5% on Canadian maple syrup and maple sugar will be eliminated in three years.This will create more growth and more opportunities for our maple industry, put more money in the pockets of our producers, and help more people join the middle class.Free tradeMaple sugar industryOral questionsTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipLindaLapointeRivière-des-Mille-ÎlesDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, the fact of the matter is that I think my hon. colleague is fully aware that when the CETA was signed, he saw exactly what would happen. He saw that we stood behind the agricultural sector. He saw that we put $350 million in place in order to make sure the dairy farmers were on the cutting edge, to make sure that the manufacturers were on the cutting edge. My hon. colleague will find out that this government has and will continue to support the agricultural sector, including the supply management sector, in this country.Farming and farmersGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableAnne Minh-ThuQuachSalaberry—Suroît//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1510)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's concern. He is certainly fully aware of the issue in India and that we are very disappointed the Indian government decided to put a tariff on without any consultation, not only with Canada but worldwide. I have visited other countries and made sure that this type of practice is totally unfair. Our officials are dealing with the countries and with India and trying to resolve the issue.ExportsGrain legumeIndiaItalyLentilsOral questionsTrade agreementsTriticum turgidum var. durumJohnBarlowFoothillsElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf Islands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersTobacco ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1215)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate the member for Vancouver Kingsway on his remarks. It was a very frank assessment of the situation that we face with smoking, and a very frank assessment of the bill and some changes that may need to be made.I, and probably many people in the House, have seen some of those little packages that look like cosmetics with the fancy little cigarettes in them. They are attractive. They do look nice. It is a marketing vehicle.The member talked a little about illegal tobacco. I have met with people in the tobacco industry a few times, and they argue that there is an increasing amount of illegal tobacco with other impurities in it being smoked in the country. People do not know what is in it. They outline some concerns that this type of packaging would make it easier for illegal tobacco.Could the member expand on that and how we deal with that problem? What would the member's response be to the tobacco industry in regard to illegal tobacco?Government billsS-5, An Act to amend the Tobacco Act and the Non-smokers' Health Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsSecond readingSenate billsTobacco productsTobacco traffickingDonDaviesVancouver KingswayDonDaviesVancouver Kingsway//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, the fact of the matter is that, as my hon. colleague is likely well aware, this is the party that fought to implement supply management, and this is the government that is going to protect it. An example is the CETA program. We put a $350 million program in place to make sure that the dairy farmers and the manufacturing sector were on the cutting edge. We have and will continue to make sure that the supply management system in this country remains strong.Farming and farmersGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementAndrewScheerHon.Regina—Qu'AppelleXavierBarsalou-DuvalPierre-Boucher—Les Patriotes—Verchères//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's concern, but I am sure she is fully aware that this deal creates a great opportunity for our farmers and ranchers right across this country. Also, we understand very well the importance of supply management. This is the party that fought to implement it and this is the government that will defend it. We will sit down with the supply-management sector and discuss how we are going to move forward.Free tradeLayoffs and job lossesOral questionsTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipKarineTrudelJonquièreBernadetteJordanSouth Shore—St. Margarets//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that this government has supported and will continue to support the supply management system. As I said many times in this House, it is a symbol for the world. I indicated before and I want to indicate again that we are the party that fought to implement supply management, and I can assure my hon. colleague that we are the government that is going to defend supply management.Farming and farmersGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableRandallGarrisonEsquimalt—Saanich—Sooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Pontiac for his hard work on the Canadian organic sector.Last Friday in Guelph, I was proud to announce federal funding in support of Canadian organic standards. This funding will help our organic industry remain competitive at home and around the world. Working together with our world-class organic producers, we will reach our government's $75 billion of agriculture and exports by 2025, grow our economy, and increase the middle class.Oral questionsOrganic farming and horticultureTrading standardsWilliamAmosPontiacMichelleRempelHon.Calgary Nose Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersSalaries ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1105)[Translation]Madam Speaker, I heard my colleague's speech, in which he, in a way, criticizes the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development, and I just wanted to defend the minister.I very much appreciate the member and his party's new-found interest in our regions. Perhaps it would have been a good idea for the Conservatives to take such an interest when they were in power.[English]My colleague opposite seems to have a problem with the minister for ACOA being from Mississauga. In the province of Prince Edward Island, after 10 long, lean years, we now have a subsea cable to New Brunswick that will substantially aid our economic development. We now have substantial investments at the University of Prince Edward Island. We now have waste water systems being built in Prince Edward Island that will substantially aid our future. We now have substantial investments in incubators, which we never, ever saw under the previous government.From his perch in Quebec, would the member like to reconsider his critique of the value of the Minister of Innovation to Prince Edward Island and Atlantic Canada?C-24, An Act to amend the Salaries Act and to make a consequential amendment to the Financial Administration ActCabinet ministersGovernment billsPrince Edward IslandRegional development agenciesRegional diversityThird reading and adoptionAlupaClarkeBeauport—LimoilouAlupaClarkeBeauport—Limoilou//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessRecognition of Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation ActInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1110)[English]Madam Speaker, I am pleased to rise in the House today to speak in support of Bill S-236 that was introduced by my colleague, the member of Parliament for Malpeque. It was interesting to listen to my colleague, the opposition member, speak about the recognition that indeed Charlottetown is birthplace of Confederation and of this wonderful country we call Canada.Why I want to speak in support of the bill today is because my political career began in the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island. I will be the only member voting in support of this piece of legislation who has sat in the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island, with the hope that the House will recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of this wonderful country. In that, I have a great deal of honour in having sat in that assembly and now being in the House of Commons when this bill is being debated.The history of how the meeting came about has been well documented. It was a meeting organized by maritime colonies to consider a union among the colonies. The Upper Canadian colonies invited themselves, literally, to attend the conference. From that, it is documented in history that, through that conference, a shared vision was created of a union of the British North American colonies and the creation of this new country.When we look at Canada today as being a beacon in the world for people fleeing oppression, war, and various other atrocities occurring across the world, we can look at the creation of this country. What I am particularly proud of, as a parliamentarian sitting today in the House of Commons, is the diversity of the backgrounds of the people sitting in the House of Commons representing this country. In my own case, on my father's side, my ancestry is Irish. We all know that the Irish fled Ireland during the Great Famine to come to a new world for new opportunities, and they found it in Canada, on Prince Edward Island. On my mother's side, my ancestry is French Acadian. My ancestors fled Grand-Pré in Nova Scotia. They were fleeing strife and war, and found a welcoming environment in Prince Edward Island. To this day, this country still reaches out to people fleeing oppression, war, and a number of atrocities across the world. That is what Canada is all about, and that is why I am proud to be a parliamentarian standing for those freedoms and rights.We cannot forget that it was the indigenous people who welcomed us. Regardless of our cultural backgrounds, they welcomed us here. It was the Mi'kmaq of Prince Edward Island who welcomed the Acadians as they were being expelled by the British from Grand-Pré in Nova Scotia. They also welcomed the Irish who were forced to flee Ireland due to famine.Today, having the opportunity to speak in support of Bill S-236 that would recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation, is indeed an honour for me, as I indicated, having served in the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island for 18 years. I can recall the first time that I took my seat in that legislative assembly. I looked around and, although small, I recognized the history of that chamber. (1115)From that meeting, in that chamber, this wonderful country, this great nation called Canada, came about. We it owe our forefathers, who had the vision at that time, to recognize that we had to overcome a number of obstacles and disagreements to come up with a shared vision. That shared vision continues. It is debated from time to time, and each new Parliament adds dimension to that vision as Canada evolves as a nation on the world stage.From where we are today, it all began in Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. That is why I am pleased to speak in the House of Commons here today, now as a member of Parliament from Prince Edward Island, in support of Bill S-236 that will recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation.Canadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownPrivate Members' BillsS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSenate billsThird reading and adoptionK. KellieLeitchHon.Simcoe—GreyStevenMacKinnonGatineau//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessRecognition of Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1120)[English]Madam Speaker, this is the moment we have been waiting for, and I will conclude with many thanks to all colleagues who have contributed to the debate and discussion of Bill S-236, an act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation, including especially those who took the time during third reading to express their vision for Canada's future.I want to quote a member from each of the parties. The member for Carlton Trail—Eagle Creek, with the official opposition, said:This bill gives us the wonderful opportunity to remember and honour our national history, to recall the humble beginnings and soaring dreams of the first of our leaders, who dreamed of a united Canada.I cannot think of a better way or better time for us to celebrate our accomplishments, both at home and around the world, than by passing a bill like this in our sesquicentennial year.The member for Victoria, with the third party, said:Being proud of a country's heritage and commemorating important historical events is worthwhile for most countries, but I think it is especially so for Canada. We should feel proud of our accomplishments. We are a country comprising remarkably diverse regions and remarkably diverse people. As Canada moves forward to the next 150 years of nationhood, I hope we can strive to be more inclusive of other voices and cultural narratives so that they might also be celebrated and acknowledged.The member for Charlottetown said:As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, we can see the evolution of our country, our democracy, and our values. Our very roots, as evidenced by what took place in Charlottetown, were not about conflict or war: They were about finding mutual ground and working out our differences.Those three quotes, from different parties in this House, sum up to a great extent what Canada is all about. The passing of this bill means a great deal to Prince Edward Island and to our provincial legislature, which passed an unanimous motion encouraging the support of parliamentarians, and to the Atlantic region as we share and develop the Confederation story. For Canada, this has been a chance to recognize and honour Confederation, and reflect on important ways in which we must work to shape the future of our country.To close, it is the character of Canada, that vision founded in 1864, some of the things coming out of that meeting, that we are a country that works by negotiation. We are seen on the world stage in that light as well. It is that idea of coming together in common cause that has shaped our history since its founding.The Charlottetown Conference certainly may be viewed as the watershed moment in the story of Confederation, the point at which Confederation turned from idea into prospect. This is what Bill S-236 is all about, recognition of Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation.My colleagues and I humbly ask for this House's support in this year of Canada's 150 celebration. It seems quite appropriate to do it at this time. Simply put, I ask the House to get it done and pass Bill S-236.Canadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownPrivate Members' BillsS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSenate billsThird reading and adoptionStevenMacKinnonGatineauCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1435)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government has always been very clear on this, and our position has not changed. We understand the concerns of the francophone cultural sector. We want to reassure the cultural sector of our support and point out that we have made historic investments in support of our culture. We have made massive investments in arts and culture, over $2.3 billion to be precise. We have reinvested in the Canada media fund to support television production. These investments have a tangible impact on our artists' lives.Foreign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsTaxationPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrookeErinWeirRegina—Lewvan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1445)[Translation] Mr. Speaker, we know that trustworthy journalistic content is essential to a healthy democracy. Our thoughts are with the employees and their families who have been affected by these cuts. Canadians value local media, and we will continue to support this industry. We have already announced that we are going to modernize our programs to better support the newspaper industry, both in print and online. We take this issue very seriously. Closing of facilitiesCommunity newspapersLayoffs and job lossesOral questionsPrint mediaBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, our thoughts are with the workers and their families affected by the cuts in the print media industry. Canadians value local news, and our government will continue to support it. We know that reliable journalistic content is critical to a healthy democracy. We have already announced that we will be modernizing our programs to better support local media in both paper and digital formats. Our approach will be to support innovation, adaptation, and transition to the digital era. This is something our government takes very seriously.Closing of facilitiesCommunity newspapersLayoffs and job lossesOral questionsPrint mediaTraceyRamseyEssexAlexandraMendèsBrossard—Saint-Lambert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, we are extremely concerned and disappointed with India's increase in import duties of 50% on all peas without providing any advance notification. We are raising our concerns with the Government of India, including the recent trade mission, led by the Minister of International Trade, who raises this issue at every opportunity. We will continue to work with our farmers to make sure they get every opportunity possible.Grain legumeOral questionsTrade agreementsJohnBarlowFoothillsGordJohnsCourtenay—Alberni//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1500)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for St. John's East for his question and for his excellent work.Last week, for the first time ever, a temporary family skating rink was installed on Parliament Hill.[English]In addition to free family skating time, 32 peewee hockey teams from coast to coast to coast will be here to compete in the “Hockey on the Hill” tournament. This will be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for these young players. We look forward to welcoming all Canadians as we close out the Canada 150 celebrations.HockeyOral questionsParliament HillYoung peopleGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestStevenBlaneyHon.Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1505)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government has always been clear on this, and our position has not changed. We understand the concerns of the francophone cultural sector. We want to reassure people and and remind them that we have made historic investments in support of our culture.We have made massive investments in arts and culture, over $2.3 billion to be precise. We have reinvested in the Canada media fund to support television production. These investments have a tangible impact on our artists' lives.Foreign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsTaxationXavierBarsalou-DuvalPierre-Boucher—Les Patriotes—VerchèresGabrielSte-MarieJoliette//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1205)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 21st report of the Standing Committee on Finance entitled, “Driving Inclusive Growth: Spurring Productivity And Competitiveness In Canada”. I want to especially thank committee members of all parties for their long hours and diligent work, and the public for their input, with over 400 submissions made and over 300 witnesses appearing. Finally, I want to thank the clerk of the committee, Suzie Cadieux; the analysts, Brett Capstick and Andrew Barton; and the research assistants, Shaowei Pu and Stephanie Stark. I am hopeful that the summary of this report, which includes some 92 recommendations, will assist the government in moving forward to assist the business community and persons in this country into becoming more competitive and productive so that we become a more prosperous society for Canadians well into the future.8510-421-316 "Driving Inclusive Growth: Spurring Productivity And Competitiveness In Canada"Dissenting or supplementary opinionsPre-budget consultationsStanding Committee on FinanceLindaLapointeRivière-des-Mille-ÎlesBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersPartnership for Peace ConsortiumInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, last May, I was a guest at a partnership for peace conference in Budapest, Hungary, where I presented the Canadian perspective on intelligence reform and best practices. A specific focus was given to areas of improvement and the need to integrate commonly understood ethics with intelligence practices. The conference was sponsored by the Partnership for Peace Consortium of Defense Academies and Security Studies Institutes. Canada is an active member of the organization. The consortium promotes multinational collaboration on security and defence reform. Canada's membership in such multinational organizations helps shape future global security decision-making and promotes Canadian interests and values. May the House recognize the Partnership for Peace Consortium's contribution in promoting stability, security, and democracy. Ethics and ethical issuesInternational affairs and defenceMilitary trainingNational securityPartnership for Peace Consortium of Defense Academies and Security Studies InstitutesSecurity intelligenceStatements by MembersScottReidLanark—Frontenac—KingstonHélèneLaverdièreLaurier—Sainte-Marie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1445)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, the Arctic is one of our greatest treasures. As the member for Northwest Territories, I know how precious our coastlines, oceans, and fisheries are for the people of the north and for all Canadians.[English]As climate change changes our landscapes and ecosystems, we have a responsibility to protect them now more than ever. Could the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard please update the House on what the government is doing to protect the high seas of the central Arctic Ocean?Agreements and contractsArctic fisheriesArctic OceanIllegal, unreported and unregulated fishing activitiesOral questionsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestDominicLeBlancHon.Beauséjour//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEmploymentInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, those of us on the government side ran on a platform of investing in Canadians, creating jobs, and growing the economy. In fact, last week the reports coming out showed that the economy is doing very well, meaning more Canadians are working in productive work and adding to the economy. But there are others who are not participating in the economy and are still looking for work. Can the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour tell me what she is going to do to build on—Job creationOral questionsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessRecognition of Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.)(1100)[English]Motion for concurrence moved that the bill be concurred in.(Motion agreed to)Canadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownDecisions of the HouseMotion for concurrence in committee reportsPrivate Members' BillsReport stageS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSenate billsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestWayneEasterHon.Malpeque//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessRecognition of Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter(1105)[English]Bill S-236. Third reading moved that the bill be read the third time and passed. He said: Mr. Speaker, it is a great honour for me to rise again to speak to Bill S-236, an act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation.It has been a privilege to be a part of and to witness the debate and discussions surrounding the bill in both the other place and within the House. At the legal and constitutional affairs committee in the other place, four amendments were made to the bill. One was a correction in translation and the other three improved the context and clarified the content of the bill. That debate brought renewed interest in the story of our great nation's founding and improved the bill.Let me once again reiterate the bill's fundamental objectives: to affirm Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation; to complement provincial efforts; and, to build on the designation of Charlottetown as the birthplace of our country in order to honour, celebrate, share, and educate.In the spirit of building on this designation, it is important to acknowledge once again a point that was raised throughout the examination of the bill, that being the lack of inclusive discussions at the Charlottetown Conference in 1864. Those were indeed different times. No indigenous people were involved and no women participated.Dr. Ed MacDonald of the University of Prince Edward Island made an important point before the Senate committee on legal and constitutional affairs, “Confederation is not Canada, and it is not the story of Canada. It is one of the stories of Canada.”I would like to fully read into the record, as was done in the other place, the statement issued by the Mi'kmaq Confederacy when consulted by my hon. colleague Senator Diane Griffin:While the chiefs are generally supportive of the concept of Charlottetown being recognized as the birthplace of Confederation, they note that Prince Edward Island has been the home of the Mi'kmaq people for over 12,000 years, yet they were not invited to the Charlottetown Conference. In creating this legislative recognition, the chiefs believe that moving forward, the Government of Canada must include the indigenous peoples of this land on a nation-to-nation basis in all matters. This would also involve honouring the historic peace and friendship treaties with the Mi'kmaq.Though we cannot rewrite history we can move forward with the lessons that we have learned over time and recognize and value the importance of an inclusive society, one that respects diversity in all of its forms and the value that it brings. In my view, the Charlottetown Conference was a beginning and in each of the 153 years since that time, we have built on that vision and we will build further on that vision going forward.The Charlottetown Conference may be viewed as the watershed moment in the story of Confederation, the point at which Confederation turned from idea into prospect. However, the importance of the Quebec Conference in 1864 and the London Conference two years later cannot be understated.During consideration in the other place, the preamble of Bill S-236 was amended in order to acknowledge those important conferences and to recognize Confederation as a process, a result achieved through the participation of many.Before I became an MP I served for quite a number of years as president of the National Farmers Union. In that capacity I had the opportunity to travel in many of the farming areas of this country and spend the night in people's homes, to live in the communities, and to see the differences in the regions within Canada from coast to coast to coast. That experience showed me the great potential of this country. Canada may be diverse in terms of our regions and our sectors but in that diversity we find strength. I really do believe the founding fathers built better than they knew and we have tremendous potential for progress in the future.(1110)Let me come back to the theme of inclusiveness and relationship building. It is my hope that Bill S-236 will inspire reflection on how we can build on the story of Confederation, and how together we can develop a narrative moving forward. One possibility is to develop the narrative through tourism. As the member for Malpeque, it is my privilege to represent an area that is so rich in culture, history, and beauty. Each year, my province welcomes many Canadians and international visitors from around the world, as do many other areas of Canada. We have some of Canada's most incredible treasures in Prince Edward Island, and we do not take that responsibility for their stewardship lightly. Islanders recognize as well the value of Province House, the last remaining building of the Confederation conferences and the story of Confederation, to boost tourism and serve as an important economic generator for us. We also recognize the importance of a common vision to promote growth. In the spirit of Sir John A. Macdonald and the Fathers of Confederation, who travelled to New Brunswick and throughout the Maritimes after the conference in Charlottetown, I am confident that together we will find new and innovative ways to attract and educate Canadian and international visitors alike and build on both the rich history of Canada's Atlantic region and the story of Confederation. It is important to reflect on that foundational time in our history as we near the end of the year-long celebration of our nation's 150th birthday. We look forward to the next 150 years as a progressive, inclusive, and growing country. I want to thank those who have contributed in important ways to where we find ourselves today with the bill: Senator Diane Griffin, the sponsor in the other place; the member for Charlottetown; former MP George Proud; many other islanders who worked hard toward gaining the bill; Dr. Ed MacDonald; and all my colleagues in this place and the other place whose invaluable contributions to the bill made it better. The debate itself has allowed us to reflect, to honour, and to educate during this important year for Canada.It is my hope that the next time I walk over the time-worn steps of Province House and stand in the chamber where the Fathers stood that this moment, which is enshrined in history, will also be enshrined in law.Aboriginal peoplesCanadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownMaritime CanadaPrivate Members' BillsS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSenate billsThird reading and adoptionTourismWayneEasterHon.MalpequeKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessRecognition of Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1115)[English]Mr. Speaker, I welcome the member's comments and thank him for his compliments for Prince Edward Island. He, of course, can catch a plane out of Winnipeg, maybe stop in Toronto, and get to Prince Edward Island. We would welcome him a couple of times a year if he would like to come.That said, islanders do see the senate chamber in Province House as an important place of history in Canada's development. It certainly was a spark or moment in time when a maritime conference was planned and Sir John A. Macdonald and others sailed down there in boats. I understand they had champagne in the hull of their ship as they arrived in Charlottetown. They turned what was to be a maritime conference into what would become the birthplace and vision for Confederation. To Parks Canada' credit, Province House is being renovated now, and when one walks up the worn steps of Province House one sees the decor. It is not a huge place. However, there is a sense of history when one walks through what was then the senate chamber and see the table where our founding fathers came together and decided on their vision for this great country. Their vision was built on in the Quebec Conference and the London Conference that came afterwards. To a great extent this is why we have the country we have today.When I was the president of the NFU, I often mentioned that Canadians need to see more of Canada and the tremendous potential we have as a country, which, in many respects, is second to none compared to others around the world. That vision happened in Charlottetown and we are proud of it as islanders.Canadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownPrince Edward IslandPrivate Members' BillsProvince House National Historic Site of CanadaS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSenate billsThird reading and adoptionKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessRecognition of Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1115)[English]Mr. Speaker, as often happened in the early years, whether in the United States or here, there were the leaders who came together. They were certainly there. There were no big crowds in the streets, as we would find today at many such gatherings, but it was mainly the representatives of the people who came together, debated, and discussed. They made the decisions that encapsulated the vision that became Canada.As I mentioned in my speech, those were different times. Indigenous people were not invited to the conference and neither were women. We do live in different times 153 years later, and that reflects the errors of the ways in those times. However, it is part of our history, and because of that we are now able to build on it as we move forward to be a much more inclusive, all encompassing, and open society.Canadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownPrivate Members' BillsS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSenate billsThird reading and adoptionLarryBagnellHon.YukonKellyBlockCarlton Trail—Eagle Creek//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessRecognition of Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1135)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am proud and honoured to stand in this place to offer my contributions to the debate on Bill S-236. I would like to acknowledge some of the people who have brought it to this stage: the former member of Parliament for Hillsborough, George Proud; Philip Brown, from Charlottetown, and Sharon Larter, both of whom have been tenacious in advancing this private member's legislation through various Parliaments since the early 1990s; Senator Griffin, who introduced it and saw it through the other place; my colleague, the hon. member for Malpeque; and Dr. Ed MacDonald. They all have played key roles in getting us to where we are today. I would also like to thank the members for Carlton Trail—Eagle Creek and Victoria for their very thoughtful and insightful remarks here today. Finally, the proceedings before the heritage committee were particularly instructive and collaborative. In particular, I want to recognize the work and leadership of the member for York—Simcoe and the member for Longueuil—Saint-Hubert, who also carried forward a similar theme as the member for Victoria with respect to the importance of indigenous voices.I was extremely proud on November 23 of this year when the 23rd Prime Minister of Canada stood at the Confederation Centre of the Arts, just steps away from Province House, and accepted the Symons Medal and delivered the Symons Medal lecture on the state of Canadian Confederation. It was a particularly poignant moment when in the lead-up to his presentation, there was a Canada 150 signature performance by the Dream Catchers.The Confederation Centre of the Arts is a permanent memorial to the Fathers of Confederation, and it was no more fitting on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of Confederation than to have the Prime Minister deliver remarks on the state of Canadian Confederation and to then accept a wide array of questions from the packed house. It was truly moving. I am equally moved and honoured to stand in this House at this time on the occasion of the 150th anniversary of Confederation to speak to Bill S-236. As I indicated, it was put forward by the hon. Senator Griffin. It is quite straightforward and has a simple purpose: to recognize the role of Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, along with Quebec and London, in laying the foundation for Confederation, a pivotal moment in Canada's evolution as a country.History can be a dry topic, but today I would like to paint a picture for members of that meeting in Charlottetown that may perhaps shed some light on how it came about and why it was successful in terms of laying the groundwork for a new nation to emerge in the world. Historian P.B. Waite noted:Confederation was, in many ways, a startling development. One can add up the causes of Confederation and still not get the sum of it. Like all political achievements, it was a matter of timing, luck and the combination of a certain set of men and events.What was that certain set of men and events? Our neighbour to the south was in turmoil, tearing itself apart in a dreadful civil war. Citizens living in the British colonies viewed the upheaval with great unease, wondering if it would spill over the border.(1140)[Translation]At that time, British officials were trying to figure out whether the colonies were more of a liability than an asset. In a day and age when the empire was more interested in trade than in military might, perhaps it was time for British North America to take its destiny into its own hands.Meanwhile, the Province of Canada, created by the 1840 Act of Union that united what are now known as Quebec and Ontario under one government, had reached a political impasse and was looking for a way out.The problem was that Canada West, now Ontario, and Canada East, now Quebec, each had 50 seats in Parliament. This was creating some tension. Canada West's population was much higher than that of Canada East, so more and more voices began clamouring for representation by population.At the same time, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island, also uncomfortable with the American conflict, had begun to talk about creating a maritime union among themselves. The instinct for unity was clearly an early Canadian trait.Who were the men who made Confederation possible? In the early 1850s, a young lawyer from Kingston by the name of John A. Macdonald and a Montreal-based lawyer, George-Étienne Cartier, were both elected to opposite sides of the House in Parliament. A certain mutual respect developed between the two men, but it was when George Brown of the English-Canadian Reformers crossed the floor and formed an alliance with his archrival, Sir John A. Macdonald, that the logjam was broken.The Great Coalition of 1864 wanted to build a larger united federation for British North America. Such a confederation would allow Canada West and Canada East to function as separate provinces, able to govern their own affairs within the new dominion. This is likely why Brown was able to align himself with MacDonald.[English]The Canadians became aware of the maritime union and asked if they might be invited to discuss a union among all the British colonies. The architects of the maritime union were Charles Tupper from Nova Scotia, Leonard Tilley from New Brunswick, and John Hamilton Gray from Prince Edward Island. They agreed.A conference was arranged for Charlottetown, to run from September 1 to 7, 1864. The Canadian delegates included several senior ministers: Sir John A. Macdonald, George-Étienne Cartier, George Brown, Alexander Galt, the minister of finance, and Thomas D'Arcy McGee, the poet politician.Through the daily letters of George Brown to his wife Anne, we have the flavour of what happened at Charlottetown. The Canadians travelled in their ship, the Queen Victoria, and stocked it with provisions and gifts, all with an eye to demonstrating their goodwill to their maritime hosts.I had said that history can sometimes be dry. Well, in addition to the serious discussions, the Charlottetown conference was a social affair with dances, dinners, and by many accounts, lots of champagne.Interestingly, the Canadians had to sleep on the ship the first day they arrived. The circus was in town and there was not a single hotel available.On the first day, the maritime delegates told the Canadians they would put Confederation first on the agenda and move the debate on maritime union to later. After this first important decision was made, a state dinner with dancing was held by the governor.So it went: serious discussions, interspersed by social engagements where the delegates could all get to know and understand each other better. The discussion on Confederation was thoughtfully laid out by Cartier and Macdonald who talked about the benefits and outlined different models of federalism. Alexander Galt presented the financial aspects, including the benefits for the Maritimes. Thomas D'Arcy McGee painted a picture of a bright future together with his words.During a tour of our beautiful legislature building, Province House, Sir John noticed a visitor's guest book. He signed it and under occupation wrote “cabinet maker”; indeed.In less than a week, the Maritimers agreed in principle to Confederation and assented to participate in the Quebec conference a month later. The future beckoned.This certain set of men and events needs to be remembered, shared, and taught to our children, which is why we are seeking to pass Bill S-236. Commemoration is about examining the past so we can move forward into our future with knowledge and understanding of how we got here.As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, we can see the evolution of our country, our democracy, and our values. Our very roots, as evidenced by what took place in Charlottetown, were not about conflict or war: They were about finding mutual ground and working out our differences.(1145)Let us now work hard to ensure that the spirit of working out our differences and the lessons learned in Charlottetown can be applied to our search for reconciliation with indigenous peoples. Let us make sure that the spirit of reconciliation is not just for Canada 150, but will become part of our nation-building and national values. This is the lesson of Charlottetown. Let us keep moving it forward.Canadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownPrivate Members' BillsS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSenate billsThird reading and adoptionMurrayRankinVictoriaDanAlbasCentral Okanagan—Similkameen—Nicola//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (2000)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Drummond for the question.As my colleague knows, on July 28, the government relaunched the process for appointing the Commissioner of Official Languages. We sent a document to the leader of his party.My colleague complains about a lack of consultation with his party and his leader, but we sent him a document that I have here with me entitled, “Commissioner of Official Languages — Selection Process to Appointment — Key Stages”. As the NDP critic for official languages, my colleague from Drummond received a copy of that document. It is not some big secret.The document indicates:Selection Process—LaunchA selection committee is established to manage the process with the support of a search firm The selection committee members, a majority of whom are public servants, is composed of one representative (senior official) from each of the following: the Privy Council Officethe Treasury BoardJustice CanadaDepartment of Canada Heritagethe Prime Minister’s Officethe Office of the Minister of Canadian Heritage...Leaders of the parties in both Houses of Parliament are invited to promote the opportunity to potential candidates, provide their input on stakeholder engagement and highlight qualities the selection committee should consider. This input will be shared with the selection committee.That is a quotation from the document that he and his leader both received. The document indicates that we invited his leader to provide input at the beginning of the process. It is very clear in the document.[English]Once the process has been launched it then goes forward to an assessment, where the search firm screens the applicants against the criteria in the notice of appointment opportunity. There is a recommendation from among the qualified candidates upon review of the documentation provided by the selection committee. The Minister of Canadian Heritage submits the recommended candidate to the Minister of Justice, who then recommends the candidate to the Prime Minister. There is then a parliamentary process. Consultations take place with the leaders and with the official languages critics, including my friend from Drummond, to inform them about the proposed candidate for nomination and to seek their input. Then there is the nomination and then the appointment.All of this is clearly set out in a two-page document that was provided to my friend and to his leader back in July. There can be no lack of clarity around the process. It is there in black and white. It is in process and we will, through this process, find the person who is best qualified to be the Commissioner of Official Languages.Official languages are at the core of our identity as a country and are a priority of this government.Adjournment ProceedingsCommissioner of Official LanguagesPolitical appointmentsFrançoisChoquetteDrummondFrançoisChoquetteDrummond//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (2005)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, as I said, we have already indicated that the leaders of the parties in both Houses of Parliament were invited to promote the opportunity to potential candidates, provide their input on stakeholder engagement, and highlight qualities the selection committee should consider. That is what we did in the beginning.Following the appointment, parties will be consulted again, as per the requirements of the law and the process. We have already informed my colleague and his party about that. Yes, we have enough time to complete the process, and that is what we are going to do.Adjournment ProceedingsCommissioner of Official LanguagesPolitical appointmentsFrançoisChoquetteDrummondBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank my hon. colleague for Scarborough North for his question and hard work. This month I led a very successful trade mission, which is a vital market for Canadian farmers. During the mission, our agricultural industry signed deals for new business, worth nearly $300 million, for blueberries, barley, swine genetics, and ice wine. I was proud to help put more Canadian products on Chinese store shelves and e-commerce platforms, which will help create good, well-paying jobs in Canada and help put more money in the pockets of Canadian farmers.ChinaExportsFarming and farmersMarket accessOral questionsShaunChenScarborough NorthPierrePoilievreHon.Carleton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1925)[Translation]Madam Speaker, on February 25, 2016, the Prime Minister announced the introduction of a new approach to Governor in Council appointments. The new approach is more open and transparent, representative of Canadian diversity, and merit-based. The Government of Canada considers the function of the Commissioner of Official Languages to be very important since the incumbent is responsible for enforcing the Official Languages Act across Canada. [English]Ghislaine Saikaley was appointed acting commissioner on December 19, 2016, to ensure the normal and continued operations of the office of the commissioner until a new commissioner is appointed. Her interim appointment was renewed on June 22, 2017. On July 28, 2017, the Government of Canada relaunched the recruitment process for the next Commissioner of Official Languages.[Translation]We will ensure that we identify the best candidate for this position.This government sees promoting our official languages from coast to coast as a priority that defines our country and its great diversity.Adjournment ProceedingsCommissioner of Official LanguagesPolitical appointmentsFrançoisChoquetteDrummondFrançoisChoquetteDrummond//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1925)[English]Madam Speaker, the Government of Canada sees the function of the Commissioner of Official Languages as very important, since it ensures the enforcement of the Official Languages Act in Canada.We will ensure that we identify the best candidate for this position.[Translation]A new commissioner must be appointed before Ms. Saikaley's term as acting commissioner ends, later in December.Adjournment ProceedingsCommissioner of Official LanguagesPolitical appointmentsFrançoisChoquetteDrummondSheilaMalcolmsonNanaimo—Ladysmith//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsRail TransportationInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1940)[Translation]Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. member for Mégantic—L'Érable for his question.As the Prime Minister said, our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the victims and all those whose lives were changed because of this tragedy. Four years later, this very tight-knit community continues to show remarkable resilience in the wake of the scars left by these awful events and their traumatic consequences. We are not wavering from our commitment to improve the rail system and to make it safer for similar communities across Canada. This is the top priority of the Minister of Transport.We are aware of the recent study that was conducted and that shows the long-term impact of the tragedy on the adolescent population. I want to say that our hearts go out to these young people and the entire community. The resilience and strength of this community is remarkable and Lac-Mégantic continues to rebuild itself as a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.Earlier this year, the Minister of Transport launched a statutory review of Canada's Railway Safety Act a year ahead of schedule. The review will focus primarily on the effectiveness of the federal legislative and regulatory framework around rail safety. On October 26, we closed another chapter of this tragedy following Irving Oil's guilty plea. As part of the court settlement, sanctions will be imposed on Irving, including a $3.6-million investment in safety improvements to ensure that this kind of tragedy never happens again. We are still in the midst of active discussions with the Government of Quebec and the City of Lac-Mégantic regarding plans for a rail bypass. That is why the minister met with the Quebec premier to discuss the rail bypass and the next steps on that file as an equal partner, we hope.In closing, I want to reiterate that our government is committed to supporting the people of Lac-Mégantic to ensure their well-being and help revitalize their community.Adjournment ProceedingsBypassLac-MéganticRail transport safetyRailway stations and tracksLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsRail TransportationInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1945)[Translation]Madam Speaker, the people of Lac-Mégantic are always in our thoughts and prayers. Improving rail safety is the Minister of Transport's top priority. That is why we have allocated $143 million to rail safety and the transportation of dangerous goods. That is why we accelerated the removal of the least crash-resistant tank cars. That is why we launched the Railway Safety Act review a year ahead of schedule. We have taken concrete measures that show how seriously we take rail safety and due diligence in the transportation of dangerous goods through Lac-Mégantic and across Canada. We will be doing more stil.Adjournment ProceedingsBypassLac-MéganticRail transport safetyRailway stations and tracksLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1525)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 19th report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill C-63, a second act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2017, and other measures. The committee has studied the bill and has decided to report the bill back to the House without amendment.I want to thank all committee members from all parties, who worked diligently and co-operatively to get this bill back in a timely manner.8510-421-294 "Bill C-63, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2017 and other measures"Budget 2017 (March 22, 2017)C-63, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2017 and other measuresStanding Committee on FinanceKevinSorensonHon.Battle River—CrowfootRobertNaultHon.Kenora//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersInfrastructureInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, last Wednesday, I was thrilled to drive on the new 137 kilometre road connecting Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk on the shores of the Arctic Ocean. I was joined by the Governor General, the Ministers of Infrastructure and Crown-Indigenous Relations, the GNWT premier and cabinet ministers, and community members to celebrate a project that has been discussed for decades. As a former transportation minister in the Government of the Northwest Territories during the early planning stages, I was especially pleased to be included on this inaugural trip. Connecting our country from coast to coast to coast has long been a dream of many Canadians. Now that this first link is complete, it is more important than ever to ensure that all northerners are connected to the same services and opportunities available to those in the south.I congratulate the residents of Tuk, Inuvik, and the entire lnuvialuit region on this very historic day.Mackenzie HighwayNorthwest TerritoriesStatements by MembersTransportation infrastructureYasminRatansiDon Valley EastAlexanderNuttallBarrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersWorld Children's DayInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, yesterday was World Children's Day. I was honoured to be invited to the United Nations in New York to witness a kid's takeover of the proceedings. Children from all over the world gave inspirational presentations to the UN delegates. Canada's representative was Basel AI Rashdan. Basel is a 12-year-old Syrian refugee who now proudly calls Canada and, more specific, Charlottetown, home. He attends St. Jean Elementary School, where he is often called “The Little Mayor”. His school projects focus on themes of empathy and fairness.At the UN, he spoke of his journey from Syria through Jordan to Prince Edward Island in 2015, and how his initial fear and apprehension was, over time, transformed into pride, hope, optimism, and happiness. Before he spoke, he received a phone call from the Prime Minister, wishing him good luck. Basel represented Canada well, raising his voice, our voice, for international children's rights today and every day.I thank Basel. Canada is very proud of him. Al Rashdan, BaselChildrenRefugeesStatements by MembersUnited NationsUniversal Children's DayAlexanderNuttallBarrie—Springwater—Oro-MedonteCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, we are extremely concerned over India's increase in duty by 50% of all imported peas, without providing any advance notice. We are right in our concerns with the Government of India and we will continue to work with our farmers and colleagues to closely monitor the development, determine implications, and raise these concerns with the appropriate Indian ministers.ExportsGrain legumeIndiaLentilsOral questionsJohnBarlowFoothillsJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is a decision that has been made by the Indian government, as I think my hon. colleague is fully aware. We are fully aware of the importance of the export of lentils to India, but it was a decision that was made by the Government of India, and we are working with the Government of India to attempt to resolve this. We do not want to complicate the situation any more.ExportsGrain legumeIndiaLentilsOral questionsJohnBarlowFoothillsBlakeRichardsBanff—Airdrie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1500)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, our two official languages are central to our history and our Canadian identity. We are firmly committed to promoting the use of both official languages in society and to supporting our official language minority communities.We are working on a new action plan to support and promote the vitality of these communities. This is a matter our government takes very seriously. Official languages policyOral questionsAlupaClarkeBeauport—LimoilouGabrielSte-MarieJoliette//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1505)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we understand the concerns of the francophone cultural sector. I want to reassure and remind the cultural community of the historic investments we have made to support francophone culture.We have made massive investments in arts and culture, over $2.2 billion to be precise. We have reinvested in the Canada Media Fund to support French-language television and committed $675 million to CBC/Radio-Canada. These investments have a tangible impact on our artists' lives.Foreign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsProvince of QuebecTaxationUnited States of AmericaPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertFrancisDrouinGlengarry—Prescott—Russell//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my hon. colleague from Glengarry—Prescott—Russell for his question and great help on agricultural issues.This week I announced that the government will provide tax relief for farmers who had their herds destroyed because of bovine TB. We are also designating the region where farmers can qualify for a livestock tax deferral due to floods and drought. I have also announced that we will maintain the cash purchase tickets for grain farmers.This government has made sure and will continue to make sure that agriculture thrives in this country. Bovine tuberculosisDroughtFarming and farmersFloodsGrain and grain growingOral questionsTax deferralTax reliefFrancisDrouinGlengarry—Prescott—RussellEdFastHon.Abbotsford//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessDepartment of Public Works and Government Services ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.)(1100)[English] moved that Bill S-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation, be read the second time and referred to a committee. Bill S-236. Second reading He said: Mr. Speaker, it is an honour for me to rise today to move second reading of Bill S-236, an act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation.I begin by thanking my hon. colleague and fellow Islander, Senator Diane Griffin, for sponsoring the bill in the other place and for ably stickhandling it through the Senate legislative process. Of course thanks are also due to the senators who engaged in fulsome and thoughtful debate on Bill S-236 and who brought profile to the story of the founding of our great nation, and improved on the original bill.Let me turn to the nuts and bolts of Bill S-236. The bill aims to entrench, honour, and affirm Charlottetown's integral role in the history of our country as the place where, in 1864, Sir John A. Macdonald led the Fathers of Confederation in a discussion about the political union that eventually led to Confederation. Reflecting on that foundational time in our history is especially important now as we near the end of the year-long celebration of our nation's 150th anniversary, and look forward to the next 150 years as a progressive, inclusive, and growing country.Our founding fathers, I believe, with the seed of the idea of nationhood developed in Charlottetown and followed up later at the Quebec Conference, built better than they knew. In addition, I think it is critical to recognize that Bill S-236 will be an important contribution to the story of our nation's history that has been told in part by a number of actions that have preceded it, both in this place and elsewhere.The bill will complement the September 1996 proclamation by the Right Hon. Jean Chrétien that recognized the role of Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation, and affirmed the city as an integral part of our Canadian heritage.Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson should also be recognized. In October 1964, he had the official opening of the Confederation Centre of the Arts as Canada's national memorial to the Fathers of Confederation.It also complements two measures that were passed in the P.E.I. Legislative Assembly: the Birthplace of Confederation Act; and a unanimous motion passed in December 2016, supporting the declaration of Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation and urging all of us as parliamentarians to support that legislation.The story of Confederation is a story of building relationships. It is what we do within Canada and around the world. It is what we have always done.On September 1, 1864, leaders of the governments and legislatures of Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and the Province of Canada met in Charlottetown, P.E.I. for what came to be known as the Charlottetown Conference. There, they created a shared vision of a union of the British North American colonies, and the creation of a new country. They did so through peaceful and constructive conversation, which is something that cannot be said of all nations.This point was vividly made by the University of Prince Edward Islands's Dr. Ed MacDonald when he appeared before the Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs during its examination of the bill in June. He said: Other nations were born at the tip of a sword. We were born at the point of a pen by discussion and negotiation.From this perspective, while the story of Confederation may be less dramatic than that of some other nations, I think that it reflects what is probably not a uniquely Canadian approach, but is perhaps quintessentially Canadian to the extent that we can work together collegially and try to find mutually beneficial solutions.Certainly this Canadian approach is particularly relevant now, as we continue to take our place on the world stage and navigate international negotiations.(1105)In both situations, we as Canadians look beyond our borders and within to re-examine long-standing relationships; reflect on our economic, social, and cultural values as Canadians; and show leadership to the world.The parliamentary and public debate about the bill and about the story of Confederation that has occurred as we celebrate 150 years as a country has raised some issues that must be recognized. One is what many see as the lack of inclusive discussions at the Charlottetown Conference in 1864. No indigenous peoples were involved and no women participated.I invite everyone though to cast their minds back to that year and to reflect on how common that situation probably was. “All men” was probably the rule rather than the exception to the rule. During the other place's consideration of Bill S-236, Senator Griffin read a statement from the Mi'kmaq Confederacy that reflects the importance of indigenous people to P.E.I.'s heritage as it does to the heritage of all regions of Canada.The statement noted that Prince Edward Island has been the home of the Mi'kmaq people for more than 12,000 years, yet they were not invited to participate in the Charlottetown Conference. It also emphasized the continued importance of the inclusion of Canada's indigenous peoples on a nation-to-nation basis on all matters.Over time, we have learned to be a more inclusive society, one that respects diversity in all its forms and values that brings. I am confident that the parties who would be involved in these types of discussions today would be more representative of our peoples and our regions than was the case 150 years ago. We cannot rewrite history. We can only move forward with the lessons that we learn from history.I also want to recognize that while the Charlottetown Conference may be viewed as the watershed moment in the story of Confederation, the importance of the Quebec Conference in 1864 and the London Conference two years later cannot be understated. During consideration in the other place, the preamble of Bill S-236 was amended in order to acknowledge those important conferences. Yes, the bill would allow us to celebrate a particular city, but it would also allow us to honour and to affirm our built heritage.A great many nations do so. As a member of the Canada-U.S. Interparliamentary Group, I had the privilege of visiting Independence Hall in Philadelphia, which is a landmark that is revered throughout the United States and recognized around the globe. This physical place, built heritage, gives Americans and international visitors a sense of history, a sense of place, a sense of how the United States came into being.Some 20 years ago, I had the occasion to take my American counterparts onto the floor of Province House in order to hold our final Canada-U.S. IPG session. As we walked on the worn steps we explained to them that Province House is the location of the province's legislature and very importantly is the national treasure where the founding discussions about our country occurred. It may be just my imagination, and most people around this place know I do not have a big imagination, but I want to think that I saw awe in the eyes of my American colleagues that mirrors that which I saw when visiting Independence Hall. Although as is often the case with the Americans, they thought the place was a little smaller.Province House is a national treasure where the Charlottetown Conference took place. It is one of the world's oldest still functioning parliamentary buildings and the only remaining building of the Confederation conferences. Built of Nova Scotia sandstone, we islanders are privileged that this building still stands strong in Charlottetown and remains the centre of political life.The United States has Philadelphia's Independence Hall and no doubt other countries around the world have buildings they associate with their founding fathers. Such buildings provide citizens and visitors with a physical place to connect with history and gain a sense of how a nation came to be.(1110)It is my hope that Charlottetown's Province House can be such a place, where visitors can stand as they admire the Confederation chamber's high-vaulted ceilings, upper balcony, cornice mouldings, and worn steps and reflect that they are in the same location where Canada's Fathers of Confederation met more than 150 years ago to discuss the future of our nation. Among others, Parks Canada is to be commended for the work that it continues to do to preserve and protect Province House in order to “give our past a future”.Let me reiterate the bill's fundamental objectives: to affirm Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation; to complement provincial efforts; and to build on the designation of Charlottetown as the birthplace of our country in order to honour, celebrate, share, and educate. In reiterating that the story of Confederation is one of relationship building, let me say that I look forward to respectful and non-partisan debate in this place, and I urge my colleagues to support this bill.To conclude, in addition to those I mentioned at the beginning of my remarks, let me thank a number of others who contributed in important ways to where we find ourselves today with this bill. Philip Brown must be commended for his passion and persistence, along with Sharon Larter and Leonard Cusack for their efforts; island MLA Jordan Brown; former MP and colleague George Proud, who introduced a similar bill many years ago; and the people from New Brunswick who helped bring national attention to our efforts through a friendly and spirited dialogue, exactly the sort that we would expect of Atlantic Canadians, about the story of Confederation. Last but certainly not least, let me thank my island colleague, the hon. member for Charlottetown, who is the House of Commons representative of the place that Province House calls home and will in due course be sharing his unique perspective on Bill S-236.150th Anniversary of Canadian ConfederationAboriginal peoplesCanadian ConfederationCanadian historyCity of CharlottetownEqual opportunitiesPrivate Members' BillsProvince House National Historic Site of CanadaS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSecond readingSenate billsMurrayRankinVictoria//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessDepartment of Public Works and Government Services ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1115)[English]Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister has made it very clear that we support the recommendations of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. The ministers have been involved very extensively in trying to work with the indigenous community to recognize those wrongs of the past and build for the future.With regard to heritage sites around the city and on Prince Edward Island, that is happening in many cases. There is always much more to do but clearly, as I said in my remarks, the Mi'kmaq people have been residents, if I could call it that, of Prince Edward Island for some 12,000 years. They are a part of this. We are in different times today and their participation has to be recognized as well.Aboriginal peoplesCanadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownPrivate Members' BillsS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSecond readingSenate billsTruth and Reconciliation Commission of CanadaMurrayRankinVictoriaLeonaAlleslevAurora—Oak Ridges—Richmond Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessDepartment of Public Works and Government Services ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1115)[English]Clearly the timing could not be more appropriate, Mr. Speaker. This is our 150th anniversary. It is a time of celebration. At this time, we are building on the experiences of our past. A lot of effort has gone into this over the last number of years, and everything has come together in this, our 150th year. This is the time to pass in legislation that Charlottetown is indeed the birthplace of Confederation.However, as I mentioned in my remarks, there were other important events. Yes, Charlottetown was the birthplace of Confederation, but I could also go into what a number of people from Upper and Lower Canada said at the conference, how they talked about building a union. That was then built on in the Quebec and London conferences. Charlottetown is the birthplace, but to get there, there were other conferences that happened as well.150th Anniversary of Canadian ConfederationCanadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownPrivate Members' BillsS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSecond readingSenate billsLeonaAlleslevAurora—Oak Ridges—Richmond HillPeterVan LoanHon.York—Simcoe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessDepartment of Public Works and Government Services ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1135)[English]Mr. Speaker, I could not be more proud to stand in this chamber today to speak to Bill S-236, an act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation. I would like to begin by acknowledging the efforts of a couple of Charlottetown constituents, Sharon Larter and Philip Brown, from Charlottetown, not be confused with Philip Brown from out west. They have been the driving force behind getting this bill into Parliament and pushing it along. I would also like to acknowledge the efforts of Senator Griffin, in the other place, who picked up the idea from these Charlottetown constituents and shepherded the bill through the Senate; and my colleague, the hon. member for Malpeque, who is seeing the bill through this process. I would also like to acknowledge George Proud, the former member of Parliament from Hillsborough, a friend and mentor, who initially came up with this as a private member's bill more than 20 years ago. This must be a proud day for him. I would like to thank the members for York—Simcoe and Victoria for their very thoughtful contributions and support of this bill.A birthplace marks a beginning and the setting into motion of something new. The movement towards Confederation began with the discussions at the 1864 Charlottetown Conference. Held in the legislative council chamber of Province House, in the capital of Prince Edward Island, these discussions sparked a vision of a wider, united nation built on the belief that is still true today, that unity is strength. Prince Edward Island has embraced its role as the birthplace of Confederation and has made it a significant part of the identity of the province. This identity is showcased through historic re-enactments every summer by the Confederation Players. It is proudly featured in tourism campaigns and on license plates. It is integrated in the name of the world's longest bridge, across ice-covered water, the Confederation Bridge, and in the name of the Confederation Trail, which extends the full length of Prince Edward Island. I can personally attest to that, having traversed the full length of the trail by bicycle this past summer with 20 friends in our own Canada 150 project. It is also in the name of the Confederation Centre of the Arts, which is a permanent memorial to the Fathers of Confederation and the site of the longest running musical in Canadian history, Anne of Green Gables.The Government of Canada has also recognized Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation. In 1996, the role of Charlottetown was recognized through a proclamation signed by former prime minister Jean Chrétien, and it is still proudly displayed on the second floor of City Hall in Charlottetown.The Government of Canada invested in the year-long celebrations in 2014 of the 150th anniversary of the historic Charlottetown Conference. Currently, the government is investing over $40 million to restore Province House, the site of the Charlottetown Conference. (1140)[Translation] In recognizing past historic events, we have the opportunity to consider what it was like to live at that time. In 1864, our country was very different. Our government looked different, our economy and transportation were different, and the role of women and indigenous peoples in our society was different. Recognition of a historic moment is not a stamp of approval of the values and ideals of society or its leaders at that time. Recognition is a marker. It is a point of reference for future generations to show that at this time in our history something happened that altered the course. For Canada, Confederation indeed altered the course of our nation.I recognize that not all of the outcomes of Confederation were good and that for certain groups, like Canada’s indigenous peoples, the effects were long-lasting. This is part of the reason why recognition is the correct course of action and why I support Bill S-236. Recognition of Charlottetown as the birthplace has the potential to spark discussions and reflection on what happened, who was involved, and what motivated their behaviour and decisions. It can also be an occasion to encourage Canadians, and especially our youth, to look at this historic marker in the continuum of our nation and consider the event from multiple perspectives. It could encourage reflection on how far we have come as a nation on issues of importance in society today such as the role of women, and it can serve as a reminder that we still have a way to go on issues like our interactions with indigenous peoples. Progress is attained by degrees. Even the act of Confederation was not established in a single meeting but took several conferences and several years before it came to fruition. In addition to Charlottetown, there were the Quebec and London conferences, in 1864 and 1867, respectively. Confederation initially brought together four provinces but it took over a century for the other six provinces and three territories to become a part of the Canada we know and love today.(1145)[English]It is well-timed to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation in 2017 to coincide with the 150th anniversary of Confederation. As we celebrate this year-long anniversary, we are setting the tone for the future of Canada. Moving forward with this acknowledges that our past is a part of us. We will better understand the complexity of the issues facing us if we take the time to understand how we got to where we are today. We can be inspired by those who have paved the way for us, who have led with vision, and who, through hard work, determination, and collaboration, pushed forward on the dream of a nation united. That dream is yet to be attained. There is work ahead of us. For now, we can reaffirm the role of Charlottetown in Confederation by supporting Bill S-236. We can, through this bill, also recognize the role that the Quebec and London conferences played in Confederation. Our nation was not born out of revolution or war; it was born out of a series of conferences and negotiations that led to our Constitution, our country's founding principles. At the Charlottetown Conference and the following conferences, our predecessors set out to define who we are and what we stand for as a country. This is continually evolving, but it is built on the foundation that we, as Canadians, believe in fundamental freedoms and live in a democratic society. We believe in human rights, equality, and peace. These are our values. What was accomplished at the conferences that led to Confederation was a coming together of ideas, collective problem-solving, and the birth of the ideal that we are better together as a nation united. Our differences of region, background, education, and goals strengthen us, rather than divide us. This year, as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, we are looking back, but we are also looking forward. Bill S-236 reminds us of a specific moment in our country's evolution, a turning point. We cannot go back; we must keep moving onward, but we should remember that what is happening now could not have happened without what happened then. This bill has a simple purpose: reaffirming the role of Charlottetown in Confederation. Canada's smallest province played a big role in the creation of our nation. Let us inspire those who come after us to be reminded that, in this vast and diverse nation where we can freely have heated debates on topics we are passionate about, we ultimately are united and that this union began in a room in Charlottetown in 1864.Canadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownPrivate Members' BillsProvince House National Historic Site of CanadaS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSecond readingSenate billsMurrayRankinVictoriaLarryMaguireBrandon—Souris//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessDepartment of Public Works and Government Services ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1155)[English]Mr. Speaker, I certainly want to thank my colleagues of all parties who spoke and offered their support for Bill S-236, that Charlottetown is the birthplace of Confederation.When there are debates in this place, we sometimes do not agree and sometimes we do. Even when we agree, we always learn something new. I thank the members for York—Simcoe and Victoria. I learned something new from their remarks. I really liked the approach of the member for Brandon—Souris who appealed to the compromises we could make within our parties. The member and I did not always compromise on the farm movement, but just like the lessons of Confederation, we always learn some lessons as time passes.It could be summed up best on why this was the birthplace of Confederation. I will read a note, which I believe comes from the archives. It says: On the first official day of the conference, Macdonald spoke at length about the benefits of a union of all of British North America. The next day, Galt - a businessman, finance minister, and railway promoter - presented a well-researched description of the financial workings of such a union. On the third day, George Brown discussed the legal structure. And on the fourth day, McGee praised the nationalist identity, one that he saw bolstered by a vivid Canadian literature. On every day of the conference, people spoke about building a greater nation. I will sum up by saying thanks to all those in the House who offered their support at this stage of the bill today. We ought to recognize our founding fathers who met in Charlottetown and, yes, who went further in other conferences, such as the Quebec Conference and the London Conference. Over the years, we have learned, as the member for Victoria mentioned, about ensuring we are inclusive, about bringing in all peoples of our country and about what we are doing in this day and age. I can truly say, with the meeting and this bill to endorse Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation, that the founding fathers built, better than they new, a great nation, Canada, from coast to coast to coast.Canadian ConfederationCanadian historyCity of CharlottetownPrivate Members' BillsS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSecond readingSenate billsLarryMaguireBrandon—SourisBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersSummerside Chief of PoliceInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1105)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of women and men in police services who, every day, dedicate themselves to ensuring that our communities across the country continue to be safe places for Canadians to live, work, and raise families. I am honoured today to recognize one officer in particular, Chief David Poirier of the Summerside Police Department, who as of October of this year has dutifully served the people of Canada for the past 40 years, and was awarded a second bar to his police exemplary service medal from the Governor General. His service to the community continues even when he is out of uniform, as he has been recognized for his leadership, volunteer work, and community involvement with local organizations including Credit Union Place and the Lions Club. On behalf of myself and the people of Summerside, I would like to thank Chief Poirier and extend to him our sincerest gratitude for his many years of service to the community, both on and off duty.Chief of policePoirier, DavidStatements by MembersSummersideSvenSpengemannMississauga—LakeshoreStephanieKusieCalgary Midnapore//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1145)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we thank the committee, including the member for Drummond, for the report. We will give it careful consideration.Our two official languages are at the heart of Canada's history and identity. Air Canada must respect both the letter and the spirit of the Official Languages Act. The application of the Official Languages Act is a priority for our government. We are working with the Minister of Transport to ensure that Air Canada is meeting its obligations under the Official Languages Act. We take this whole issue very seriously.Air CanadaCommissioner of Official LanguagesComplaintsOral questionsOrder-making powerFrançoisChoquetteDrummondPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1145)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we hear the concerns of stakeholders in the francophone cultural industry. We want to reassure them and remind them of the historic investments we have made to support our francophone culture.That is why we invested heavily in arts and culture. We invested over $2.2 billion in the Canada Media Fund to support French-language television, and we invested $675 million in Radio-Canada. These investments are having a real impact on the lives of our artists.Canadian contentCultural industryForeign investments in CanadaFrancophonesMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsProvince of QuebecUnited States of AmericaPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertLeonaAlleslevAurora—Oak Ridges—Richmond Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1205)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we understand the concerns of the francophone cultural sector.We want to reassure and remind the cultural community of the historic investments we have made to support francophone culture. We have made massive investments in arts and culture, over $2.2 billion to be precise. We have reinvested in the Canada Media Fund to support French-language television and committed $675 million to CBC/Radio-Canada. These investments have a tangible impact on our artists' lives.Oral questionsRhéalFortinRivière-du-NordRhéalFortinRivière-du-Nord//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1850)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Drummond for giving me an opportunity to recap what the Government of Canada has done to promote our two official languages.[English]Language of work in the federal public service is an important matter. Federal institutions must ensure that their workplaces are conducive to the use of both official languages. The federal public service must reflect the Canadian population it serves. Although much progress has been made over these years, more work and efforts are required before we can reach our goals and our vision.The Clerk of the Privy Council has taken the initiative to examine the use of Canada's official languages in the federal public service, and to propose concrete measures to further foster the use of both official languages in the workplace. That is a good thing.[Translation]The Government of Canada has pledged to develop a new multi-year action plan for official languages that will come into effect on April 1, 2018. To that end, we held Canada-wide consultations on official languages, which allowed us to identify courses of action and initiatives that will inform the development of the next action plan for official languages. The plan will re-energize the government's efforts and strengthen the tools it can use.[English]The Government of Canada is tangibly reaffirming its commitment to improving the delivery of federal services in both official languages. For example, we announced a revision of the official languages regulations on communications with and services to the public. The President of the Treasury Board and the Minister of Canadian Heritage are working closely to ensure that we are considering the best options to modernize the official languages regulations in an open manner, based on the consultations with all concerned parties. The member for Drummond is undoubtedly aware that there will be a technical briefing on progress in this regard on Monday morning, at nine o'clock, at 131 Queen Street. We sincerely hope to see him there.(1855)[Translation]I will use the member for Drummond's question as an opportunity to remind the House of a few facts. This year, we held an interdepartmental forum that engaged the provinces and territories on francophone immigration issues and develop a concrete strategy to strengthen francophone communities outside Quebec.This initiative was just one of the many concrete actions we have taken to support official language minority communities, such as the restoration of the long-form census, new investments in the Canada Council for the Arts and in our film industry, and the modernization of the court challenges program of Canada.[English]May my colleague, the member for Drummond, be assured that the Government of Canada is taking practical measures to protect our official languages, promote their use in Canadian society, and support the vitality of official language minority communities.Adjournment ProceedingsOfficial languages policyPublic Service and public servantsFrançoisChoquetteDrummondFrançoisChoquetteDrummond//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1855)[English]Mr. Speaker, the Government of Canada is proud to foster the vitality of francophone and anglophone minority communities and to promote the use of our two official languages in Canadian society, including in the federal public service. [Translation]We firmly believe in the importance of providing federal services in both official languages wherever necessary and of having workplaces where our two official languages are on an equal footing. We will work with departments and federal institutions, including the Clerk of the Privy Council, to ensure that our institutions continue to reflect the two official languages and Canadian values.[English]Our official languages are very important to the Government of Canada. We will continue to take concrete measures to protect our official languages.Adjournment ProceedingsOfficial languages policyPublic Service and public servantsAnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersArctic National Wildlife RefugeInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, last year I stood in the House to speak about the protection of the Porcupine caribou calving grounds in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska. Today, I restate these concerns. This refuge is one of the most fragile ecosystems left on earth. It is also the main calving grounds of the Porcupine caribou herd, which is fundamental to the culture of the Gwich'in nation of the NWT, Yukon, and Alaska.The U.S. Senate recently passed a budget resolution that puts these sacred calving grounds at risk. I have written to legislators on both sides of the border as have Gwich'in leaders, who will soon join others in Washington, D.C., to inform legislators of the importance of protecting this pristine area. I hope this message is heard. I thank the Canadian Embassy in Washington for its work to support the protection of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.Arctic National Wildlife RefugeGwich'in NationNature conservationPorcupine caribouStatements by MembersDeanAllisonNiagara WestGudieHutchingsLong Range Mountains//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersAttack in New York CityInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, Canadians last evening were shocked to learn about the senseless terrorist attack in New York City that caused a terrible and unnecessary loss of life. We in this place stand with all Canadians in offering our sincere condolences to those mourning the loss of family and friends. Innocent people doing nothing more than going about their daily lives or visiting Manhattan had their lives extinguished, with others injured and their lives changed forever. We condemn such senseless acts by those who attack democracy, our values, and our freedoms. Much like the city itself, New Yorkers are resilient. Tragic events like yesterday will not deter them from going about their lives, nor should they. Stories of heroism and strength of community are already emerging. As before, the city and people of New York will not be shaken. To our American friends, our allies and neighbours, we share in their grief, extend our prayers, and stand with them on this day.Islamic State of Iraq and the LevantNew York CityStatements by MembersTerrorism and terroristsVictims of terrorist actsErinO'TooleHon.DurhamAndrewScheerHon.Regina—Qu'Appelle//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersYukon Environmental and Socio-Economic Assessment ActInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1705)[English]Mr. Speaker, the member raised several points that caught my interest. First was the need for infrastructure to develop our resources in the north. I am from the Northwest Territories. We have three functioning mines and a number of mines on the horizon. Infrastructure is what really decides whether it is a feasible project. I am glad the member has recognized that.He also recognized that Yukon is looking a different model when it comes to the regulatory process. We in the Northwest Territories take great pride in our regulatory process. In that process, 50% of the members are indigenous, representing aboriginal governments, and it works well. The timelines are shorter. It allows communities to be more involved.Could the member talk about the regulatory processes that are different? Maybe he should look at this. Would the member commit to studying that model to see if it is a better model than what he has seen in other places?C-17, An Act to amend the Yukon Environmental and Socio-economic Assessment Act and to make a consequential amendment to another ActDownload responsibilityEnvironmental assessmentGovernment billsLand managementThird reading and adoptionMartinShieldsBow RiverMartinShieldsBow River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersHouse of Commons PagesInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, for those who brave the daily event that is question period, they may have noticed the efficiency with which the House runs. I should clarify. I do not mean the efficiency of debate, because some days, we can get a bit off track. Some even go as far as to do the odd pigeon dance. The efficiency I am referring to is more logistical. They deliver messages, support the Speaker, and distribute official documents. Simply put, without them, the House would not run. I refer to our pages.This year, a constituent from the great riding of Malpeque was chosen as one of 40 pages from across Canada. Sebastien Arsenault, a commerce student studying at the University of Ottawa, started the page program in August. I congratulate Sebastien. I am sure his family is very proud of him.I extend my sincere thanks to all the wonderful pages who help the House run, and I encourage graduating high school students to apply today for next year's program.Arseneault, SebastienHouse of Commons pagesStatements by MembersStudentsHunterTootooHon.NunavutKerryDiotteEdmonton Griesbach//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1515)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group. The first concerns the Pacific Northwest Economic Region 26th Annual Summit, held in Calgary, Alberta, from July 17 to 21, 2016. The second concerns the 56th Annual Meeting and Regional Policy Forum of the Council of State Governments' Eastern Regional Conference, held in Quebec City, Quebec, from August 7 to 10, 2016. The third concerns the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance Conference, held in Washington, D.C., United States of America, from October 2 to 4, 2016.8565-421-59-20 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Pacific Northwest Economic Region 26th Annual Summit, held in Calgary, Alberta, from July 17 to 21, 2016 8565-421-59-21 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 56th Annual Meeting and Regional Policy Forum of the Council of State Governments' Eastern Regional Conference (ERC), held in Quebec City, Quebec, from August 7 to 10, 20168565-421-59-22 Report of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Canadian/American Border Trade Alliance (BTA) Conference, held in Washington, D.C., from October 2 to 4, 2016Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNathan CirilloInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, three years ago yesterday, a shooter attacked the National War Memorial and Parliament Hill. Corporal Nathan Cirillo was killed, and others were injured. On this sad anniversary, all Canadians join Corporal Cirillo's friends and family, along with his fellow members of the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders Regiment of Hamilton, to remember him with pain and with pride.[Translation]We also remember the courage of all of the first responders who responded to this call. Again, we thank them.This act of terror was directed at the seat of our democracy and the monument that commemorates the brave men and women who gave their lives to protect it. Despite our grief, we are more committed than ever to the democratic values that these institutions represent: freedom, solidarity, and the conviction that our strength lies in our diversity.AnniversaryCirillo, NathanDeaths and funeralsStatements by MembersJamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—EastmanGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I was proud to stand with my provincial and territorial colleagues to sign the Canadian Agricultural Partnership. This $3-billion investment will strengthen the Canadian agricultural sector, ensuring continued innovation, growth, and prosperity. Together with our government's investment in trade, science, and innovation, the Canadian Agricultural Partnership will help farmers and processors create middle-class jobs right across this country.Agricultural policyCanadian Agricultural PartnershipOral questionsRenéArseneaultMadawaska—RestigouchePeterKentHon.Thornhill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1505)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for his question and his work in committee.During our consultations, and following the great work the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage did, we heard from Canadians who feel strongly about local news and information. Our approach is based on the following two principles: healthy democracy depends on trustworthy journalistic content, and government measures must respect media independence.Again, we thank the committee and the member.Canada Media FundCulture and creativityMedia and the pressOral questionsPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertYvesRobillardMarc-Aurèle-Fortin//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think my hon. colleague is well aware that I announced in the House that the Government of Canada has put in place a $350-million package for the dairy industry and the supply management sector: $250 million goes to the dairy farmers for innovation, and $100 million goes to the processing sector.Our government has supported and will continue to support supply management in this country.Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsMarioBeaulieuLa Pointe-de-l'ÎleMarioBeaulieuLa Pointe-de-l'Île//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPublic SafetyInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, indigenous Canadians make up 4% of Canada's population but 25% of the federal prison population. We know that there are historical and systemic issues that have combined to cause this problem, and that is why the government has been focusing on bringing about socio-economic change in collaboration with indigenous communities.Will the Minister of Public Safety tell us what he is doing to ensure that indigenous people involved in the criminal justice system will receive the support they need to rehabilitate and heal, which ultimately makes Canadian communities safer?Aboriginal peoplesCriminal rehabilitationImprisonment and prisonersOral questionsJean-YvesDuclosHon.QuébecRalphGoodaleHon.Regina—Wascana//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1440)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government has already said that it would not tax Canadians more. Our vision for a creative Canada involves investing in creators, ensuring their success, and showcasing them on the national and international stage.Canada's arts and culture sector is a $55-billion industry that accounts for over 630,000 jobs. That is why we continue to support our creators.Canadian contentForeign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsTaxationUnited States of AmericaPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrookeTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1455)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government is proud to have announced its vision for the future of creative industries. These industries provide quality employment to over 630,000 Canadians. Through our new economic strategy, we are committing to support families across the country. Thanks to Creative Canada, we are going to amend our policies to help our cultural creators and entrepreneurs face the challenges of today's digital age. This approach will help Canadians share their creations on the international stage. Canadian contentForeign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsTaxationUnited States of AmericaPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertDarrellSamsonSackville—Preston—Chezzetcook//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to growing the creative industries. This investment, which is the first of its kind in the world, guarantees there will be at least half a billion dollars in original productions made here in Canada in both official languages. This investment will create jobs and opportunities for creators and producers to make great content to share with Canada and the world. As part of our vision for a creative Canada, these investments will help ensure that the creative industries remain strong. We are extremely proud of them.Canadian contentForeign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsUnited States of AmericaRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1440)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our commitment to Canada's creative industries is clear. This investment provides for at least $500 million in original productions in Canada, in both official languages. This investment will create jobs and allow creators and producers to share their content in Canada and around the world. The investments in Creative Canada will help ensure that our creative industry remains strong.Canadian contentForeign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsUnited States of AmericaPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertJacquesGourdeLévis—Lotbinière//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, there is only one thing I would like to tell my hon. colleague. Farmers in this country are not tax cheats, and that was an inappropriate statement by the member. What we want to do is to create a system that is fair. We understand the importance of the agricultural sector in our country; just look at the budget. Being a farmer, I understand how important the tax changes are and how important it is that farmers be able to invest dollars so they can expand their business, repair their machinery, and build buildings to make sure they continue to expand. That is what this government has done and will continue to do. Corporate income taxFamily farmsOral questionsPublic consultationSmall and medium-sized enterprisesJohnBarlowFoothillsJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think the Minister of Finance has clearly answered that question. He has indicated that he has listened to farmers. We had consultations. The Minister of Finance and our government fully understand the importance of agriculture in our country, and he understands that farmers want to invest. They want to be able to invest in their properties. They want to be able to expand their business. They want to be able to buy new equipment. We will make sure that this will continue to be the case in this country.Corporate income taxFamily farmsOral questionsPublic consultationSmall and medium-sized enterprisesJohnBarlowFoothillsMarjolaineBoutin-SweetHochelaga//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersVolunteerism in EgmontInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1100)[English]Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize two groups of volunteers from my riding who deserve recognition. Recently, the town of Tignish was awarded a gold rating, as well as named champions of the small communities category at the Communities in Bloom symposium. This would not be possible without the leadership of committee members Judy, Karen, Roger, Garth, and Jamie, and everyone in the community who strives to make Tignish a better and more beautiful place to live with their commitment to environmental awareness and heritage conservation. I also wish to recognize the efforts of the organizers called the Fab Five—Della, Billy, Jo-Anne, Dean, and Tammy—as well as the countless volunteers who assisted in the campaign for O'Leary to be named Kraft Hockeyville for 2017. It was an honour for me to be in attendance at the NHL pre-season game between the Ottawa Senators and the New Jersey Devils for the presenting of the $100,000 award, which will be used to upgrade their community arena.Congratulations to the communities of O'Leary and Tignish.EgmontHockeyville competitionInternational Communities in Bloom AwardStatements by MembersVolunteering and volunteersDavidSweetFlamborough—GlanbrookGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersPEI International Shellfish FestivalInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1105)[English]Madam Speaker, the Prince Edward lsland Fishermen's Association has recently set a new world record, thanks to a beloved crustacean. We now own the title of the world's longest lobster roll, again. For years there has been a friendly rivalry between Charlottetown and Shediac, New Brunswick. In July, Shediac set the benchmark. Their glory, I am pleased to report, was short-lived. Two weeks ago, at the PEl International Shellfish Festival, a whopping 61-metre-long savoury seafood sandwich was born. Fifteen volunteers spent the night baking the massive baguette, and more than 100 more volunteers delicately and carefully stuffed it with 12 jars of mayonnaise and 60 kilograms of lobster meat. Festival-goers chowed down on the historic lobster roll, with funds going to the Canadian Cancer Society, but not before the official measurement, after which association president Bobby Jenkins summed it up quite nicely when he proclaimed, “Take that, Shediac!”LobstersPrince Edward Island International Shellfish FestivalStatements by MembersKateYoungLondon WestMarkStrahlChilliwack—Hope//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1120)[Translation]Madam Speaker, our creators and artists work every day to tell unique stories about who we are. Our government always stands up for Canadian artists.What is more, we have already invested $1.9 million in arts and culture. We reinvested in the CMF to protect our productions, and we invested $125 million to ensure that our stories are shared with the world. We believe in our artists, and we are adapting our system to the digital age.Canadian contentCulture and creativityForeign investments in CanadaFrenchMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsUnited States of AmericaPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrookePierre-LucDusseaultSherbrooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1125)[English]Madam Speaker, our government is committed to growing our creative industries. The deal with Netflix is part and parcel of that. It is a huge, huge vote of confidence by a global player, for the first time ever, to make an investment. It is a vote of confidence in the strength of our Canadian creators. This is a good news story: $500 million over five years. We are world leaders, and this has now been recognized by a global player. Nothing but good news here.Foreign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsUnited States of AmericaRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1125)[English]Madam Speaker, this deal with Netflix speaks volumes to the strength of the creative sector here in Canada. This is a global player that for the first time has invested outside the United States, and it chose Canada. Canadians love Netflix. Netflix loves the Canadian creative sector. This is a win-win for Canada. It is a win-win for consumers. It is a win-win for our creators. This is a good news story.Foreign investments in CanadaMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsUnited States of AmericaRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverMarkStrahlChilliwack—Hope//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1205)[Translation]Madam Speaker, the Bloc Québécois may not like our government's vision for our creative community, but SOCAN likes it a lot. In fact, SOCAN congratulated the Minister of Canadian Heritage on our government's vision for a creative Canada because it emphasizes the importance of music creators.Telefilm Canada agrees with SOCAN. It said, “The vision announced today by the Minister of Canadian Heritage will help Canada to position itself as a key player in the global cultural marketplace. I am—” Foreign investments in CanadaInternetMedia streaming and webcastingOral questionsTaxationCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1505)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our commitment to Canada's creative industries is clear. This agreement, the first of its kind, includes an investment of at least $500 million, as the member said, in original Canadian productions in both official languages.This investment will create jobs and opportunities for creators and producers so that they can share their content with the rest of the country and around the world. The investments planned for Creative Canada will help us ensure that our creative industries are reliable—Canadian contentForeign investments in CanadaFrenchMedia streaming and webcastingNetflixOral questionsUnited States of AmericaXavierBarsalou-DuvalPierre-Boucher—Les Patriotes—VerchèresGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and AgrifoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, we want to create a tax system that is fair for Canadians. We are listening to farmers and encouraging them to share their ideas as to how to create a fairer tax system. Being a farmer, I truly understand saving money for a rainy day. I know that my colleague would not want to mislead farmers. The fact is that the money that is saved in the corporation is there, fully available for the farmers to use for buying equipment, buying land, growing their company, and making sure that the farm succeeds. What we are going to do is create more business, not less business.Corporate income taxFamily farmsOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—CharlevoixJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and AgrifoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I indicated, this government would create a fairer tax system. I am sure my hon. colleague would never want to mislead farmers. The fact of the matter is that the money that is invested in the corporation is fully available, if my hon. colleague wishes to listen. Corporate income taxFamily farmsOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesJohnBarlowFoothillsLawrenceMacAulayHon.Cardigan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and AgrifoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]The money is fully there and available for the farmers to build buildings, buy property, and increase their business. In fact, what this government wants to do is make sure there is more investment and more business expansion, and with these tax changes, there will be more business expansion.Corporate income taxFamily farmsOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesLawrenceMacAulayHon.CardiganLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and AgrifoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have indicated many times in the House that what we want to do is create a more fair tax system. These transactions are very complex and have been very complex for many years. We want to hear the views of farmers as to how we handle these transactions and make sure that we are able to help farmers move their family farm from one generation to the other. What we want to do is to hear from the farmers.Corporate income taxFamily farmsOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesMarkStrahlChilliwack—HopePierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, it will certainly be a success for Canadian farmers and it will increase our exports by $1.5 billion. It could mean $600 million in the beef industry, $400 million in the pork industry, $100 million in the grain industry, and a further $300 million in processed foods, fruits, and vegetables. This historic agreement will grow our economy, put more money in the farmers' pockets, and help more people join the middle class.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementEuropean UnionFarming and farmersOral questionsTrade agreementsLloydLongfieldGuelphPeterKentHon.Thornhill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, we want to create a fair tax system, and that is why we are consulting Canadians.We are listening to the concerns of farmers and encouraging them to share their ideas on how to create a fair tax system. Being a farmer, I fully understand that farmers have to save for a rainy day, or if they have problems with repairing buildings, buying machinery, and for investing in their businesses. In fact, the dollars that are invested are there for their businesses. That is what the dollars are there for.We have and will continue to make sure that the farming sector thrives.Corporate income taxFamily farmsOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have and will continue to support the farmers. These are complex transactions, and we are consulting with farmers on the proposed changes.We want their views on how to better accommodate family transfers. We want to help farmers to transfer their farms. I can assure members that this government has consulted and will continue to consult with the farmers to make sure it is easier for farmers to transfer their family farm to their families.Corporate income taxFamily farmsOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesJohnBarlowFoothillsJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I have said many times, I have and will continue to consult with farmers on every issue that affects the farmer.On these tax changes, what will take place is that any dollars that are invested in the corporation are there for the corporation, for the farmers to invest in their farms, to invest in their property, to expand their property, to create more business. That is what it is all about.Corporate income taxFamily farmsOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesJohnBarlowFoothillsLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that this government is the government that will protect supply management and this is the party that fought to put it in place. This is also the government that put the innovation package together to make sure that supply management in the dairy sector in the country thrived. I can assure my hon. colleague that this government has and will continue to support supply management.International tradeNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementXavierBarsalou-DuvalPierre-Boucher—Les Patriotes—VerchèresLucThériaultMontcalm//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1155)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate my colleague on his new role as official languages critic. Our two official languages are at the heart of Canada's history and identity. They are a priority for us. With regard to appointments, our government is committed to a process that is rigorous, open, and transparent, and to finding the best candidate for each position.The role of Commissioner of Official Languages is very important. We are confident that the nominee will have all the required qualifications.AccountabilityCommissioner of Official LanguagesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsAlupaClarkeBeauport—LimoilouAliEhsassiWillowdale//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1200)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, essentially, what we want is to make sure that our artists have the support they need.That is what our government is doing. We have allocated $22 million to Telefilm Canada, $13.5 million to the National Film Board, and $550 million to the Canada Council for the Arts. Those are tangible actions that support our artists without further taxing the middle class. Goods and services taxInternetMedia streaming and webcastingOral questionsMoniquePauzéRepentignyGabrielSte-MarieJoliette//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsThe EnvironmentInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1210)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am presenting an e-petition that expresses concerns surrounding the construction of the Site C dam.Aboriginal rightsBritish ColumbiaPeace RiverPetition 421-01656Public consultationSite C Clean Energy ProjectLarryMillerBruce—Grey—Owen SoundKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that we will continue to fully support the supply management system. We are the party that fought to put supply management in place, and we are the government that is going to defend supply management. We put a $350 million program in place to make sure farmers and processors were at the cutting edge. That is what we are doing for dairy farmers, and that is what we will continue to do for dairy farmers.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy Farm Investment ProgramDairy farmingDairy industryGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsKarineTrudelJonquièreDonDaviesVancouver Kingsway//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersRural-Urban Riding ExchangeInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, this summer the member for Pickering—Uxbridge and I embarked on a rural-urban riding exchange. As a long-serving member, and as a new member, mentorship and exchanging perspectives played a key part. In Malpeque, we experienced the ingenuity of local entrepreneurs, the creativity of P.E.l.'s experiential tourism, and the quality of our national park. At Springwillow organic farm, we hand-picked potatoes, taking lessons from 90-year-old Joyce Loo. The member for Pickering—Uxbridge can now identify the qualities of a good dairy cow. In Pickering-Uxbridge, we competed in a dragon boat race and saw the strength of local athletes. With entrepreneur Bernadette Recto, we embraced pilates and felt how important exercise was to mental health and well-being. We attended the island dinner of the Lucy Maud Montgomery Society, and reflected on our shared cultural heritage. The exchange left us with a broader perspective on the challenges we face and the diversity of Canadians.Communities and collectivitiesMalpequePickering—UxbridgeStatements by MembersMarioBeaulieuLa Pointe-de-l'ÎleGlenMotzMedicine Hat—Cardston—Warner//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that this government has supported, and will continue to support, the supply management system. It was quite clear when we invested $350 million in the dairy side of the supply management sector, making sure that $250 million went to innovation on the farms themselves and $100 million went to the processing sector. We have continued and will continue, and other dollars are available. The supply management system is safe and well in this country.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy Farm Investment ProgramDairy farmingDairy industryGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéCandiceBergenHon.Portage—Lisgar//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCommissioner of the Northwest TerritoriesInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, yesterday in Yellowknife I had the honour of attending the swearing-in ceremony for Margaret Thom, the new Commissioner of the Northwest Territories. Ms. Thom, a proud northerner, has been a counsellor at the Deh Gah school in Fort Providence for the past 20 years. I know this small community well, because I also call Fort Providence my home. Ms. Thom has worked in counselling and education for most of her career and has volunteered her time for far too many events to mention. She has demonstrated leadership with many organizations, including serving as governor of the Aurora College Board, as a member of the Territorial Board of Secondary Education, Akaitcho Hall Advisory Board, and as vice-chair of the Nats'ejee Keh Treatment Centre. She is the recipient of the Queen's Diamond Jubilee medal and a member of the NWT Education Hall of Fame and has been awarded the NWT Wise Woman Award.I send her my most heartfelt congratulations. I know she will do a wonderful job in her new role as commissioner.CommissionerNorthwest TerritoriesStatements by MembersThom, MargaretGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestNathanCullenSkeena—Bulkley Valley//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can understand that my hon. colleague is from a party that fully encourages wealthy Canadians to form a tax system that means they do not pay the rate of tax that middle-class Canadians pay. We are going to fix that. Along with that, I am very proud to say that we are improving the grain transportation system, which is a very vital part of making sure that the agricultural sector prospers. We have worked with farmers and are going to continue to work for farmers and we will make sure that farmers prosper.Corporate income taxFamily farmsFarming and farmersOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, we inherited the tax system from the Harper government, which encouraged wealthy Canadians to incorporate to make sure they paid less taxes than the middle class. We think that is unfair. I am certainly very proud to be part of a government that invested $100 million in science research in the agricultural sector. We have invested, and will continue to invest, in the agricultural sector to make sure that it is competitive worldwide.Corporate income taxFarming and farmersOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can understand that my hon. colleague is from a party that supports the ability of people to incorporate and pay less tax than the middle class. The fact is, we as a government feel that is not fair. We are going to fix that. Also, for the dairy farmer, my hon. colleague must be fully aware that we have invested $350 million to make sure that the agricultural sector is on the cutting edge: $100 million for the processing sector, and $250 million for the dairy farmers. It is obvious that my hon. colleagues do not want to hear this, but we have worked and will continue to work with the agricultural sector.Corporate income taxFarming and farmersOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesKevinSorensonHon.Battle River—CrowfootHélèneLaverdièreLaurier—Sainte-Marie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would suggest the rhetoric of the official opposition is getting wildly out of hand. Do they not favour consultations? I know that is what happened under the previous government. Consultations are taking place until October 2 on the Department of Finance paper, and the Minister of Finance is driving those consultations, as he should.I would suggest to members opposite and to all Canadians to embrace the consultations, welcome them, and get their point of view out there, and then better decisions will be made.Corporate income taxOral questionsPublic consultationSmall and medium-sized enterprisesTax Planning Using Private CorporationsDanAlbasCentral Okanagan—Similkameen—NicolaBrianMasseWindsor West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsRecognition of Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.)(1545)[English]Bill S-236. Introduction and first reading moved for leave to introduce Bill S-236, an act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation.He said: Mr. Speaker, it was seconded by the member for Egmont.As a proud Prince Edward Islander, I am pleased to introduce Bill S-236, an act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation, introduced in the other place by Senator Diane Griffin. Bill S-236 has been passed by the Senate unanimously. As we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Canada's Confederation, the ideals, ambitions, and values that came from the Charlottetown conference of 1864 still form the basis of our great nation today. In September 1996, former prime minister Jean Chrétien proclaimed that Charlottetown was to be recognized as the birthplace of Confederation. This legislation would formalize the proclamation in statute, affirming the significant contribution this great historic event has had on Canada. It is legislation that I believe all members of the House can support. (Motion agreed to and bill read the first time) Canadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownIntroduction and First readingS-236, An Act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of ConfederationSenate billsLarryBagnellHon.YukonGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCustoms ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1625)[English]Madam Speaker, I would not want the member opposite to unknowingly leave wrong information on the record. The member talked about the Ambassador Bridge in his remarks. This weekend he and I drove across that bridge four times while we were at Canada–U.S. meetings. However, he said that the Government of Canada gave the owners of Ambassador Bridge a bridge. That is not quite accurate. What the Government of Canada approved was the owners of Ambassador Bridge to build a bridge under certain conditions with their own money. There is not a dime of federal money in that proposal. I would not want that wrong information on the record, so we should be clear on that. They need to meet certain conditions, and so they should.However, my question really is related to the bill, and I agree with the member on his privacy concerns. In fact, I have been in people's houses who have been called by supposedly CRA, and CRA did come up on the phone. I picked up the phone and talked to the individual. I asked the person to tell me the name of the deputy minister and of course the person did not know. We have to be very careful about that.With respect to Bill C-21, is the additional information being required not any different than what is happening now under the Customs Act with respect to the protection of information? The bill looks at other ways and other powers to examine any goods that are imported or exported illegally. Could the member answer that?BordersC-21, An Act to amend the Customs ActCanada Border Services AgencyCanada-United States relationsContracting outCrime and criminalityGovernment billsInformation collectionPrivacy and data protectionPrivate sectorSecond readingBrianMasseWindsor WestBrianMasseWindsor West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1840)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government is focused on the future and especially the future of our official language minority communities. The primary objective of the Prime Minister's cross-country tour was to connect with people and listen to what they had to say. The Government of Canada stands with all Canadians.[English]Our government is proud of the concrete actions taken since the fall of 2015 that will have positive impacts for official language minority communities and for the use of both of our official languages across the country. For example, through the 2017 budget, our government is providing $80 million over 10 years to support the construction of community educational infrastructure in official language minority communities. This is because we are committed to maintaining and supporting the vitality of our official language minority communities by supporting infrastructure projects such as school day care centres, school community centres, or cultural centres in collaboration with provinces and territories.(1845)[Translation]We also reinstated the long form census, increased funding for CBC/Radio-Canada, and reinvested in the Canada Council for the Arts. We modernized the court challenges program, implemented measures to ensure the appointment of bilingual judges to the Supreme Court, and launched the review of the regulations governing bilingual federal services. We reopened the francophone component of the Collège militaire royal de Saint-Jean, and supported the francophone heritage, culture and tourism corridor of the Réseau de développement économique et de l'employabilité.When it comes to immigration, last March, we held the first intergovernmental forum to get the provinces and territories involved in francophone immigration issues, and we made significant improvements to our immigration system to increase francophone immigration.[English]From June to December of 2016, we held 22 round table discussions on official languages across the country. They were open to the media and six of them were broadcast live online. Approximately 6,300 people responded to our online questionnaire. This demonstrates Canadians' strong interest in the future of our two official languages. We are now developing a new multi-year action plan for official languages to support English- and French-speaking minorities and to promote the use of our two official languages from coast to coast.[Translation]I would like to assure the member for Drummond that the Prime Minister of Canada is the number one champion of official languages in Canada. Under his leadership, our government is working to give both official languages their rightful place across the country.Adjournment ProceedingsCommissioner of Official LanguagesOfficial Languages ActOfficial languages policyPrime MinisterReferences to membersTrudeau, JustinAnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingFrançoisChoquetteDrummond//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1845)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, the vitality of official language minority communities and the promotion of bilingualism are two very important issues. By holding broad consultations from coast to coast in 2016 and drafting a new action plan for 2018, our government is stepping up and showing strong leadership with respect to promoting official languages.[English]For the Government of Canada our official languages are a priority. We are currently developing a new pan-governmental action plan for official languages that will provide a framework for the Government of Canada's action in a number of areas to further advance the vitality of minority communities and the use of both official languages across the country.[Translation]I would like to thank the member for Drummond for his remarks. Our government will continue to work with all members of Parliament to promote and protect our two official languages.Adjournment ProceedingsCommissioner of Official LanguagesOfficial Languages ActOfficial languages policyPrime MinisterReferences to membersTrudeau, JustinFrançoisChoquetteDrummondCherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—Pembroke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNational Aboriginal DayInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, Mahsi. [Member spoke in Deh Cho Dene.][English]It is also true that we are stronger and more successful when we work together as partners. Our commitment to building a new relationship, and supporting and improving outcomes for indigenous peoples and promoting reconciliation in Canada, is something we should all be proud of and be dedicated to seeing succeed.National Indigenous Peoples Day is an opportunity for all Canadians to celebrate the rich and diverse cultures of aboriginal people, and the wealth of traditions, lifestyles, and languages they bring to our country. The Northwest Territories, NWT, has recognized National Aboriginal Day as a statutory holiday since 2001. This year Yukon will be joining us to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day.Happy National Indigenous Peoples Day to everyone.Aboriginal languagesAboriginal peoplesLanguage other than official languageNational Aboriginal DayNorthwest TerritoriesStatements by MembersSherryRomanadoLongueuil—Charles-LeMoyneCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 18th report of the Standing Committee on Finance, entitled “Canada's Federal Regional Development Agencies Supporting Businesses, Sectors, Individuals and Communities: A Summary of the Testimony”.I want to add that this will be the last report for the two analysts, Dylan Gowans and Florian Richard, because they are leaving the Library of Parliament to go back to university. I want to thank them for their tremendous efforts over the last year, and their chief, June Dewetering, for working so hard with them as well. This is a report without recommendations. It is a summary of what the regional development agencies had to say.8510-421-261 "Canada's Federal Regional Development Agencies Supporting Businesses, Sectors, Individuals and Communities: A Summary of the Testimony"Regional development agenciesStanding Committee on FinanceLarryBagnellHon.YukonAngeloIaconoAlfred-Pellan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCanadian Jewish Heritage MonthInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1810)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is a pleasure for me to rise and speak to Bill S-232, recognizing the month of May each year as Canadian Jewish heritage month. I will be very brief in my remarks as I know that many of my colleagues wish to speak on this bill, and my role here today is to simply put the government's position on the record.[Translation] I would first like to thank the member for York Centre for sponsoring this bill in the House of Commons. I also thank him for his hard work on behalf of his constituents. Our government supports this bill since it gives Canadians the opportunity to reflect on and to recognize the many contributions of Canada’s Jewish community and the important role it plays across Canada.[English]Canadian Jewish heritage month will provide an important opportunity for all Canadians to reflect on the many and varied contributions of Jewish Canadians to the fabric of our country, and it will allow for people to share in and learn about their culture.In conclusion, I would like to reiterate our government's support of this bill, and I hope that all members of this House will offer their support to this important piece of legislation.Canadian Jewish Heritage MonthJudaism and JewsPrivate Members' BillsS-232, An Act respecting Canadian Jewish Heritage MonthSecond readingSenate billsFrançoisChoquetteDrummondGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersStatistics ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (2000)[English]Mr. Speaker, I listened to the remarks of the member for Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan. The lack of real understanding of what happened in the appointments process was almost dizzying. I really cannot imagine anybody from the Conservative Party of Canada talking about appointments and credibility in the same sentence. It is amazing.Being from Nova Scotia, Mr. Speaker, you would understand that if we were to do some research with respect to Peter MacKay's wedding party, we would find not one person in that wedding party who had not been appointed to a position by the previous government. They were all Conservatives and all lacked credibility in those positions.Does the member not think that the process set up by the current Prime Minister was to make it open and transparent and to ensure there was credibility and understanding with respect to the issues with which the Liberals would deal in regard to the Prime Minister's appointments? This is all about making good appointments. That party over there has absolutely no credibility when it comes to talking about appointments and credibility in the same sentence. Would he not agree?C-36, An Act to amend the Statistics ActChief Statistician of CanadaGovernment billsPolitical appointmentsStatisticsThird reading and adoptionGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1140)[English]Mr. Speaker, we have said it many times before. Creative industries are going through a period of disruption brought on by the digital shift. The minister has met with all major digital platforms as part of the Canadian content in the digital age review. Ms. Church's expertise and broad knowledge of the digital landscape is essential to our understanding of how to best support this sector during this transition. She has been fully transparent about her former employment, including with the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner.Canadian contentConflict of interestDigital mediaGoogle CanadaJoly, MélanieLobbying and lobbyistsMedia streaming and webcastingMinister of Canadian HeritageOral questionsPolitical staffReferences to membersJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilJohnBrassardBarrie—Innisfil//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1145)[Translation] Mr. Speaker, our two official languages are at the heart of Canada's history and identity. They are a priority for us.We promised Canadians a new, open, rigorous, and merit-based process, and that is what we gave them. The role of Commissioner of Official Languages is very important, and we are sure that the person recommended will have all the required qualifications. We will be making an announcement in the next few days.Commissioner of Official LanguagesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsAnne Minh-ThuQuachSalaberry—SuroîtDavidMcGuintyOttawa South//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMain Estimates, 2017-18 [Concurrence in Vote 1—Privy Council Office]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1820)[English]Madam Speaker, I do enjoy some time on the finance committee with the member for Edmonton Manning. He mentioned fiction. There really was a lot of fiction in that speech.I will give the member a little history about debt in our country. During the Mulroney years, the debt went up, and that was a Conservative government. Then the Chrétien and Martin years was when the government had to make hard decisions. I come from a region where those hard decisions really hurt. The government made those decisions, balanced the books, and had a surplus for eight or nine budgets.Then Mr. Harper came along and drove us into $170 billion dollars worth of additional debt in the country. It was not just the debt that was the problem; it was the services he cut. He cut back on the military. He had the lowest spending on the military of any prime minister in 50 years. While he talked a different line, he cut the investments into science and research.The budget from the Liberal Minister of Finance makes investments. The target for balancing the books is not there yet, but we will not create fiction. We will take our time and do it right. We have invested in infrastructure and research and science. Why can the member not see that this investment is there for the future, for our children and grandchildren?BudgetEconomic policyMain estimates 2017-2018Privy Council OfficeZiadAboultaifEdmonton ManningZiadAboultaifEdmonton Manning//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMain Estimates, 2017-18 [Concurrence in Vote 1—Privy Council Office]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1935)[English]Mr. Speaker, I listened to the member for Perth—Wellington. For the record, it is great to make speeches in this place, but for heaven's sake, let them have at least some semblance of reality. The member talked about this government going into deficit, and I admit we are. Any business that is going to do anything and remain in business has to invest in the future and innovation. It has to make that investment so it is efficient and productive in the future. I want to come back to what the member said about the debt. Let us look at some reality. In 1984, after the Pierre Elliott Trudeau years, the debt of our country was $135 billion. In 1994, after the Mulroney years, a Conservative government, the debt was $478 billion. Conservatives have very seldom ever balanced the books. Liberals always have dealt with the tough decisions to balance the books. It went up a little bit, after the Chrétien-Martin years, but there were eight surpluses and they paid down some of the debt over those years. Then of course there was the Harper government. It added another $170 billion to the debt.The Conservatives should look at the reality, look at the figures. It is the Conservative Party that has always driven our country into debt. Why we are moving with some deficit— Budget deficitMain estimates 2017-2018Privy Council OfficePublic debtJohnNaterPerth—WellingtonBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMain Estimates, 2017-18 [Concurrence in Vote 1—Privy Council Office]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (2025)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to follow-up on the comments made by the Treasury Board minister.First, the member opposite accused this government of talking the talk, but not walking the walk. If there was any experience in that kind of talking the talk and not walking the walk, it was the previous government with cuts to the RCMP, services, EI, the public service, and to pretty near everything known to man.Let us talk about the progress this government is making. Here is a quote from today's Globe and Mail, “The Bank of Canada sent out more signals Tuesday that it's moving closer to an interest-rate hike as the economy continues to strengthen.” A quote from the Governor of the Bank of Canada, “The economy is gathering momentum, and not just in certain spots but across a much- wider array.”That is because of things this government is doing, and because of things the Treasury Board minister talked about. This government is talking the talk and walking the walk, and we are investing in Canadian—Main estimates 2017-2018Privy Council OfficeKevinSorensonHon.Battle River—CrowfootBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsHealthInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1010)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to present a petition today signed by Canadians in the Maritimes and on the west coast that touches on the condition of barrenness. Barrenness is the inability of women and men to conceive children or successfully produce them. It affects approximately 100 million couples worldwide.The petitioners are calling on the government to take a lead role in raising awareness about the social and health issue of barrenness in Canada and internationally. They also call on the government to take a leadership role in the inclusion of barrenness and the treatment of people with barrenness. Oftentimes there is a social stigma both within Canada and otherwise, so the petitioners ask to have the people who are living with that condition recognized in the United Nations Universal Declaration of Human Rights.Civil and human rightsInfertilityInformation disseminationPetition 421-01516Reproductive healthUniversal Declaration of Human RightsMarkWarawaLangley—AldergroveRobert-FalconOuelletteWinnipeg Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1435)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, as we have said many times, creative industries are facing challenges in the digital era. The minister has met with all the major platforms about our reforms on Canadian content in the digital era.Ms. Church's expertise and in-depth knowledge of the digital landscape make her an essential asset in evaluating how to better support the sector during this transition. Ms. Church has always been completely transparent about her former employer, including with the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner.Canadian contentConflict of interestDigital mediaGoogle LLCGovernment accountabilityJoly, MélanieLobbying and lobbyistsMedia streaming and webcastingMinister of Canadian HeritageOral questionsReferences to membersSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—CharlevoixKevinWaughSaskatoon—Grasswood//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, we have said many times that creative industries are going through a period of disruption brought on by the digital shift. The minister has met with all major digital platforms as part of her review of Canadian content in the digital age.Ms. Church's experience, expertise, and broad knowledge of the digital landscape are essential to our assessment of how to best support this sector during this transition. She has been fully transparent about her former employment, including with the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner.Canadian contentConflict of interestDigital mediaGoogle LLCGovernment accountabilityJoly, MélanieLobbying and lobbyistsMedia streaming and webcastingMinister of Canadian HeritageOral questionsReferences to membersKevinWaughSaskatoon—GrasswoodJohnBrassardBarrie—Innisfil//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian Radio-television and Telecommunications CommissionInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1450)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government firmly believes in the importance of arts and culture. That is why we invested more than $1.9 billion in this area, the largest investment in the past 30 years. We did so because we know that arts and culture are key drivers in our economy. We are currently studying the repercussions of the CRTC’s decision.Canadian contentCanadian Radio-television and Telecommunications CommissionOral questionsTelevision programsPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertJamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—Eastman//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian Radio-television and Telecommunications CommissionInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1500)[Translation] Mr. Speaker, as I said, our government firmly believes in the importance of arts and culture. That is why we invested more than $1.9 billion in this area, the largest investment in the past 30 years.We did so because we know that arts and culture are key drivers in our economy. We are currently studying the repercussions of the CRTC's decision.Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications CommissionFinancingLocal and regional programmingOral questionsProvince of QuebecSpecialty channelsMoniquePauzéRepentignyHunterTootooHon.Nunavut//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian Radio-television and Telecommunications CommissionInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1500)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government firmly believes in the importance of arts and culture. That is why we invested more than $1.9 billion in this area, the largest investment in the past 30 years. We did so because we know that arts and culture are key drivers in our economy. We are currently studying the repercussions of the CRTC's decision. Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications CommissionFinancingLocal and regional programmingProvince of QuebecSpecialty channelsXavierBarsalou-DuvalPierre-Boucher—Les Patriotes—VerchèresMoniquePauzéRepentigny//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian Radio-television and Telecommunications CommissionInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1500)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, as I said, our government has invested over $1.9 billion in arts and culture, the largest investment a federal government has made in this area in 30 years. What is more, we are the only country in the G7 to have invested so much.We are very aware of the fact that creative industries are facing challenges in the digital era, and that is why we have taken leadership on this issue. We are developing a new cultural policy that better reflects the issues facing our 21st-century creators.Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications CommissionFinancingLocal and regional programmingProvince of QuebecSpecialty channelsMoniquePauzéRepentignyGabrielSte-MarieJoliette//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1430)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we promised Canadians a new, open, rigorous, and merit-based process, and that is what we gave them.Madam Meilleur proved that she was qualified for the job at every step of the process. She dedicated a major part of her career to defending the interests of official languages communities. We hope that she will continue to play a leadership role on this important file. More information will be available in the next few days.Commissioner of Official LanguagesMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsFrançoisChoquetteDrummondIreneMathyssenLondon—Fanshawe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government promised Canadians a rigorous, open, and merit-based process for public appointments, and we are keeping that commitment. At no point in this process were Madame Meilleur's qualifications questioned. She has been a fierce advocate of the official languages communities. We hope that she continues her advocacy on this important file. More information will be available in the days to come. Commissioner of Official LanguagesMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsIreneMathyssenLondon—FanshaweJohnBrassardBarrie—Innisfil//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern. Our government fully supports the supply management system and will continue to support the supply management system. We have consulted the dairy farmers and processors across this country for a number of months and have come up with a program of $350 million: $250 million so our dairy farmers can innovate, and $100 million so our processors can innovate and be on the cutting edge. This government has and will continue to make sure that our supply management system continues to thrive in this country.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy industryGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1425)[English]Mr. Speaker, our two official languages are at the heart of who we are as Canadians, and is a priority for our government. Ms. Meilleur has been a fierce advocate for official languages over the course of her career and has sought to protect the vitality of our official languages communities. She will continue to be an important watchdog for the Official Languages Act. We are certain she will fulfill her duties with all of the experience and impartiality required. Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPolitical appointmentsPolitical influenceJohnNaterPerth—WellingtonJohnNaterPerth—Wellington//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1430)[English]Mr. Speaker, we are committed to finding the most qualified candidates for each position. We also believe that taking part in public life should not exclude one from serving Canadians in a new capacity. Once again, it is the qualifications that matter. In fact, we appointed Kim Campbell to lead the Supreme Court of Canada advisory board. Like Kim Campbell, we firmly believe that Madeleine Meilleur will be able to serve Canadians with all of the accountability, impartiality, and rigour required. Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPolitical appointmentsJohnNaterPerth—WellingtonSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—Charlevoix//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1430)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we recognize the importance of having an official languages commissioner and we are committed to finding the best possible candidate for that position.After a lengthy, open, and merit-based process, Ms. Meilleur stood out as the most qualified candidate for this position.As far as my colleague's allegations are concerned, I want to point out that at no time was the official languages commissioner job discussed. We have made that very clear a number of times. A process was in place and it was followed.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPolitical appointmentsPolitical influenceSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—CharlevoixSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—Charlevoix//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1430)[Translation] Mr. Speaker, we promised to find the best person to be the official languages commissioner, and that is exactly what we did.After a rigorous, open, and merit-based process, which included 72 candidates, a selection committee, multiple rounds of interviews, and testing, Ms. Meilleur clearly showed that she had the experience, skill, and impartiality required.We are confident that Ms. Meilleur will carry out her duties with all the experience and impartiality this important position requires.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPolitical appointmentsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestJohnBrassardBarrie—Innisfil//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1430)[English]Mr. Speaker, we are committed to finding the most qualified candidate for each position. We believe that taking part in public life should not exclude someone from serving Canadians in a new capacity. It is the qualifications that matter. In fact, as the hon. member knows, we appointed Kim Campbell to lead the Supreme Court of Canada advisory board. Like Kim Campbell, we firmly believe that Madeleine Meilleur will be able to serve Canadians with all the accountability, impartiality, and rigour required.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPolitical appointmentsJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilJohnBrassardBarrie—Innisfil//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, our two official languages are at the heart of who we are as Canadians and they are a priority for our government. The experience, the expertise, and the integrity of Ms. Meilleur has been recognized by many both in the House and in the official languages community across Canada. We are certain that Ms. Meilleur will fulfill her duties with all the experience and impartiality required for this position. In fact, last week the francophone community called on the House to end the political games and support this nomination.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPolitical appointmentsJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersParis Agreement [Motion that debate be not further adjourned]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1845)[English]Mr. Speaker, earlier the minister said the motion was important to see where the new Conservative leadership stands. I would tell her that I would not hold too much hope. This is the party that cancelled Kyoto, and I think she will find it is the same old Conservative Party that has put us in the position, because of the cancellation of Kyoto, that we missed opportunities.I live on an island. I will tell members climate change is very important to us. How does the minister see putting the economy and the environment together and dealing with both, in enhancing our opportunities as Canadians?Agreements and contractsClimate change and global warmingClosureGovernment Business No. 15CatherineMcKennaHon.Ottawa CentreCatherineMcKennaHon.Ottawa Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCannabis ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (2310)[English]Madam Speaker, I believe the member for Halifax left out one very important point about what legalization would do, and that is that individuals would know the strength of the product and that there would not be impurities in that product.People do not know what they are buying off the streets from the criminal element, and that is a health factor in itself. I wonder if the member for Halifax could comment on that.C-45, An Act respecting cannabis and to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code and other ActsCannabisGovernment billsPublic healthSecond readingAndyFillmoreHalifaxAndyFillmoreHalifax//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMotions in amendmentInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1050)[English]Mr. Speaker, I listened with interest to the member for Joliette as he spoke mainly about the infrastructure bank.If I could put it simply, I would say the member sees a mountain where there is really only a molehill. The outrageous comments the member made about how this infrastructure bank would affect his province, municipalities, and other institutions in a province are just absolutely and purely wrong. It is simply wrong.What is the infrastructure bank? This bill would establish the Canada infrastructure bank as a federal crown corporation and set out its powers, governance framework, and financial management and control. That is the same as other crown corporations that operate in this country.As for the $35 billion and making an opportunity for so-called friends, that is purely wrong as well. What this infrastructure bank would do is bring Canada up to the 21st century by providing the opportunity for private investors to partner with public investors to build the infrastructure that our children and grandchildren will need in the future. That is what this bank would do. This is an opportunity for Canadians to set the foundation for our infrastructure going forward into the next decades. That is what it would really do.Budget 2017 (March 22, 2017)C-44, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2017 and other measuresCanada Infrastructure BankFinancingGovernment billsInfrastructurePrivate sectorReport stageAnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersHousingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1105)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in the House today to speak about our government's commitment to affordable housing. Last week we announced over $7 million in funding for transitional housing for survivors of domestic violence, for new seniors' units, and for renovations to existing units in Prince Edward Island. This is part of our ongoing commitment to affordable housing, building on our historic investment in budget 2017.There is no doubt that we can and must do more. Sadly, a lack of affordable housing is not limited to major centres. I frequently see constituents in my office pleading for help in finding a safe, secure, and affordable place to live. It is a heartbreaking, hopeless conversation.We know that one of the first steps in breaking the cycle of poverty is ensuring that our most vulnerable have a roof over their heads. One day we will be judged on how we treat those less fortunate. I believe this to be particularly true for those in leadership positions, which is why I am proud to be part of a government that is addressing this urgent need in Canada.Government assistancePovertySocial housingStatements by MembersSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—CharlevoixDavidLamettiLaSalle—Émard—Verdun//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1115)[English]Mr. Speaker, our two official languages are at the heart of who we are as Canadians, and it is a priority for our government.The experience, expertise, and integrity of Ms. Meilleur has been recognized by many, both in this House and in the official languages community across Canada.Yesterday, the francophone community called on this House to end the political games and support this nomination. Ms. Meilleur will fulfill her duties with all the experience and impartiality required for this important position.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsCandiceBergenHon.Portage—LisgarCandiceBergenHon.Portage—Lisgar//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1120)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I would first like to thank the member for her question and for her work on the Standing Committee on Official Languages.As the member knows, we promised to find the best person to be the official languages commissioner, and that is exactly what we did. Ms. Meilleur's skills, experience, and integrity have been recognized by members on all sides of the House. We are confident that Ms. Meilleur will carry out her duties with all the experience and impartiality this important position requires. Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—CharlevoixSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—Charlevoix//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1120)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, as I already said, our two official languages are a priority for our government. Ms. Meilleur is a lawyer who has devoted a good part of her career to protecting our official languages and the vitality of our linguistic communities. She will be an important watchdog and ensure compliance with the Official Languages Act. We are confident that she will carry out her duties with all the experience and impartiality required.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—CharlevoixTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1125)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, Commissioner of Official Languages is an important position, and we are committed to finding the best possible candidate for the position.To respond to my colleague's allegations, I want to make it clear that at no time was the official languages commissioner job discussed. There is a process in place, and it was followed.Butts, GeraldCommissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsPolitical influenceKarineTrudelJonquièreTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1125)[English]Mr. Speaker, as the member knows well, committees of the House are independent and are masters of their own affairs. Our government believes in the importance of the office of the official languages commissioner and in the protection and promotion of our two official languages. After a rigorous, open, and merit-based process, which included 72 candidates, a selection committee, multiple rounds of interviews, and testing, Madame Meilleur clearly emerged as the most qualified candidate for this important position. As for the allegations of the member opposite, I would like to clarify that at no time was the position of official languages commissioner discussed. There was a rigorous process in place and it was followed.Butts, GeraldCommissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsPolitical influenceTraceyRamseyEssexKarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—London//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1125)[English]Mr. Speaker, our two official languages are at the heart of who we are as Canadians and are a priority for our government. The experience, expertise, and integrity of Ms. Meilleur has been recognized by many, both in the House and in official languages communities across Canada. For 30 years, she has worked tirelessly to promote official language rights and services, including the protection of the Montfort Hospital to ensure access to health care in both official languages in Ottawa. Ms. Meilleur will fulfill her duties with all the experience and impartiality required for this important position.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsKarenVecchioElgin—Middlesex—LondonLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1130)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, as I said, we committed to finding the best person for the job of official languages commissioner, and that is what we did. After a rigorous, open, and merit-based process, which included 72 candidates, a selection committee, multiple rounds of interviews, and testing, Ms. Meilleur clearly showed that she had the experience, skill, and impartiality required. In addition to the letters that the Prime Minister sent to the party leaders in the House and the Senate, we also consulted the opposition critics for official languages. It will be—Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsLucBertholdMégantic—L'ÉrableAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1130)[English]Mr. Speaker, we are committed to finding the most qualified candidates for each position. We also believe that taking part in public life should not exclude anyone from serving Canadians in a new capacity. Once again, it is the qualifications that matter. In fact, we appointed Kim Campbell to lead the Supreme Court of Canada advisory board. Like Kim Campbell, we firmly believe that Madeleine Meilleur will be able to serve Canadians with all of the accountability, impartiality, and rigour required.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsPolitical influenceMarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1130)[English]Mr. Speaker, after a long, open process based on merit, Ms. Meilleur clearly demonstrated that she will fulfill her duties with all of the experience and impartiality required.As already mentioned, we take the appointment process for the Commissioner of Official Languages very seriously. A selection committee composed of a majority of public servants gave the minister a short list of recommendations, which informed the final nomination. All measures required were taken to ensure that these employees be excluded from the appointment process.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsPolitical influenceJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilJohnBrassardBarrie—Innisfil//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1135)[English]Actually, Mr. Speaker, those were not the same lines, but these are.There was a long, open process based on merit, and Ms. Meilleur clearly demonstrated that she will fulfill the duties with all of the experience and impartiality required. A selection committee composed of a majority of public servants gave the minister a short list of recommendations, which informed the final nomination. All measures required were taken to ensure that these employees be excluded from the appointment process.Commissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleineOral questionsPatronage appointmentsJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilPatKellyCalgary Rocky Ridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1145)[English]Mr. Speaker, Canada 150 is an opportunity to engage Canadians in our communities from coast to coast to coast. It provides us with an opportunity to think about the past, reflect on all we have accomplished so far, and look toward the future with optimism. We know that many crown corporations and government agencies are joining us in the celebration. Will the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance please share how the Bank of Canada is participating?150th Anniversary of Canadian ConfederationBank of CanadaCoins and banknotesOral questionsAnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingGinettePetitpas TaylorHon.Moncton—Riverview—Dieppe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1200)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is a concern. The health and safety of Canadians is the government's first priority. The CFIA is monitoring the program in place for this product, and if unacceptable levels are detected, the CFIA will take action, including product retention and recall. We are addressing the problem.Oral questionsPig farmingPorcine epidemic diarrheaLarryMaguireBrandon—SourisGabrielSte-MarieJoliette//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCannabis ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1255)[English]Mr. Speaker, I congratulate the member on his remarks. I thought they were very thorough, well thought out, and very fair. I am pleased to hear that his party will be supporting Bill C-45 going to committee and I hope there is a robust debate there. I have a couple of questions.Having been in a previous government that proposed the decriminalization of cannabis back in about 2002, I do see the approach and I understand where the party and the member are coming from in that regard, because it does not make sense to have all these people with records who face the cost of a pardon and the loss of economic opportunity for having been charged for small amounts of marijuana. The problem with the decriminalization approach—and I agree on the member's point on going forward with a progressive approach—is that decriminalization, in and of itself, does not take the criminal element out of the sale of the product on the market. Does the member not see that as a problem in responding only with decriminalization? Second, on the point of revenue, I think there are a lot of people who think this is going to mean gobs of money for governments. I do not believe that will be the case, because we have to keep the revenue very stable or at fairly low prices or we are going to encourage the black market to provide illegal product. I wonder what the member has to say on that as well.C-45, An Act respecting cannabis and to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code and other ActsCannabisCriminal recordsDecriminalizationGovernment billsGovernment revenuesSecond readingMatthewDubéBeloeil—ChamblyMatthewDubéBeloeil—Chambly//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the report of the Canadian delegation to the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the annual winter meeting of the National Governors Association held in Washington, D.C., United States of America, from February 24 to 27, 2017.8565-421-59-19 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual Winter Meeting of the National Governors Association, held in Washington, D.C., from February 24 to 27, 2017 Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupJudy A.SgroHon.Humber River—Black Creek//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Expansion Project]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1025)[English]Madam Speaker, I certainly come from the opposite end of the country from the member for Chilliwack—Hope. To begin with, I would say that I think the member could be giving the Prime Minister a fair bit of credit for supporting this project. However, that is beside the point. I want to make that point, though, because the Prime Minister has been onside, and let us not forget that.My comment is really with respect to the fact that even where I live, in Prince Edward Island in Atlantic Canada, this pipeline is seen as much needed. In my opinion, we need the energy east pipeline as well. It is the safest way to move oil, and for my area there would be a lot of jobs. We used to have several flights out of Moncton to Fort McMurray and elsewhere that are not there now because of the oil downturn. I just want to point out and see if the member agrees, that this is not only important for jobs in the west, but important for the economy and jobs right across the country.British ColumbiaJob creationKinder Morgan CanadaOil and gasOpposition motionsTrans Mountain pipelineMarkStrahlChilliwack—HopeMarkStrahlChilliwack—Hope//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCannabis ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (2030)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the member's remarks. She did lay out quite a number of good facts, but the sentiment of her remarks is this: that attitude is burying one's head in the sand in terms of what the reality out there in the world is today. That is what it really is, burying her head in the sand about the reality of what is happening out there today. They are good facts, and we have a problem in terms of marijuana use we have to deal with. What is the best way to deal with that? If members ask young teenagers who are in school, or 11- or 12-year-olds, which it is easier to gain access to, legal liquor or illegal marijuana, if they are being honest, they will answer illegal marijuana. By legalizing marijuana, we will know what the strength of the marijuana is. We are establishing education programs to talk about its dangers. We are controlling the product. We are moving to set up roadside testing.Is the member burying her head in the sand, or is she looking at the reality of the world and what legalization can do in improving and lessening marijuana use, ensuring that it is a safer product, and having an education system to take it out of the hands of young people?C-45, An Act respecting cannabis and to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code and other ActsCannabisDrug educationGovernment billsSecond readingYoung peopleCathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleCathayWagantallYorkton—Melville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCannabis ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (2035)[English]That is low.C-45, An Act respecting cannabis and to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code and other ActsCannabisGovernment billsSecond readingCathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleCathayWagantallYorkton—Melville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCannabis ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (2225)[English]Mr. Speaker, the hon. member for Louis-Saint-Laurent is on the finance committee and expresses a lot of common sense there, but he has absolutely lost his common sense here tonight. He talked about a measuring stick to measure how high the plants are, but a measuring stick going to the ceiling would not measure all of his exaggerations here tonight.I will ask the member the simple question that the parliamentary secretary asked earlier: what are you going to do instead? The Government of Canada is recognizing it, is legalizing it, is controlling it, is educating with respect to it, and is starting to deal with this problem. What would the member opposite do? What are you going to do instead to actually control the problem—C-45, An Act respecting cannabis and to amend the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Criminal Code and other ActsCannabisGovernment billsLaw enforcementSecond readingGérardDeltellLouis-Saint-LaurentGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersWorld No Tobacco DayInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, today the World Health Organization marks World No Tobacco Day. In Canada, tobacco is the leading cause of preventable death and disease, killing over 37,000 Canadians every year. Although the average smoking rate in Canada is 13%, our communities in the north experience rates of over 50%, and in some it is as high as 73%. This health inequity places an enormous burden on families, communities, and the economy. With the renewal of Canada's federal tobacco control strategy, we must seize the opportunity to strengthen it to have a greater impact in preventing and reducing tobacco use. We need proven measures that will discourage our youth from starting to smoke, such as plain packaging regulations, a nationwide ban on menthol cigarettes, and support for northern communities in the development and implementation of tobacco control projects.In recognition of World No Tobacco Day, I say, butt out, everyone.SmokingStatements by MembersTobacco productsWorld No Tobacco DayPatFinniganMiramichi—Grand LakeJacquesGourdeLévis—Lotbinière//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1535)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 17th report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill C-44, an act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2017 and other measures. The committee has studied the bill and has decided to report the bill back to the House with amendments. I want to thank all members from all parties who did the work at committee in studying Bill C-44, the staff, the clerk, and all those involved. I believe many people have no idea of the many hours the finance committee met to go through the clause-by-clause study of the bill and to hear witnesses before that. 8510-421-227 (Bill C-44, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2017 and other measures, with amendments)Budget 2017 (March 22, 2017)C-44, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2017 and other measuresStanding Committee on FinancePierrePoilievreHon.CarletonDanRuimyPitt Meadows—Maple Ridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1800)[English]Madam Speaker, the member for Calgary Rocky Ridge indicated that when he posed the question, he asked whether the next ethics commissioner would be just another Liberal, because it is a Liberal who has been named as the official languages commissioner. Quite frankly, that was a drive-by smear of a distinguished Canadian in the context of attempting to insult the process that is in place for appointments to this place by Parliament. That drive-by smear was not remarked on nor responded to in question period when he asked it and it will not be today.[Translation]In February 2016, the Prime Minister announced the introduction of a new approach to Governor in Council appointments, one that is more open, representative of Canadian diversity, and merit-based. The government is proud of this new approach, which makes the process more rigorous. [English]That speaks to the process that was in place for the Commissioner of Official Languages and that is in place for all Governor in Council appointments, including the Ethics Commissioner. This question also allows me the opportunity to defend an outstanding Canadian in Madame Meilleur, the new official languages commissioner. She was appointed following a rigorous and merit-based process. Madame Meilleur clearly emerged as the strongest candidate for this position after this process. This is a process that is a marked departure from the appointments process under the previous government, which brought us Mike Duffy and put Vic Toews on the bench. Remember “He can either stand with us or with the child pornographers”? Yes, I mean that Vic Toews. This rigorous process for Madame Meilleur also included consultation with the critics and the leaders of both opposition parties. As the Minister of Canadian Heritage stated in the House today, at no point have her qualifications come into question throughout the process. For those qualifications to be insulted in the preamble leading up to the eventual question with respect to the appointments of the Ethics Commissioner, is unbecoming of this place. During her 13 years as minister responsible for francophone affairs, Madame Meilleur worked to create the position of french language services commissioner and ensure that the position be independent of the legislature. She was the driving force that ensured that Ontario's French-language television station, TFO, was able to operate independently from TVO, its English-language counterpart. In addition, she has fought for increased francophone immigration in Ontario and for a bilingualism policy for the City of Ottawa during her time as a city councillor there.The government is highly confident that Ms. Meilleur will fulfill the duties of Commissioner of Official Languages with vigour and resolve. The role of the official languages commissioner is of utmost importance, as it ensures compliance with the spirit of the Official Languages Act in our society. We are equally proud of the open, transparent, and merit-based process that is now in place for all of these appointments. Adjournment ProceedingsCommissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleinePatronage appointmentsPatKellyCalgary Rocky RidgePatKellyCalgary Rocky Ridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsGovernment AppointmentsInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1805)[English]Madam Speaker, I would encourage my friend from Calgary Rocky Ridge to have a look at the letters that were given to the opposition leaders, if they would share them with him. I would also encourage him to speak to his colleague from Beauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—Charlevoix for the consultation that took place with the critic from his party.I wish to reiterate that the Government of Canada is proud of the appointment of Madeleine Meilleur as the new Commissioner of Official Languages. To suggest that the only reason she was appointed was that she is a Liberal is absolutely a smear, considering her stellar record of public service in the promotion and protection of official language communities during the course of her very distinguished career. Adjournment ProceedingsCommissioner of Official LanguagesConflict of interestMeilleur, MadeleinePatronage appointmentsPatKellyCalgary Rocky RidgeCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I have said many times in this House, we have supported and will continue to support supply management. With the duties relief program, when I became Minister of Agriculture , I found out it was a big problem at the border. We addressed that problem, and six import companies have lost their certificates to import products into this country, supply management products. We are working on this issue. It is a big issue. We have continued and will continue to make sure supply management is protected.8560-421-64-04 Reports of the Auditor General of Canada to the House of Commons (Spring 2017)Auditor General of CanadaInternational tradeOral questionsSupply managementBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotDavidChristophersonHamilton Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersLeone BagnallInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to honour former P.E.I. MLA and cabinet minister Leone Bagnall, who passed away on April 30. Mrs. Bagnall served in the P.E.I. legislature for 14 years. Elected in 1979, she was the first Progressive Conservative woman appointed to cabinet on P.E.I., as education minister and minister responsible for the status of women. Leone served as interim party leader for the P.E.I. Progressive Conservative Party, the first woman to lead an opposition party in Canada. Mrs. Bagnall was named to the Order of Canada in 1994 and honoured with the Order of P.E.I. in 2005. A former teacher, farmer, and mother of five, she is remembered as a community leader and political pioneer. Whether it was family, church, community, or politics, Leone was always modest and unassuming. As a former lieutenant governor stated, “Bagnall was simply a wonderful person”, and that she was. We extend our condolences to her family and our thanks for her service.Bagnall, LeoneDeaths and funeralsPoliticiansPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersBradTrostSaskatoon—UniversitySheilaMalcolmsonNanaimo—Ladysmith//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1) I have the honour to present, in both official languages, three reports of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group.The first concerns the 70th annual meeting of the Council of State Governments' Southern Legislative Conference, held in Lexington, Kentucky, United States of America, from July 9 to 13, 2016.The second concerns the annual legislative summit of the National Conference of State Legislatures, NCSL, held in Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A, August 8-11, 2016.The third concerns the 69th annual meeting of the Council of State Governments–West, held in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, United States of America, September 6-9, 2016.8565-421-59-16 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 70th Annual Meeting of the Council of State Governments Southern Legislative Conference, held in Lexington, Kentucky, from July 9 to 13 20168565-421-59-17 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual Legislative Summit of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), held in Chicago, Illinois, from August 8 to 11, 20168565-421-59-18 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 68th Annual Meeting of the Council of State Governments-WEST (CSG-WEST), held in Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, from Sepstember 6 to 9, 2016 Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthAnthonyHousefatherMount Royal//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 16th report of the Standing Committee on Finance, in relation to the main estimates 2017-18.8510-421-213 (Main Estimates 2017-18: Votes 1 and 5 under Canada Revenue Agency, Votes 1 and 5 under Department of Finance, Vote 1 under Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada and Vote 1 under Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions)Canada Revenue AgencyDepartment of FinanceFinancial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of CanadaMain estimates 2017-2018Office of the Superintendent of Financial InstitutionsStanding Committee on FinanceJudy A.SgroHon.Humber River—Black CreekMarjolaineBoutin-SweetHochelaga//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, as a former farmer and the Minister of Agriculture, I was certainly pleased with the last budget. I find that the government certainly became aware. We have announced $70 million to science research to add onto the $30 million originally in the previous budget. There is $1.26 billion to the innovation fund, $950 million in innovation superclusters, and the list goes on and on. This government understands the importance of agriculture and will continue to make sure that the agricultural sector remains strong in this country.Budget 2017 (March 22, 2017)Grain and grain growingOral questionsTax deferralLarryMaguireBrandon—SourisCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersSpring Activities in P.E.I.InterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1100)[English]Madam Speaker, the spring lobster fishery is now under way in much of Atlantic Canada. This past Friday, before the opening of Lobster Fishing Area 24, I had the opportunity to visit all of the ports in my riding and speak with many local fishers. By itself, the lobster fishery is a major component of the island economy. It also plays an essential role in supporting hundreds of much-needed rural jobs. This period of time also marks the beginning of spring planting in the agricultural sector on P.E.I. Fishing and farming remain the strongest parts of the island economy, with the largest job creation relating to the processing of agrifood and seafood products. I want to acknowledge the important role of Prince Edward Island's farmers, fishers, and plant workers, and I hope that they have a safe and productive 2017 season.Farming and farmersFisheries and fishersFood and beverage manufacturing industryPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersAlexandreBoulericeRosemont—La Petite-PatriePierrePoilievreHon.Carleton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersAtlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame InducteeInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Eddy Dykerman, recently inducted into the Atlantic Agricultural Hall of Fame. Eddy, along with his father Bert and brother Gerald, originally established Brookfield Gardens, a mixed vegetable farm selling to local, Canadian, and overseas markets. In 2008, with his son Matthew, they added Red Soil Organics, producing organic produce for similar markets. Eddy is a leader in environmentally sustainable farming and on-farm food safety. He implemented integrated pest management and nutrient management programs, constructed berms and grassed waterways, and built collection and irrigation ponds to control water runoff. In 2012, the farm received the Gilbert R. Clements Award for Excellence in Environmental Farm Planning. Eddy serves on numerous organizations, including the Federation of Agriculture, the PEI Horticultural Association, and has supported Farmers Helping Farmers in Kenya. He was instrumental in developing the Canada gap program and led the school healthy snacks initiative.My congratulations to Eddy for a job well done. Atlantic Agricultural Hall of FameDykerman, EddyFarming and farmersStatements by MembersRobNicholsonHon.Niagara FallsPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessHolidays ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1800)[English] Madam Speaker, I rise today to address Bill C-311. This bill seeks to make changes to the Holidays Act as it pertains to Remembrance Day. I am pleased to advise the House that we will be supporting the bill with the amendments that were made at committee. I would also like to take this occasion to congratulate and thank the member for West Nova, who has shepherded the bill through committee in a very deliberate and thoughtful way. The passion that he feels for this subject has been very evident in the manner in which he has approached his work throughout in connection with this piece of legislation.First allow me to explain the origins of the Holidays Act. It is a consolidation of three previous statutes: the Dominion Day Act, the Remembrance Day Act, and the Victoria Day Act. The main purpose of the Holidays Act is to establish the date of these holidays. Although other legislation, such as the Canada Labour Code, refers to Remembrance Day, the Holidays Act is the only place where the date is defined as November 11. When the Holidays Act was put in place, it incorporated the existing wording of all three of the previous statutes, which explains why Canada Day and Victoria Day are referred to as legal holidays and Remembrance Day is referred to simply as a holiday.The bill before us today proposes to change the Holidays Act to add the word “legal” before “holiday” as it pertains to Remembrance Day. Changing the reference to Remembrance Day to be the same as the term used for Canada Day and Victoria Day will provide consistency in the Holidays Act. It is important to note, however, that adding the word "legal" before “holiday” in the Holidays Act will not make Remembrance Day a paid non-working holiday for all Canadians across Canada. At the federal level, the Canada Labour Code determines paid non-working holidays for employees under federal jurisdiction. Employees who do not work under federal jurisdiction are subject to provincial and territorial legislation. This change would be a symbolic reflection of the continued commitment of our government to honour veterans and remember their sacrifices.It is fitting that these discussions about Bill C-311 are occurring in the year when we are commemorating significant anniversaries, including the 100th anniversary of the battles of Vimy Ridge and Passchendaele and the 75th anniversary of the Dieppe raid. Through major events here in Canada's capital at the National War Memorial and overseas at the Canadian National Vimy Memorial in France, we are turning Canadians' attention once again to these pivotal moments and the sacrifices that were made for our freedom. Remembrance Day is more than just a date on the calendar. Observed on November 11, the anniversary of the armistice that formally ended hostilities at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918, Remembrance Day is a national annual commemoration that keeps alive, in our collective memory, the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who served. They served in the air, they served on land, and they served at sea, and millions more contributed on the home front. (1805)[Translation] Canada pays tribute to our heroes. Canada's national flag, a paramount symbol of our nation, is flown at half-mast on Remembrance Day. The act of half-masting is a dramatic visual statement that speaks to the sense of shared loss. The flag on the Peace Tower is lowered at 11 a.m. on Remembrance Day, in synchronization with the flag at the National War Memorial.Flags at other locations across the country are also flown at half-mast on Remembrance Day. Each year, on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month, Canadians across the country gather at the National War Memorial, in memorial parks, community halls, workplaces, schools, and homes to observe a moment of silence, collectively stand in honour of all who have fallen in the service of their country, and acknowledge those presently serving.[English]There is a profound value in pausing to remember and in setting aside time to participate in remembrance activities. It is easy sometimes to take for granted the many freedoms we enjoy in Canada: the freedom of thought, of religion, of expression, and the right to equality, liberty, and security. These freedoms are enshrined in the Canadian Charter of Rights, and the charter forms part of our Constitution. On April 17, 2017, we marked the 35th anniversary of the charter. The Prime Minister reminded all Canadians: The Charter protects the rights and freedoms that are essential to our identity as Canadians. It allows us to express ourselves as individuals and to celebrate our differences, while bringing us closer as a country. In 2017, as we celebrate the 150th anniversary of Confederation, the 100th anniversary of the First World War, and the 35th anniversary of the Canadian Charter of Rights, let us address the long-standing inconsistency in the Holidays Act and use the same language for Remembrance Day that is used for Victoria Day and Canada Day. On Victoria Day we honour our sovereign, Her Majesty The Queen; on Canada Day we show our pride in being Canadian; on Remembrance Day we pause to remember, to reflect on the value of our freedom, and to honour our brave Canadian men and women in uniform who have served and continue to serve our country. Though changing the Holidays Act to identify Remembrance Day as a legal holiday would be symbolic, it is an important recognition of the significance of that date. Symbols are powerful, as they have an impact on identity. As Canadians, we hold our veterans and our serving members in high esteem, and we set aside time on Remembrance Day to show our respect and gratitude. This change to the Holidays Act would reflect the continued commitment of the Government of Canada to honour our Canadian values of freedom and equality and would serve as a reminder that Remembrance Day is a time to appreciate our hard-earned freedom. The men and women who fought and continue to fight deserve our respect and admiration. We need to keep their stories alive and pass them on to the next generation.Battle of Vimy RidgeC-311, An Act to amend the Holidays Act (Remembrance Day)Civil and human rightsFlag of CanadaHalfmastPeace TowerPrivate Members' BillsProvincial jurisdictionPublic holidaysPublic Service and public servantsRemembrance DaySecond World WarTerminologyThird reading and adoptionVeteransErinWeirRegina—LewvanMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersGwich'in Comprehensive Land Claim AgreementInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, on April 21, I had the pleasure of attending the 25th anniversary celebrations of the Gwich'in Comprehensive Land Claim Agreement in Fort McPherson, Northwest Territories.Land claims strengthen local participation in decision-making, and create certainty about ownership, use, and management of land and resources. There are more than 10 land resources and self-government agreements being negotiated right now in my riding. We have a real chance of finalizing some of these agreements.I want to thank the hon. Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs for her commitment in finding new solutions to long-standing negotiations.Once again, I congratulate the Gwich'in, and also the Salt River First Nation, which will be celebrating its 15th anniversary of its treaty and land entitlement claim this June. It is my most ardent wish that I will stand again in the House very soon to congratulate more NWT indigenous governments on their newly finalized land claims and self-government agreements.Comprehensive land claimsGwich'in Comprehensive Land Claim AgreementStatements by MembersKellyMcCauleyEdmonton WestLeonaAlleslevAurora—Oak Ridges—Richmond Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersFarewell to Bruce and BoomerInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is frequently stated that 80% of all televisions that are turned on in P.E.l. at 6 p.m. on a weeknight are tuned in to Compass, the suppertime newscast. Friday was the end of an era for that program. For the last 31 years the weatherman on the show has been Kevin “Boomer” Gallant, a former harness racing track announcer, in his trademark Red Sox ball hat, colourful Hawaiian shirt, and shorts. For the last 13 years the news anchor has been Bruce Rainnie, who has an encyclopaedic knowledge of sports and a lightning-quick wit. Together they are magic. Close friends on and off the set, their on-air banter has entertained and endeared Islanders to these wonderful personalities. Bruce recently announced that he was leaving the show to lead the Nova Scotia Sport Hall of Fame. Boomer almost immediately announced his retirement, effective the same day. His reason? “You can't have Abbott without Costello.” I thank Bruce and Boomer for the memories. Those guys will be missed.Canadian Broadcasting CorporationGallant, KevinPrince Edward IslandRainnie, BruceStatements by MembersTelevision newscastGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestGlenMotzMedicine Hat—Cardston—Warner//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1210)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 15th report of the Standing Committee on Finance entitled “Canada's Housing Markets: Benefits, Barriers and Bringing Balance”.This study started with a motion to do a comprehensive study of issues surrounding the Canadian residential real estate market. I will admit, if I could put it this way, that it became a moving target, with events happening fast in the market during our study. I therefore want to give a special thanks to the extraordinary effort put in by analysts Dylan Gowans and Florian Richard, their manager June Dewetering, and clerk Suzie Cadieux. I also want to thank committee members from all parties as well as the witnesses for their efforts in getting this study done. 8510-421-194 "Canada's Housing Markets: Benefits, Barriers and Bringing Balance"Home ownershipReal estateStanding Committee on FinanceTomLukiwskiMoose Jaw—Lake Centre—LaniganBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersReference to Standing Committee on Procedure and House AffairsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1710)[English]Madam Speaker, I have been watching some of this debate, and it has certainly strayed away from the question that is on the table today. My question, simply put, for the member is this. What has to be done to move past this point and get Parliament working again? That is the key question. I have watched this for a number of days. I do not speak in the House lately very much, but I see all sides talking past each other, taking shots at each other. We know that the proposal that is on the deck is not for the Prime Minister to be here just one day a week. We know different from that, but that is what has been said. We know some of the things said to the opposition are not quite 100% either. However, this place is called the House of Commons for a reason. It is not the House of cabinet or the House of PMO. Protecting the rights of members in this place, whether it is the opposition members in terms of the stance they are taking, is also protecting the rights of the other members here who are not members of cabinet or the government. We talk about government as if this whole side is the government. The government is the executive branch. We do need to protect these rights. What I am saying for all sides is this. Let us get this place working again. We need to get to the budget implementation act. We need a number of things done. Can everyone step back, take a break, look at this again, and table something that will protect our rights and get the business of government done?Dilatory motionsMotion to proceed to the Orders of the DayMotion to refer the matter to the appropriate committeeParliamentary privilegePrima facie breach of privilegePutting the questionRights of the House as a CollectivityStanding Committee on Procedure and House AffairsMatthewDubéBeloeil—ChamblyMatthewDubéBeloeil—Chambly//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionM. Sean Casey (secrétaire parlementaire de la ministre du Patrimoine canadien, Lib.): (1500)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government recognizes the important contribution of Acadians, francophones, and indigenous peoples to our history.We also recognize that CBC/Radio-Canada is an independent crown corporation and that it would not be appropriate to comment on the content of the series given that we have to ensure its independence. We invite people to address those important concerns to CBC/Radio-Canada.Canada: The Story of UsCanadian Broadcasting CorporationCanadian historyOral questionsTelevision programsPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertT.J.HarveyTobique—Mactaquac//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersP.E.I. Burger LoveInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1100)[English]Mr. Speaker, it being April, it gives me great pleasure to rise today and inform the House that PEI Burger Love has returned to the island. Every April since 2011, island restaurants have offered their own special burgers, made with 100% island beef and topped with fresh and imaginative ingredients. Last year, over 163,000 burgers were sold, more burgers than there are islanders, resulting in a whopping $2.2 million dollars in sales in just 30 days.The annual event is followed fanatically. Many compete to see who can try the most burgers, and restaurants vie to win the crown of best burger. With 84 participating locations this year, it is safe to say that Canada's food island is thriving, thanks to our farmers, to our chefs, to our restaurateurs, and, most of all, to islanders. P.E.I. is all about beaches in the summer, but this month it is all Burger Love, all the time.PEI Burger LovePrince Edward IslandRestaurantsStatements by MembersRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1205)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, for us, the 150th anniversary of Canada is an opportunity to reflect on our past and to tell the different stories that shaped our identity.Everyone knows that the CBC is an independent crown corporation. Out of respect for its independence, we should refrain from commenting on the content of this series.Our government is particularly sensitive to and recognizes the important contribution of Acadians, francophones and aboriginal peoples to our history. Canadians are encouraged to keep this important conversation going.Canada: The Story of UsCanadian Broadcasting CorporationCanadian historyOral questionsTelevision programsMoniquePauzéRepentignyHunterTootooHon.Nunavut//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodThe BudgetInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1420)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have been in the House a long time and to be able to present as Minister of Agriculture the type of budget our Minister of Finance presented to the House is certainly a credit to our agricultural sector and certainly gives me great pride. There is $950 million to enhance Canada's global competitiveness by focusing on industry, $200 million for clean technology, and $1.26 billion for innovation. What this government has done is made sure that our—Balanced budgetBudget 2017 (March 22, 2017)Farming and farmersOral questionsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, our party fully supports our dairy farmers and our supply management system. We are the party that fought to implement supply management, and we are the government that will continue to support supply management. The Conservative plan to eliminate supply management would cost billions of dollars. It would cause the closure of many farms and it would not affect the price of the product. Our government will continue to work closely with our farmers to protect and defend our farmers, which very much includes our supply management sector. Canada-United States relationsDairy farmingDairy industryNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsDenisLemieuxChicoutimi—Le FjordArnoldViersenPeace River—Westlock//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1120)[English]Madam Speaker, I will be sharing my time this morning with the hon. member for Parkdale—High Park.I welcome the opportunity this morning to speak in support of budget 2017 and all the work our government is doing to continue to build a strong economy in the country from coast to coast to coast.Before I get into my comments on the budget, I want to first congratulate all the volunteers and organizers who helped ensure that O'Leary, Prince Edward Island, was named Kraft Hockeyville 2017. O'Leary is a small community in my riding. I want to acknowledge the tremendous work of its volunteer committee, made up of members Della Sweet, Jo-Anne Wallace, Tammy Rix, Bill MacKendrick, and Dean Getson, for their tireless effort to ensure that this community would win Hockeyville 2017. It has already received $100,000 for facility upgrades to its arena. It will be hosting an NHL pre-season game between the Ottawa Senators and the New Jersey Devils. This is a significant accomplishment for a small community with a population of less than 1,000. Therefore, I want to acknowledge this tremendous effort. It was an island-wide effort. Indeed, the effort was from coast to coast, as people were supporting it. I am pleased that I also took part in it.I briefly want to acknowledge budget 2017 and the positive impact on my home province of Prince Edward Island. The budget would increase transfer equalization payments by $10.1 million from the previous year. There would be $152 million through the Canada health transfer, which is an increase of $4.6 million, and $56 million through the Canada social transfer, which is an increase of $1.7 million.I am pleased that the government would provide Prince Edward Island with an estimated $45.1 million in the next decade, of which $24.6 million would be dedicated to better home care, including for addressing critical home care infrastructure requirements, and $20.5 million would be allocated to support mental health initiatives in the province. These are issues I heard a lot about during the campaign in the summer and fall of 2015: the issue of home care and support for our aging population, seniors; and the growing issue of mental illness and the need to provide more services. I was pleased that our government recognized that my home province was meeting additional challenges in these areas and required additional funding to make sure that the citizens of Prince Edward Island have access to health care that is equal to that enjoyed across the country.I want to touch briefly on a specific issue my colleague from Newfoundland spoke to a little earlier, and that is the significant new announcement by the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans of $325 million to support innovative technological investments in the fish sector on the east coast, in fish processing facilities, and in training upgrades to bring this industry into this century. It is recognition that we must invest in technology to ensure that our first-class seafood is processed in the most innovative manner to allow us to stay competitive in the international market.As well, this budget would continue on from budget 2016 by allocating an additional $5 million to small craft harbours, which are essential to a successful fishery. This would follow on an investment last year of $149 million. These are strategic investments in strategic infrastructure on the east coast to support the very important fishery on Prince Edward Island.While addressing the budget today, I want to focus on three areas that I feel are important in our society. Those three areas speak to the heart of what a government is expected to do in the area of strong social policy and social supports.(1125)Governments, after all, always have to meet the challenge of managing the affairs of a country with methods close to the private sector. At the same time, they have a social responsibility to ensure that people do not slip through the cracks and that they have access to programs and funding to ensure that they have equally productive lives in this country.I did a little research. The 2016 budget was an historic one, with the transfer of a significant amount of money to children in this country. I do not have to go into detail. There have been various debates in the House on this issue. Why I am referring to this is that when I look back at three very significant social programs in the country, they were all initiated by Liberal governments. The first family allowance in Canada was issued on February 20, 1945. Mackenzie King was prime minister of the country. The first family allowance cheques to Canadian mothers was $5 a month for each child under the age of five, $6 for children aged six to nine, $7 for those aged 10 to 12, and $8 for teenagers 13 to 15 years of age.My riding is small compared to some of the larger ridings in the country. In one month, in my small riding, our government's child tax benefit, and this is an estimated figure, is $2.31 million. It is money that goes to children in my riding of Egmont. That is a significant benefit to children, families, and single-parent families in my riding. That is one of the signature initiatives of our government. It started last year and we are continuing to build on it this year. It is $2.31 million for a program that was started in 1945 by a Liberal prime minister. It shows that our government recognizes that we have a responsibility to make sure that children have every opportunity in life. The Canada child benefit is the tool that does that. It is one of the initiatives I have been most proud of since I became a member of Parliament.As well, the first mandatory old age security system, in 1927, was under Mackenzie King. A non-contributory program, the system was later updated by Prime Minister St. Laurent in 1957 and by Prime Minister Pearson in 1965. It is interesting to note that universality was repealed for a while by the Mulroney government in 1989. Again, the old age security system, one of the hallmarks of Canadian society, was an initiative introduced by a Liberal government. I was pleased that our government was able to recognize that seniors most in need, single seniors, were depending on OAS and GIS, and we raised that by $90 a month in the last budget.The final issue I want to talk about briefly is the employment insurance system. I was pleased that in this budget, our government recognizes that a deterrent to skills training and higher education is that people on employment insurance cannot take training on their own initiative for fear of losing the benefits they depend on. We recognize this. It is an issue I long championed as a provincial politician. Why not allow people who are out of work to access training, upgrade their skills, and receive employment insurance at the same time? That is why I am proud to support this budget. These three social programs are pillars of what defines Canada as a nation, and I am delighted to support budget 2017.Benefits for childrenBudget 2017 (March 22, 2017)Budget debatesEducation and trainingEmployment insuranceFamilies and childrenFish processing industryFisheries and fishersGuaranteed Income SupplementHockeyville competitionHome care servicesIncome securityOld Age SecurityO'LearyPorts and harboursPrince Edward IslandSenior citizensSplitting speaking timeTransfers to provinces and territoriesUnemployment and jobseekingWays and Means No. 10KenMcDonaldAvalonMarjolaineBoutin-SweetHochelaga//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionMr. Robert Morrissey: (1130)[English]Madam Speaker, that is a good question. At least our government has recognized that there is a crisis in housing in large urban centres, as in other communities across the country. Our government recognized that crisis by announcing the largest single investment in housing in some time in this country. The very issues that my hon. colleague referred to are issues that our government is sensitive to and aware of. We are the first government in some time to put a commitment in the budget to begin to recognize this situation across the country and to make investments in housing in major centres across the country.Budget 2017 (March 22, 2017)Budget debatesSocial housingWays and Means No. 10MarjolaineBoutin-SweetHochelagaGordJohnsCourtenay—Alberni//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionMr. Robert Morrissey: (1135)[English]Madam Speaker, the first priority of the government is to recognize that there is an issue and a serious challenge in parts of this country. Beginning during the election campaign and since this session of Parliament began, our government has made a number of commitments to begin addressing the wrongs that the former government put toward our first nations communities. A lot of work still has to be done, but in the last two budgets our government has recognized that this is a priority and that we have to put money into these areas. That is why I was pleased to see in the budget that we will begin looking at areas such as mental health issues across the country.Aboriginal peoplesBudget 2017 (March 22, 2017)Budget debatesCare for childrenMental healthSuicidesWays and Means No. 10Young peopleGordJohnsCourtenay—AlberniKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionMr. Robert Morrissey: (1135)[English]Madam Speaker, I would be pleased to share my thoughts. My colleague, the parliamentary secretary, is correct in recognizing that our government, beginning last year, made a significant investment in youth employment across the country. That is extremely important in a rural riding like mine, where young people do not have the same job opportunities as in larger centres. It is important that the government provide funding to various non-profit organizations to allow them to hire young people who can get work experience in a field related to their education background. We have come a long way in that area, and I am really pleased with the numbers we have reached. They are significant investments, and significant numbers of young people are being employed through that program. Budget 2017 (March 22, 2017)Budget debatesStudent summer employmentWays and Means No. 10Young peopleYouth employmentKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthDavid de BurghGrahamLaurentides—Labelle//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1240)[English]Mr. Speaker, I listened to the member's remarks. Having listened to some of the debate today, it is interesting to note that earlier a member of the NDP talked about the deficits the Liberals were running. The Conservatives have talked about the deficits. We do not want to run a deficit forever.However, when that member got up, all she talked about was spending. We have to recognize in the House that not everything is done in the budget. To the point the member made on health care, we are in fact making progress on the health care issue in terms of the discussions and agreements we have developed with the provinces.On seniors' housing, that is part of the agreement where the federal government has targeted money for the housing sector. Also rather than giving the money to the provinces for them to spend, the federal government has actually targeted that spending to go to mental health.The last point I would make is on the national housing strategy. As the chair of the finance committee, and I agree with the member, there is a huge concern there. We do need a national housing strategy.However, the budget goes some distance. It is not going to get there in a day, but we have laid out a long-term plan in the budget to reaching a national housing strategy. Would the member not agree that progress has been made in the budget for Canadians?Budget 2017 (March 22, 2017)Budget debatesWays and Means No. 10JennyKwanVancouver EastJennyKwanVancouver East//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersJuno AwardsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1415)[English]Mr. Speaker, this weekend Canadian music took centre stage as our nation's capital welcomed and celebrated some of Canada's most prolific musical talent at the 2017 Juno Awards.[Translation]Canada is blessed to have so many talented artists who are celebrated across Canada and around the world. I rise today to recognize the hard work and dedication of all the artists in the industry who add to the vitality of Canada's music scene.[English]I am very proud of the Government of Canada's commitment to support this wealth of musical talent, notably through the Canada music fund, which also contributes to making landmark events such as the Juno Awards possible.[Translation]On behalf of the Government of Canada, I want to congratulate all nominees and winners at this year's Juno Awards.Juno AwardsMusic and musiciansMusic industryStatements by MembersDanAlbasCentral Okanagan—Similkameen—NicolaRonaAmbroseHon.Sturgeon River—Parkland//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1135)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our two official languages are at the heart of our history and our identity. The short answer to the hon. member's question is absolutely not.Our very first action plan will be presented this year, but in the meantime budget 2017 includes investments that reflect our interest in this file, in the infrastructure of our official language communities, and in accessing justice in both official languages. Official languages are so important to our government—Commissioner of Official LanguagesOfficial Languages ActOfficial languages policyOral questionsPrime MinisterReferences to membersTrudeau, JustinFrançoisChoquetteDrummondAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1150)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we are very proud of the vision we have put in place for the Canada 150 celebrations and of the lasting legacy they will leave, based on four themes: youth, the environment, reconciliation with indigenous peoples, and diversity. I am confident that my colleagues recognize the importance of those four themes and the importance of working together to build our future for the next 150 years.150th Anniversary of Canadian ConfederationCanada 150 FundGovernment accountabilityOral questionsJacquesGourdeLévis—LotbinièreBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—Bagot//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1150)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, as the member knows, we held consultations on this subject across Canada. Right now, the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage is examining the issue. Next year, we will unveil a comprehensive strategy based on these consultations and this work.Digital mediaElectronic commerceMusic and musiciansMusic industryOral questionsTaxationPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertPatKellyCalgary Rocky Ridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is well aware that we support supply management. She is well aware that I announced $350 million for the dairy sector, $250 million for the farmers, $100 million for the processors.Along with it, yesterday's budget announced $70 million for agricultural science and innovation, $950 million for super clusters, $200 million for clean technology.This government supports supply management and the agricultural sector.Canada-United States relationsCanada-United States Softwood Lumber AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSoftwood lumber industrySupply managementTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéAnjuDhillonDorval—Lachine—LaSalle//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1945)[English]Mr. Speaker, on Tuesday, September 13, 2016, the Minister of Canadian Heritage was very proud to launch a public consultation on how to support Canadian content creation, discovery, and export in the digital world.[Translation] As the minister clearly explained at the time and many times since, our cultural and creative industries are important drivers of innovation and a vibrant part of our economy. The intersection of culture and technology holds tremendous potential for our country's growth and prosperity.As we adjust to the realities of rapid technological advances and changing consumer behaviour, the minister launched consultations to better understand the challenges and opportunities brought on by this transformation. These consultations provided an opportunity to listen to and learn from Canadians and examine the federal government's current cultural policy toolkit. [English]We have been very pleased with the response to our consultation, and all Canadians can find material related to that response at our web portal at www.canadiancontentconsultations.ca. Approximately 26,000 individuals and organizations expressed an interest in the consultations by visiting the portal. Over 800 of them contributed directly to the discussions, including more than 300 who attended the in-person discussions. The department received more than 200 submissions from creators, citizens, entrepreneurs, intellectuals, and companies. Finally, approximately 20,000 people mentioned the consultations and shared ideas on the subject in various social media. We are committed to this being an open and transparent public consultation. That is why all of the submissions we received are posted and publicly available on the consultation web portal. (1950)[Translation]On February 21, 2017, the independent firm Ipsos released a report entitled “What We Heard Across Canada: Canadian Culture in a Digital World”, which summarized the ideas and recommendations heard during those consultations.We invite Canadians to read that report. Our government will pay close attention to the results of those consultations.[English]The consultations will help us develop a cultural tool kit that is better suited for today's digital realities.Back in November, my friend posed two questions. One was to make the briefs public. That has been done. The second was to ask the government to put a price on Google, Facebook, Netflix, etc., to pay the taxes. The work related to the consultations is not complete. He is asking for us to prejudge the outcome. He is possibly asking for us to prejudge what might be in tomorrow's budget or a future budget. We are not in a position to do that. We were not four months ago. We were not yesterday, and we are not today.Adjournment ProceedingsCanadian contentCopyright and copyright lawCultural industryDigital mediaInformation disseminationMedia streaming and webcastingPublic consultationRoyaltiesPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1950)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we are proud of the results of our consultations.[English]Tens of thousands of Canadians visited our web portal, or joined in by social media. Hundreds answered questions and made detailed submissions through our web portal. Hundreds more participated in live consultation events, as well as thousands who joined by Facebook Live or social media. [Translation]Our government wanted to foster dialogue and we can say “mission accomplished”.Across Canada, our creators, entrepreneurs, cultural industries, and intellectuals all appreciated having the opportunity to contribute to the discussion.[English]The department is carefully reviewing the report that summarizes what we have heard, and all Canadians are invited to do the same. The consultations will help the Department of Canadian Heritage develop a cultural tool kit that is better suited to today's digital realities. The Government of Canada thanks all Canadians and stakeholders for their participation and—Adjournment ProceedingsCanadian contentCopyright and copyright lawCultural industryDigital mediaInformation disseminationMedia streaming and webcastingPublic consultationRoyaltiesPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersHepatitis CInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, hepatitis C is a contagious viral infection that ranges in severity from mild illness lasting a few weeks to serious lifelong liver disease. NWT has the highest rate of hepatitis C in Canada. About 250,000 people are infected with the virus in Canada, but most are unaware that they are infected. Many patients do not experience any symptoms until their liver becomes so damaged that they develop cirrhosis, liver cancer, or liver failure.I encourage the development of a national hepatitis C strategy that includes voluntary testing for everyone born between 1945 and 1965, who make up the majority of cases in Canada, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Like many diseases, if caught early, there are much better outcomes for patients. If we work together, we can limit the impact of this virus and protect the health of all Canadians.Health screeningHepatitis CProgramsStatements by MembersRameshSanghaBrampton CentreTomKmiecCalgary Shepard//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersSpecial OlympicsInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1100)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to wish the best of luck to Janet Charchuk, a young woman in my riding who will be representing Canada at the 2017 Special Olympics World Winter Games.Janet has Down's syndrome but says that while it is a part of her, it does not define her as a person. A strong advocate for people with disabilities, she is the president of PEI People First and is a provincial representative on the People First of Canada board of directors. She also represented Special Olympics team PEl at last year's national games, where she won three medals in snowshoeing events.This week, Janet's hometown of Alberton organized a special community event to wish her well before she travels to Austria next week to again compete in snowshoeing. Janet is a role model. I wish her and all team Canada competitors the best of luck.AthletesCharchuk, JanetMentally disabled peopleSnowshoeingSpecial Olympics World Games winter 2017Statements by MembersDeanAllisonNiagara WestRichardCanningsSouth Okanagan—West Kootenay//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Agriculture and Agri-Food]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1515)[English]Could you guys cut? Cut.DavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1515)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 14th report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Supplementary Estimates (C) 2016-17.8510-421-162 (Supplementary Estimates (C) 2016-17: Votes 1c and 5c under Canada Revenue Agency and Vote 1c under Department of Finance)Canada Revenue AgencyDepartment of FinanceStanding Committee on FinanceSupplementary estimates (C) 2016-2017GeoffReganHon.Halifax WestLarryBagnellHon.Yukon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 13th report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill C-240, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (tax credit — first aid). The committee has studied the bill and recommends that the House of Commons not proceed further with this bill.8510-421-153 "Bill C-240, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (tax credit — first aid)"Adult education and trainingC-240, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act (tax credit — first aid)First aidStanding Committee on FinanceTax creditsKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthRonaAmbroseHon.Sturgeon River—Parkland//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and AgriFoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to be leading an upcoming trade mission to Vietnam and India as part of our government's effort to strengthen and expand trade in the Asia-Pacific region. I look forward to promoting world-class Canadian products, including Canadian pulses, in India. Our government has already produced great results for Canadian farmers, and we will continue to expand our agricultural exports, create jobs and growth for Canadian farmers, and help more people join the middle class.ExportsFarming and farmersIndiaInternational trade missionsMarket accessOral questionsSmall and medium-sized enterprisesVietnamMaryAnnMihychukHon.Kildonan—St. PaulDanAlbasCentral Okanagan—Similkameen—Nicola//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCanadian Broadcasting Corporation Privatization ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1345)[English]Madam Speaker, I represent Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island. Compass, the local CBC news show, is on at six o'clock every evening, and 80% of the televisions that are turned on in Prince Edward Island at six o'clock are tuned in to that program. The CBC is extremely important to places like Charlottetown. The CBC is extremely important to communities that are in a minority situation with respect to official languages. The CBC is extremely important to northern, remote, and indigenous communities. Why does it have to be all about the dollar and not the character of our country?C-308, An Act to provide for the incorporation of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and to make consequential amendments to other ActsCanadian Broadcasting CorporationLocal and regional programmingNews servicesPrivate Members' BillsPrivatizationSecond readingBradTrostSaskatoon—UniversityBradTrostSaskatoon—University//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCanadian Broadcasting Corporation Privatization ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1345)[English]Madam Speaker, it is my pleasure to speak today to Bill C-308, which provides for the privatization of CBC/Radio-Canada and the amendment of several acts. In studying the bill, it quickly becomes clear that it involves numerous risks for the Canadian broadcasting system, Canadian media corporations, and Canadians in general.[Translation]I would first like to point out that the bill seeks to privatize the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation by allowing for its public offering. However, there has been no assessment of the market value of the corporation or of any interest in the market for the share offering. There is no guarantee that selling it would even generate any profit. The corporation as we know it could become unrecognizable.(1350)[English]Let me remind my colleagues that the corporation was created in 1936 to counter the American influence on our radio waves. Today, its mandate is inscribed in the 1991 Broadcasting Act. This act states that CBC/Radio-Canada must offer radio and television services including a wide range of programming that informs, enlightens, and entertains; that is predominantly and distinctively Canadian; that reflects Canada as a whole and serves the needs of the regions and official language minority communities; and that it must be made available throughout the country.In short, CBC/Radio-Canada represents Canadians and unites them. Bill C-308 would repeal the corporation's mandate as established in the act. Since no other private corporation has to meet the same objectives, the privatization of CBC/Radio-Canada would deprive Canadians of a unique service within the Canadian broadcasting system.[Translation]Furthermore, the other laws that govern the corporation, such as the Access to Information Act and the Financial Administration Act, ensure that CBC/Radio-Canada remains accountable. In addition, all of those laws also stipulate that the corporation must remain at arm's length from the government when it comes to its own day-to-day management. The legislation also guarantees its journalistic, creative, and programming independence.The bill would repeal and modify all of those provisions, to the effect that, as a private corporation, CBC/Radio-Canada would be accountable only to its shareholders. Canadians would no longer be able to get information about its operations or take part in any meaningful way.[English]The possible economic impacts of privatizing CBC/Radio-Canada are also cause for concern. The corporation currently offers numerous radio and television services in English and French, including national networks and local stations, which includes our vital CBC bureau in Charlottetown.[Translation]CBC/Radio-Canada also offers many digital services and is considered a pillar of Canadian content broadcasting in the digital environment. In order to offer those services, the corporation uses a hybrid funding model that combines public funds and self-generated revenues, including advertising revenue.We do not know how much revenue CBC/Radio-Canada would bring in if it were privatized and was no longer accountable to Parliament. However, we do know that cultural industries are currently transitioning to the digital environment. Some platforms, including traditional television, must overcome major obstacles such as a decrease in advertising revenue.[English]A privatized CBC/Radio-Canada would generate most of its revenue from advertising. This means its total revenue could be heavily reduced. It is quite probable that it would choose to reduce its offering to ensure profitability. It is also possible that it would first choose to cut its regional services, which serve official language minority communities and indigenous communities, among others. This would be a loss not only for those communities but also for the diversity of voices in the Canadian broadcasting system. We could also see a reduction in the quality and quantity of programming offered to Canadians. For example, let us take the local news. It is of vital importance for Canadian citizens.[Translation]The current government believes in a strong Canadian broadcasting system. Its approach involves supporting creative industries, investing in CBC/Radio-Canada, and renewing ties with the corporation. The government is investing $675 million in CBC/Radio-Canada over five years. The corporation has indicated that it will use that money to create new, more distinctly Canadian content, continue its transition to the digital environment, and increase its resources in the region in order to be more local.This money will be used to recruit the next generation of Canadian talent. It will allow the corporation to continue to support indigenous programming and the services it offers to official language minority communities. Finally, CBC/Radio-Canada has committed to being accountable to Canadians on the use of this new funding. In my opinion, those commitments offer real benefits to Canadians. In contrast, the bill does not contain any meaningful measures as specific as those.(1355)[English]To sum up, the government believes in the importance of our national public broadcaster, CBC/Radio-Canada, for expressing Canadian culture and providing Canadian content. The bill would eliminate everything that defines the national public broadcaster and ensures its proper functioning. Privatization would fundamentally transform CBC/Radio-Canada, without guaranteeing that the result would be beneficial for the Canadian broadcasting system, Canadian media corporations, and Canadians. For all of these reasons, the government is opposed to this bill.Aboriginal peoplesAccess to Information ActAccountabilityAdvertisingBroadcasting ActC-308, An Act to provide for the incorporation of the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation and to make consequential amendments to other ActsCanadian Broadcasting CorporationCanadian contentCorporate incomeDigital mediaFinancial Administration ActGovernanceGovernment assistanceLinguistic communitiesLinguistic minoritiesLocal and regional programmingNews servicesPrivate broadcasterPrivate Members' BillsPrivatizationPublic broadcasterSecond readingStocks, shares and shareholdersBradTrostSaskatoon—UniversityPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersViolence Against Women and ChildrenInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, today indigenous and non-indigenous people are pledging to help end violence against women and children. For the last six years, the Moose Hide Campaign has organized an annual gathering in Victoria. Many across B.C. and Canada affirm their commitment to the movement by fasting in solidarity with those in Victoria and wearing a square of moose hide.The campaign began when a father and daughter were moose hunting near the Highway of Tears and were inspired to make squares out of the hide. This would become a symbol of involvement in the movement to end violence toward women and children. I encourage all men to take action and speak out that violence against women and children is not tolerated in their communities. I hope everyone joins in this effort to stand up to inequalities and ensure women and children live free from violence.Aboriginal peoplesChild abuseMoose Hide CampaignStatements by MembersViolence against womenChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieThomasMulcairHon.Outremont//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1420)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question.As my hon. colleague is well aware, we have consulted dairy farmers across this country. We have put a program in place worth $350 million: $250 million so the farmers can modernize and $100 million to make sure that the process is modernized. This government has supported and will continue to support and protect supply management.Canada-United States relationsDairy farmingDairy industryNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsDenisLebelHon.Lac-Saint-JeanDenisLebelHon.Lac-Saint-Jean//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1420)[English]Mr. Speaker, about all I can do is tell my hon. colleague what this government has done and what this government will continue to do. We are the party that put supply management in place. We are the party that will protect and take care of supply management. We are the party that put a transition fund in place to make sure that the supply management sector in the dairy industry is modernized. We put money in place to make sure that the processing sector is modernized.This government and this party will take care of supply management.Canada-United States relationsDairy farmingDairy industryNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsDenisLebelHon.Lac-Saint-JeanThomasMulcairHon.Outremont//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think my hon. colleague is fully aware that CETA will benefit the agricultural sector by $1.5 billion a year. I think she is also aware that this government put a transition plan in place for the dairy sector of $350 million, of which $250 million is to ensure that the dairy farmers—and I know what it is like to be a dairy farmer—have transition funds, and $100 million is to make sure that the processing sector has transition funds to ensure it—Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementCheeseDairy farmingDairy industryEuropean UnionFarmer's DayGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would remind the member that we have just signed CETA, which provides $1.5 billion of exports for our agriculture sector. The member is also fully aware that we put a $350-million transition fund in place for the dairy industry, which I know he supports. There is $250 million to make sure our dairy farmers have a transition fund and $100 million to make sure our processors have a transition fund. This government has supported and will continue to support our farmers across this country.Canadian Grain CommissionFarming and farmersFree tradeGrain and grain growingOral questionsUser feesJacquesGourdeLévis—LotbinièreDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is of course fully aware of who set the fees to provide this amount of money in the fund. It was his former government that set the fees. I have met with the commissioners and this issue will be dealt with fairly, to make sure the grain farmers in this country are treated fairly.Canadian Grain CommissionGrain and grain growingOral questionsReimbursementUser feesDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsKellyBlockCarlton Trail—Eagle Creek//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, on Canada's Agriculture Day and every day, this government is extremely proud to support our farmers across this country. Canadian farmers produce the best products in the world, and our government is committed to helping them develop new markets, both at home and abroad. Not only did we pass CETA this week, but yesterday at the CropConnect conference I was proud to announce more than $2 million in funding for the crop sector, which will put more money in the pockets of farmers, create new jobs, and help grow the middle class.Farmer's DayFarming and farmersGovernment assistanceOral questionsDougEyolfsonCharleswood—St. James—Assiniboia—HeadingleyLucBertholdMégantic—L'Érable//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersDistinguished Alumni AwardInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker I rise to congratulate Islander David Thompson, granted the distinguished alumni award at the Dalhousie Faculty of Agriculture. This most prestigious award recognizes outstanding service and commitment to the Faculty of Agriculture, industry, and the alumni association. Mr. Thompson's career in agriculture began after graduation from NSAC in 1970. He entered the crop protection industry, providing technical support in the Maritimes, Quebec, and Maine. Well known and respected among potato and cereal grain growers across the country, he was a champion for environmental issues. Currently president of the World Potato Congress, Dave also served locally as president of PEI Grain Elevators Corporation, promoting the grain and soybean industry of Prince Edward Island.Allegedly retired, Mr. Thompson works and volunteers with numerous organizations and is as busy as ever. We thank David Thompson for his exceptional service and commitment to PEI, the agriculture industry, and the environment.Awards presentationsDalhousie UniversityFarming and farmersPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersThompson, DavidJenniferO'ConnellPickering—UxbridgeAlainRayesRichmond—Arthabaska//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague's question gives me an opportunity to say again that Canada's supply management system is a model of stability worldwide.My hon. colleague is well aware that this is the party that fought hard to put supply management in place and this is the party that will work hard to make sure that supply management remains in place. My hon. colleague is well aware that we worked with the supply management system since we came into government and adjusted a number of things that needed to be adjusted, and we are also in favour—Canada-United States relationsFarming and farmersNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsJacquesGourdeLévis—LotbinièreGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1815)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague from Longueuil—Saint-Hubert for raising this issue.Our government recognizes the value of arts and culture to Canada's society and economy. We know we are living in exciting transformational times. Rapid technological advances and changing consumer behaviour are creating both challenges and opportunities.[Translation]The government consulted Canadians in order to ensure that its cultural toolkit is adapted to today's digital reality and that we can successfully meet all challenges related to the creation, discovery and export of Canadian content in a digital world.[English]The government's focus is to ensure that Canadian creators have the tools necessary to thrive in the digital world.[Translation]The consultation will help us adapt our cultural policies to today’s digital realities.[English]As the initial consultation paper indicated, the way forward is not in attempting to regulate content on the internet. Our focus should be on how to best support Canada's creators and cultural entrepreneurs in creating great content and in competing globally for both Canadian and international audiences.Grabbing a bigger piece of the global pie is critical to building a strong and viable creative sector.[Translation]As part of the consultation process, we organized discussions in Vancouver, Halifax, Toronto, Iqaluit, Edmonton and Montreal. These discussions took place with representatives from a variety of creative sectors. ADISQ was one of the groups represented that took part in the event in Montreal on October 28, 2016.[English]As well, individual Canadians and groups were encouraged to submit their ideas to the consultation web portal. ADISQ took advantage of this opportunity to submit a paper, which is publicly available on our web portal. The information and data received from both the online consultations and in-person events is being analyzed and will be presented in a public report. This information will help inform the government's approach to continue to support the sector. By directly consulting Canadians, the Government of Canada will be able to determine how best to support Canada's creators and cultural entrepreneurs in the new digital environment.Adjournment ProceedingsCorporate income taxDigital media receiversInternetPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1815)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, how unfortunate. What do we mean by enhancing the creation, discovery, and export of Canadian content in a digital world? It means that we want to give creators and businesses in Canada's cultural sector the means to develop and fully contribute to Canada's economy.[English]It means creating pathways to market so creators can share compelling and engaging stories that positively shape an inclusive and open Canada. Above all, it means valuing the social and economic contributions of our creators and cultural entrepreneurs.(1820)[Translation]We have to acknowledge that creativity is at the heart of innovation. That is the basis for a strong middle class and it is key to the success of Canada in the 21st century.Adjournment ProceedingsCorporate income taxDigital media receiversInternetPierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-HubertTedFalkProvencher//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsTaxationInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1820)[English]Mr. Speaker, one of the things that the member for Provencher mentioned in the course of his remarks was his belief that the government is considering a Netflix tax. I can disabuse him of that again tonight. That is absolutely not the case.On November 1, the Minister of Finance tabled his fall economic statement. Setting a new bar for transparency, this statement included economic projections for policy actions taken since budget 2016. This includes the regulatory change that now makes talk shows eligible for the Canadian film or video production tax credit, which dates back to 1995. The immediate value of this change is estimated in that document at $8 million in 2016-17. Over time, this amount will increase as new productions emerge and become eligible to an estimated $33 million.[Translation]Our government is proud to support Canada's film and television sector.[English]Indeed, federal support for this sector in 2015-16 was almost $670 million, excluding CBC/Radio-Canada. In budget 2016, we made important new investments in Telefilm Canada, the National Film Board, and CBC/Radio-Canada. These investments will support a key economic driver in our country's cultural sector. Film and television activity in Canada generated an estimated $8.5 billion in GDP in 2015-16. (1825)[Translation]This industry is also an important vector for job creation in Canada. It employs more than 140,600 Canadians and benefits small and medium-sized businesses across the country.[English]It is also a sector that is showing strong growth. In 2015-16, $6.8 billion was spent on production budgets in Canada. This includes both the Canadian content productions supported by this tax credit and also foreign productions that shoot in Canada. As a labour-based tax credit, the Canadian film or video production tax credit increases as more films and television shows are produced in Canada and more Canadian creators are employed. More film and television production is not only good for our economy today, but also helps us attract the international talent and investment that can position Canada as a future leader in a global economy where innovation and creativity will play an important role. There are enormous opportunities for our creative industries in an increasingly digital and global marketplace. Our government is working hard to support their current and future successes.Adjournment ProceedingsCanadian film or video production tax creditTelevision programsTedFalkProvencherTedFalkProvencher//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsTaxationInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1825)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is a little outside my portfolio to talk about the taxation of health and dental plans but I was here in the House, as I believe was the hon. member for Provencher, when the Prime Minister was absolutely unequivocal in his statement to that effect. That is the end of that discussion for me and I would certainly hope and expect for my colleague too.Dental insuranceEmployment benefitsPrivate health insuranceTaxationTedFalkProvencherBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1150)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government is committed to protecting human rights and official languages rights. In the context of the cross-country consultations on official languages, Canadians highlighted the importance of ensuring access to the legal system, which is why we reinstated the court challenges program, a program that has made a real difference in the lives of Canadians.In order to get the program up and running right away, it was important to do it in the way that it has been done. The possibility of enshrining it into law is one that could be considered at a later date. However, in order to get these rights available to be supported, it has been necessary to do it in the way that it has been done.Civil and human rightsConstitution challengesCourt Challenges ProgramLegislationLinguistic minoritiesOfficial languages policyOral questionsAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordSheilaMalcolmsonNanaimo—Ladysmith//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanadian HeritageInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1200)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the music lover from Pontiac for that question.Canada has a reputation for itself when it comes to music. Members might ask “What Do You Mean?” Well, Drake, Justin Bieber, and The Weeknd are in the top 10 global recording artists of 2016. The world is saying, “Canada, baby, I like your style”.When it comes to our music roster, we have a “really big team”, and we should go “tell your friends” about it. Our government is proud to “take care” of our recording artists. We have no reason to be “Sorry” for our dominance of the music charts, and look forward to more success in 2017.Music and musiciansOral questionsSound recording industryWilliamAmosPontiacDavidYurdigaFort McMurray—Cold Lake//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsStrengthening Motor Vehicle Safety for Canadians ActInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (for the Minister of Transport) (1000)[English]Bill S-2. First reading. moved that Bill S-2, An Act to amend the Motor Vehicle Safety Act and to make a consequential amendment to another Act, be read the first time. (Motion agreed to and bill read the first time) Automotive industryGarneau, MarcGovernment billsIntroduction and First readingMinister of TransportRoad safetyS-2, An Act to amend the Motor Vehicle Safety Act and to make a consequential amendment to another ActSenate billsJodyWilson-RaybouldHon.Vancouver GranvilleAlainRayesRichmond—Arthabaska//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I have said many times in the House, our government truly supports our Canadian dairy farmers and the supply management system. We are the party that fought hard to put the supply management system in place and we will continue to protect and defend it. Canada's supply management system is a model for the world, and our government will continue to work closely with farmers to make sure that our agricultural programs remain in place.Canada-United States relationsDairy farmingDairy industryFree tradeImportsNegotiations and negotiatorsNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—Lacombe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, as my hon. colleague is well aware, we have and will continue to support the agricultural sector in our country, including supply management.My hon. colleague is well aware that we put a $350-million fund in place for innovation in the dairy farming processing sector. What the government is doing is making sure the farmers and the processing sector have the tools in order to do the job.Canada-United States relationsDairy farmingDairy industryFree tradeImportsNegotiations and negotiatorsNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsProvince of QuebecSupply managementTrade agreementsRhéalFortinRivière-du-NordSimonMarcilMirabel//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government fully supports our dairy farmers and our supply management system. It is our party that fought hard to implement supply management and I can assure the House that we will protect and defend it. Canada's supply management system is a model for the world. I can assure the House that there is a great future in the dairy industry and the manufacturing sector with the investments this government is making.Canada-United States relationsDairy farmingDairy industryImportsMilk proteinNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsTraceyRamseyEssexRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is hard to say it much more clearly. We have consulted dairy farmers and dairy processors around this country for the last number of months. We have invested $350 million to make sure that dairy farmers and the processing sector in this country are innovative. The Liberal Party worked hard to put the supply management system in place and this government will make sure that we support the supply management system.Canada-United States relationsDairy farmingDairy industryMulroney, BrianNegotiations and negotiatorsNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsSupply managementGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, I answered this question many times in the House. My chief of staff is a very well-recognized lady, well respected in her community and honoured in her community. I hope and I am sure that the member does not want to indicate to the House or to this country that my chief of staff does nothing but promote agriculture in this country.Energy and fuelFarming and farmersGovernment of OntarioInvestmentOntarioOral questionsProvincial governmentDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, as my hon. colleague is well aware and the House is well aware, this government took a new approach to Governor in Council appointments and we are putting in place new Canadian grain commissioners who would benefit the sector, stand up for grain farmers, and deliver results to the industry. My hon. colleague is well aware of who was appointed. He also is well aware of how qualified the people who were appointed are and will do nothing but be an asset to the Canadian Grain Commission.Canadian Grain CommissionGovernment accountabilityOral questionsOrder in Council appointmentsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCommunity Inclusions Pioneer AwardInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1100)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Theresa Arsenault, a woman in my riding who has spent more than 20 years caring for people with intellectual disabilities. In 1984, Theresa quit her job to care for her daughter Lisa, who has Down syndrome. In 1996, Theresa applied to provide room and board, supervision, and support to other individuals with disabilities in the area. Since then, she has housed more than a dozen people in her own home, one for more than 20 years, another for 14 years, and another for 10 years. Theresa is paid only enough to provide food and clothing for her residents, but she says that she has never thought of it as work. In her 20 years of service, she has had only three weekends off. In recognition of her tireless work, Theresa was recently given the Community Inclusions Pioneer Award. I extend congratulations and thanks to Theresa Arsenault. Arsenault, TheresaCaregivers and health care professionalsCommunity Inclusions Pioneer AwardDevelopmentally disabled peopleStatements by MembersRobertKitchenSouris—Moose MountainErinWeirRegina—Lewvan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersSchool Principal AwardInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1105)[English]Mr. Speaker, our teachers and school administrators play a key role in helping develop our youngest citizens into the best and brightest. They encourage us, they inspire us, and they help us see the potential within. Earlier this week, The Learning Partnership named Erin Johnston, principal of Prince Street Elementary School in Charlottetown, one of Canada's outstanding principals. [Translation]Erin's devotion, enthusiasm, and experience are patently undeniable. Under her watch, the school created a clothing assistance program and a breakfast program for those in need of a meal in the morning. She is sincerely concerned about the well-being of her students.[English]Under her watch, reading scores are up, student leadership has increased, and students feel more positive about learning.[Translation]I have expressed my most sincere congratulations to Erin Johnston for this well-deserved recognition and honour.Canada's Outstanding Principals awardJohnston, ErinStatements by MembersBobSaroyaMarkham—UnionvilleKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage, Lib.): (1200)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, as this is the first time I am rising in this role, I would like to say that I am very proud to be the parliamentary secretary to the Minister of Canadian Heritage and to have the responsibility to speak to the subject of official languages. Our two official languages, French and English, are at the heart of our history and who we are. We have launched a Canada-wide consultation and we will analyze all the data that might support us in preparing our first official languages action plan that will come into effect in 2018.Cultural assimilationFrenchOfficial languages policyOral questionsProvince of QuebecMarioBeaulieuLa Pointe-de-l'ÎleMoniquePauzéRepentigny//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think my hon. colleague is fully aware that this government has been consulting dairy farmers right across the country, including in Quebec. With that consultation, we put a program in place that involved $350 million to make sure the dairy farmers and processing sector were innovative.We have worked with the supply management sector, particularly the dairy sector, and we will continue to work in support of the dairy sector.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy industryEuropean UnionGovernment compensationOral questionsProvince of QuebecTrade agreementsMoniquePauzéRepentignyXavierBarsalou-DuvalPierre-Boucher—Les Patriotes—Verchères//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCanada 150InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, a new year has begun, and 2017 promises to be an exciting one for all Canadians. This year marks the 150th anniversary of Confederation, and it will be full of significant moments and events to celebrate our past, present, and future. An important anniversary like this one is a defining moment in our history, and we will be honouring it with pride and enthusiasm in communities across the country. [Translation]Canada 150 is a unique opportunity to reflect on what defines us and create an optimistic vision for the future of our country. It is also an opportunity to pursue reconciliation with indigenous peoples. Many projects and activities are planned for 2017. Canadians are welcome to participate in everything from major nationwide projects to smaller community projects. Together, let us make the most of everything this extraordinary year has to offer.150th Anniversary of Canadian ConfederationHunterTootooHon.NunavutGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersMarie HendrickenInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Marie Hendricken, who recently passed away. Marie was, first and foremost, a lifelong partner with her husband J.P.—for the family, on the farm, and in the farm movement. Marie was an activist. As a farm activist, she fought for the rights of farmers and organized marketing with the National Farmers Union. She served in many roles, including as women's vice-president for Canada. Internationally, she worked to establish projects with Farmers Helping Farmers, focusing on helping women in Kenya and elsewhere.Marie was a social activist with The Cooper Institute, organizing for progressive social, economic, and cultural change.She was a community builder at home and abroad and in her church. Marie was also a feminist in the true sense, fighting for matrimonial property rights and women's rights generally.In 1983, she stated, “We should never give up the struggle”, and she never did.Solidarity forever, Marie.Deaths and funeralsHendricken, MarieMilitants and activistsJeanRiouxSaint-JeanJoëlGodinPortneuf—Jacques-Cartier//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgricultureInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I was pleased to recently announce, with my counterpart from Saskatchewan, $3.5 million for 24 livestock and forage research projects. That is on top of an announcement earlier this month of $7.7 million for 46 crop-related research projects. Our government understands that research in agriculture is key to staying on the cutting edge. These investments will help create growth and put money in the pockets of our farmers and ranchers.Agricultural researchGovernment expendituresOral questionsDougEyolfsonCharleswood—St. James—Assiniboia—HeadingleyAlupaClarkeBeauport—Limoilou//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersGovernor General's Meritorious Service MedalInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1110)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Becka Viau, a visionary, a feminist, an artist, an activist, an innovator, and a mom. Becka works tirelessly for and with the artistic community on P.E.I. She has been named to receive the Meritorious Service medal for rejuvenating contemporary arts on Prince Edward Island. Her work as a champion of the arts speaks to her love for her community. Her dedication led to her joining forces with the right hon. Kim Campbell and the now Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs when she participated in “A Bold Vision”, an experiment to imagine a Canada designed by 23 women in 2014, as opposed to 23 men in 1864. A force within our community, she ably represented P.E.I. at that table. I extend warm congratulations to Becka and look forward to being at Rideau Hall in the new year when she receives this prestigious and well-deserved honour.ArtistsMeritorious Service DecorationsStatements by MembersViau, BeckaKarenLudwigNew Brunswick SouthwestPierrePoilievreHon.Carleton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersTax Convention and Arrangement Implementation Act, 2016InterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (for the Minister of Finance) (1310)[English]Bill S-4. Second reading moved that Bill S-4, an act to implement a convention and an arrangement for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income and to amend an act in respect of a similar agreement, be read the second time and referred to a committee. Agreements and contractsDouble taxationGovernment billsMinister of FinanceMorneau, BillS-4, An Act to implement a Convention and an Arrangement for the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal evasion with respect to taxes on income and to amend an Act in respect of a similar AgreementSecond readingSenate billsTax evasionTax harmonizationTaxationBruceStantonSimcoe NorthFrançois-PhilippeChampagneSaint-Maurice—Champlain//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersThe EnvironmentInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, today I am adding my voice to that of my colleague from the Yukon to speak about the need to protect the porcupine caribou calving grounds, located in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge.In fact, I ask all of us in this House to speak together to protect these grounds, as the risk to this area of being opened up for drilling increases. The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most fragile ecosystems in the world, and it is already under assault from climate change. The Gwich'in people have traditionally relied on the porcupine caribou herd as a main source of food, tools, clothing, and trade. Caribou is not hunted for sport or entertainment. Today, it still fills freezers for elders and the stomachs of many families. We must work together to sustain present and future generations of this herd. I encourage all MPs and Canadians to help seek permanent protection for the porcupine caribou calving grounds in Alaska.Arctic National Wildlife RefugeGwich'in NationNature conservationOil and gasPorcupine caribouStatements by MembersLucThériaultMontcalmDanAlbasCentral Okanagan—Similkameen—Nicola//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1515)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 11th report of the Standing Committee on Finance, entitled “Creating the Conditions for Economic Growth: Tools for People, Businesses and Communities”. Perhaps better known as pre-budget consultations, this report is the result of the efforts of many presentations from over 300 groups and individuals, and more than 400 submissions.Special thanks must go to Clerk Suzie Cadieux, and assistants William Stephenson and Jean-Denis Kusion, analysts with the Library of Parliament, Dylan Gowans, Florian Richard, Michaël Lambert-Racine, and Claire Annett, who was a research assistant. Also, a special thanks to the chief of the analyst team, June Dewetering, who tried to get everything just perfect. Finally, a special thanks to members of all parties who worked on this report, and worked endless hours in travel and meetings in this town to get the information in the report being tabled in Parliament today.8510-421-128 "Creating the Conditions for Economic Growth: Tools for People, Businesses and Communities"Economic conditionsPre-budget consultationsStanding Committee on FinanceYasminRatansiDon Valley EastGérardDeltellLouis-Saint-Laurent//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement Implementation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1715)[English]Be a little more calm than the other fellow.CarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingDonDaviesVancouver Kingsway//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1845)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to speak in support of Bill C-235, an act to amend the Criminal Code and the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (fetal alcohol disorder).Alcohol is one of the most toxic substances we humans consume. Unfortunately, in pregnancy, it crosses the placenta and disrupts the fetal development. As a result, some children are born with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder, or FASD. FASD was first identified a little more than 40 years ago when a similar pattern of malformations was discovered in children, but the disorder goes way beyond the physical. Individuals affected by FASD may have trouble with memory, attention, self-care, decision-making and social skills, and may also suffer from mental health disorders such as depression, addiction, and difficulty controlling their emotions. They may also have problems with organization and planning daily activities, controlling their emotions and completing tasks, which would allow them to lead productive lives. Circumstances such as these often lead these individuals into trouble with the law and create further issues once they are incarcerated. The consequences associated with FASD are widespread. They may affect the child, the families, and the communities they reside in. To give everyone a better picture of the prevalence of FASD in Canada, this disorder affects nearly one in 100 children. Some Canadian data indicates greater prevalence of FASD in children in rural communities, the foster care systems, the juvenile justice systems, and aboriginal populations. This higher prevalence of FASD found in aboriginal children is often linked to historical and multi-generational trauma. Research and data on the consequences of FASD have grown in the past decades, and programs are being implemented to prevent the disorder and address the special circumstances and the difficulties people are suffering from FASD.However, it is time to address FASD in the criminal justice system. In fact, in its calls to action, the Truth and Reconciliation Commission called upon the Government of Canada and the provincial and territorial governments to undertake reform of the criminal justice system to address the needs of offenders suffering from FASD.That said, let us get to the reasons why the bill is important. As my colleague, the hon. member for Yukon, mentioned, the bill seeks to do a number of things. First, it seeks to define FASD. Second, the bill would give a court the right to order FASD assessments where it has reasonable grounds to believe an offender may be suffering from the disorder and that FASD could have had an impact on the offence committed. Third, the bill would give the court discretion to consider FASD as a mitigating factor when handing down a sentence. Fourth, when a person with FASD is released, they would have an external support plan.It is important to understand that the goal of the bill is not to consider FASD as an excuse for bad behaviour. When a person breaks the law, it is important that this person be held to account. Why it is important to give the court the ability to order FASD assessments where it has reasonable grounds to believe an offender may be affected by the disorder is that not all cases of FASD are physically recognizable, and not all individuals affected by FASD are diagnosed early in life. They may only discover they have FASD once they enter the criminal justice system. It is essential that screening for FASD take place within the criminal justice system to better address the needs of those individuals affected by this disorder. The earlier we are able to identify offenders with FASD, the more we will be able to avoid more serious crimes being committed in the future, and the more we will be able to manage these individuals when they are incarcerated.Then comes the question, why is it important to consider FASD as a mitigating factor in the sentencing process? When a person breaks the law, it is important that this person be held to account, but it is also important to consider the greater picture and to look at the explanation of the person's behaviour.(1850)As I mentioned earlier, people with FASD may suffer from an array of symptoms, such as a lack of understanding of the consequences of their actions, making them more prone to trouble with the law. We need to understand that these individuals are born with a development disorder due to exposure to alcohol before they were even born. We need to recognize that they are victims of a disorder. It therefore becomes all about creating a balance between recognizing the effects of this disorder on offenders and the need to hold people accountable for their actions. This bill would give the courts the power to do this. Health Canada estimates that as many as nine in every 1,000 babies born in Canada have a disability on the FASD spectrum. The effects of this are a lifelong array of mental and physical disabilities, including difficulty understanding the consequence of their actions. As a result, many of the victims of FASD end up in Canada's justice system and prisons. Data suggests that between 10% and 23% of inmates in our prisons have FASD. The Canadian Bar Association, the organization representing Canada's legal professionals, agrees that this is too many people and has indicated its support for Bill C-235. It feels that an unfair number of people with FASD are being prosecuted by the legal system. Here is a quote directly from a CBA letter, which all members should have received this week from the member for Yukon. It states: We believe that Bill C-235 is an important step in addressing some of the shortcomings of the current framework.... Bill C-235 advances several changes, in line with previous suggestions made by CBA. The CBA supports the proposed amendment to define FASD in section 2 of the Criminal Code. The CBA also supports an amendment to allow a judge to order an assessment of someone they suspect has FASD. We believe this would assist courts in handing out more appropriate dispositions to people with FASD. The CBA supports amending the sentencing provisions in section 718.2 of the Criminal Code to allow a judge to consider evidence that an offender has FASD as a mitigating factor on sentencing. We also appreciate the section that would require judges to include, as a condition of probation, compliance with an external support plan established for the purpose of supporting and facilitating successful reintegration into society. Finally we commend the proposed amendment to the Corrections and Conditional Release Act to expressly require Correctional Services Canada to be responsive to special requirements or limitations of people with FASD. The problem of incarcerating people with FASD is pressing and can no longer be ignored. This is a strong endorsement from the legal profession. We need to take action to assist those who have been incarcerated to help ensure they receive support to help them get back into society. That is why I urge all my hon. colleagues to consider voting in favour of this very important bill. Aboriginal peoplesAlcohol use and abuseAlcoholic beveragesBehaviour disordersC-235, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (fetal alcohol disorder)ChildrenCongenital anomaliesCorrectional Service of CanadaCorrectional servicesCorrections and Conditional Release ActCourt ordersCrime preventionCriminal chargesCriminal CodeCriminal justice systemCriminal lawCriminal liabilityCriminal rehabilitationDiagnosisFetal Alcohol Spectrum DisorderFetus and embryoFoster careGovernment policyHealth screeningImprisonment and prisonersIntellectual disabilityLearning disabilitiesMedical researchMental healthOffendersPregnancyPreventive medicinePrivate Members' BillsProbationRural communitiesSecond readingSentencingSocial supportStatisticsSupport of a billTerminologyThe Canadian Bar AssociationTruth and Reconciliation Commission of CanadaYoung offendersBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotBillBlairScarborough Southwest//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersSanta's AngelsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1105)[English]Mr. Speaker, amid the excitement and anticipation of the Christmas season, there are some very kind souls who lift the spirits of those who are less fortunate.Today I wish to recognize Father Stephen Allen, Kenny Zakem, Don Wright, and their team of volunteers. Twelve years ago they founded Santa's Angels in Charlottetown, a dedicated group that works tirelessly each Christmas to deliver food and gifts, along with a visit from Santa, to those in need.Last Christmas, 77 of Santa's Angels visited 218 homes, helping an estimated 1,000 adults and children. These volunteers take time out of their own Christmas morning, with Santa's visits beginning as early as 7 a.m., to create a magical and memorable surprise for those who may not have been able to have a Christmas celebration on their own. I know I speak for the entire House when send out a sincere “thank you” to Santa's Angels and all of the other local charities that spread joy to our most vulnerable citizens.Charitable organizationsCity of CharlottetownSanta's AngelsStatements by MembersVolunteering and volunteersAlainRayesRichmond—ArthabaskaGregFergusHull—Aylmer//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgricultureInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's concern. Being a farmer, I fully understand how serious this is for our ranchers who are affected. I am pleased to announce today that we will provide up to $16.7 million for affected provinces to help these ranchers with their costs, including feed, water, transportation, and interest on their loans. We are committed to helping these ranchers while we take the appropriate measures to clear the industry of this disease.AlbertaAnimal quarantineBovine tuberculosisCattle farmingGovernment compensationOral questionsSaskatchewanFrancisDrouinGlengarry—Prescott—RussellBlakeRichardsBanff—Airdrie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1000)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have two reports from committee to present today.First, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the eighth report of the Standing Committee on Finance, in relation to Bill C-29, a second act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measures.The committee has studied the bill and has decided to report the bill back to the House, with amendments.Mr. Speaker, second, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the ninth report of the Standing Committee on Finance, in relation to Supplementary Estimates (B) 2016-17.8510-421-119 "Bill C-29, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measures"8510-421-120 (Supplementary Estimates (B) 2016-17: Votes 1b and 5b under Canada Revenue Agency, Votes 1b and 7b under Department of Finance and Vote 1b under Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada)Budget 2016 (March 22, 2016)C-29, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measuresCanada Revenue AgencyDepartment of FinanceFinancial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of CanadaStanding Committee on FinanceSupplementary estimates (B) 2016-2017KevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1850)[English]Madam Speaker, that was a very powerful and moving speech, the calibre of which we have come to expect in this place from the member for St. Albert—Edmonton.I also wish to add my voice to his in conveying our thoughts, sympathies, and condolences to Shelly MacInnis-Wynn and her family on the loss of a husband and father.My question for the hon. member relates to the testimony at the Senate legal affairs committee by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police, who expressed a concern that imposing an evidentiary burden on crowns at bail hearings to prove prior convictions and failures to appear, administration of justice offences, would create a burden that could result in delays, in the seeking of adjournments, which would almost certainly negatively impact victims and the system in general. I would ask for the member's comments with respect to that testimony.Burden of proofCriminal recordsPre-trial detentionPrivate Members' BillsRecidivistsS-217, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (detention in custody)Second readingSenate billsMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1850)[English]Madam Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to rise to speak at second reading debate on Bill S-217, an act to amend the Criminal Code, detention in custody. The Senate public bill was introduced in response to the tragic events in Alberta in 2015. I want to again express my deepest sympathies to the family of Constable Wynn and to expressly thank Shelly Wynn, David Wynn's wife, for her testimony before the Senate committee. The pain to the officer's family, RCMP colleagues, and the St. Albert community and beyond is immeasurable.I also want to indicate at the outset that I support the objective of the proposed bill. Decision-makers in the bail process need all relevant information to make timely and appropriate decisions as to who should be released on bail. Ensuring this is not a simple task. It requires up-to-date information management systems and fully trained prosecutors, police, and justices. Unfortunately, I am not of the view that the bill before us today meets its objective. I am concerned that the Senate public bill would create policy and legal implications that could result in a bail system that would not function properly for anyone.The Criminal Code provides the framework for determining whether an accused is released or detained prior to trial. After an arrest, police may decide to release the accused with or without conditions. If not released by police, the accused is brought before a justice for a bail hearing. In some cases, the crown will consent to the release of the accused on certain conditions. However, in other cases, the justice will decide to detain the accused or release him or her, often after imposing conditions, such as a curfew or an obligation to report to police. These important decisions about pre-trial release are made daily in countless courtrooms across Canada.When making any amendment to the bail provisions, it is important to note that the bail process varies widely from jurisdiction to jurisdiction. Some jurisdictions, such as New Brunswick, use only judges to make release decisions. Other jurisdictions, such as Ontario, heavily rely on justices of the peace in their bail courts. There are also significant differences in who attends the bail hearing. Alberta, for example, where this tragedy occurred, is the only jurisdiction in which police officers assume the role of prosecutor at most first-appearance bail hearings. I understand that this practice occurs to a much lesser degree in parts of Saskatchewan and British Columbia. It was, in fact, a police officer who consented to the release of Mr. Rehn, the offender who ultimately killed Constable Wynn.In response to this tragedy, the Alberta government has conducted a full review and continues to examine the role of police officers in bail hearings. The amendments proposed in Bill S-217 were not recommended in the Alberta report, nor have they been raised by the provinces and territories, which have been extensively reviewing the bail process.The bill before us, Bill S-217, proposes two amendments to the Criminal Code bail provisions. Clause 1 proposes expanding the grounds on which the courts rely to determine who should be detained prior to trial. Currently, under the Criminal Code, there are three general grounds under which bail can be denied: first, if the accused is a flight risk, meaning the accused may not show up for court; second, for public safety reasons; and third, to maintain confidence in the administration of justice.Bill S-217 would expand the third ground to specifically include consideration of an accused's criminal record and outstanding charges. If we ask anyone working on the front lines in our criminal courts, they will tell you that the criminal record and outstanding charges are key considerations in almost every case and at almost every stage of the bail process. From the moment someone is stopped by police, right up to considerations on bail pending appeal, the record of the accused is assessed. These factors are automatic considerations under the first ground for detention, that detention is necessary to ensure that the accused attends court, and also under the second ground, that detention is necessary to ensure that the public is protected.Injecting consideration of the accused's record specifically into the third ground for detention, as suggested in Bill S-217, creates uncertainty for the multiple other bail provisions that do not specifically reference the criminal record.(1855)The Supreme Court of Canada, in the 2015 case of the Queen v. St-Cloud, has recently considered and clarified the constitutionality of these grounds of detention.This bill would open the provision to new judicial scrutiny and interpretation after the Supreme Court has just settled it. Clause 2 of the bill proposes to remove crown discretion from section 518 and require crowns to lead evidence to prove the fact of prior convictions, outstanding charges, failures to appear, or offences against the administration of justice at bail hearings.Currently, under section 518(1)(c), the crown is given broad discretion as to what evidence can be led at bail hearings, as well as how evidence is presented to the court. Bail proceedings that are high volume and conducted on short notice require this flexibility.By mandating crowns to provide specific evidence and raising the evidentiary burden with the words “to prove the fact”, Bill S-217 may unnecessarily complicate and lengthen the bail process; crowns may require adjournments to formalize evidence; and hearings could take longer. No one in the criminal justice system, including victims, would benefit from excessive delay and the staying of criminal charges.Similar concerns about the proposed amendments creating delay and resource issues were raised by the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police when they testified before the Senate committee on this bill. These concerns would most likely also be echoed by prosecutors and defence counsel, the front-line workers in our justice system.Legislative changes, such as those suggested, require fulsome consideration of these important perspectives. As part of her mandate to review the criminal justice system and, more specifically, the bail process, the Minister of Justice is working with stakeholders, including her provincial and territorial counterparts, to make this critical component work effectively so that all Canadians, including our first responders, are appropriately protected.Our government is also working to enhance the efficiency of the bail system. No one wants to see serious criminal charges stayed because of unreasonable delay, which is what can happen if bail decisions are not made in an effective, timely way. It is a complex issue that has no one single answer and involves all actors in the criminal justice system.While I think that the Senate public bill's proposed amendments are well-intentioned, they are not the solution to this complicated issue. Rather, they would import delay and confusion and would likely have unintended legal and operational consequences for the bail process.I want to be clear. Bail is a critical stage in the criminal justice process. As this tragedy in St. Albert demonstrates, decisions made at bail can have far-reaching, devastating consequences.While I appreciate its objective, the government does not support the bill. Effecting meaningful change would require a comprehensive response that considers stakeholders' perspectives and fully assesses the legal and policy implications for the bail process.AlbertaBacklogsBailConstitutionalityCriminal recordsDiscretionary powersHomicideLawyersPolice officersPre-trial detentionPrivate consultationsPrivate Members' BillsProvincial jurisdictionRecidivistsS-217, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (detention in custody)Second readingSenate billsSetting of standardsWorkplace fatalitiesWynn, David MatthewMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonMatthewDubéBeloeil—Chambly//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Justice and Human Rights]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1935)[English] Madam Speaker, I wish to speak to the fifth report of the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights in relation to proposed Bill C-242, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (inflicting torture).Bill C-242 proposes the enactment of a new criminal offence of non-state or private torture. Let me begin by commending the member from London North Centre for raising the important issue of non-state torture before the House of Commons. I recognize that Bill C-242 seeks to address a particularly horrific subset of criminal conduct, which is worthy of our attention as parliamentarians. That being said, the committee has recommended that the House not proceed further with the bill. The committee's fifth report was presented to the House on October 17, 2016. I agree with the decision not to proceed further with this bill. Let me provide some more details on why I believe that this was the appropriate decision to make. Private member's bill, Bill C-242 proposes to create a crime of inflicting torture for the purpose of coercing or intimidating any person, with a maximum punishment of life imprisonment. It would define torture to mean “any act or omission by which severe and prolonged pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, is intentionally and repeatedly inflicted on a person.” In addition, “severe and prolonged mental pain or suffering” is defined to mean suffering “a mental injury leading to a visibly evident and significant change in intellectual capability.”The key point about this proposed offence was that it applied to anyone who committed torture, not just to officials of the state. The committee's report concludes that this approach may be redundant. This conclusion reflects the reality that there are already several offences in the Criminal Code that address inflicting serious harm on a person. For example, there is the offence of assault causing bodily harm in section 267 of the Criminal Code, with a maximum punishment of 10 years' imprisonment. There is also the offence of aggravated assault in section 268 where a person wounds, maims, disfigures, or endangers the life of the victim. The maximum punishment is 14 years' imprisonment.There is the offence of sexual assault causing bodily harm in section 272 that has a maximum punishment of 14 years' imprisonment. Finally, there is the offence of aggravated sexual assault in section 273, which addresses the situation where someone who commits a sexual assault wounds, maims, disfigures or endangers the life of the victim. The maximum punishment for this offence is life imprisonment. As a result, cases of private torture can already be prosecuted under the Criminal Code under various assault provisions. An offence of private torture, as Bill C-242 proposes, appears not to be necessary. The standing committee's report also concluded judges already have the authority under section 718.2 of the Criminal Code to consider torturous conduct.Section 718.2 is the sentencing provision in the code that sets out various aggravating factors that a judge must consider when determining the appropriate sentence for an accused person who has been found guilty of a crime. In particular, it is an aggravating factor whenever the victim of abuse is the offender's spouse or common-law partner. It is also an aggravating factor where there is evidence that the offence has had a significant impact on the victim. This will be particularly relevant where a victim has endured ongoing and horrific abuse.Most importantly, section 718.2 instructs judges to consider "any relevant aggravating or mitigating circumstances relating to the offence or the offender.” Given such broad and comprehensive language, I have absolutely no doubt that the type of conduct addressed by Bill C-242 is already met with severe punishment. The approach to sentencing established in section 718.2 is critical, because it preserves judicial discretion to consider all the facts before them. Rather than creating a new offence to address every scenario, the code allows each unique set of facts to be accounted for at sentencing, and this is exactly what judges do in practice.In addition to the redundancy with existing Criminal Code provisions, Bill C-242 also overlaps with another offence, namely, the existing offence of torture found in section 269.1 of the code. Although potential overlap is not always a problem, in this case it does appear to be.(1940)Section 269.1 sets out a definition of torture that incorporates the internationally agreed upon definition of torture found in the torture convention. That definition contemplates torture committed by an official or committed by another person at the instigation of, with the consent of, or with the acquiescence of such an official. Thus, it does not capture torture committed by private citizens. The definition proposed in Bill C-242 is substantially different. It is both broader and narrower than the existing Criminal Code definition.Torture is defined in subsection 269.1(2) of the code to mean any act or omission by which “severe pain or suffering, whether physical or mental, is intentionally inflicted on a person” for various purposes, such as obtaining information from a person. Under this definition, in contrast to Bill C-242, there is no need for the pain or suffering to be prolonged or repeatedly inflicted or that the mental suffering lead to a visibly evident and significant change in intellectual capability. In addition, section 269.1 of the Criminal Code has a maximum penalty of 14 years in prison, compared to the maximum penalty of life imprisonment proposed by Bill C-242. In creating the offence of torture in section 269.1, Parliament gave that section exclusive jurisdiction to address torture. Unfortunately, it does not appear that the proposed offence would complement Parliament's original intent. Such discrepancies with the existing definition of torture, as well as the existing penalty, may in fact undercut the established law set out in the Criminal Code.Finally, there are a number of practical challenges with the bill that were raised at committee. For instance, the definition of torture proposes to introduce new and uncertain language into the code, including the words “change in intellectual capability“. There is an open question as to whether PTSD or similar disorders would qualify under this definition, and it would likely take years of litigation to sort that out. It is also worth noting that none of the amended definitions proposed at committee appeared to adequately address the ambiguities raised by experts.The introduction of uncertainty and inconsistency into the Criminal Code can result in a loss of confidence in the administration of justice. It is, therefore, our duty as parliamentarians to carefully consider all the implications of any proposed amendment. The horrific forms of violence contemplated by Bill C-242 have no place in our society. That is why the concerns raised in this bill will be part of the discussion as the Minister of Justice undertakes a comprehensive review of the criminal justice system. I wish to thank the members of the justice committee for their diligent work in reviewing this private member's bill.8510-421-99 "Bill C-242, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (inflicting torture)" Report recommending that the Bill not be further proceeded with (Standing Order 97.1)Assault and batteryC-242, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (inflicting torture)Concurrence in Committee Reports No. 4Maximum sentencesMental healthOffendersSentencingSexual assaultStanding Committee on Justice and Human RightsTortureVictims of crimeCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersRotary Youth ParliamentInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1105)[English]Mr. Speaker, later today, the 29th annual Rotary Youth Parliament will be called to order at the Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward Island.The Rotary Youth Parliament sees high school students from across the province take on the role of members of the legislative assembly, debating their own bills and resolutions in the chamber.This year, 36 students will participate, forming a full cabinet and an opposition. Bills on the order paper today include the bridge and ferry toll rebate act and the cap and trade system act.Tomorrow, after adjournment proceedings, the top youth parliamentarian will receive the Frank Zakem Memorial Award, which was established in honour of one of the giants of our community and the driving force behind the establishment of this wonderful learning experience.Frank would be so proud of his legacy.I look forward to sitting in the public gallery tomorrow morning at the legislative assembly to pick up a few pointers and meet some of tomorrow's legislators.Legislative Assembly of Prince Edward IslandRotary InternationalRotary Youth ParliamentStatements by MembersFrançois-PhilippeChampagneSaint-Maurice—ChamplainShannonStubbsLakeland//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInfrastructureInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1155)[English]Mr. Speaker, my question is to the Minister of Infrastructure.For the last two years, Prince Edward Island has led this country in export growth and is expected to again this year. The premier has tagged Prince Edward Island “Canada's Food Island” for its food and fish exports, but we also export many other products, such as aerospace and other goods. Critical to our export needs in all of Atlantic Canada is quality infrastructure that leads us into those export markets.My question to the minister is this. Under the new infrastructure fund, will those critical needs be met for Atlantic Canada?Application processAtlantic CanadaExportsGovernment assistanceInfrastructureOral questionsJanePhilpottHon.Markham—StouffvilleAmarjeetSohiHon.Edmonton Mill Woods//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the seventh report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill C-26, an act to amend the Canada Pension Plan, the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board Act and the Income Tax Act.The committee has studied the bill and has decided to report the bill back to the House without amendment.8510-421-113 Seventh Report of the Standing Committee on Finance (Bill C-26, An Act to amend the Canada Pension Plan, the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board Act and the Income Tax Act, without amendment)C-26, An Act to amend the Canada Pension Plan, the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board Act and the Income Tax ActCanada Pension PlanPensions and pensionersStanding Committee on FinanceMaryamMonsefHon.Peterborough—KawarthaHélèneLaverdièreLaurier—Sainte-Marie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's his interest in the issue. Being a farmer, I certainly understand that bovine TB is a serious challenge for these ranchers. I am pleased to confirm that working with the province we are committed to compensate these ranchers for the costs they are facing, including interest on their advance payment loans. We are working hard to address this unfortunate situation and take measures to help these ranchers with this serious challenge.AlbertaAnimal quarantineBovine tuberculosisCattle farmingGovernment compensationOral questionsSaskatchewanLloydLongfieldGuelphPierrePoilievreHon.Carleton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement Implementation ActInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1015)[English]Madam Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Davenport.I am pleased to speak on this topic for Canadian agriculture and agrifood. CETA would greatly benefit our agricultural industry. We are talking about an industry that contributes over $100 billion to the Canadian GDP. It drives over $60 billion of our trade and creates one in eight jobs. To bring our discussions on CETA into agricultural context, Canadian farmers depend on trade for their livelihoods. On average, about half of the value of Canada's agricultural production is export: three-quarters of our wheat crop, two-thirds of our pork, 80% of our canola and canola products, and 90% of our pulse products. The EU is Canada's fourth most important export destination. Trade helps secure jobs, growth, and opportunity for Canadian farmers and farm families, and more great food choices for consumers around the world. This is why our government is working hard to open up new markets for our exporting producers around the world.CETA could drive additional exports up to $1.5 billion, including $600 million in beef, $400 million in pork, and $100 million in grains and oilseeds, as well as $300 million in processed foods, fruit and vegetables. The signing was praised by many agricultural groups, including the Canadian Pork Council, the Canadian Cattlemen's Association, and the Canola Council of Canada. The European Union is among the world's largest markets for food. CETA would create new market opportunities in the EU for our agricultural producers, processors, and exporters all across Canada. Increased market access for our world-renowned beef and pork is only one of the many benefits for Canadian agriculture under this agreement. EU tariffs would also be eliminated on grains such as wheat, barley, rye, and oats; oils, such as canola and soybean; fresh and frozen vegetables; maple syrup; processed products, such as sweetened dried cranberries, french fries, and pet food. As well, in the area of confectionary, it includes baked goods, snack foods, and beverages. CETA would also give duty-free access for over 80,000 tonnes of pork a year, 50,000 tonnes of beef and veal, and 3,000 tonnes of bison. This is a significant improvement. With the agreement in force, Canada would be one of the only developed countries in the world to have preferential access to the world's two largest economies, the EU and the United States, providing food for one billion people. This is why timely implementation of CETA remains a top priority for our government. At the same time, we know that some agriculture sectors would be impacted by CETA; namely, our dairy producers under supply management, who would see increased imports of European cheese. Our government fully supports supply management, and that is something we are very proud of. We recognize the important role Canada's supply management sector plays in ensuring a strong rural economy, accounting for over $34 billion in overall economic benefit. We have said all along that our government needs to help dairy producers and processors make the transition when CETA comes into force, and that is exactly what we are doing. I recently announced $350 million for two new programs that support the competitiveness of the dairy sector, in anticipation of the entry into force of CETA. One of the two new programs is $250 million over five years for the dairy farm investment program that will help provide targeted contributions to help Canadian dairy farmers update farm technology and systems and improve productivity through upgrading their equipment. (1020)The other new program is over $100 million over four years for a dairy processing investment fund that will help dairy processors modernize their operation and in turn improve efficiency and productivity as well as diversify their products to pursue new market opportunities.Dairy farmers have called this an important recognition of the contribution farmers and processors make to the Canadian economy. The long-term investment in dairy modernization provides a sustainable, strong, and reliable industry and economic growth. I look forward to continuing to speak with the dairy farmers and processors to obtain their views on how the programs are to be designed. We are also going to have discussions with the supply management sector to address the concerns of import predictability and enforced border controls for supply-managed commodities, while ensuring that Canadian processors who use dairy and poultry inputs can remain competitive in the export markets.CETA is only one of the government's efforts to open new markets for our farmers and food processors. Following his recent mission to China, the Prime Minister announced an agreement with China to expand beef access to frozen bone-in beef from animals less than 30 months of age; ensure stable and predictable Canadian exports of canola to China on an uninterrupted basis through early 2020; and support trade in Canada's pork, bovine genetics, and some processed foods. We have set a goal of doubling trade between our two countries by 2025. I recently completed an agricultural trade mission to China where we showcased Canadian agriculture, agrifood, and fish and seafood products. I was pleased to promote our world-class, high-quality products and contribute to $37 million in onsite sales, and $230 million in anticipated sales over the next year. All of this is tremendous news for Canadian agriculture and tremendous news for Canada. We are also reaching out to other key markets in Asia. Asia is an important market for Canada's agriculture and food products, especially in animal protein. Building on our success in China, we have regained access for Canadian beef in South Korea and Taiwan. Outside of Asia, we recently announced that Mexico has restored full access for our Canadian beef. The Canadian industry expects that this will eventually boost our beef sales to Mexico to over $200 million a year. We obtained new access for pork to India and restored access for live swine to Russia and the Ukraine. We achieved the repeal of the U.S. country of origin labelling, levelling the playing field for Canadian beef and pork coming into the United States. To grow new markets, the first thing we need is a world-class product, and we have that covered, but we also need investment and resources. That is where we can play a role in opening the doors for our agrifood exporters.Innovation is key to keeping our sector on the cutting edge and to ensuring that we can continue to take advantage of global market opportunities. CETA would deepen Canada's already close partnership with the EU. Its entry into force would help agriculture and agrifood exports in Canada take advantage of the market access opportunities CETA will offer. At the same time, we will be investing in our dairy industry to help it remain strong and competitive. I am optimistic about the future of our food-based businesses. Canada's reputation for high-quality, innovative, sustainable agriculture and agrifood products will give the sector a competitive edge on the global markets.We have the best farmers and ranchers in the world. They can produce the food, and we must make sure we export their products. We are committed to creating growth and opportunity for Canadian farmers and farm families, growing our middle class, and ensuring Canadian agriculture is a global leader in the 21st century. What we have to do is open the doors and make sure that our great farmers and ranchers are able to export their products.Agricultural productsAsiaBeefBordersC-30, An Act to implement the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between Canada and the European Union and its Member States and to provide for certain other measuresCanada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementCanola growingCattle farmingCheeseChinaCompetitionDairy farmingDairy industryEconomic impactEuropean UnionExportsFarm equipmentFarming and farmersFood and beverage manufacturing industryFood labellingGovernment assistanceGovernment billsGovernment compensationGross domestic productImportsInnovationMarket accessMarketingMeatMeat and livestock industryModernizationPig farmingPorkPoultry industryProductivityPublic consultationSecond readingSouth KoreaSplitting speaking timeStatisticsSupply managementTaiwanTrade agreementsTrade policyUnited States of AmericaAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordEarlDreeshenRed Deer—Mountain View//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement Implementation ActInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay: (1030)[English] Madam Speaker, I appreciate the work that has been done and will be done. In my view, what we have to do is to open the markets.In my tenure of a little over a year being the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, visiting a number of countries in Asia, what we have found, first, is that we need to establish a rapport, government to government. I think we did that in other areas, for example, with China and Mexico.We also have to make sure that the governments and the entrepreneurs in these countries understand the quality of the products we have.It is also a job to make sure, if we can, that the countries have a science-based regulatory system. It is very difficult to export to anyone who does not use a science-based regulatory system. In our country, our government, and the member's government previously, always pushed to make sure that we used science-based regulations. We cannot argue against science-based regulations.I think it is important, number one, to have the regulations and, number two, to make sure that we establish a rapport and that people understand exactly the quality of the products we have in this country.AsiaC-30, An Act to implement the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between Canada and the European Union and its Member States and to provide for certain other measuresCanada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDiplomacy and diplomatsEuropean UnionExportsGovernment billsMarket accessMarketingRegulationScientific dataSecond readingTrade agreementsTrade barriersTrade promotionEarlDreeshenRed Deer—Mountain ViewTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement Implementation ActInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay: (1030)[English]Madam Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's concern. Being a dairy farmer all of my life until I came to this chamber, I have an understanding of the dairy business. I also would like to inform the House that we discussed the issue. We met with dairy farmers. We met with processors right across this country. That is where this program we put in place came from. It came from the dairy farmers and processors across the country.I would remind my hon. colleague across the way that I met with young farmers in her province. What they are concerned about is the next generation of farmers. They wanted to make sure that we had a strong and stable supply management system in this country. This party put the supply management system in place, and I can assure members that this party will make sure the supply management system remains strong for generations to come.C-30, An Act to implement the Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement between Canada and the European Union and its Member States and to provide for certain other measuresCanada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryEuropean UnionGovernment assistanceGovernment billsGovernment compensationPublic consultationSecond readingSupply managementTrade agreementsTraceyRamseyEssexJulieDzerowiczDavenport//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersRuth SpenceInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1355)[English]Mr. Speaker, on October 16, Ruth Spence, a long-time northerner, volunteer, women's and children's advocate, and municipal politician passed away just short of her 90th birthday.I was fortunate enough to have met Ruth Spence several times over the years and knew of her lasting impact on the city of Yellowknife. Ruth was a tireless volunteer who was essential in setting up the Liberal riding association and was a constant force there for decades. She also opened Yellowknife's YWCA and was its first executive director. It was an honour to have known Ms. Spence and to hear her advice. Our thoughts continue to be with her family as they mourn the passing of their mother, grandmother, and great-grandmother.Deaths and funeralsSpence, RuthStatements by MembersYellowknifeMoniquePauzéRepentignyBobSaroyaMarkham—Unionville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, as my hon. colleague is well aware, I have met dairy farmers and dairy processors across the country for the last 10 months. The truth is that the program that was put in place was put in place by what we heard across the country. In Quebec, young dairy farmers are interested in the future of the dairy industry.This government has committed to supply management and it will make sure supply management lasts for generations—Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy farmingDairy industryEuropean UnionOral questionsProvince of QuebecTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the concern of my hon. colleague.Our government is firmly committed to pork producers. We secured repeal of the country of origin labelling, and have signed CETA, which will provide an additional $400 million in pork exports.Last week, the Prime Minister made great progress in allowing the export of our pork to Argentina, which will provide even greater benefits for our pork producers.Our government is committed to working hard to provide economic benefits for all Canadians.ExportsOral questionsPig farmingPorkNeilEllisBay of QuinteGerryRitzHon.Battlefords—Lloydminster//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's concern. I have asked my department to look into options for providing assistance to ranchers who are under quarantine. I have asked CFIA to expedite payments for affected herds where cattle have to be destroyed. We have also ensured that CFIA has brought in additional staff to support investigations, including on-farm testing. We have to make sure that we eradicate this disease. AlbertaAnimal quarantineBovine tuberculosisCanadian Food Inspection AgencyCattle farmingCommittee witnessesOral questionsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsRhéalFortinRivière-du-Nord//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1805)[English]Madam Speaker, I am pleased to have the opportunity today to speak about private member's bill, Bill C-305, an act to amend the Criminal Code (mischief).[Translation]Bill C-305 seeks to broaden the provision of the Criminal Code on mischief that constitutes a hate crime in relation to buildings or structures that are primarily used for religious worship by adding other types of buildings or structures.[English]To help situate the Bill C-305 within the criminal justice system, I intend to do three things in my remarks. First, I will provide an outline of how the current criminal law addresses cases of mischief that are hate motivated. Second, I will provide recent statistics of mischief that is hate motivated. Third, I will briefly outline how Bill C-305 proposes to expand the existing hate crime of mischief committed against property primarily used for religious worship, including some concerns with this approach.First, let me address what the Criminal Code currently does to prevent hate mischief, including hate-motivated mischief. Section 430 of the Criminal Code includes a general offence of mischief, which carries penalties ranging from up to two years' imprisonment, where the value of the property that has been vandalized does not exceed $5,000 in value; up to 10 years' imprisonment, where the value of the property that has been vandalized exceeds $5,000; and up to life imprisonment, where the mischief causes actual danger to life.The variations in punishment for this offence depend on the value of the property that has been vandalized, not on the cost of the damage done to the property. For example, minor damage of a few hundred dollars done to a property that exceeds $5,000 in value, such as a house, could result in a maximum punishment of 10 years' imprisonment, not a maximum punishment of two years' imprisonment.(1810)[Translation]For the general offence of mischief, like for all criminal acts, there is a sentencing provision for hate crimes. In fact, subparagraph 718.2(a)(i) of the Criminal Code indicates that, during sentencing, the courts must take into account any aggravating circumstances, including whether the offence was motivated by prejudice or hate based on a non-exhaustive list of motives, such as race, colour, religion, sex, or sexual orientation.[English]There is also a specific hate crime of mischief relating to religious property. Subsection 430(4.1) of the Criminal Code specifically prohibits mischief directed against a building or a structure that is primarily used for religious worship—such as a church, mosque, or synagogue—an object associated with religious worship, or a cemetery. For a person to be convicted of this offence, the mischief must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt to have been motivated by bias, prejudice, or hate based on religion, race, colour, or national or ethnic origin. The maximum penalty is 10 years imprisonment on indictment. Enacted in late 2001 by the Anti-terrorism Act, this offence was designed to prevent the chilling effect that some mischief could have on the worshippers of a particular religion.Now let me move on to what we know about the incidence of hate-motivated crime in Canada and, in particular, hate-motivated mischief. The uniform crime reporting survey conducted by Statistics Canada in collaboration with the policing community collects police-reported information on hate crimes. This includes offences motivated by bias, prejudice, or hate based on race, national or ethnic origin, language, colour, religion, sex, age, mental or physical disability, sexual orientation, and any other similar factor.It also includes information about hate crimes categorized by the term “most serious violation”, which includes the categories of mischief and mischief to religious properties motivated by hate. The statistics for mischief for the last two years of police-reported information on hate crimes cover the years 2013 and 2014. Statistics Canada reported that for 2013 there were 1,167 incidents of police-reported hate crime in Canada.Now let me provide some information with respect to vandalism committed because of hatred of a person's religion. According to the B'nai Brith of Canada's annual Audit of Antisemitic Incidents 2015, for the five-year period from 2011 to 2015, antisemitic vandalism declined to its lowest point in 15 years, with 136 incidents in 2015, compared, for example, to 362 in 2011 and 238 in 2014. However, it added: Frequent and ongoing threats against the Jewish community result in increased security costs for synagogues, Jewish schools and community organizations, in order to maintain the safety of those who utilize such facilities. These increased security costs are unfortunately justified, with hundreds of incidents every year taking place at Jewish institutions.As well, the National Council of Canadian Muslims, which tracks hate crimes committed against Muslims, has noted on its website that in 2015, of the 59 hate crime incidents reported, 18 involved vandalism against Muslims.Bill C-305 proposes to expand subsection 430(4.1) of the Criminal Code, mischief relating to religious property, to include hate-motivated mischief directed at a building or structure that is primarily used as an educational institution; for administrative, social, cultural, or sports activities or events; or as a residence for seniors.Bill C-305 also proposes that the grounds of hate motivation found in subsection 430(4.1), currently restricted to acting out of bias, prejudice, or hate based on religion, race, colour, or national or ethnic origin, should be expanded to include the grounds of gender identity and sexual orientation. As a result, if Bill C-305 is enacted, subsection 430(4.1) of the Criminal Code would no longer have, as its underlying rationale, preventing a chilling effect on worshippers of a particular religion. The intent of Bill C-305 is consistent with our government's commitment to ensuring equal protection and equal benefit of the law without discrimination, in keeping with the charter. It is also consistent with a clear message that hate crimes will not be tolerated in Canada. This rationale is well explained by the Centre for Israel and Jewish Affairs, or CIJA. This organization has highlighted the recent spike in anti-Semitic, racist, and anti-Muslim vandalism that was reported in Ottawa, including at three synagogues and other religious institutions in our nation's capital.CIJA argues that the current law is deficient, since it only designates as a hate crime mischief committed against a religious site such as a church, synagogue, mosque, or temple. In its view, this designation should be broadened. To quote from its website:Hate-fuelled criminals do not distinguish between synagogues, community centres and schools. Neither should the law.I believe that this principle is a worthy one, but I have questions about the potentially broad scope of the proposed crime. For example, would it include structures such as sports arenas, like the Rogers Centre in Toronto? Would it apply to a coffee shop used regularly by a university Spanish club or to an office building occupied partly by government? As it is currently worded, it appears that the bill could potentially capture numerous unintended buildings and spaces. As a result, the offence could become over-broad and potentially vague.Potential impacts of the bill on other parts of the Criminal Code must also be considered. Would it have a deleterious effect on paragraph 718.2(a)(i) of the code, the hate-crime sentencing provision, since that sentencing provision would no longer be used in a large number of mischief cases?Lastly, I am concerned about maintaining the underlying rationale of subsection 430(4.1) of the Criminal Code, which is to protect freedom of religion. In its current form, the bill appears to go quite far beyond that original intent.Cabinet will therefore support Bill C-305, with amendments to address over-breadth and consistency with other provisions of the Criminal Code, including those referred to by my colleague from the New Democratic Party. (1815)As noted, this bill aligns with our government's commitment to charter values, as well as being a clear message that hate crimes will not be tolerated in Canada. For these and other reasons, I believe that Bill C-305 is deserving of further discussion and examination at a committee of the House. Anti-SemitismC-305, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (mischief)Gender identity and gender expressionHate crimesInformation collectionIslam and MuslimsMischiefPrivate Members' BillsReligious buildingsSecond readingSentencingStatisticsVandalismRandallGarrisonEsquimalt—Saanich—SookeLenWebberCalgary Confederation//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1425)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern, but I think she is fully aware this government supports dairy farmers and supply management.CETA is certainly an important deal for farmers, and it would provide additional export opportunities, up to $1.5 billion. My hon. colleague is well aware that we announced $350 million: $250 million for the dairy farmers to innovate, $100 million to make sure that our processors are in a position to work when CETA comes into play.Through this, the government has done more for supply management than has been done over the last 10 years.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy industryEuropean UnionGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1425)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is well aware that we have sat down with dairy producers and processors for the last number of months. This is a program that came in place—Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy industryEuropean UnionGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestEdFastHon.Abbotsford//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay: (1425)[English]Ontario dairy farmers are quite pleased, Mr. Speaker. We will make sure that dairy farmers and supply management and our processors in this sector will be able to deal with CETA when it comes into play and that they will be competitive for many years to come.That is why this government sat down with the dairy farmers and put a program in place that will innovate the dairy—Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy industryEuropean UnionGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsEdFastHon.AbbotsfordGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for Glengarry—Prescott—Russell for his concern. Our government fully supports the supply management sector. We will be meeting with the industry over potential changes to duty relief to improve the predictability of these imports, and we are looking at options on certification for spent fowl. We will continue to work with industry to ensure supply management is strong and competitive for many generations.CertificationDuty exemptionsFarming and farmersGovernment policyImportsOral questionsPoultrySupply managementFrancisDrouinGlengarry—Prescott—RussellMartinShieldsBow River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern. Our government is committed to protecting human and animal health, and has launched a full disease investigation into this case. We understand the difficulties some ranchers may be facing as a result of bovine TB. That is why we are ensuring that CFIA does its job as quickly as possible in conducting its investigations. We also need to ensure the industry is cleared of all this disease.AlbertaAnimal quarantineBovine tuberculosisCattle farmingGovernment compensationInspections and inspectorsOral questionsSaskatchewanMartinShieldsBow RiverRobertAubinTrois-Rivières//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, CFIA will bring in additional staff to ensure the testing is done as quickly as possible. CFIA will pay compensation for any animals with bovine TB when they are destroyed. We are also discussing options for financial assistance for producers. AlbertaAnimal quarantineBovine tuberculosisCattle farmingGovernment compensationInspections and inspectorsOral questionsSaskatchewanKevinSorensonHon.Battle River—CrowfootZiadAboultaifEdmonton Manning//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay: (1500)[English]The member will have to listen, if he wants, Mr. Speaker. We are discussing options for financial assistance for producers whose animals are quarantined but will not be destroyed because they test negative for bovine TB. AlbertaAnimal quarantineBovine tuberculosisCattle farmingGovernment compensationInspections and inspectorsOral questionsSaskatchewanZiadAboultaifEdmonton ManningRhéalFortinRivière-du-Nord//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, as my colleague is fully aware, we sat down and consulted with the dairy industry and the processors. The package that was put in place was put in place because of these discussions. We will be putting in $250 million to ensure the dairy sector is innovative and ready for CETA. We will be putting in $100 million to ensure our processing sector is ready, and I am sure it will be ready. Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementCheeseDairy industryEuropean UnionGovernment compensationImportsOral questionsProvince of QuebecTrade agreementsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestSimonMarcilMirabel//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanadian Human Rights ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, I request consent to split my time with the member for St. Catharines.I am rising to take the opportunity to speak about Bill C-16. I would like to use some of my time to respond—C-16, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal CodeDiscriminationGender identity and gender expressionGovernment billsSplitting speaking timeThird reading and adoptionJohnMcCallumHon.Markham—ThornhillBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanadian Human Rights ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleagues for that. I would like to use some of my time to respond to a persistent criticism of the bill. That is that it is redundant, unnecessary, and merely symbolic. Members raised this issue during second reading debate. They have argued that the bill is not necessary, because our federal discrimination law already provides trans people with enough protection. I acknowledge the perspectives of my fellow parliamentarians, but I believe that these concerns can be answered and that the bill is indeed necessary.It was pointed out that under the current Canadian Human Rights Act, commonly called the CHRA, trans people may bring discrimination complaints using the ground of sex. It is true that the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal has interpreted the existing ground of sex to cover some complaints brought by trans individuals alleging discrimination, but a person must be quite familiar with the case law and the workings of the CHRA system to know that this protection is even available. Canadians should be able to turn to our laws and see their rights and obligations spelled out clearly. We cannot expect trans people who feel they have been discriminated against to become experts in statutory interpretation just to advocate for their basic rights.The CHRA system was originally designed to be a user-friendly, inexpensive, and accessible system. We can further improve access to justice for Canadians by ensuring that rights and obligations are spelled out clearly in the CHRA. What is more, employers and service providers must also be aware of their obligations under the law. They too should be able to look at the CHRA and understand what is required of them. They should be able to understand what kinds of workplace accommodations they must provide to their employees. This area of the law is just emerging. Bill C-16 would serve the important function of clarifying and codifying it. These are practical results, not mere symbolism. When similar amendments were made in provincial human rights codes, human rights agencies received inquiries from the public creating new opportunities to inform people about their rights and obligations. Ontario's Human Rights Legal Support Centre reported an increase in inquiries about gender identity and expression, and there are similar reports from other provinces. After gender identity and expression were added to the Ontario Human Rights Code, the Ontario Human Rights Commission reported a growing awareness that discriminating on these grounds is against the law. Commissions have confirmed that explicitly listing these grounds supports their mandate to inform the public of their rights and obligations.We have also seen legal education respond to amendments such as these. Bulletins, newsletters, and textbooks are sent out and updated to account for statutory amendments. Training sessions and conferences are held to inform legal professionals and others of the new provisions.That has been the experience elsewhere. We should expect the same when this bill is enacted. These are some of the tangible effects we hope to achieve with the bill. They are results, and parliamentarians have the ability and the responsibility to set them in motion. I turn now to another reason for the bill: it would amend the Criminal Code to respond to the risk of violence and harm faced by trans individuals on an all too frequent basis. For a better sense of these risks, I would refer the House to the Trans Pulse project, a research study of social determinants of health among trans people in the province of Ontario. Data for the Trans Pulse project came from focus groups conducted in three Ontario cities in 2006, with 85 trans community members and four family members, and from a survey in 2009-10 of 433 trans Ontarians age 16 and over. According to this research, trans individuals are the targets of specifically directed violence. Twenty per cent had been physically or sexually assaulted for being trans, and another 34% had been verbally threatened or harassed but not assaulted. Many do not report these assaults to the police. Let me now turn to the proposed Criminal Code amendments that are intended to address these risks and harms. First let us consider the aggravated sentencing provision that enables judges to properly recognize and denounce crimes motivated by bias, prejudice, or hate. This is found in section 718.2 of the code.(1010)One of the important purposes of the aggravated sentencing provision is the condemnation of hate crimes. It is about recognizing that some people may be more vulnerable to crime simply because they are identifiable as members of a particular group. That can be because of race, religion, colour, or ethnic origin, to name just a few of the listed grounds. Bill C-16 would add explicit protection for members of the trans community.We can see, again, that Bill C-16 is more than just a symbolic gesture. Adding the ground of gender identity or expression to the Criminal Code would explicitly condemn this type of hate crime. It would also clearly signal to police and prosecutors that they must be aware of the particular vulnerability of trans individuals.Bill C-16 would also add gender identity or expression to the hate propaganda offences in the Criminal Code. This is by no means redundant. This amendment would fill a gap in the law. In the criminal context, clarity and certainty is of great importance. Criminal offences are interpreted narrowly. The hate propaganda offences currently protect groups identifiable on the ground of sex and other grounds, but there is no mention of gender identity or expression. We cannot assume that these offences would be interpreted to cover gender identity or expression without the amendment of Bill C-16.Finally, some members have expressed the view that the terms “gender identity” and “gender expression” are too vague and open-ended. It has been suggested that the addition of these grounds would lead to a flood of litigation.I do not think this concern is warranted. Most provinces and territories now have explicit protection for trans and gender-diverse people in their anti-discrimination statutes. Ontario, Quebec, Alberta, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Prince Edward Island all have gender identity and gender expression as prohibited grounds in their human rights codes. The codes in Manitoba, Saskatchewan, and the Northwest Territories have the ground of gender identity. In fact, the Northwest Territories has had the ground of gender identity in its act for more than a decade. There has not been a flood of litigation in these provinces and territories. I have also heard the suggestion that a definition should be added. Most of the prohibited grounds of discrimination in the CHRA do not have definitions. Commissions, tribunals, and courts elaborate the meaning of the grounds in a reasonable way. They clarify through the application of real-life examples, allowing the law to respond in line with its purpose. This does not mean that grounds are indeterminate. It does not mean that people can claim protection on a whim or for frivolous reasons. There are real limits to what any ground can mean, informed by the important purpose of the legislation and the social context in which it is being enacted.It is time for Parliament to ensure that our laws provide clear and explicit protection where it is now much needed. I urge members to vote in favour of this bill.C-16, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal CodeComplaintsDiscriminationEducation and trainingGender identity and gender expressionGovernment billsHarassmentHate propagandaInformation disseminationLegal servicesOntarioParalegalsProvincial jurisdictionSexual assaultSexual minoritiesSurveysThird reading and adoptionVictims of crimeVictims of violenceWorkplacesBruceStantonSimcoe NorthMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanadian Human Rights ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1015)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Sarnia—Lambton for that question and also congratulate her on her recent honour at the Parliamentarian of the Year awards.There were a couple questions there. One was with respect to the decision of the committee to not take witnesses, and the other was on the potential restriction or alleged restriction on private speech.With respect to the first one, witnesses at committee, this bill, Bill C-16, is a piece of government legislation that has been brought in in this Parliament, but it is certainly not the first time that issues of protection from discrimination for our trans community have been debated in this place. This bill actually went through the House of Commons in the last Parliament. It has been the subject of extensive debate, and we have heard from numerous witnesses at various times.The committees, as the hon. member would know, are masters of their own destiny. There was a vote taken at committee on witnesses, and that was indeed the decision of the committee.With respect to restrictions on free speech, she need not be concerned about that. There is an amendment to the Criminal Code such that unless discussions venture into the hate propaganda portions of the Criminal Code, inter-family discussions will not, in any way, be affected.C-16, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal CodeDiscriminationFreedom of speechGender identity and gender expressionGovernment billsPublic consultationSexual minoritiesThird reading and adoptionMarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonRandallGarrisonEsquimalt—Saanich—Sooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanadian Human Rights ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1015)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for Esquimalt—Saanich—Sooke for really being the driving force behind the protection of the trans community from discrimination. He was indeed the person who drove this issue in the last Parliament, and deserves full credit for the fact that we are at this stage now. I also want to thank him for providing a better answer to the questions from the member for Sarnia—Lambton than I did.With respect to the plan going forward, I cannot share with the member at this stage specifically what conversations have been had and what arrangements have been made. Because of the new world order in the other place, there will indeed be discussions to ensure passage. Those discussions have started and will be continuing, and I believe that is going to become standard operating procedure in the current configuration of the Senate.C-16, An Act to amend the Canadian Human Rights Act and the Criminal CodeDiscriminationGender identity and gender expressionGovernment billsThird reading and adoptionRandallGarrisonEsquimalt—Saanich—SookeChrisBittleSt. Catharines//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersMichael O'NeillInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, today I stand to honour my friend and long-term employee on the Hill, Michael O'Neill, who passed away recently.Mike's career began in 1981, first with MP Dave Rooney; then the NDP research bureau; and as luck would have it, in my office for the last 23 years. Saying Mike was unique would be an understatement. His corporate memory, his research and analysis, and his passionate approach to political issues were one of a kind. He did not seek credit or enjoy the spotlight. He was a sounding board, a quick and insightful thinker with so much filed away in his brilliant brain, and always ready to help such that even during his illness he provided wise counsel. Mike was probably most happy doing a critical analysis of the government, even when we were the government.To his wife Anne and daughter Eryn, we send our heartfelt sympathies. Michael O'Neill made this place a better place. His efforts improved the decisions for Canada; his loyalty was absolute. Our thanks go to Mike and his family.Deaths and funeralsMembers of Parliament staffO'Neill, MichaelStatements by MembersKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthFrançoisChoquetteDrummond//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, the United States is Canada's closest friend and partner, and it is a very important economic relationship. I would like to inform my hon. colleague that it was not his government that resolved the COOL issue. It was not his government that opened the beef market to Mexico. It was not his government that opened a lot of markets. Our government is going to make sure that the agricultural sector continues to thrive in our country.Canada-United States relationsNorth American Free Trade AgreementOral questionsTrade agreementsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, for many years, the people of the lnuvialuit communities, especially Paulatuk, and environmental and conservation organizations have been advocating to protect the sensitive ecosystem in Darnley Bay, in my riding of Northwest Territories. I wonder if the Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard might update the House on what concrete steps the government is considering to ensure this beautiful and pristine marine environment is protected for current and future generations?Beaufort SeaHabitat conservationMarine protected areasNorthwest TerritoriesOral questionsMarcGarneauHon.Notre-Dame-de-Grâce—WestmountDominicLeBlancHon.Beauséjour//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBudget Implementation Act, 2016, No. 2InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1740)[English]What worries me, Mr. Speaker, about the member's remarks is that there were a lot of exaggerations and misinformation. For the member to get up in the House and say the increase to the CPP is going to be $1,100 per year to invest in the pension for the future is absolutely wrong. The finance officials were before committee yesterday and said there would be very few cases where it would hit $1,000. It may be in the range of $700. The member talked about the use of food banks. Does he look at who is using those food banks in Edmonton? Is it not seniors? Yes, they have needs now, but this government is looking to the future and trying to find ways to ensure that future seniors do not have to attend food banks. I just do not like that misrepresentation by a member in the House.I would ask the member where the data is that shows $1,100. It does not exist. Does he not think governments have a responsibility to invest in the future?Budget 2016 (March 22, 2016)C-29, A second Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measuresCanada Pension Plan contributionsFood banksGovernment billsPensions and pensionersSecond readingSenior citizensKellyMcCauleyEdmonton WestKellyMcCauleyEdmonton West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1925)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to say that I am confident in the regulatory management of the aquaculture industry in all of Canada, but most particularly in British Columbia. Measures are in place through regulations and conditions of licence to apply evidence-based thresholds and standards to manage environmental impacts. Moreover, the industry is required to report to Fisheries and Oceans Canada on all of its activities.The effect of all these regulations and reporting requirements makes finfish aquaculture in British Columbia the most heavily regulated and transparent aquaculture sector in Canada. As a result, we are able to know a great deal about how finfish aquaculture is managed and practised in British Columbia, including its outcomes according to reporting, audit, and surveillance activities and other management measures.What does all the data, which has now been collected over the last five years, tell us? Are there indications of any significant problems with finfish aquaculture in British Columbia? In fact, the evidence shows an industry that has steadily reduced its environmental impact, mitigated the impacts it has had, and minimized its interactions with wild populations and their habitat.We are a country and a government that rely on the best scientific advice to inform our regulatory regimes. We use evidence as a basis for making decisions and we see no evidence that the environment is being sacrificed to further the economic development of the aquaculture industry in British Columbia. Canada's aquaculture industry, as a whole, has an exemplary record. The compliance rate of aquaculture operations with the Fisheries Act regulations was over 99% each year.Based on this evidence, Fisheries and Oceans Canada agreed to enable multi-year licensing for aquaculture operators in British Columbia. Multi-year licensing is the standard in other countries and employing it in British Columbia gives our industry more of a level playing field with its competitors. This initiative was undertaken in full consultation with the aquaculture industry and other stakeholders, as well as indigenous peoples.The point to emphasize is that the government maintains the ability to change licensing conditions at any time for the conservation and protection of fish, regardless of the licence duration. This change reduces the administrative burden on both industry and on Fisheries and Oceans Canada, but it does not affect our ability to manage the industry. Based on all the evidence, we believe that the regulatory regime is sufficiently robust and strong to be able to ensure well-paying and stable jobs for thousands of people living in rural, remote, and coastal communities, support an innovative and world-leading aquaculture industry, and protect wild populations and the aquatic environment. Therefore, I stand here in the House in full support of British Columbia's aquaculture industry as well as the aquaculture industry across the country, in support of our robust regulatory regime, in support of good jobs, and in support of healthy and nutritious farmed seafood products that feed Canadians as well as people around the world.Adjournment ProceedingsCohen CommissionFisheries licencesFisheries stocksWild salmonFinDonnellyPort Moody—CoquitlamFinDonnellyPort Moody—Coquitlam//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsFisheries and OceansInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1930)[English]Mr. Speaker, I repeat that I am confident that in the regulatory management of the aquaculture industry in all of Canada, but most particularly in British Columbia, the effect of all regulations and reporting requirements in place makes finfish aquaculture in British Columbia the most heavily regulated and most transparent aquaculture sector in Canada.Fisheries and Oceans Canada agreed to enable multi-year licensing for aquaculture operators in British Columbia, however, the government maintains the ability to change licensing conditions at any time for the conservation and protection of fish, regardless of the licence duration. This initiative was undertaken in full consultation with the aquaculture industry and other stakeholders, as well as indigenous peoples.We believe that the regulatory regime is sufficiently robust and strong to be able to ensure well-paying and stable jobs for thousands of people living in rural, remote, and coastal communities, and protect wild fish populations.Adjournment ProceedingsCohen CommissionFisheries licencesFisheries stocksWild salmonFinDonnellyPort Moody—CoquitlamBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1430)[English]Mr. Speaker, if my hon. colleague was listening last Thursday, he would have heard us indicate what we were going to do for dairy farmers. We are just starting what we are going to do. We inherited a lot of problems from the previous government, in the dairy industry, and we intend to fix it.Last Thursday, we announced about $350 million: $250 million to innovate the dairy industry itself and $100 million to make sure the dairy processors are on the cutting edge. This government is going to make sure that supply management in the dairy sector remains strong for many generations to come.Dairy farmingDairy industryGovernment compensationImportsMilk proteinOral questionsSupply managementGérardDeltellLouis-Saint-LaurentPierrePoilievreHon.Carleton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, as my hon. colleague is well aware, our government is committed to creating a cleaner environment and an innovative economy. Under the carbon pricing commitment made by our government, provinces can decide how to establish a carbon pricing system. We are proud to be a government that recognizes that an important driver of growth in the agricultural sector is science and research, and we will continue to support science and research.Carbon pricingCarbon taxFarming and farmersOral questionsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is well aware that, with the actions of this government, the agricultural sector will remain competitive, and get more competitive. We are interested in agriculture research, clean technology, and helping farmers better address climate change, improve their efficiencies, and become more competitive. That is exactly what will happen with the investments from this government.Carbon pricingCarbon taxFarming and farmersOral questionsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and I know of her concern, but the fact of the matter is that we did consult and we did listen. That is why this package is in place.I was very pleased to announce for this government a $350-million package: $250 million will make our dairy farmers more innovative, and $100 million will make sure that our processing sector is on the cutting edge. We are going to make sure that supply management remains strong. We said we would, and we are putting our money where our mouth is.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy industryEuropean UnionGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank my honourable colleague from Shefford for his question and his help.CETA will provide additional exports for agriculture of up to $1.5 billion per year. As I indicated, last Thursday I was able to announce, on behalf of the government, a $350-million package: $250 million to make sure that our dairy farmers are innovative, and $100 million to make sure that our processing sector is on the cutting edge.These kinds of announcements show that this government will make sure that supply management and the dairy industry survive. Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy industryEuropean UnionInnovationOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsPierreBretonSheffordJamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—Eastman//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodHousingInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, in the north we have a high need for investment to supply suitable and affordable housing. I would like to ask the minister about the consultations he is doing on a national housing strategy, and more specifically, if there will be a northern housing strategy.Northern CanadaOral questionsPublic consultationSocial housingMaryAnnMihychukHon.Kildonan—St. PaulJean-YvesDuclosHon.Québec//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question, and as I indicated a number of times in the House today, we are going to make sure that our processing sector is innovative and ready to deal with CETA when it comes into power. CETA is a very important trade deal. It will give the agricultural sector up to $1.5 billion in export potential, but we will also make sure that our processors are innovative enough to supply the quality cheeses that will be available for export.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementCheeseDairy industryEuropean UnionGovernment compensationOral questionsProvince of QuebecTrade agreementsRhéalFortinRivière-du-NordSimonMarcilMirabel//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I indicated a number of times in the House today, we have shown it by where we put our money. I made an announcement on behalf of the government last Thursday of $350 million to make sure that the dairy farmers and processors are in an innovative situation so they can deal and make sure that the supply management system supplies for many generations. We consulted with the farmers and processors, and now we implemented a program that will make sure the supply management system lasts for a long time in this country.Dairy farmingDairy industryImportsMilk proteinOral questionsProvince of QuebecSupply managementSimonMarcilMirabelLucThériaultMontcalm//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1815)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure to speak today to Bill C-235, an act to amend the Criminal Code, regarding fetal alcohol spectrum disorder.I would like to begin by thanking the member for the Yukon for his long-standing advocacy on this important issue. By introducing this private member's bill, he has focused the attention of Parliament on a disorder that goes too often unnoticed in society. For this he is to be commended. He is clearly motivated by a desire to help society's marginalized and in the process create a safer and more just society. This private member's bill proposes to make changes to both the Criminal Code and the Corrections and Conditional Release Act to address the pressing challenge of persons with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder in the criminal justice system. The issue of FASD was discussed by federal, provincial, and territorial ministers responsible for justice and public safety at their recent meeting this past October. At that meeting, the ministers approved a report from a steering committee of officials who were tasked with examining the issue. The report, which is now publicly available, sets out several comprehensive recommendations for addressing FASD in the criminal justice system. I will return to that report in more detail in a few minutes because it raises some key points.First, though, I would like to say a few things about FASD itself. As we have heard, FASD is a diagnostic term used to describe brain damage caused by prenatal exposure to alcohol. When a woman consumes alcohol while she is pregnant, the alcohol can impact the developing fetus and alter both the physical structure of the brain and the brain's capacity to function. This brain damage is permanent and has lifelong and far-reaching impacts on the individuals it affects and on society as a whole. FASD poses challenges for the criminal justice system, because without appropriate supports, individuals with FASD can be impulsive, unable to regulate their behaviour, and may be unable to learn from their mistakes. In fact, one study has estimated that 60% of individuals with FASD end up in trouble with the law. This concern is compounded when combined with the limited available data about the number of individuals with FASD who are incarcerated in Canadian prisons. The most recent data on FASD in corrections comes from the Yukon. In that jurisdiction, the prevalence of FASD among convicted offenders is at least 17%. This number could in fact be as high as 34%, but given the challenges in confirming maternal alcohol consumption, the diagnosis cannot be conclusively made for these other individuals.When faced with an overwhelming challenge to the criminal justice system such as FASD, often the first instinct is to look for a legislative solution. Amending the Criminal Code to specifically address FASD seems like an obvious place to start. However, as with many complex social issues, the most effective solution is often just as complex and may not be found in legislation. I would encourage all of us to think about the most effective way to truly have a positive impact on the lives of people with FASD.It is worth noting that the report approved by federal, provincial, and territorial ministers in October, which I mentioned earlier, was the product of several years of study by the Steering Committee on FASD and Access to Justice comprised of officials from across the country. Their report did not recommend specifically naming FASD in the Criminal Code because that would single out one disorder to the exclusion of all others. Rather, it recommended further study of whether a more general assessment power for all mental disorders, including but not limited to FASD, would be a useful reform to assist courts in sentencing persons who are living with these conditions. Such a recommendation, especially from this source, merits consideration.I would like to spend my remaining time discussing some of the specific proposals of Bill C-235 that raise some thought-provoking issues. Bill C-235 proposes a legal definition of the term “fetal alcohol disorder” for the purposes of the criminal law. I note that this is slightly different from the medical term that is used to describe the condition, which is “fetal alcohol spectrum disorder”.(1820)As part of the legal definition, the bill also lists some common symptoms of FASD, including impaired mental functioning, memory problems, and the inability to control impulse behaviour. I would note that this element of the bill would be a significant change in the Criminal Code, which currently does not single out specific disorders for differential treatment. The current approach is to use the general definition of mental disorder in section 2 of the code, which, according to the Supreme Court of Canada, can include an “illness, disorder, or abnormal condition which impairs the human mind and its functioning”.I am given to understand that FASD is already considered a mental disorder for the purpose of criminal law, so it is entirely fair to ask whether it is necessary to create a separate definition specifically for FASD. Should we be concerned that this may result in pressure to single out other disorders in the Criminal Code?The bill also proposes to permit the courts to order FASD-specific assessments for the purpose of bail and sentencing. It would require a sentencing court to adjust the sentence of the offenders if it was shown that they had FASD and that the FASD contributed to the commission of the offence. These elements of the bill appear to be aimed at ensuring that the court has the necessary information to make appropriate decisions about a particular individual at the bail stage and to be sure that any sentence imposed is proportionate to the degree of responsibility of the offender. These are commendable objectives and ones that I know are shared by all those who advocate for a fair and effective criminal justice system. The proposal for an assessment at the bail stage raises questions about the potential impact on the presumption of innocence and the liberty interests of accused persons who are suspected of having FASD. In particular, the bill would permit an accused to be held in custody for up to 60 days in certain circumstances while the assessment was undertaken. Given that this would occur before any trial on the merits of the charge, or potentially even before the bail hearing itself, it is possible that an assessment could in fact work to the detriment of the accused in some cases. At the sentencing stage, it is fair to question whether the objective of imposing a proper sentence should only apply to individuals with FASD or whether there may also be a pressing need to consider the relevance of mental disorders or disabilities more generally, as the report from the federal-provincial-territorial steering committee recommended. Finally, the bill proposes amendments to the Corrections and Conditional Release Act, which would further require the Correctional Service of Canada to provide FASD-specific programming for individuals with FASD who are serving a federal sentence.In conclusion, I would like to thank the member for Yukon for providing us with an opportunity to debate this important issue facing the criminal justice system. As he indicated, this is an issue that was presented in the form of two private members' bills in the last Parliament. They never did make it to the stage of having gone through committee, in part because of the call of the election and also in part because of some determination by the former member for Yukon to withdraw the bills to have them converted into a study.It is a timely debate. It is one that needs to be had. The member for Yukon is doing the right thing by bringing it forward, and I look forward to hearing from other members of the House on this important issue.C-235, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Corrections and Conditional Release Act (fetal alcohol disorder)Criminal justice systemFetal Alcohol Spectrum DisorderImprisonment and prisonersMedical examinationsPrivate Members' BillsSecond readingSentencingStatisticsSheriBensonSaskatoon WestLenWebberCalgary Confederation//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersAgricultureInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1100)[English]Madam Speaker, earlier this month, I spent some time harvesting potatoes at a large farm in my riding, owned and operated by Winston and Harris Callaghan of Miminegash. I was amazed at the technology involved. Today's farmers are employing advanced technologies and farming practices to produce quality food for Canadians. It is farms like these that earn Prince Edward Island its reputation as "Canada's food island".When farmers plant their crops, they are undertaking an extraordinary risk on our behalf. They will not see a paycheque until the next year, and it will be subject to unpredictable environmental conditions, crop yield, and market prices. It is essential that we, as lawmakers, appreciate the experiences and concerns of our farmers in order to create agricultural policy that works for all CanadiansAgricultural policyFarming and farmersPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1510)[English] Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the sixth report of the Standing Committee on Finance entitled “The Canada Revenue Agency, Tax Avoidance and Tax Evasion: Recommended Actions”.Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to this report.8510-421-103 Sixth Report of the Standing Committee on Finance, "The Canada Revenue Agency, Tax Avoidance and Tax Evasion: Recommended Actions"Standing Committee on FinanceTax avoidanceTax evasionYasminRatansiDon Valley EastGérardDeltellLouis-Saint-Laurent//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada Pension PlanInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1150)[English]Madam Speaker, listening to my colleague's remarks and some of the questions and speeches coming from the other side, it seems they want to drive us back. Good governments plan for the future. Is that not what the bill is all about? I cannot help but wonder at some of the remarks, especially from the official opposition. Do constituents never enter their offices? Have they never seen constituents who are seniors, who did not do the proper planning for their retirements and who are now in their office without money, questioning whether or not they should buy a pill or eat? That is the situation some of today's seniors are faced with. Is the bill not looking to the long-term future, to try to secure pensions in such a way that future seniors do not face some of the terrible situations some of the current seniors face?C-26, An Act to amend the Canada Pension Plan, the Canada Pension Plan Investment Board Act and the Income Tax ActCanada Pension PlanGovernment billsIncome securityPensions and pensionersSecond readingSenior citizensJudy A.SgroHon.Humber River—Black CreekJudy A.SgroHon.Humber River—Black Creek//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, having a person in my office with agriculture experience is an asset to my office and to the agricultural community.This is a very successful and upstanding member of her community, my chief of staff. She is a successful lawyer and a successful businesswoman. She has also been nominated as citizen of the year.I think it is an asset to agriculture and an asset to my office to have a woman with these credentials working in the office.Chief of staffConflict of interestMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsDenisLemieuxChicoutimi—Le Fjord//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am certainly pleased to serve in a cabinet that works for every region in the country. Without a doubt, it is an asset to serve in a cabinet that works for every region. They help me and I help them.My chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community, a successful lawyer and businesswoman, and has been named the citizen of the year in her community. She has deep commitment to Canadian agriculture and Canadian service.I am fortunate to have her. So is Canadian agriculture.Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsT.J.HarveyTobique—Mactaquac//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for all of his hard work on the agricultural file.Our government has invested nearly $70 million in agriculture research and infrastructure, gaining access to key markets around the world, a record $60 billion in exports, and given $27 million to help farmers reduce greenhouse gases.We will continue to work with the Canadian Federation of Agriculture and our stakeholders to make sure that Canadian agriculture thrives in this country.Farming and farmersGreenhouse gasesInternational tradeOral questionsResearch and researchersT.J.HarveyTobique—MactaquacRobNicholsonHon.Niagara Falls//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsHealthInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1820)[English]Madam Speaker, this government has been very clear in our support for the principles of the Canada Health Act and the values that they reflect. These values of accessibility, equity, and solidarity form the foundation for both our publicly insured health care system and for the nation as a whole. They are the values that reflect the belief that, regardless of how much money they make or where they live, health care should be available for all Canadians when they need it.Our commitment to the publicly insured health care system is reflected in our actions. This means restoring leadership at the federal level by revitalizing and setting solidly in place strong collaborative working relationships with our provincial and territorial counterparts to realize the aims of the Canada Health Act.The Canada Health Act continues to be the cornerstone of the Canadian health care system. The aim of the act is to ensure that all eligible residents of Canada have reasonable access to medically necessary insured services without direct charges. The act is very clear: any charges to patients for publicly insured services are considered extra billing or user charges and are prohibited under the act. Our government wants to see all such charges eliminated.Canadians depend on and expect all governments to work together to ensure that citizens across this country can readily access and rely on a health care system that ultimately supports them in leading fulfilling and productive lives. When Canadians are in good physical and mental health, they are able to work better, be more productive, and contribute more fully to our economy while living healthier, happier lives.Our health care system is one that Canadians across the country continue to take pride in and to cherish. Statistics Canada confirms this point in its 2015 report on Canadian identity, which states that close to 80% of Canadians have pride in our health care system. Respecting the value that Canadians place on our health care system, this government's commitment to Canadians is having a federal government that is fully engaged with provinces and territories on matters related to the Canada Health Act. Our approach to the administration of the act emphasizes transparency, consultation, and dialogue with provincial and territorial health care ministries to resolve potential issues.As I mentioned earlier, extra billing and user charges are prohibited under the act, as these fees create barriers to accessing health care. Part of the reason Canadians take pride in our health care system is that they know the system will provide them with the care they need regardless of their ability or willingness to pay.This government is committed to ensuring that Canadians across this country continue to have access to the health care they need, when they need it. That is why the Minister of Health wrote to the Quebec health minister in September, underscoring her commitment to publicly funded health care without charges to patients for insured services. Proactively holding such discussions with provinces and territories on compliance issues provides real opportunity to resolve potential problems before they become more fully developed. It should also be noted that independent action on the part of provinces and territories can also lead to good outcomes. This government was pleased that the Quebec minister of health recently announced concrete action toward removing barriers to access, by eliminating fees charged to patients for insured services at the point of delivery.It is important to remember that the ultimate goal of enforcement is not to levy penalties but to ensure compliance with the principles of the Canada Health Act, so that Canadians can have access to the health care they need when they need it. The Minister of Health did not levy penalties in her letter to the Quebec government.Adjournment ProceedingsCanada Health ActCanada Health TransferComplianceFederal-provincial-territorial relationsHealth care fundingHealth services accessibilityProvince of QuebecProvincial jurisdictionSocial valuesUser feesChristineMooreAbitibi—TémiscamingueChristineMooreAbitibi—Témiscamingue//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsHealthInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1825)[English]Madam Speaker, I want to reiterate that the Government of Canada is unwavering in its support of the Canada Health Act. We are committed to defending our publicly funded health care system. In our work, we are striving to eliminate extra billing and user fees, which create barriers for Canadians in accessing health care. We are actively re-engaging with the provinces and territories. Our government knows that this approach is the best way to resolve potential compliance problems. We strongly believe that all Canadians deserve access to timely, quality, universal health care and to receive health care services based on an individual's need and not the ability or willingness to pay.[Translation]Finally, I want to thank my colleague from Abitibi—Témiscamingue for raising this question. There is no doubt that it is an important issue and we are fully committed to upholding the principles of the Canada Health Act.Adjournment ProceedingsCanada Health ActCanada Health TransferFederal-provincial-territorial relationsHealth care fundingHealth services accessibilityProvincial jurisdictionUser feesChristineMooreAbitibi—TémiscamingueCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—Kapuskasing//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNatural ResourcesInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1420)[English]Mr. Speaker, on September 20, De Beers Canada and its joint venture partner, Mountain Province Diamonds, celebrated the official opening of the Gahcho Kué mine, located northeast of Yellowknife. As the member for Northwest Territories, I am proud of the potential benefits this mine will bring to my communities. This $1-billion mine is the largest new diamond mine recently constructed in the world, and highlights the importance of strategic and ambitious investment. The benefits of this project are enormous: 54 million carats of rough diamonds will be mined over the life of the mine, which will reinforce Canada's position as the world's third-largest diamond producer by value, and there will be spin-off benefits in the communities and small businesses, the backbone of our Canadian economy. The potential contributions are further highlighted in the north with De Beers' partnering with our communities, using local procurement, local business, and hiring locally. I congratulate De Beers on the opening of the mine and its commitment to work with first nations and Métis communities in the north.Aboriginal peoplesDe Beers CanadaGahcho Kué MineMountain Province DiamondsStatements by MembersMattJenerouxEdmonton RiverbendIreneMathyssenLondon—Fanshawe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, our government is working with the provinces and territories on developing the next agricultural policy framework. In July, my counterparts and I agreed on a joint statement for the future of agriculture in Canada. I will continue to consult the sector in every part of the country, and together we will develop a framework that will create a more prosperous Canadian agriculture, and certainly help the middle class. Agricultural policyFederal-provincial-territorial relationsOral questionsLloydLongfieldGuelphJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for Calgary Skyview for his concern. Our government knows that Canadian beef farmers and ranchers are the best in the world. We proudly secured market access for our beef producers in Taiwan, South Korea, Mexico, and China, as well as securing the repeal of COOL with the United States. This success will help create jobs and grow the middle class in Alberta and across the country.I can assure my hon. colleague that this government will support farmers in Alberta and across the country every time.BeefCattle farmingExportsOral questionsDarshan SinghKangCalgary SkyviewJamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—Eastman//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersParis AgreementInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1220)[English]Mr. Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Repentigny.I would like to begin by acknowledging that we are gathering on traditional Algonquin territory.As we all know, climate change is a threat unlike any other. We know action needs to be taken to address what I believe is the biggest threat to our lives, our country, and our planet. That is why I will be voting in favour of the motion. Taking action against climate change is a moral imperative. I do not believe there is another option if we care about our children, our grandchildren, the future of our land and our waters.To meet this threat and to minimize the potential for its devastating impacts requires global action, global co-operation, and global collaboration. Indeed, our world needs the historic Paris agreement on climate change. It was as a result of our commitment to inclusion and engagement that the delegation to Paris included indigenous leaders from regions across Canada, including from the Arctic and from the north. They are the front line in experiencing the impacts of climate change.In Canada, achieving the vision of the Paris agreement will require the full inclusion and leadership of indigenous peoples. As Canada's first ministers committed to in the Vancouver declaration, we are working in partnership with the provinces and territories to establish a pan-Canadian framework on clean growth and climate change to reduce our emissions and to ensure Canada takes full advantage of the opportunities associated with the emerging low-carbon economy. This affects all Canadians, and indigenous peoples and northerners in particular.Going forward, we need to work with our provincial and territorial partners and with indigenous peoples to ensure that all of our voices are heard. For far too long governments did not listen to the warnings from our elders about how traditional knowledge of the patterns of nature did not apply the way it used to, how the ice was thinning and disappearing, how forest fires were becoming more frequent, how new fauna and flora were appearing while others were disappearing. These changes are having real impacts on real people, and are affecting the ability of indigenous people to exercise their rights, their ability to connect with the land, and their food security. We must listen to the solutions and the traditional knowledge that indigenous people can share if we are to mitigate and adapt to the impacts of climate change.We are committed to acting. Budget 2016 includes $10.7 million over two years to implement renewable energy projects in off-grid indigenous and northern communities that rely on diesel and other fossil fuels for heat and power. That kind of partnership is essential and I hope it is only the start of what can be accomplished. We will invest close to $130 million over five years to strengthen the science we need to inform decision-making, protect the health and well-being of Canadians, build resilience in the north and indigenous communities, and enhance competitiveness in key economic sectors.Good things are happening, especially in the north. We can learn a great deal from the spirit of collaboration reflected in the close links among aboriginal peoples around the circumpolar region through the Inuit Circumpolar Council, the Gwich'in Council International, and the Arctic Athabaskan Council. The very existence of these organizations is due to the fact that indigenous nations took it upon themselves to find a way to speak in unison on issues of shared concern.The visible effects of climate change, from melting permafrost to waning sea ice, make the Arctic a region that demands our attention. Indeed, in the wake of the Paris conference, the Arctic is the focus of global attention. The world will be watching how we in Canada respond to the real and urgent concerns expressed by indigenous peoples in the north, and northerners in communities across the country. Ratifying the Paris agreement will move us globally in that direction and hopefully will slow down the effects of our warming planet.I would like to speak a little more on the effects of climate change in the north. As I mentioned earlier, we are seeing vegetation changes, animal migratory changes, and permafrost melting. All of these things are causing abrupt shifts in traditional practices such as hunting and trapping, as well as practical problems such as maintaining infrastructure on melting grounds.(1225)The north is experiencing the impacts of climate change right now. That is a real threat to the sustainability of our communities. This threat is in addition to the high cost of energy and limited infrastructure that already challenge the sustainability of rural and northern remote communities. Recognizing this, the Government of the Northwest Territories has been working actively to reduce its carbon footprint. Between 2001 and 2011, the territorial government reduced its emissions from operations by 30%. In addition, NWT ranks second in the country on a per capita basis of installed solar power. The feasibility of wind development is also being investigated in the Inuvik region next year.We in the Northwest Territories understand that a carbon price is an important measure to get people to stop using the fuels that contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, but the very high cost of fuel in our communities is already an incentive to reduce consumption. Northerners do not choose high-carbon options. They are one of the only choices.In addition to the relative high cost of electricity due to our long winters and the use of heating oil, heating costs in some of our northern communities are seven times the cost of those using natural gas in Edmonton.The NWT government and residents are being diligent and responsible in controlling emissions of greenhouse gases in the Northwest Territories and preparing for climate change impact. Even though the north only accounts for a small fraction of Canada's overall greenhouse gas emissions, there is a commitment from all levels of government to find a way to reduce our carbon footprint.It is my hope that we at the federal level will continue to assist northerners in their work to provide reliable, affordable alternatives to carbon-intensive fuels for our communities and businesses. Budget 2016 was a great first step. It is also important that the federal government understands the potential harm that increased carbon prices could have on the fragile resource-based economy of the Northwest Territories if implemented in a manner that does not work for us in the north. Carbon pricing can penalize northerners by raising their already high cost of living or discouraging the economic development northerners need to support themselves and their families.I am confident that a supportive approach that recognizes the unique realities of the north will be followed. Through ongoing discussions, partnerships, and innovation, along with investment in green energy, clean growth, and better infrastructure, we in the north will continue to reduce our greenhouse emissions in support of the Paris agreement and the Vancouver declaration. In doing so, we will underscore our commitment to ensure all Canadians, including northerners and indigenous peoples, are partners in this global effort.Aboriginal peoplesAgreements and contractsCarbon pricingClimate change and global warmingEconomic impactGovernment Business No. 8Northern CanadaNorthwest TerritoriesPublic consultationSplitting speaking timeJoëlGodinPortneuf—Jacques-CartierBobZimmerPrince George—Peace River—Northern Rockies//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersParis AgreementInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (1230)[English]Mr. Speaker, maybe the question could be better posed as, “How can we afford not to do it?”We, in the north, have been wrestling with the issue of how to reduce one of the major cost drivers in our communities, which is the high cost of power, which is pretty much generated in all of our communities by diesel. I served for three terms in the Government of the Northwest Territories, part of that as the environment minister. We looked at all different ways of lowering the costs and looking at alternate energy. It fell on deaf ears for 10 years. We applied to the green fund. We applied to many different pots of money that, historically, were in place, only to be rejected or to receive no response.There is opportunity for us to move forward in the area of biomass. There is opportunity to look at cogeneration. There is opportunity to look at wind, hydro, solar. There are many opportunities, including expanding the lines that we have in terms of supplying our communities with hydro. We have the Taltson River dam, which has been releasing water because they cannot use and sell the power. We do not have the resources to expand the lines. We need a partner. The current government is the one that has talked to us and has committed to work with us on it. We feel confident. It is time to move forward.Agreements and contractsClimate change and global warmingEnergy and fuelGovernment Business No. 8Northern CanadaBobZimmerPrince George—Peace River—Northern RockiesCharlieAngusTimmins—James Bay//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersParis AgreementInterventionMr. Michael McLeod: (1230)[English]Mr. Speaker, the Northwest Territories seems to do things a little differently from the rest of Canada. It certainly involves the aboriginal governments in everything it does. The regulatory process, for example, includes 50% representation from aboriginal governments. Therefore, any projects that move forward include the involvement of aboriginal governments from the time the application is first filed with the regulatory board, half of whom are aboriginal members, to the review that takes place, which includes aboriginal governments.The Government of the Northwest Territories does a very good job of sharing information with aboriginal people across the north. The majority of the membership of the Government of the Northwest Territories, MLAs, are aboriginal. I certainly encourage other governments to do the same and not to try to do a selling job to aboriginal people, but rather to use an inclusive approach. There are many models that we can draw from, but the north has a very good model that could be used. It sets an example and sets the stage for the rest of the Canadian public.Aboriginal peoplesAgreements and contractsClimate change and global warmingGovernment Business No. 8Public consultationCharlieAngusTimmins—James BayMoniquePauzéRepentigny//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1425)[English]Mr. Speaker, Canadian farmers are responsible stewards of the land, and our government has stood, and will continue to stand, with them. We have constantly stood up for Canadian farm families, which have seen success. We will continue to work with farmers and ranchers to be sure they remain competitive. We will continue to improve the environmental gains that have already been made.Carbon pricingCarbon taxFarming and farmersOral questionsRural communitiesDavidAndersonCypress Hills—GrasslandsDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodNorthern DevelopmentInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I was happy to hear that budget 2016 proposed $64.5 million over five years to expand Nutrition North.Can the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs update the House on the actions our government took this summer to help northerners access fresh, healthy food?Food supplyNorthern CanadaNutrition North Canada programOral questionsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestCarolynBennettHon.Toronto—St. Paul's//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Niagara Falls for his interest in Atlantic Canada.What we committed to during the election was to fix a broken Supreme Court of Canada nomination process that was in effect under the previous government. That process was opaque, secretive, out of date, and in need of an overhaul.That is why we have put in place a process that is transparent, accountable, and open. It involves parliamentarians, and it does not involve attacks by the Prime Minister on the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada. That is real change.Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSupreme Court of CanadaRobNicholsonHon.Niagara FallsRobNicholsonHon.Niagara Falls//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think I can do one better. I married a Cape Bretoner. The process that was in place under the previous government was opaque, outdated, and in need of an overhaul. The four senators absolutely deserve credit for their advocacy on this issue. Those four senators were advocates for Nova Scotia even before the last election. I am pleased to say that the advisory board tasked with coming up with jurists of the highest calibre has included names from Atlantic Canada on its list. Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSupreme Court of CanadaRobNicholsonHon.Niagara FallsMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I have indicated, we inherited a process that was badly broken, that was secretive, and that did not involve parliamentarians. We have reformed that process. It is now open, transparent, and accountable. That process has resulted in a list going forward to the Prime Minister of highly qualified, functionally bilingual jurists, including candidates from Atlantic Canada. We are perfectly capable of participating in a national competition. We have been doing it for more than 141 years.Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSupreme Court of CanadaMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonNicolaDi IorioSaint-Léonard—Saint-Michel//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, it confirms no such thing. Under the previous government, the process for appointment of Supreme Court of Canada judges was opaque, outdated, and in need of an overhaul. In fact, that was the process that resulted in Stephen Harper attacking the chief justice of the Supreme Court of Canada.We have adopted a new process that is open, transparent, and much more accountable. It is a process that includes candidates from Atlantic Canada and respects regional representation. I am pleased to say that the list that has come forward includes candidates from Atlantic Canada, who are more than capable of competing in a national competition.Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSupreme Court of CanadaMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, the decisions made by the Supreme Court of Canada affect us all. We know that the process used by the previous government was badly broken. That is why we have reformed it.The advisory committee has been asked to identify jurists of high calibre, ones who reflect the cultural diversity of our country and are functionally bilingual. As a Prince Edward Islander, I find that a bit rich coming from the party that appointed a Conservative fundraiser from Kanata to the Prince Edward Island seat on the Senate. It is a bit much.Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSupreme Court of CanadaMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonGengTanDon Valley North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Hastings—Lennox and Addington for his question and support. Last week was a great week for Canadian agriculture. Our government gained access for the Canadian canola farmers to the Chinese market until at least 2020, worth over $2 billion a year for Canadian farmers. We also gained access for bone-in meat under 30 months. That puts another $10 million in the pockets of farmers and ranchers in our country.These successes will create growth and opportunity, and I intend to build on that growth and opportunity when I lead a trade mission to China. ChinaExportsFarming and farmersMarket accessOral questionsMikeBossioHastings—Lennox and AddingtonBernardGénéreuxMontmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-Loup//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersNational Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1335)[English]Mr. Speaker, that last statement by the member was absolutely ridiculous. This committee would not be an extension of the Prime Minister's Office. The fact of the matter is that somebody has to name this committee. The committee would be made up of the chair plus eight members, four from the government side. Is the member telling us in the House that the five members on that committee, which includes two senators, do not have the ability to challenge the Prime Minister?There are security matters, in relation to our colleagues around the world, for which a government has to take responsibility. Therefore, the Prime Minister has to be a check and balance. However, if the committee does not agree that the Prime Minister should restrict an item, then it would naturally report it to the House and the Prime Minister would face some heat for that. The Prime Minister would be very reluctant to veto what is in the report.There have to be checks and balances. We need this oversight committee, and I have faith in the parliamentarians who would be appointed to that committee that they would do their job in terms of the balance of safety and security.C-22, An Act to establish the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians and to make consequential amendments to certain ActsCommunication controlGovernment billsNational securityNational Security and Intelligence Committee of ParliamentariansOversight mechanismSecond readingLarryMillerBruce—Grey—Owen SoundLarryMillerBruce—Grey—Owen Sound//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, the process used by the previous government to appoint Supreme Court justices was opaque, outdated, and in need of an overhaul. We have announced a new appointment process that is open, transparent, and will set a much higher standard for accountability. As mandated by our Prime Minister, the list of qualified and functionally bilingual candidates, developed by the advisory board, includes candidates from Atlantic Canada.I am very pleased with the new-found interest in Atlantic Canada expressed by the member for Niagara Falls.Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSupreme Court of CanadaRobNicholsonHon.Niagara FallsRobNicholsonHon.Niagara Falls//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, the decisions taken by the Supreme Court affect us all.The process that was employed by the previous government was opaque, outdated, and in need of an overhaul. That is why our government has announced a new Supreme Court of Canada appointment process that is open and transparent. Under this process, the advisory board will identify suitable candidates who will be jurists of the highest calibre. They will be functionally bilingual, and they will be representative of the diversity of our great country.I am pleased to report that the list contains candidates from Atlantic Canada, and we can certainly compete—Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSupreme Court of CanadaMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, the process used to appoint Supreme Court justices by the previous government was opaque, outdated, and in need of an overhaul. In the mandate letter from the Prime Minister to the advisory board, they were asked that when making their selections they consider the custom of regional representation on the court as being one of the factors to be taken into consideration. Therefore, the list of qualified and functionally bilingual candidates developed by the advisory board includes candidates from Atlantic Canada and they are perfectly capable of competing in a national competition.Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSupreme Court of CanadaRobNicholsonHon.Niagara FallsMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1440)[English] Mr. Speaker, the process employed by the previous government for Supreme Court of Canada appointees was opaque and badly in need of an overhaul. That is the reason why there was a new process that increased transparency, that increased accountability, and that is why the advisory committee has been asked to identify suitable candidates. These will be jurists of the highest calibre. They will be functionally bilingual, and they will be representative of the diversity of our great country. That list will include candidates from Atlantic Canada.Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSupreme Court of CanadaMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonGuyCaronRimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les Basques//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1835)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, access to justice in both official languages is an important issue for our country. Canadians want to live in a law-abiding society with a fair, accessible, and equitable justice system.On August 2, 2016, the Prime Minister announced a new process for appointing Supreme Court of Canada justices that is open and transparent and that sets a stricter standard for accountability. It is important to many Canadians that the Supreme Court be able to work in both official languages.The qualifications and assessment criteria that were established to fill the current vacancy indicate “that a Supreme Court judge can read materials and understand oral argument without the need for translation or interpretation in French and English.” The government's commitment to meeting the Supreme Court's institutional needs in this process is closely aligned with the proposals put forward by the hon. member.The Supreme Court of Canada is Canada's final court of appeal. It serves Canadians by deciding legal issues of public importance, thereby contributing to the development of both civil and common law in Canada. The importance of the court’s decisions for Canadian society is well recognized. The court assures uniformity, consistency and correctness in the articulation, development and interpretation of legal principles throughout the Canadian judicial system. The Supreme Court is one of our most respected national institutions, and its excellent reputation is well-deserved. Our government wants to uphold and safeguard the tradition of appointing outstanding individuals to the court. Fortunately, Canada has many exceptional jurists to choose from. In closing, I can assure members of the House that we know key players in the justice system must be bilingual if members of official language minority communities, like all Canadians, are to have equal access to justice in our courts. I would like to reiterate how proud we are that Canadians have access to a final court of appeal that is known and respected worldwide for its excellence, professionalism, integrity, and independence. It is also important for the Supreme Court to reflect the diversity and bilingualism of Canadian society.Adjournment ProceedingsC-203, An Act to amend the Supreme Court Act (understanding the official languages)JudgesOfficial languages policySupreme Court of CanadaFrançoisChoquetteDrummondFrançoisChoquetteDrummond//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsOfficial LanguagesInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1840)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, access to justice in both official languages is an issue that affects all Canadians. Canadians want to live in a law-abiding society that has a justice system that is fair and accessible for everyone. In criminal justice, these principles mean that the lower courts have to be able to operate in French or in English, according to the official language chosen by the accused for his or her trial. The government's commitment regarding official languages, and more specifically the administration of justice, is undeniable.On behalf of the government, I thank my colleague for his question and for his commitment to ensuring that the justice system is accessible to members of official language minority communities and to all Canadians.Adjournment ProceedingsC-203, An Act to amend the Supreme Court Act (understanding the official languages)JudgesOfficial languages policySupreme Court of CanadaFrançoisChoquetteDrummondMurrayRankinVictoria//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion--Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1110)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my Conservative friend for his new-found interest in Atlantic Canada.Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesOpposition motionsPolitical appointmentsRegional diversitySupreme Court of CanadaMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonCandiceBergenHon.Portage—Lisgar//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion--Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1110)[English]It absolutely is fair. Mr. Speaker. Why do we not talk about Senate appointments in Prince Edward Island? Does the member want to talk about respect for the regions?My question is this. Has the hon. member read the mandate letter submitted by the minister to the committee that specifically instructs the committee to include candidates from Atlantic Canada? Does the member believe that lawyers and judges from Atlantic Canada are not capable of competing in a national competition? We have news for him.Atlantic CanadaFederal judgesIndependent Advisory Board for Supreme Court of Canada Judicial AppointmentsOpposition motionsPolitical appointmentsPrince Edward IslandRegional diversitySelection processSenate and senatorsSupreme Court of CanadaCandiceBergenHon.Portage—LisgarMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion--Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1135)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the minister for confirming the government's respect for the custom of regional representation and our party's support for this motion.I was a member of the justice committee at the time of the last appointment to the Supreme Court and there was no involvement by any parliamentarians, not before, not after, and not during. It was a completely opaque process.I wonder if the minister might be able to comment on the importance of the involvement of parliamentarians and what the issues were with the last process that prompted the changes we are discussing today.Federal judgesGovernment accountabilityManners and customsMembers of ParliamentOpposition motionsPolitical appointmentsPublic consultationRegional diversitySelection processSupreme Court of CanadaJodyWilson-RaybouldHon.Vancouver GranvilleJodyWilson-RaybouldHon.Vancouver Granville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion--Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1200)[English]Mr. Speaker, first of all, I would like to thank the member for Victoria for that very thoughtful and well-researched contribution to this debate. It is certainly what we have come to expect from the member, but I have to say that this is one of his finer moments.There are a couple of points the member made in his speech that I would like to take up with him.First, I understand the plug for the NDP bill with respect to the bilingualism of judges. I would simply ask the member to confirm or acknowledge that of the last 15 Supreme Court of Canada judges, 13 have been functionally bilingual at the time of their appointment. Therefore, while the bill would be something symbolic, it would not result in any major change in the appointment of judges to the Supreme Court.Second, I thought it was an excellent point he made with respect to the hyperbole we are hearing from the Conservatives with respect to a 141-year-old constitutional convention. I would ask the member about the veracity of a 141-year-old constitutional convention, when, in fact, this custom, this tradition, has been observed just since 1949, with some degree of flexibility.Application processC-203, An Act to amend the Supreme Court Act (understanding the official languages)ConstitutionConstitutional lawFederal judgesManners and customsOfficial languages policyOpposition motionsPolitical appointmentsPrivate Members' BillsRegional diversitySelection processSupreme Court of CanadaMurrayRankinVictoriaMurrayRankinVictoria//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion--Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1205)[English]Mr. Speaker, I cannot help but chime in at the mention of Sir Louis Henry Davies, the judge of the Supreme Court of Canada for whom our courthouse is named. I would like to continue our conversation on the bilingualism of judges and the point the member for Victoria made in response to my last question. When discussing the definition of functional bilingualism and whether it is an open question as to whether a judge who is functionally bilingual can actually speak the language, the definition actually contained in the policy brought forward by the Prime Minister is that a judge should be able to understand written and oral presentations from counsel without the need for simultaneous translation.Surely the member would concede that someone whose level of comprehension is good enough that the person is able to understand legal arguments in written and oral form is most likely also to have the capacity to speak. That is not a big leap.Application processFederal judgesLanguage of workLanguage testingOfficial languages policyOpposition motionsPolitical appointmentsRegional diversitySupreme Court of CanadaMurrayRankinVictoriaMurrayRankinVictoria//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion--Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1220)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the Conservative Party for bringing forward this motion, which we support. It talks about the custom of regional representation. It is indeed one that is very important, one that we support, and one that we are upholding through the new process. I do take exception, however, to the attempt by my friend opposite to try to drive a wedge within the caucus and the allegations that Atlantic Canadian members of Parliament are not standing up for their region.He spoke fondly about the work of Gail Shea, but his distance between Prince Edward Island and British Columbia may have missed the fact that one of Gail Shea's legacies is pitting Prince Edward Islanders against one another with the EI zones. He took a shot at the Minister of Innovation, the minister for ACOA. Atlantic Canada has done significantly better under this minister than we ever saw under the Conservatives: $237 million in the Halifax regional municipality alone; agreements with provincial governments of more than $176 million on 51 infrastructure projects. I have been pretty busy with funding announcements in Prince Edward Island as well.The question I have for the member is this. The process that we have announced will allow for Atlantic Canadian lawyers and judges to compete in a national competition. Does the member want to repeat and perpetuate the myth of a culture of defeat or does he think Atlantic Canadian lawyers and judges are up to the job of competing against everyone in Canada for this seat on the Supreme Court?Atlantic CanadaAtlantic Canada Opportunities AgencyBains, NavdeepEconomic boundaries for employment insuranceFederal judgesGovernment assistanceLiberal Party of CanadaManners and customsMembers of ParliamentMinister of Innovation, Science and Economic DevelopmentOpposition motionsPartisanshipPolitical allegiancePolitical appointmentsPolitical behaviourPrince Edward IslandReferences to membersRegional diversitySelection processShea, GailSupreme Court of CanadaMarkStrahlChilliwack—HopeMarkStrahlChilliwack—Hope//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion--Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1255)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to continue this discussion on what seems to be the centrepiece of most of the Conservatives' speeches, which is the chest thumping around a 141-year-old constitutional convention. However, in the wording of their motion, the words “constitutional convention” do not appear. The word used in the motion is “custom”.We are indeed supporting the motion. We are supporting and respecting the custom. Could the parliamentary secretary elaborate a bit more on the difference between a constitutional convention and a custom? Could he also address the contention that this constitutional convention has been around for 141 years?Agreements and contractsConstitutionConstitutional lawFederal judgesManners and customsOpposition motionsPolitical appointmentsRegional diversitySupreme Court of CanadaTerminologyDavidLamettiLaSalle—Émard—VerdunDavidLamettiLaSalle—Émard—Verdun//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgricultureInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, we are aware of the closure of Western Feedlots and certainly concerned, but what a day for Canadian agriculture. What a day for the canola farmers in western Canada. What a day for the beef producers, the ranchers in our country. We have gained access to the Chinese market and that is vitally important for the Canadian farmer. AlbertaCattle farmingClosing of facilitiesLayoffs and job lossesOral questionsWestern Feedlots Ltd.GeoffReganHon.Halifax WestDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1530)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Milton, originally from Cape Breton, for her contribution to the debate today. There were a couple of things she said in error, and if I may, I am going to point them out. She can feel free to respond.She suggested that a criterion for the next Supreme Court of Canada judge is that the person be fluently bilingual. That is not the case. The requirement is that the person be functionally bilingual, and the definition of “functionally bilingual” is set out. She may also wish to be aware that 13 of the last 15 judges appointed to the Supreme Court of Canada have been functionally bilingual.The motion that has been presented by her party does not refer to the Constitution. It does not refer to a convention. It refers to a custom. Liberals support the motion and agree with the custom and will respect the custom. She suggested that this has risen to the level of, as she said, a constitutional requirement, a constitutional rule, or part of the Constitution. I would be interested in her authority for that and in why it is not included in the motion.Agreements and contractsApplication processConstitutionConstitutional lawFederal judgesLanguage of workManners and customsOfficial languages policyOpposition motionsPolitical appointmentsRegional diversitySelection processSupreme Court of CanadaLisaRaittHon.MiltonLisaRaittHon.Milton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1545)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to pick up on the very last couple of comments made by my colleague opposite, in which he accused the government of being disrespectful of Parliament and of the court. I would ask him to hark back maybe a year or two with respect to the public spat between his former boss, Stephen Harper, and the chief justice of the Supreme Court and ask whether we should take direction from his side of the aisle with regard to respect for the court.When the member talks about respect for Parliament, perhaps I could also ask him to hark back to the time during the office of Stephen Harper and tell us about the value of parliamentarians in this process, as set out for this appointment, as compared to the last one.Chief JusticeConservative Party of CanadaFederal judgesHarper, StephenOpposition motionsParliamentariansParliamentary democracyPolitical appointmentsPolitical behaviourPublic consultationRegional diversitySelection processStandards in public lifeSupreme Court of CanadaGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition motion—Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1645)[English]Mr. Speaker, with the last comment from the member for Calgary Shepard, I am a little confused. I would have thought that the objective of his speech would be to solicit support for his motion. Now he is encouraging us to vote against it. However, we fully intend to support the motion.One of the other things he said was that, while we respect the custom of regional representation, we have no intention of fulfilling it. He must have had some conversation with the Prime Minister of which I am unaware. At no time that I know of has the Prime Minister ever said that he has no intention of carrying out a full measure of respect for the custom of regional representation. I do agree with one thing the member said. He specifically said that there is only one situation where there is a legal requirement and that is in Quebec.However, the question I have for the member is on his reference to a secret process. I would invite him to offer comment on the role that parliamentarians have in the process of the nomination of a Supreme Court judge, and to compare the role that parliamentarians are being assigned in this process to the one they had in the last one.ConstitutionFederal judgesGovernment accountabilityLegislationManners and customsOpposition motionsParliamentariansPolitical appointmentsProvince of QuebecPublic consultationRegional diversitySelection processSupreme Court of CanadaTomKmiecCalgary ShepardTomKmiecCalgary Shepard//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition motion—Appointments to the Supreme Court]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1700)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague from Drummond for his speech. I will be talking about the same thing. He spoke about bilingualism and the private member's bill that he introduced. However, he knows very well that the policy announced by the Prime Minister will ensure that bilingual judges will be appointed from now on. We adopted a definition of functional bilingualism. Requiring bilingualism is not really a big leap because the Prime Minister has already done that. Is it really necessary to pass a bill when we now have a policy that will guarantee that bilingual judges are appointed?Why should we ask the Supreme Court to rule on whether this is constitutional when the result will be the same? As we know, 13 of the last 15 judges were bilingual to some degree. Therefore, it is not really a great leap.C-203, An Act to amend the Supreme Court Act (understanding the official languages)ConstitutionalityFederal judgesJudgesOfficial languages policyOpposition motionsPolitical appointmentsPrivate Members' BillsReference to a court of lawRegional diversitySupreme Court of CanadaFrançoisChoquetteDrummondFrançoisChoquetteDrummond//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern. However, in committee today we did discuss this issue and it is fair to say that most of us at least agreed that we do not want a date; what we want is a solution. This is something that we inherited and we intend to fix it, and we will fix it.Dairy farmingDairy industryImportsMilk proteinOral questionsSupply managementRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéJulieDabrusinToronto—Danforth//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessGenetic Non-Discrimination ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1805)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have the opportunity to speak to Bill S-201, an act to prohibit and prevent genetic discrimination. I would like to thank Senator Cowan for bringing this bill forward and the Senate for giving such thoughtful consideration to this matter both at committee and in its chamber.Genetic discrimination is an important issue, particularly as more genetic tests become available to Canadians. Senator Cowan has been a champion against genetic discrimination for several years, working with stakeholders in the medical community and driving the public debate on the risks of genetic discrimination in areas like insurance access and workplace practices.For his work, I know he has received an advocacy award from The American Society of Human Genetics. I also want to thank the hon. member for Don Valley West for sponsoring Bill S-201 here in the House and for his work in bringing this important issue to the attention of both the public and the House.I also wish to recognize the work of the committee in the other place on Bill S-201. The committee's work exemplifies constructive debate and collaboration by members of different political parties. There is clearly support from across the political spectrum for the objectives of this bill.As a government, we are committed to ensuring that Canadians have access to the best possible health care, including both preventive and medical treatments. The health of Canadians is of utmost priority for our government. We understand that genetic testing promises great benefits in the fields of health care and medical research.Genomic-based research has already changed the way health care providers practise medicine. Genetic testing is one of the tools that is revolutionizing the way a diagnosis is made and has helped detect and, in some cases, treat many conditions. In recent years, improvements in technology have dramatically reduced the costs and time required for genetic testing. At the same time, therapies are becoming better tailored to the genetic characteristics of individual patients. For these reasons, genetic testing is becoming a normal part of medical practice. Some medical experts believe that whole genome sequencing, in which a person's entire genetic makeup is mapped out, perhaps in childhood, will become the new diagnostic norm before long. However, there is increasing evidence that some Canadians are reluctant to undergo genetic testing that doctors believe will help with their health care. They have concerns about how the results of the testing could be used to their disadvantage in the future, most notably in the insurance and employment contexts.The committee in the other place heard from numerous witnesses who spoke of persons who had been treated in an adverse way because of genetic information revealed about them through genetic testing. The government takes seriously the importance of access to genetic testing in Canada and the need to prevent inappropriate disclosure of genetic test results. The cabinet, therefore, supports the overall objectives of Bill S-201 and, in particular, the bill's proposed amendments to the Canadian Human Rights Act, the CHRA.These amendments would add genetic characteristics to the list of prohibited grounds of discrimination under the CHRA. They would also specify that, where the ground of discrimination is a refusal to undergo a genetic test or to disclose or authorize the disclosure of the results of a genetic test, the discrimination shall be deemed to be on the ground of genetic characteristics. By adding genetic characteristics as a prohibited ground of discrimination, the CHRA can help to address concerns about the misuse of genetic information in a meaningful way. This is an important step forward.Anti-discrimination laws, such as the Canadian Human Rights Act, aim to promote equality of opportunity in workplaces and in access to goods and services. They are also aimed at preventing arbitrary disadvantage based on personal characteristics that individuals cannot change about themselves. The CHRA currently prohibits discrimination on 11 grounds, including race, age, sex, and disability. (1810)For those who are concerned about potential discrimination by federal employers based on the results of genetic testing, it is important to note that the CHRA already offers some protection against discrimination based on genetic characteristics. For example, discrimination based on perceived disability due to predisposition to a disease revealed through genetic testing falls within the scope of the existing ground of discrimination based on disability.Bill S-201 would make existing protections more explicit, as well as expand protection beyond genetic characteristics that would be elated to other prohibited grounds of discrimination, such as disability. This would allow people who were subject to discrimination on the basis of genetic characteristics to make their case in precisely those terms. Making a formal claim of discrimination can be an intimidating process and one that is often pursued without legal representation. For those who believe they have been discriminated against on the basis of their genetic characteristics, it would now be easier to bring such a claim, since they would no longer have to interpret the law of disability related discrimination or otherwise try to link their claim to another ground in order to establish discriminatory treatment. Explicit protection for discrimination based on genetic characteristics would also raise awareness of the Canadian Human Rights Act protections and remind federally regulated employers and providers of goods and services of their human rights obligations. For these reasons, the government supports the CHRA amendments proposed in Bill S-201. The proposed amendment represents an important step forward in creating the framework to address these potential disadvantages toward preventing genetic discrimination in Canada. I look forward to further discussion about the scope and impact of these changes to the CHRA as the bill is considered by a parliamentary committee. However, it must be recognized that Parliament is limited in its ability to unilaterally address the concerns of stakeholders because there is no federal jurisdiction over private contracts of insurance, nor over employment or services in provincially regulated industries. For this reason, the government will also engage with the provinces and territories with a view to developing effective strategies regarding genetic testing and appropriate protection of the results of this testing. The minister has informed me that officials in the Department of Justice are already working with officials from other government departments to determine how best to pursue discussions with the provinces and territories about the many different issues arising from the potential uses of genetic information. I know the government would welcome advice and input from Senator Cowan and the hon. member for Don Valley West. The government looks forward to engaging in discussions that will complement Bill S-201 and can lead to practical and substantive protections for all Canadians. Civil and human rightsDiscriminationGenetic testingMedical researchPrivate Members' BillsPublic Service and public servantsS-201, An Act to prohibit and prevent genetic discriminationSecond readingSenate billsDonDaviesVancouver KingswayGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersDeline Self-GovernmentInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, on September 1 the community of Deline on the shores of Great Bear Lake in my riding became the first community-based aboriginal public government. This agreement was 20 years in the making and will mean that the community can enact laws governing areas from municipal services to health and education. The people of this close-knit community will have more control over decisions that affect their lives. I was honoured to attend their celebrations earlier this month both as the member of Parliament and on behalf of the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs.I would like to congratulate the people of Deline on this historic agreement and wish Ekwatide Raymond Tutcho and other elected leaders of the new Deline Got'ine Government the best of luck with the hard work ahead in implementing the Deline final self-government agreement.Aboriginal self-governmentDelineDene community of DelineFirst NationsStatements by MembersDonDaviesVancouver KingswayPatKellyCalgary Rocky Ridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersHolland College GraduatesInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1105)[English]Madam Speaker, I rise today to congratulate this year's graduating class at Holland College, Prince Edward Island's community college. Its West Prince Campus opened in my riding in 2011, and it has quickly become a major asset to the community. In particular, I want to congratulate Marshal McCue, a graduate of the electrical technology program. Marshal was born with Stickler syndrome, a genetic condition that severely limits his hearing and vision. He faced difficulties throughout his time at school. To quote Marshal's own words, “My life experiences have ranged from being overly-protected to facing bullying and discrimination.” I have known Marshal and his family for all of his life, and have witnessed the care and patience of his parents, Barry and Gail, and his determination to succeed. He is a testament to the fact that we are not defined by our limitations, and that support and encouragement are equally as important as will and perseverance. I congratulate Marshal and all 2016 Holland College graduates.GraduatesHolland CollegeMcCue, MarshalPersons with disabilitiesPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersColinCarrieOshawaGengTanDon Valley North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessLife Means Life ActInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1420)[English]Mr. Speaker, rising to participate in the debate today, one cannot argue with the reality that those impacted by crime is real. Are there lives affected and changed? Of course they are. Do they go back to normal? No, never. Everybody who is impacted by acts of crime are impacted for life and normal is never achieved again. That is a clear fact.However, as a parliamentarian and as a former legislator, I often think of the times that we look to legislation to address numerous issues that sometimes we have no control over. It is from that perspective that I wish to speak. I have been sitting in the House listening to very compelling stories given by members of the opposition. They gave a very real and very vivid descriptions. Unfortunately, in any of those situations, we cannot roll the clock back. We cannot change what happened. Those people are impacted, their lives turned upside down, and nothing we can do as parliamentarians can change that.We experience as a society crime. We experience evil. As parliamentarians, we must look at how we will deal with this. Sometimes I feel we often look to present or change legislation and by doing this, we think we have done something that will prevent situations from happening in the future. lf it were that simple, it would be a position that I would look at and consider supporting.However, that is not the case. The very real stories we have heard today are situations that, regardless of the legislation that may be amended or changed, will not change the lives of those people impacted. We see a number of those across the country.Instead, I would like to look at whether as a society have we done enough to ensure that what began as someone's life does not lead to one of crime or where they may go. From that, we have a lot to do as parliamentarians to ensure that the positions we take and the changes we make in society are always driven to ensure those people have the opportunities that we have on an ongoing basis.C-229, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other Acts (life sentences)Life sentencesPrivate Members' BillsSecond readingVictims of crimeShannonStubbsLakelandRonLiepertCalgary Signal Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersAn Act to Amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1125)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to address the issue raised by the member opposite when he talked about an artificial time crunch and a failure of process.The Carter decision was handed down on February 6, 2015. Between February 6, 2015, and the federal election, there were was the elapse of eight and a half months in which the Conservatives were in power, eight a half months of the 12 months allotted by the Supreme Court of Canada.The member opposite said that it was difficult for politicians to be involved in the lead-up to the federal election. My question is why. The politicians in this place, during those eight and a half months, were denied an opportunity for debate in any sort of a parliamentary process, they were denied an opportunity for debate or discussion before a parliamentary committee, and they were denied an opportunity for debate in this chamber. All the while, it was the Conservative government that was denying that opportunity, specifically by voting against a motion to establish such a process that was brought in March by the Liberals—C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersAn Act to Amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1150)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his passionate intervention. His participation at every stage of this debate has indeed been thoughtful. Although we do not always agree, there is no denying the comprehensive and heartfelt nature in which he addresses the debate.I want to ask the member a question about the speech that was put forward by the Minister of Justice.The Minister of Justice indicated that when we take out the words “reasonably foreseeable” and leave the bare words of the Carter decision, we are left in a situation, and we draw this experience from the most permissive regimes in the world, where it is possible that a soldier with PTSD, a sexual assault victim, or a young person with a spinal cord injury, under those permissive regimes and without the reasonable foreseeability language, will be able to avail themselves of medical assistance in dying.The member talked about us bringing forward something that would make Canadians proud. Therefore, my question for him is whether he agrees with what the Minister of Justice has said, that we owe a responsibility to those individuals in the legislation that they be protected under Canadian federal law. My question is whether he agrees that this is a responsibility that we hold, and whether we will be maintaining that responsibility by defeating the motion before Parliament.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingVulnerable personsMurrayRankinVictoriaMurrayRankinVictoria//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersAn Act to Amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1350)[English]Madam Speaker, very soon we are going to be called upon, both here and in the other place, to vote on this piece of legislation. There are people who will undoubtedly feel compelled to vote against it, albeit for different reasons.I invite the hon. member to speak to the ramifications of there being no federal law. For those who are considering voting against the legislation for one reason or another, what will be the consequences if that turns out to be the majority view, either here or there?C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsConsideration of Senate amendmentsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCanadian Golf Hall of Fame InducteeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise today in the House to recognize LPGA tour professional and proud Prince Edward Islander, Lorie Kane. Lorie will be inducted into the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame later this year. She is a 20-year veteran of the LPGA tour. She has four LPGA wins, along with 99 top 10s. Lorie has also won four tournaments on the Legends Tour and very proudly represented Canada at the Pan-Am Games in Toronto last year. Despite her successful and high-profile career, Lorie never forgot her roots on the Island. She founded the Lorie Kane Charity Golf Classic, which has raised over $1 million for local charities.Lorie is a member of the Order of Canada and has twice been named Canadian female athlete of the year. She was inducted into the Prince Edward Island Sports Hall of Fame in 2014. I ask the House to join me in congratulating Lorie Kane on her many achievements, which now include her rightful place in the Canadian Golf Hall of Fame.Canadian Golf Hall of FameGolfKane, LoriePrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersCherylHardcastleWindsor—TecumsehDeborahSchulteKing—Vaughan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for his excellent work on the justice committee and his advocacy on this issue. We are well aware of the pressing vacancies within the ranks of the judiciary across this country, and in particular, in the province of Alberta. I can tell the hon. member that the Minister of Justice has been hard at work on this file, and he can expect some news very soon.Federal judgesOral questionsPolitical appointmentsMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonBrianMasseWindsor West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I reject the premise of that question. This government is very committed to attacking the scourge of human trafficking in this country. We are well seized of this issue. We were the ones who instituted an inquiry into murdered and missing aboriginal women. We are also going to be reviewing in detail the provisions of Bill C-36, the flawed piece of legislation that was brought in by the previous government.We are seized of it, we are acting on it, and we will indeed come up with an evidence-based solution to this terrible scourge.Government policyHuman traffickingOral questionsArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf Islands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Internal Trade]InterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1255)[English]Mr. Speaker, as probably one of the only members sitting in the House today who was a signator and party to the negotiations that led up to the 1995 AIT, I would like my colleague to comment on why he thinks using the courts would be better than a negotiation process. After all, we are dealing with 10 sovereign provinces within the Canadian federation that handle issues like this.I would like him to expand a bit more on why he and the opposition feel that the court is the only way to go to resolve trade barriers within the country, when negotiations have worked in the past.Agreement on Internal TradeConstitutionalityFederal-provincial-territorial relationsInterprovincial tradeNegotiations and negotiatorsOpposition motionsProvincial jurisdictionReference to a court of lawSupreme Court of CanadaTrade barriersMelArnoldNorth Okanagan—ShuswapMelArnoldNorth Okanagan—Shuswap//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFood LabellingInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question. That is why I have asked the agriculture committee to explore what steps should be taken to best inform the public about new products involving genetically modified animals. In our country, there is a clear and strict process for evaluating genetically modified products. Our government continues to follow, and will follow, a science-based strategy.C-291, An Act to amend the Food and Drugs Act (genetically modified food)Food labellingGenetically modified organismsOral questionsPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrookeDavidChristophersonHamilton Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMain Estimates 2016-17 [Concurrence in Vote 1—Infrastructure Canada]InterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (for the President of the Treasury Board) (1830)[English] moved:Motion No. 1Motion No. 1 That Vote 1, in the amount of $110 040 788, under Office of Infrastructure of Canada — Operating Expenditures — in the Main Estimates for the fiscal year ending March 31, 2017, be concurred in.Brison, ScottMain estimates 2016-2017MotionsOffice of Infrastructure of CanadaPresident of the Treasury BoardBruceStantonSimcoe NorthAmarjeetSohiHon.Edmonton Mill Woods//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question from my hon. colleague, the former minister of agriculture. As he is fully aware, the diafiltered milk issue was inherited from him and his government. As I have indicated quite clearly in the House, we have consulted farmers, consulted manufacturers, and we will come up with a decision that will make sure that supply management remains stable and stronger than ever in this country. Agricultural productsFood and beverage manufacturing industryOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsGerryRitzHon.Battlefords—LloydminsterChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—Mackenzie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, the fact is that this is an agricultural question. Our public servants are continually consulting other countries on many different problems on an ongoing basis. The lentil issue will be dealt with and we will make sure that Canadian farmers and ranchers prosper more than they are now.Grain legumeOral questionsTrade agreementsTurkeyChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—Mackenzie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, we know that CFIA made a decision that the trucks need to be washed before they enter this country, because we want to make sure that diseases like that do not enter this country.ImportsManitobaOral questionsPig farmingPorcine epidemic diarrheaChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieBrendaShanahanChâteauguay—Lacolle//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion — Decriminalization of Marijuana Possession]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1605)[English]Mr. Speaker, I wish to advise you that I will be sharing my time with the eloquent and brilliant member for Eglinton—Lawrence.I am pleased to stand in the House today to address the topic put forward by the member for Victoria. It is clear that there is no reason to hastily rush into decriminalization, as members opposite suggest. Over the last decade or so, courts have told us that people with a legitimate medical need have a constitutional right to access marijuana for medical purposes. As the result of various court decisions, there is a robust regulatory system in place that provides legal access to marijuana for medical purposes to Canadians who need it.To be frank, those who want it for recreational purposes can wait until such time as we have a new system that legalizes, strictly regulates, and restricts access to marijuana. [Translation]At this time, we have a fully functional system that allows a little over 53,000 Canadians to access medical marijuana.(1610)[English]The current system has established strict controls over the production and sale of marijuana for medical purposes. These controls protect public health and safety and enable Canadians to access marijuana for medical purposes when authorized by their health care practitioner.Let me make it very clear. Our government does not license organizations such as compassion clubs or dispensaries to possess, produce, or distribute marijuana for medical purposes. These activities by these organizations are, and remain, illegal. Instead, through the marihuana for medical purposes regulations, Health Canada has put in place controls to enable the production and distribution of marijuana for medical purposes, while reducing the risk of marijuana being diverted to an illicit market or use.[Translation] Health Canada grants licenses to producers so that they can produce and distribute dried marijuana, fresh marijuana, and cannabis oil to people who have received authorization from a health care practitioner. Those Health Canada-approved licensed producers must meet the strictest standards in order to produce and distribute medical marijuana. [English]The system was created to help ensure a professional, secure, and ethical industry that would provide reasonable access for Canadians to marijuana for medical purposes. Licensed producers must demonstrate compliance, including quality control standards, record keeping of all activities and inventories of marijuana, and physical security measures to protect against potential diversion. In addition to those stringent requirements, the system also requires that certain key employees, along with directors and officers in the case of a corporation, have a security clearance. The regulations provide for rigorous oversight to reduce public health, safety, and security risks by setting out an in-depth licence application review process and a strong compliance and enforcement regime. Licensed producers must meet good production practices, including the requirement for analytical testing for contaminants, sanitation requirements for production, and packaging and storage, among other requirements. Licensed producers also have to test marijuana for microbial and chemical contaminants, and must meet legislated quality control requirements.[Translation]This means that the marijuana sold is subject to strict quality control and robust oversight in order to protect the health and safety of Canadians. [English]For its part, Health Canada plays a compliance and enforcement role to ensure that licensed producers produce marijuana to the high standards set out in the regulations. To this end, the department conducts frequent inspections of all licensed producer facilities. [Translation]To date, Health Canada has issued 31 licences to producers located across Canada who conduct their operations according to the quality control measures and appropriate health and safety standards that I have already talked about today.[English]We know these producers are selling a wide variety of quality-controlled marijuana in a manner that reduces risk to public health and safety. Moreover, licensed producers are offering marijuana at a range of prices, with some producers offering compassionate pricing.To be able to access marijuana for medical purposes, Canadians must have the support of a health care practitioner; that is a physician in all provinces and territories or a nurse practitioner in those provinces and territories where it is permitted. These health care practitioners complete a medical document that includes the daily amount of marijuana required. With that medical document, individuals can register with one of the licensed producers identified on the Health Canada website. To date, nearly 53,000 Canadians have registered to purchase marijuana for medical purposes. From licensed producers, Canadians can obtain dried or fresh marijuana as well as cannabis oil. [Translation]What is more, people who are entitled to obtain marijuana for medical purposes and who purchase it from licensed producers can produce and possess marijuana products such as ointments for personal use.(1615)[English]As part of the regulatory requirements, licensed producers must ensure the safe distribution of marijuana. This means that licensed producers are only permitted to provide marijuana to registered clients and this marijuana must be securely shipped directly to the client or an individual responsible for the client or to the client's health care practitioner.Let me also add that licensed producers may not operate a storefront. Licensed producers must package marijuana in a child resistant manner that allows the client to determine whether it has been opened prior to receipt and helps to prevent children from opening it.[Translation]Licensed producers must apply a label on the container indicating the name of the client, that of the licensed producer, the contact information of the supplier, and information about the marijuana being shipped.[English]The licensed producer is also required to include similar information on a separate document with each shipment of marijuana. These documents are useful should a client be required to demonstrate proof of authorized possession to law enforcement.[Translation]All these requirements create a framework that allows people in Canada to access marijuana prescribed by a health practitioner.[English]The system is working. I mentioned that there are 53,000 registered clients who are already legally accessing marijuana for medical purposes from 31 licensed producers. These licensed producers have the capacity to absorb new clients. This means that Canadians who require marijuana for medical purposes do not need to go to a dispensary. They can already get it from a legal source if they require it for medical purposes.[Translation]The government is working hard to make changes to the current regulations based on the Federal Court's guidelines.[English]While I will not speculate about the specifics of the proposed regulations, they will be crafted to address the issues identified by the court and ensure that authorized individuals have reasonable access to marijuana for medical purposes.[Translation]In the meantime, I want to remind the House that licensed producers will continue to carry out their operations as usual and that Canadians needing marijuana for medical purposes can continue to access it through licensed producers.[English]It is simply unnecessary to decriminalize marijuana. There is a robust system in place for those who need it for medical purposes. For those who wish to access marijuana for recreational purposes, we would urge them to respect the current laws while we take the time to put in place a responsible regulated system for marijuana for non-medical purposes. That system will keep marijuana out of the hands of youth and keep criminals from profiting from marijuana's illegal trade. Therefore, I cannot support today's motion.DecriminalizationHerbal medicineLegalizationMarijuanaOpposition motionsPossession of a controlled substanceRegulationSafetySplitting speaking timeChristineMooreAbitibi—TémiscamingueMurrayRankinVictoria//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion — Decriminalization of Marijuana Possession]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1615)[English]Mr. Speaker, allow me to take that logic to another situation.The drinking age in the province of Quebec is 18. Do we say to all of the 17-year-olds in Quebec that they are going to be legal next year so we will cut them some slack this year? It makes no sense, nor does this.The idea of decriminalizing, in the absence of any other system of control, will do nothing but enrich organized crime. It is certainly not where we want to go, and not where we need to go in this country.DecriminalizationMarijuanaOpposition motionsPossession of a controlled substanceMurrayRankinVictoriaGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion — Decriminalization of Marijuana Possession]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1620)[English]Mr. Speaker, what we know is that the war on drugs has been an abject failure. What we know is that cannabis use among young Canadians is the highest in the developed world.We know that the prohibition system has been an utter failure. We believe that the right answer is evidence-based, and it is strict regulation and control. That is what we are moving toward, based on the evidence that we will be amassing through the task force. That will be a better answer for Canadians.DecriminalizationLegalizationMarijuanaOpposition motionsPossession of a controlled substanceGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion — Decriminalization of Marijuana Possession]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1620)[English]Mr. Speaker, I do not know how I can answer that question other than to say that I find myself in violent agreement with the member for Winnipeg North.Clearly, the objective of the government policy with respect to marijuana legalization is exactly that, to keep it out of the hands of young people and to keep the profits out of the hands of criminals. That is the process on which we are embarking through this task force, through the consultation with the provinces and territories that have a shared jurisdiction in many of the areas. It will be a public health approach, and one that will achieve our policy objectives where the old approach, prohibition, has been an abject failure.DecriminalizationLegalizationMarijuanaOpposition motionsPossession of a controlled substanceKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersRoy AtkinsonInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1105)[English]Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to Roy Atkinson, who recently passed away. Roy was an advocate, farm leader, and visionary. His tireless work to promote social and economic change taught generations to believe in a cause with courage and conviction. He fought fearlessly on behalf of Canadian farmers. Serving in key leadership roles, including founding president of the National Farmers Union, Roy brought farmers together from coast to coast. Ahead of his time, he established leadership positions for youth and women, laying the foundations for future equality. He helped pave the way for Canada's medicare system, serving as a “grassroots general” in Saskatchewan's fight for universal medicare. He served on the Canadian Wheat Board advisory co-op boards and the Economic Council of Canada. Fittingly, Roy was inducted into the Saskatchewan Agriculture Hall of Fame and awarded with Canada's highest honour, the Order of Canada. Farming with his wife Bette for 52 years, he leaves a legacy of activism, commitment, determination, and integrity. I wish the best to his children.Atkinson, RoyDeaths and funeralsFarming and farmersSaskatchewanStatements by MembersErinWeirRegina—LewvanMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPhysician-Assisted DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1125)[English]Mr. Speaker, we believe that we have struck the right balance in Bill C-14 between protecting the vulnerable and the conscience rights of health care professionals, and also providing access to medical assistance in dying and protecting personal autonomy.There is a diversity of opinion as to whether the bill goes too far or not far enough. There is not unanimity with respect to its constitutionality. There is a delicate careful balance that has been struck. We believe it is the best solution for Canada at this time.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsConstitutionalityHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingOral questionsCharlieAngusTimmins—James BayRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPhysician-Assisted DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1125)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we believe that this bill is the best approach to guarantee that dying patients' rights are respected and to ensure that vulnerable people and the conscience rights of health care professionals are protected.An amendment that removes the reasonably foreseeable criterion will jeopardize the delicate careful balance we have struck in Bill C-14.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsConstitutionalityHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingOral questionsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPhysician-Assisted DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1130)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, we believe that this bill is the best approach to guarantee that the rights of dying patients are respected and to ensure that vulnerable people and the conscience rights of health care professionals are protected.This is the balance we were trying to strike, and this is the balance we achieved. This is the best approach for Canada, at this point in time.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsConstitutionalityHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingOral questionsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéScottReidLanark—Frontenac—Kingston//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1155)[English]Mr. Speaker, yes, indeed, the problem of human trafficking is a scourge on our society. This is part and parcel of the comprehensive Criminal Code review that we are undergoing to ensure that the tools we have in the criminal justice system are adequate and efficient in addressing this very serious problem.Government policyHuman traffickingOral questionsArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockWayneLongSaint John—Rothesay//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, as my hon. colleague is well aware, the previous government began the transfer of these pastures a number of years ago. However, I and my officials will be having further discussions with the provinces on the process regarding the divestiture of community pastures.Community Pasture ProgramGrazing landNational wildlife areasNature conservationOral questionsWayneStetskiKootenay—ColumbiaAlupaClarkeBeauport—Limoilou//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern. That is why we are working to find a sustainable solution for this important issue.In the last month I have met with dairy farmers and processors right across the country. With the information we have received, we will be able to make decisions to find a long-term, sustainable solution for the dairy industry in our country.This government supports supply management and always has.Dairy farmingDairy industryImportsMilk proteinOral questionsSupply managementRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—Maskinongé//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Again, Mr. Speaker, as I have indicated to my hon. colleague who has a great concern for this issue, I have met with dairy farmers, processors and Canadians. They understand that this government fully supports supply management. Even if there are some members of the opposition who do not support supply management, we as a government will find a long-term, sustainable solution so we have a strong dairy industry in our country under the supply management system.Dairy farmingDairy industryImportsMilk proteinOral questionsSupply managementRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéMarcoMendicinoEglinton—Lawrence//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersNWT Association of CommunitiesInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, in 1966, municipal leaders from Yellowknife, Fort Smith, Hay River, and lnuvik met to discuss the formation of an association to promote the exchange of information and provide a united front for the realization of their mutual goals. Since then, the goal of the NWT Association of Communities has remained the same, which is working together to achieve all that our communities want to be. For the past 50 years, municipal leaders across the NWT have come together on numerous occasions to promote a strong voice for local governments. In 2016, as it celebrates its 50th anniversary, the NWT Association of Communities can proudly boast a membership of 33 or 100% of the communities in the Northwest Territories. I have had the pleasure of working with the association from many different sides, as a mayor, as an MLA, and now as a member of Parliament. I congratulate its members on the work they do for their constituents and on celebrating their 50th anniversary.AnniversaryNorthwest TerritoriesNorthwest Territories Association of CommunitiesRegional developmentStatements by MembersBobSaroyaMarkham—UnionvilleDonDaviesVancouver Kingsway//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Special Committee on Electoral Reform]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1125)[English]What about the Fair Elections Act? Did the member ever hear of that?An hon. member: It was the highest voter turnout.Electoral reformOpposition motionsSpecial all-party committee on electoral reformScottReidLanark—Frontenac—KingstonAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsFinanceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1515)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the fifth report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to Bill C-15, an act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measures.The committee has studied the bill and has decided to report the bill back to the House with amendment.8510-421-63 Fifth Report of the Standing Committee on Finance (Bill C-15, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measures, with an amendment)Budget 2016 (March 22, 2016)C-15, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measuresStanding Committee on FinanceKevinSorensonHon.Battle River—CrowfootDavidTilsonDufferin—Caledon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1355)[English]Madam Speaker, I have two quick questions.If we do not have legislation in place by June 6, or if there is a gap, what happens to the process that is presently available for patients to apply to a court to be granted medical assistance in dying?Second, if we do not have a bill in place by June 6, or if there is a gap thereafter, will medical assistance in dying be available to people who do not have a health card and who are not covered by medicare?C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingRegulatory vacuumThird reading and adoptionJanePhilpottHon.Markham—StouffvilleJanePhilpottHon.Markham—Stouffville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1615)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, frankly, it is a little disappointing to hear such a partisan speech on an issue like this. I have two questions for the hon. member.He said that the committee had rejected all serious and important amendments. He knows for a fact that the committee accepted one of his amendments. Was that not a serious or important amendment? The second question I wish to ask is as follows. In his view, the bill is unconstitutional. Today an article was published in La Presse, which consulted four constitutional experts in Quebec. Of those four, three were from different universities and thought that the bill was constitutional. Does he acknowledge that there is a diversity of opinions among constitutional experts? Does he accept that? Does he accept that the Supreme Court has said that it is Parliament that has to act and is in the best position to act?C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsConstitutionalityGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingThird reading and adoptionLucThériaultMontcalmLucThériaultMontcalm//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersSteven MacKinnonInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, today I pay tribute to Steven MacKinnon, a pioneer of ecological farming in P.E.I., who died suddenly at his home in New Argyle at the untimely age of 53. Steven was a seventh generation farmer, farming the land settled by the MacKinnon family in 1808. He was passionate about issues affecting the family farm and was unafraid to stand up for what he felt was right. Yet he respected the views of others and enjoyed energetic debates. Steven was a visionary, being one of the first farmers to farm in an ecological manner as a way to promote environmental stewardship. Active in the National Farmers Union since his teenage days, he served in many roles and at the time of his passing was district director in Prince Edward Island.He will be missed by many in the agriculture sector, environmental organizations, community groups, and, of course, his family. He leaves behind his greatest love, his daughter Janell, and other family members. Our condolences.Deaths and funeralsFarming and farmersMacKinnon, StevenPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersCherylGallantRenfrew—Nipissing—PembrokeCelinaCaesar-ChavannesWhitby//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInfrastructureInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, my riding of the Northwest Territories has significant infrastructure needs and faces particular challenges because of our northern climate.In April, experts from Canada and the United States gathered in Inuvik to discuss new techniques for infrastructure projects at the International Symposium of Permafrost Scientists. One of the projects they discussed was the Inuvik to Tuktoyaktuk highway that has just finished its third construction season.Could the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities please update the House on the progress of this important project?Mackenzie HighwayNorthwest TerritoriesOral questionsTransportation infrastructureGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestAmarjeetSohiHon.Edmonton Mill Woods//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1) I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, two reports of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group. The first concerns the annual national conference of the Council of State Governments (CSG), held in Nashville, Tennessee, United States of America, December 10 to 13, 2015. The second concerns the annual winter meeting of the National Governors Association, held in Washington, D.C., United States of America, February 19 to 22, 2016. 8565-421-59-11 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual National Conference of the Council of State Governments (CSG), held in Nashville, Tennessee, from December 10 to 13, 20158565-421-59-12 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual Winter Meeting of the National Governors Association, held in Washington, D.C., from February 19 to 22, 2016Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthWayneEasterHon.Malpeque//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1510)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the fourth report of the Standing Committee on Finance in relation to main estimates 2016-17.8510-421-58 Fourth Report of the Standing Committee on Finance (Main Estimates 2016-17 — Votes 1 and 5 under Canada Revenue Agency)Canada Revenue AgencyMain estimates 2016-2017Standing Committee on FinanceWayneEasterHon.MalpequeKennedyStewartBurnaby South//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Finance—Main Estimates 2016-17]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (2210)[English]Mr. Chair, I want to talk about strengthening Canada's place in the world, but before I get there, I want to raise one question with the minister. Spinning off the last series of questions, I would like to ask the minister to think about this for the next 15 minutes. Could he tell us how much the previous government added to the national debt of the country as a result of the eight or nine deficits they had while they were in government? I would like that answer a little later.I am pleased to have this opportunity to address the committee of the whole and to highlight one of the central initiatives in the 2016 budget, “Strengthening Canada's Place in the World”.The time has come to rebuild our international influence and make a serious impact in global affairs. We intend, as a government, to adopt a proactive approach and a positive tone that reflects the core values of Canadians, namely that ours is a country that is generous in spirit, compassionate toward others and proud of the place we can call home.In our 2016 budget, we accomplished this objective by identifying three principles areas for action: international assistance, immigration, and defence. Let me begin with international assistance. Canada has a long history of providing international assistance to the poorest and most vulnerable. From our proud tradition of peacekeeping to our financial support through the International Assistance Envelope, or IAE, our actions reflect the fact that Canadians feel connected to the broader world and that they believe in peace and stability for all people. To ensure we continue to provide assistance where it is most needed, we intend to conduct a review of our international assistance policy framework. Over the coming months, we will work with stakeholders to evaluate what we do now and how we can improve.We are also increasing Canada's international assistance envelope to over $5 billion on a cash basis by 2018-19. This includes new funding to the IAE to address emerging international priorities, funding provided for Canada's approach in Iraq, Syria, Jordan and Lebanon, and climate finance.For those people affected by conflicts and living in fragile states, budget 2016 also provides $586.5 million over three years to renew key peace and security programs. This includes up to $450 million for the global peace and security fund; $106.5 million for the international police peacekeeping and peace operations programs; and $30 million for the counterterrorism capacity building program Sahel envelope.By investing in measures that will improve the lives of global citizens and contribute to international peace and security, Canada will once again become a true leader in the world, one that makes a real and valuable contribution to world peace and prosperity.It is interesting that when one does travel, and I happened to be in Germany in December and Taiwan in January, it is really nice to hear people say that it is nice to have Canada back, and Canada is back with this government. That is good to see. Our second area of focus is immigration. We are proud that we achieved this objective at the end of February of this year. For these refugees, our work has now shifted to helping them integrate successfully into Canadian society.On a personal note, in my home community of Prince Edward Island, many of these newcomers are at least getting a glimpse of spring and the terrific beauty on our particular island as the crops go in the ground. Although we are not big in numbers on Prince Edward Island, on a per capita basis, we have done as well or better than every other province in bringing refugees into the province. There is something very symbolic about that.(2215)Bringing in the refugees has been a real testament to the resolve and inclination of the many Canadian organizations and communities that are part of this undertaking, people who opened their hearts and homes to both government and privately sponsored refugees. They have continued to welcome these newcomers as they start a new chapter alongside us in Canada. However, it is not simply circumstance or a sense of obligation that compels us to act. Immigration actually contributes substantially to Canada's long-term growth and prosperity, and it has to be a part of our economy moving forward if we are going to get that growth we need in our economy. By welcoming people to Canada to create better lives for themselves and their families, all Canadians benefit. We recently announced our intention to admit 300,000 new permanent residents this year. This is the most in over a hundred years, when people were fleeing the hardships and conflicts that led to the First World War. We are also taking steps to ensure more families can be together to build a new life for themselves in Canada and contribute to our country's prosperity. To that end, budget 2016 provides $25 million this year to reduce application processing times and make family reunification a priority of Canada's immigration system.Our final area of focus is defence. While Canada is being strengthened by people from around the world seeking a new life here, outside threats do remain a reality. We have a responsibility to promote security and stability both at home and abroad. The international security environment is more complex and challenging, exposing our personnel abroad to increased threat and risk. We will support those who defend Canada and contribute to international peace and security by renewing the major equipment of the Canadian Armed Forces and improving facilities where they live, work, and train. That includes new investments of about $200 million over the next two years to undertake infrastructure projects at Canadian Forces bases and other defence properties across Canada. This funding would support projects that promote operational readiness and improve the quality of life for Canadian soldiers. The funding includes $77 million for projects to support readiness for Canadian Armed Forces military operations, including investments to repair and construct live-fire ranges, air fields, hangars, and naval jetties across Canada. There is $67 million for projects to support the reserve forces; $50 million for projects to support military personnel and their families; and $6 million for projects to support northern operations.The government is committed to building a modern, more agile, better equipped military to conduct missions at home and abroad. The Minister of National Defence has in fact launched public consultations as part of an open and transparent dialogue with Canadians and key stakeholders to inform the development of a new defence policy for Canada. During 2016, the government will seek the input of Canadians, experts, allies, partners, and Parliament on the strategic environment for the Canadian Armed Forces, its role, as well as its size, structure, and capabilities.Let me conclude. The blueprint laid down in budget 2016 is transformative, and I know that Canadians are ready for it. Our first six months in office have clearly demonstrated our ability to take the action Canadians expect of us to restore Canada as a leader in the world.I have three questions for the minister. Of course, I asked him one earlier. I wanted to know how much that other crew left our country in added debt as a result. (2220)My question in terms of the international aspect is this. All of Canada knows that there have been about 25,000 refugees who have arrived in this country. What additional work is the government doing to help the Syrian refugees who have arrived, and how does this support our plan for long-term growth and prosperity in this country? In other words, how is that influx, that great effort to bring 25,000 refugees into this country, going to help maintain our growth and prosperity and in fact add to it over the longer term?Canadian ForcesConsideration in a Committee of the WholeDepartment of FinanceGovernment expendituresImmigration and immigrantsInternational affairs and defenceInternational development and aidMain estimates 2016-2017Public debtRefugeesBillMorneauHon.Toronto CentreBillMorneauHon.Toronto Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Finance—Main Estimates 2016-17]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (2220)[English]Mr. Chair, my second question, in addition to the $160 billion that the other crew added to the debt over the last nine years, is about the government's commitment to resettling Syrian refugees to Canada, which will continue in 2016 with both government-supported and privately sponsored Syrian refugees. They will continue to arrive on commercial flights in the months ahead. I am wondering, as this develops over the additional months, what the government is doing budget-wise to assist these new refugees coming in.Consideration in a Committee of the WholeDepartment of FinanceGovernment expendituresMain estimates 2016-2017Public debtRefugeesBillMorneauHon.Toronto CentreBillMorneauHon.Toronto Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Finance—Main Estimates 2016-17]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (2225)[English]Mr. Chair, one of the areas that we hear the most complaints about is family reunification. It is an important role, and it is important to integrate families into Canadian society and the economy. However, at least up until now, it has taken too long for family sponsorship decisions to be taken, leaving families separated for way too long a time. I wonder if the minister and his counterparts in cabinet have looked at that issue and if they have found any approach in budget 2016 that might be able to address family reunification, which is a serious matter going forward.Consideration in a Committee of the WholeDepartment of FinanceFamily reunificationGovernment expendituresMain estimates 2016-2017BillMorneauHon.Toronto CentreBillMorneauHon.Toronto Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPhysician-Assisted DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1125)[Translation]Madam Speaker, I want to point out that the Alberta Court of Appeal did not rule on Bill C-14.In the Carter decision, the Supreme Court of Canada stated that Parliament was in the best position to design a framework for medical assistance in dying, including a series of stringent safeguards. That is what we have done.The decision by the Alberta Court of Appeal highlighted the need to have a law in place by June 6.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Canadian Charter of Rights and FreedomsCaregivers and health care professionalsConstitutionalityHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingOral questionsBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotSylvieBoucherBeauport—Côte-de-Beaupré—Île d'Orléans—Charlevoix//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1140)[English]Madam Speaker, we are committed to science-based decision-making, and will continue to be.The production of genetically modified animals is an important issue facing Canada. That is why I have asked the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food to examine the issues around genetically modified animals.Food labellingGenetically modified organismsOral questionsSalmonAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—LangfordStephenFuhrKelowna—Lake Country//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1155)[English]Madam Speaker, it is because of the disease in the U.S. that we are always committed to protecting animal health in Canada. That is exactly why CFIA is ensuring that trucks are washed before they come across the border into Canada. We want to ensure that we can keep the diseases out of this country, with every measure possible, as long as we can.Animal diseasesImportsOral questionsPorcine epidemic diarrheaPorkLarryMaguireBrandon—SourisDavid de BurghGrahamLaurentides—Labelle//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1200)[English]Madam Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question. I think she is fully aware, and the House is fully aware, that this country is fully committed to science-based decision-making in this area. That is why I have asked the committee on agriculture and agrifood to examine this issue. This is a new issue. It is important that it go before the agriculture committee and we let the committee do its work. Food labellingGenetically modified organismsOral questionsSalmonMoniquePauzéRepentignyMarilèneGillManicouagan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPhysician-Assisted DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1200)[Translation]Madam Speaker, the amendment mentioned by the member was presented in committee and rejected.The condition of reasonable foreseeability is a very important aspect of the definition. It needs to be there to define the situation and provide assurances to the doctors providing this service.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingOral questionsGabrielSte-MarieJolietteRubySahotaBrampton North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1240)[English]Mr. Speaker, first of all, I thank the hon. member for his thoughtful contribution to the debate, and a thoughtful contribution is what we always get from the member. We do not agree on our respective positions on the bill, but certainly his was and always is a valuable intervention.There are two things I'd like to raise.The member talked about the confusion, or lack of clarity, or the lack of value around the words “reasonably foreseeable”. I would ask the member to read the two words in front of those two words, which are “has become”. Therefore, the reasonable foreseeability in the bill is only in the context of a change in someone's conditions. Death has to have become reasonably foreseeable. I would ask for his comments with respect to the relevance or importance of those words.Also, with respect to the June 6 deadline, he drew an analogy to the abortion debate in this country. My question for him with regard to the June 6 deadline is that, right now during the extension period up to June 6, it is possible for patients to petition a court to have medical assistance in dying; however, that process expires on June 6 and will no longer exist. Does the member see that as significant?Application processC-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemInterpretive provisionJudicial reviewMedical assistance in dyingRegulatory vacuumReport stageTerminologyAnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingRandallGarrisonEsquimalt—Saanich—Sooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's concern. I can assure him that this issue will be addressed in a proper forum to take care that grain is delivered to the ports, and to make sure that our exports are kept in line.We will make sure that we supply the transportation for Canadian farmers.Fair Rail for Grain Farmers ActFreight transportationGrain and grain growingGrain handlingOral questionsRail transportation and railwaysChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieMichelBoudriasTerrebonne//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessLife Means Life ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1735)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have two questions for the hon. member. He indicated that the bill is designed to ensure that those who commit the most serious crimes do not walk the streets. We already have a mechanism for that. It is called the dangerous offender designation. Perhaps he could explain why that is inadequate to address the problem he seeks to address through this private member's bill.Also, there is a provision in the bill that allows for an application to the Minister of Public Safety after 35 years and for a determination to be made by the cabinet as opposed to the current system which has that designation made by trained professionals at the Parole Board. We do have an eminently qualified cabinet, but what is it about the Parole Board that makes it uniquely unqualified to deal with the most serious cases?C-229, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other Acts (life sentences)Conditional releaseDangerous offendersLife sentencesPrivate Members' BillsSecond readingRonLiepertCalgary Signal HillRonLiepertCalgary Signal Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessLife Means Life ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1745)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak to Bill C-229, which aims to change the law concerning life sentences for the most serious offenders. Bill C-229 proposes mandatory and discretionary sentences of life without parole for certain murders. I will not be supporting this bill.Bill C-229 is nearly identical to former Bill C-53, the life means life act, which was introduced by the previous government on March 11, 2015. That bill died on the Order Paper with the dissolution of Parliament. The bill would change the existing criminal law in three ways. First, it would make imprisonment without parole mandatory for high treason; for planned and deliberate murder if committed during a sexual assault, kidnapping, or terrorism offence; where the victim is a police officer or correctional officer, or if committed in a particularly brutal way.Second, the bill would provide judges with the ability to impose a life sentence of imprisonment without parole for any other first degree murder, as well as for any second degree murder where the offender was previously convicted of murder or of an intentional killing under the Crimes Against Humanity and War Crimes Act. Finally, the bill would amend the Corrections and Conditional Release Act to provide that an offender sentenced to life imprisonment without parole may apply for an executive release by the Governor in Council after having served 35 years in custody. If released by the Governor in Council, the offender would be subject to conditions similar to parole conditions and the offender's sentence would continue to be administered under the jurisdiction of the Correctional Service of Canada and the Parole Board of Canada.We agree that public safety is of paramount importance; however, I am not convinced that the measures contained in the bill would actually result in increasing public safety. Our government made a commitment to use evidence in our decision-making and there is precious little of it which stands to support this bill.The amendments contained in Bill C-229 would be unprecedented in Canadian law. They are also, in my view, unnecessary. I agree that the most serious offenders, murderers, should be dealt with accordingly by the criminal law. I can also confidently say that the most serious offenders, in fact, are dealt with accordingly by the criminal law.Our judiciary and the Correctional Service already possess the tools necessary to ensure the most serious offenders will not be released from custody, specifically in the form of a dangerous offender designation. This bill would seek to limit the discretion of our judiciary and the Correctional Service. That is not something I can support.While it is true that some individuals may eventually be released from prison, this would only happen after their application has been carefully reviewed by the Parole Board of Canada. In addition, those who are released have lifelong restrictions placed on their liberty and may be re-incarcerated if they breach a condition of their release. I believe that our current system works effectively and I have confidence in the ability of the Parole Board of Canada to make appropriate decisions, taking into account all relevant circumstances. Therefore, I question why these changes would be required. Indeed, for that group of offenders who, under the current regime, would benefit from rehabilitation and gradual reintegration into society, Bill C-229 would require them to stay in jail longer. This bill only favours punishment for punishment's sake and does not meet our other sentencing objectives, including, for example, rehabilitation. I do not believe that Canadians would accept such an approach.I also have concerns about the constitutionality of this bill, and I am not alone in this view. Stakeholders, including the Elizabeth Fry Society, have raised questions not only about the bill's constitutionality, but also whether its measures are even required. Our government has indicated repeatedly the importance of respecting the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and ensuring that our work is consistent with it. Supporting this legislation would not be in keeping with that commitment.It should be noted that the Liberal Party has consistently opposed the measures contained in this bill, including when it was introduced as the former government's Bill C-53. (1750)At that time, we noted our objection to the proposed introduction of a new regime that would require an offender to submit an application to the Minister of Public Safety for executive release by the Governor in Council after serving 35 years of their sentence, rather than to the Parole Board of Canada.Others raised similar concerns about Bill C-53, including the Canadian Bar Association and the John Howard Society. These stakeholders were of the view that Bill C-53's proposed measures, which are replicated in Bill C-229, would not improve public safety and that there is no evidence that offenders convicted of serious crimes are paroled unjustifiably.Some stakeholders, when discussing Bill C-53, also noted that excessively long periods of incarceration that eliminate the prospect of offender rehabilitation are destructive to offenders' physical and mental health, and fail to properly balance the principles of punishment with those of rehabilitation and reintegration. These principles are a core part of our corrections philosophy. Nothing in Bill C-229 would address these concerns.To be fair, some stakeholders may support the objectives of Bill C-229, if they believe it would protect society by keeping violent or dangerous criminals in custody for longer periods. However, as I have already said, the most serious offenders who would be caught by this bill would already be unlikely to ever be released, given the public security risk they pose.I would also like to point out the concerns that I have with respect to the impact that Bill C-229 may have on indigenous peoples. As members know, the government has recently put forward Canada's new position with respect to the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Persons.The government has made clear its commitment to change the relationship between Canada and the indigenous population. We know that there is an overrepresentation of indigenous people in federal custody, for a multitude of reasons. I am concerned that Bill C-229 would do nothing to address this problem. I do not believe we should be advancing initiatives such as Bill C-229 at a time when crime rates continue to decrease and the overrepresentation of indigenous peoples in prison continues to persist.The government has signalled its intention to comprehensively examine the current state of the criminal justice system, and I am hopeful that this issue will be examined thoroughly. It is an issue which demands attention and, more importantly, action.I urge all members to oppose Bill C-229. Its proposals are ideologically driven, not supported by available evidence, and would do nothing to improve public safety. It would further limit the discretion of the judiciary and is not the kind of legal reform we need in this country. Aboriginal peoplesC-229, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other Acts (life sentences)C-53, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and the Corrections and Conditional Release Act and to make related and consequential amendments to other ActsConditional releaseConstitutionalityCriminal rehabilitationDangerous offendersHomicideLife sentencesPrivate Members' BillsSecond readingTreason and high treasonRonLiepertCalgary Signal HillKarineTrudelJonquière//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsDemocratic ReformInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1010)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to present a petition on behalf of a couple of dozen Prince Edward Islanders who are seeking a change to our electoral system.They are calling upon the House of Commons to undertake public consultations across Canada to amend the Canada Elections Act and to introduce a suitable form of proportional representation after those public consultations.Electoral reformPetition 421-00307Proportional representationMarkWarawaLangley—AldergroveKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCaptain Nichola GoddardInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, Tim and Sally Goddard live just around the corner from me in Charlottetown. Today is a very sombre anniversary in their household. Exactly 10 years ago, their daughter, Captain Nichola Goddard, was killed in combat in Afghanistan.[Translation]Sally and Tim established Nichola Goddard Foundation Inc. in her memory. That organization helps fund solar powered lighting systems in medical facilities in Papua New Guinea, where Nichola was born. The foundation also funds scholarships at the University of Calgary and the University of PEI.Tim Goddard, who holds a PhD, remains involved in Afghanistan. He trains teachers there so they can strengthen and enhance their public education system.[English]Today, I ask the House to join me in remembering and celebrating the life and work of Captain Nichola Goddard. Lest we forget.Associations, institutions and organizationsGoddard, Nichola Kathleen SarahNichola Goddard Foundation Inc.Statements by MembersDeepakObhraiHon.Calgary Forest LawnNikiAshtonChurchill—Keewatinook Aski//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMotions in amendmentInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1620)[English]Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the member for St. Albert—Edmonton for his thoughtful contribution to the debate and also for the substantial work that he has done both on the special joint committee and on the justice committee. He is a standing example that while we may disagree, we need not be disagreeable. The member finished his speech with an indication that he is reflecting and struggling a bit with how he is going to vote on this. He is struggling with the possibility of there being no law if those who are like him are wavering as to whether or not to pass what they see as an imperfect law.Given the member's substantial experience in the debate here on the floor and before both committees, I would invite him to elaborate on the consequences of this law being defeated and our having no law on June 6.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingRegulatory vacuumReport stageCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMotions in amendmentInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1655)[English]Madam Speaker, I am pleased to voice my support for Bill C-14, significant legislation that would become Canada's first national medical assistance in dying regime, and would provide a thoughtful and well-considered response to the Supreme Court of Canada's decision in Carter.I would first like to acknowledge the remarkable work of the members of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights who studied Bill C-14 under some very tight time constraints and who nonetheless were able to significantly enrich our reflection and debate on this highly complex and personal issue. This is certainly a matter on which everyone's point of view deserves the utmost respect and consideration. All justice committee members have unquestionably demonstrated these qualities in the course of their work.Allow me to highlight some areas where the work of the justice committee has been particularly helpful. Many stakeholders who appeared before the committee, in particular organizations representing medical professionals, expressed a great deal of concern about conscience protections for medical providers. Bill C-14, as a criminal law measure, would create exemptions from conduct that would otherwise be criminal and therefore would not compel anyone to provide medical assistance in dying in any way. However, some stakeholders urged the committee to add a specific clause that would clearly reflect, for greater certainty, their conscience rights as protected under the charter. On the other hand, other stakeholders such as the Barreau du Québec and Quebec health lawyer Jean-Pierre Ménard affirmed the position previously expressed by the Minister of Justice that the conscience rights of health care providers were matters that fall under the purview of the provinces and territories as well as under the responsibility of medical regulatory bodies, which themselves are provincially regulated. I am pleased to say that the justice committee carefully listened to submissions from all sides of the debate and that a motion was tabled to address this significant concern within the limits of our constitutional framework. Bill C-14 was amended in order to give a greater sense of comfort to medical professionals that nothing in Bill C-14 would compel individuals to act against their deeply held beliefs.The justice committee should also be commended for working in a non-partisan way to make improvements to the proposed legislation. For instance, the committee amended the bill to clarify that where persons signed a written request on behalf of a patient who cannot write, they could only do so at the patient's express direction. The committee members also amended the bill to clarify that for the sake of professionals who provided counselling services, giving someone information about medical assistance in dying would not be criminally prohibited. Although these amendments and several others do not fundamentally change the scope of Bill C-14, they should increase the level of comfort for Canadians, including health care providers and other professionals who may be involved. I applaud the committee for all of its efforts.We have heard countless times how challenging the issue of medical assistance in dying is and how Canadians and organizations hold divergent views that are informed by strongly held beliefs. I think we can all agree that this tension was most apparent during the debate over who should be eligible for medical assistance in dying in our country. Just as it was the case before the Special Joint Committee on Physician-Assisted Dying, the justice committee also heard a wide range of views on eligibility and on what was required to respond to the Carter ruling. At one end of the spectrum, some stakeholders continue to oppose legalization of any form of medical assistance in dying, as is still the case in most countries around the world, or they propose that it be significantly narrowed. At the other end of the spectrum, some argue that Bill C-14 does not go far enough and urge Parliament to adopt one of the broadest regimes in the world, similar to ones that exist in only three European countries. They maintain that the eligibility criteria in Bill C-14 are too narrow and they should also include mature minors, people suffering solely from a mental illness, and those who have lost their capacity to consent to die, but who have made an advance request for medical assistance in dying. Somewhere in the middle of that spectrum, though, lies a group of stakeholders who have expressed strong support for Bill C-14 and who recognize that the bill's cautious and balanced approach is imminently justifiable, including the commitment to explore broader eligibility issues in the near future. (1700)Among that group is the Canadian Medical Association, which speaks on behalf of 83,000 physicians across Canada and which supports the adoption of Bill C-14 as it was drafted, and without amendments.In contrast with those who argue that the Supreme Court's language of grievous and irremediable medical condition is clear and preferable, the Canadian Medical Association takes quite a different position. It says that the criteria in Bill C-14, including the requirement that death be reasonably foreseeable, provides sufficient direction to physicians and is a great improvement from the court's language, which it considers to be vague and unworkable from a medical standpoint. Similarly, the Canadian Nurses Association, a federation of 11 provincial and territorial nursing associations and colleges, representing nearly 139,000 registered nurses across Canada, has said publicly that its priority is having the bill passed before the June 6 deadline expires. Further, its CEO, Anne Sutherland Boal, stated just yesterday that the successful passing of the bill would be both compassionate and protective to patients, families, and care providers, while emphasizing that the legislative safeguards in the bill would work to protect the most vulnerable Canadians. Although lawyers and legal academics continue to argue with each other over whether or not the court's language, or the language in Bill C-14, provides sufficient clarity, how can we as parliamentarians discount the views of medical practitioners? The Supreme Court expressed confidence in Canada's physicians to respond to Canadians who wished to access medical assistance in dying, and that confidence is well-placed. We as parliamentarians must also have confidence in medical practitioners. They will be the ones facing these difficult life and death decisions with their patients and assessing their eligibility. For them, it is not a philosophical or theoretical exercise. They will be applying the very measures in Bill C-14 in their daily practice. Their views must be given significant weight. National disability rights organizations and others have also supported the approach to eligibility proposed by Bill C-14 as a meaningful safeguard to protect individuals who might be vulnerable in the framework of a medical assistance in dying regime, as a result of societal discrimination, loneliness, or lack of social supports, for example. On the question of safeguards, the same dynamic has been at play. Some stakeholders expressed support for the measures proposed in Bill C-14, while at the same time seeking to put in place additional safeguards to protect the vulnerable, such as prior judicial authorization. Others, wanting to facilitate broader access, have sought to remove some safeguards, such as the reflection period.(1705) While we respect those who feel that the proposed safeguards are either inadequate or overly burdensome, I believe the safeguards in Bill C-14, taken together, are consistent with many of those found in regimes around the world. Just as the court in Carter was persuaded that the risks to vulnerable Canadians could be adequately managed under a regime with robust safeguards, I am confident the safeguards in Bill C-14 would guard against abuse and error.Last, I would like to remind all members that Bill C-14, or the provision of medically assisted dying, is not intended to be, or to become, the response to all forms of intolerable suffering. The bill is a thoughtful response to Carter, which recognized the autonomy of those suffering on a path toward death to die peacefully at the time of their choosing and therefore to avoid a prolonged, painful, and undignified death, or one that is inconsistent with their values. Bill C-14 acknowledges the autonomy of such persons to make important end-of-life health care decisions, while also balancing the equally important societal objectives of affirming the value of the lives of all Canadians, preventing suicide, and protecting the most vulnerable in our society.I believe this legislation respects all interests at stake, and is one of which Canadians can be proud. For all these reasons, I urge all members of the House to support Bill C-14. Age of majorityApplication processC-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Canadian Medical AssociationCanadian Nurses AssociationCaregivers and health care professionalsCarter v. CanadaCommittee amendmentsCommittee studies and activitiesComplianceConsentConstitutionalityCourt ordersDecision-making processDoctorsExemption provisionsFreedom of conscience and religionGovernment billsHealth care systemInformation disseminationInterpretive provisionJudicial reviewLegal capacityLiving willsMedical assistance in dyingMental healthPain and chronic painPersons with disabilitiesProvincial jurisdictionReport stageRisk managementStanding Committee on Justice and Human RightsSuicidesSupreme Court of CanadaVulnerable personsYoung peopleElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsHaroldAlbrechtKitchener—Conestoga//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMotions in amendmentInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1710)[English]Madam Speaker, I have two responses. The first is that this is legislation to amend the Criminal Code. There is absolutely nothing in the legislation that compels any institution or any individual to do anything.Also, the regulation of health care institutions and the delivery of health care is one that is squarely within the domain of the provinces. We heard this in testimony. The federal government is quite prepared to show leadership in dealing with the provinces. The matter of conscience rights is now contained in the bill and the preamble in an appropriate way.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsExemption provisionsFederal-provincial-territorial relationsFreedom of conscience and religionGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingMedical centresReport stageHaroldAlbrechtKitchener—ConestogaLindaDuncanEdmonton Strathcona//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersMotions in amendmentInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1710)[English]Madam Speaker, there is no question that not all individual members in the Canadian Medical Association are of one voice. The voice of the medical profession has spoken clearly and loudly in support of the legislation. Indeed, there are individual members and groups of doctors who do not feel the same way, one of whom was referred to by the hon. member.The other point that I would add is this. If we are left without legislation on June 6, it is doctors like the one the hon. member quoted who will be left without a law, without eligibility criteria, and without the present system of applying to a court for an exemption, something that will only exist until June 6. There will be a great deal of uncertainty if no law is passed. That I think will leave doctors in a situation where they will be extremely reluctant to accede to a patient's request for medical assistance in dying without the certainty that is provided in Bill C-14, as flawed as it may be.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Canadian Medical AssociationCaregivers and health care professionalsDecision-making processDoctorsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingRegulatory vacuumReport stageLindaDuncanEdmonton StrathconaJohnOliverOakville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that the safety of food in our country is a major priority. I can assure the member that the Department of Agriculture and Agri-Food and the CFIA will inspect food and ensure it is safe for consumers in the country.Food safetyOral questionsPig farmingPorcine epidemic diarrheaChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieEvaNassifVimy//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Freedom of conscience]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1015)[English]Mr. Speaker, the member who proposed the motion was present at many of the hearings of the justice committee on this matter. The original draft of Bill C-14 did not have any reference to conscience rights, except in the preamble.Each party had a proposal to put wording around conscience rights, and quite frankly, it was Parliament at its best to see representatives of the Conservative Party, the New Democratic Party, and the Liberal Party huddle and come up with wording upon which they could all agree. That wording has been amended in the bill, and here we are with an opposition day motion that seeks to subvert that all-party agreement by presenting a motion like this in Parliament. Furthermore, that all-party agreement resulted in a unanimous vote amending the legislation, as the hon. member pointed out.I have two questions for the member. Number one, why does he seek to subvert the will and the agreement of the Conservative members of the justice committee? Second, when the department was asked about this particular provision, Joanne Klineberg from the Department of Justice said: ...the view of the department is that this would be outside [the scope of] Parliament's jurisdiction. The provinces have the competence jurisdictionally to legislate on this, and likely it would be invalid federal law.Does the hon. member have an opinion contrary to that of the Department of Justice that would give us some faith in this?C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsFederal-provincial-territorial relationsFreedom of conscience and religionMedical assistance in dyingOpposition motionsArnoldViersenPeace River—WestlockArnoldViersenPeace River—Westlock//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Freedom of conscience]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1030)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have two questions for the hon. member. What does she say to her Conservative colleagues on the justice committee who unanimously voted for and negotiated and agreed with the wording contained in subclause (9) that, “nothing in this section compels an individual to provide or assist in providing medical assistance in dying.” What does she have to say to her Conservative colleagues who helped to come up with that wording?Second, she offered a long list of organizations that had some problem with the absence of conscience rights in the bill. Conscience rights were put into the bill, in the section I just referred to, on Tuesday. Has she talked with the organizations she listed, since Tuesday, about the amended bill?Associations, institutions and organizationsCaregivers and health care professionalsFreedom of conscience and religionMedical assistance in dyingOpposition motionsPublic consultationCathayWagantallYorkton—MelvilleCathayWagantallYorkton—Melville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgStatements by MembersMike GallantInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1100)[English]Mr. Speaker, on the morning of May 14, 2015, Captain Mike Gallant and his fellow members of the Miscouche Volunteer Fire Department were called to an emergency scene in western P.E.I. Afterward, while returning to his day job, Mike was killed in a single-vehicle accident. His death was the direct result of a medical condition, and he was considered to have died in the line of duty, due to the strenuous work of emergency response. Mike served as a volunteer firefighter for most of his adult life. He had also become involved in volunteering with youth, and he helped found the department's junior firefighting program. In many Canadian communities, emergency response is handled in large part by volunteers like Mike Gallant. Their hard work and sacrifice serves to keep Canadians safe, as we have seen so clearly from the astounding efforts of the firefighters in Fort McMurray. Tomorrow, Mike will be remembered in a public ceremony at the Miscouche Fire Hall. In the fall, he will be honoured with a service at the Canadian Firefighters Memorial here in Ottawa. He is dearly missed by his family and the community. Deaths and funeralsGallant, MikePrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersVolunteer firefightersFrançoisChoquetteDrummondColinCarrieOshawa//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate my hon. colleague across the way cannot focus on agricultural issues, but I can assure him we can. I can assure my hon. colleagues in the House that my chief of staff has completed all of the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will be abiding by all guidelines set forward.Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—Mackenzie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, again my hon. colleague thinks the only requirement to work for the Department of Agriculture and the Minister of Agriculture is to have no experience in agriculture. I am sorry, but we disagree with that.As I indicated quite clearly, my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will abide by all guidelines set forward. It could not be clearer.Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieBevShipleyLambton—Kent—Middlesex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, all I can say to my hon. colleague is that my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and is willing to abide by all guidelines set forward. Also, this includes—Some hon. members: Oh, oh!Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsBevShipleyLambton—Kent—MiddlesexGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]I am not really sure, Mr. Speaker, where you cut me off. Some hon. members: Oh, oh!Hon. Lawrence MacAulay: However, the fact of the matter is that my chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community and has a deep commitment to agriculture. Let us not have it that if someone knows something about—Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, again I can say that my chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community and has a good understanding of agriculture. On the issue that my hon. colleague raised, my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will be abiding by all the guidelines set forward. It could not be clearer. I am lucky to have this lady.Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsRecusalsJacquesGourdeLévis—LotbinièrePierreNantelLongueuil—Saint-Hubert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my honourable colleague, this House, and Canadians that my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will be abiding by all guidelines set forward. This includes a conflict of interest screen which has been established and will be followed.My chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community and has a deep commitment to agriculture.Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodFarming and farmersMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—Mackenzie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, again I can assure my honourable colleague that my chief of staff has completed all the guidelines required by the Conflict of Interest Commissioner, and she will follow the guidelines.Does my honourable colleague indicate that all we want to work in agriculture are people who know nothing about agriculture?Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodFarming and farmersMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieBevShipleyLambton—Kent—Middlesex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I know the member for Lambton—Kent—Middlesex, and I am surprised that he would indicate that such a competent lady would be in this role. I am truly disappointed.My colleague understands that the Ethics Commissioner has ruled, and all the guidelines submitted by the Conflict of Interest Commissioner will be followed. Again, does he just want somebody in agriculture who knows nothing about agriculture? I think not.Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodFarming and farmersMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsBevShipleyLambton—Kent—MiddlesexBevShipleyLambton—Kent—Middlesex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodEthicsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think my honourable colleague wants to be careful about what my chief of staff is and is not involved in. She has a career of her own.However, the Conflict of Interest Commissioner has set guidelines. I have indicated quite clearly to this House a number of times, she will follow the guidelines.Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodFarming and farmersMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsBevShipleyLambton—Kent—MiddlesexSheilaMalcolmsonNanaimo—Ladysmith//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my honourable colleague's question and concern. The Liberal Party implemented supply management and will defend supply management.We recognize that this is an important issue for dairy farmers, and we are working to reach a long-term solution that will work for all of the dairy sector across this nation.Dairy farmingDairy industryImportsMilk proteinOral questionsRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéAlupaClarkeBeauport—Limoilou//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersSecond ReadingInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1225)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is indeed an honour and a pleasure for me to rise in the House today as the newly elected member of Parliament for Egmont to speak to Bill C-15.Before I get to my comments on the budget, I want to acknowledge the situation that is occurring in our sister province of Alberta, primarily the community of Fort McMurray. After all, the oil industry of Alberta and Saskatchewan is the single biggest employer in my riding. We depend on this part of Canada for a lot of the jobs that are created there.I want to acknowledge as well that islanders will be there to support the community of Fort McMurray in its time of need. We are a generous society; Canadians in general are generous, and we all reach out to those in Fort McMurray.For the last number of weeks, since the budget was introduced, I have listened intently to the debate in the House and to questions in question period. I have listened to opposition members rail on at length with their comments on the government's deficit budget. Listening to their newfound concerns and their degree of anxiety over the deficit budget, I chose to take a look at the fiscal track record of former governments over the past number of years. It is interesting to look back at the fiscal situation over a number of years in this country. In particular, I looked back to 1994-95, which was the first year of a new Liberal administration, following nine years of a Conservative government in this country. In 1994-95, the debt-to-GDP ratio was near 70%, after nine years of Conservative rule. By 2006, at the end of roughly 12 years of a Liberal administration, the debt-to-GDP ratio had been reduced to below 30%. Shortly after, the debt-to-GDP ratio under a new Conservative government began to climb, and climbed to over 30%, the number where it is today. When I compared the fiscal situation that was inherited by a Liberal government in 1993-94 and the fiscal track record of the previous Conservative government, we can see how the debt-to-GDP ratio ballooned under that particular government. I wanted to look more specifically at the past years of the former Conservative government, now the opposition. In 2006-07, the government inherited a surplus of $13.8 billion, adjusted to $16.2 billion. In 2007-08, the surplus was at $9.6 billion, but by 2008-09, the Conservative government began to run a deficit of $5.8 billion in 2008-09. In 2009-10, it was $55.6 billion, adjusted to $61.27 billion. In 2010-11, it was $33 billion, adjusted to $36 billion. In 2011-12, it was $26 billion to $27 billion. In 2012-13, it was $18 billion. In 2013-14, it was $5 billion. Obviously, the comments now coming from the opposition party, which was the government at the time, clearly show that the government they were a part of had no problem running deficits in this country, in fact sizeable deficits. I am told, but I could be corrected, that the deficit accumulated over that period of time was one of the largest this country incurred in any particular period.(1230)Where are we today? Our party was honest and frank with Canadians during the election. We indicated that given the deteriorating fiscal situation, it was unlikely that in government we would be able to run a surplus. We indicated that given the fiscal situation at the time and the information our party had, we would anticipate a deficit in the $10-billion range in order to implement the programs that we wanted to implement.My colleague the member of Parliament for Cumberland—Colchester gave me some good research material which indicates that with the drop in the price of oil per barrel, the federal treasury has lost in the vicinity of $18 billion since late last summer until now. As a government we could have done a number of things. We could have reined in spending to do away with that deficit, but that would have forced us to abandon a number of the programs that we campaigned on, that we believed in, and that we felt this country needed.I firmly believe that the government's fundamental role is to address the needs of the most vulnerable. For too many years this area has been neglected and significant effort will need to be made to address these matters. Over the last 30 years, Canadians at the top 0.1% have seen their income rise by about 155% and some 90% of Canadians have seen their income rise by only 33% over the same time frame. Clearly something had to change.The platform that I was most proud to run on as a candidate in the last election and a key part of the budget that I am proud to support and defend is our position on the child benefit. The child benefit is simpler, fairer, tax-free, and targeted to those who need it the most, low-income and middle-income families. It is also much more generous than the former program. I can relate to one family in my riding that would benefit significantly by this program. There are 5,111 children enrolled in the school system in Egmont. The average family will benefit by $2,300. There are 4,150 families in my riding of Egmont. This adds up to $9.545 million for my constituency alone, which is a small constituency.What had an impact on me the most during the election campaign was the financial distress that single seniors were feeling. As a candidate, that really had an impact on me. I was surprised at the extent of the financial hardship faced by single seniors, the majority of whom are women. Our commitment to not only increase the GIS by 10% but to restore the age of eligibility to 65 is a significant component of our budget. I want to quote a fact. According to researchers at Laval University, the Conservative plan would have increased the number of 65-year-olds and 66-year-olds living below the poverty line from 6% to 17%. We in the Liberal Party felt that was unacceptable. We feel that we owe this segment of our population a reasonable living. I am proud of these two significant changes that would be brought about by the passage of the budget. When the budget is implemented, people will see the benefits.(1235)I want to close on another area where we have seen significant reform. At the same time, I will be a bit critical of my own government. This has to do the changes we have made to the employment insurance system. As a government, we should always target changes to address the most vulnerable in society. On this measure, we did not meet the needs of the short-term seasonal workers in my riding by extending their benefit period. We did it for some parts of the country, which I applaud. We made a lot of significant improvements to the system. However, on this one area, I feel we have a lot more work to do. I look forward to continuing the work on those issues in the coming sessions of Parliament and budgets.AlbertaBenefits for childrenBrush, prairie and forest firesBudget 2016 (March 22, 2016)Budget deficitC-15, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measuresDebt-to-GDP ratioEmployment insurance benefits period extensionFort McMurrayGovernment billsGuaranteed Income SupplementSecond readingSenior citizensJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilKellyMcCauleyEdmonton West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersSecond ReadingInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey: (1235)[English]Mr. Speaker, we were the only party that was candid during the elections. Given the fiscal situation we could see at the time, we were unlikely to balance the budget. In fact, we indicated that we would run a deficit that could exceed the $10 billion range, while the other two mainline parties, the Conservatives and the NDP, said they would balance the budget. Therefore, one would have to ask this question. In order to be at a balanced budget today, given what happened dramatically in the fall, and continues today with the decline in oil prices, in which areas would a Conservative or NDP government make cuts? We have made it clear that we would invest in Canadians. We have brought in measures, such as a tax cut to the middle class, the child tax benefit, and an increase in seniors pension, all of which are investments in Canadians.Small businesses need customers with money in their pockets to spend. That is the most important part for a small business. It has to make a profit before it pays taxes. To make a profit, it needs to have customers with money in their pockets and the ability to spend. That is what is most important for small business. Budget 2016 (March 22, 2016)Budget deficitC-15, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measuresGovernment billsSecond readingSmall and medium-sized enterprisesKellyMcCauleyEdmonton WestBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—Bagot//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersSecond ReadingInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey: (1240)[English]Mr. Speaker, of course we delivered changes to things on which we campaigned. We changed the tax rate for the middle class. We changed the child benefit, which has a significant impact for those most in need. We changed the GIS for single seniors. We changed significant parts of the employment insurance system for the better. We changed the infrastructure program. In fact, we adjusted the criteria that the former government had put in place for the provinces on the east coast as it was impossible for them to spend money and invest in their communities. I am proud of the changes we have brought in, but we have more work to do in some areas. My hon. colleague will see that in my comments I was equally critical of my own government.Budget 2016 (March 22, 2016)C-15, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on March 22, 2016 and other measuresGovernment billsSecond readingBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotGérardDeltellLouis-Saint-Laurent//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCanadian Cable Systems AllianceInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize members of the Canadian Cable Systems Alliance, who are in Ottawa today talking about important issues related to telecommunications policy in Canada.CCSA represents more than 115 independent communications companies serving Canadians from coast to coast to coast. They connect Canadians to information, entertainment, and other critical services. They are co-operatives, family businesses, rural companies, first nation bands, and entrepreneurs providing services to Canadians generally outside urban markets across the country. These are companies that invest in their communities. They provide jobs and sponsor local events.The government has announced $500 million in the recent budget for investments in rural broadband services to help connect millions of Canadians who lack the access to services that many of us in the chamber take for granted. We look forward to working with CCSA and its members as we roll out this program in the coming years.Canadian Communication Systems AllianceCommunications industriesRural communitiesStatements by MembersHaroldAlbrechtKitchener—ConestogaMichaelMcLeodNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersCommissioner of the Northwest TerritoriesInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, today is the last day of the Hon. George Tuccaro's term as Commissioner of the Northwest Territories. He was sworn in as the 16th commissioner in May 2010 and has been a dedicated advocate of youth and healthy lifestyles throughout his term. Prior to his time as commissioner, he had a long and distinguished career with CBC North radio. He was the anchor for the current affairs program Northbeat and also produced a Gabriel Award-winning documentary on teen suicide in Canada's north. Mr. Tuccaro is a recipient of many awards, including the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada Medal, the National Aboriginal Achievement Award, and both the Queen's golden and diamond jubilee medals. George Tuccaro spoke at many events and ceremonies. His message was consistent: we have to love ourselves enough to want something better in our lives. On behalf of the people of the Northwest Territories, I thank him for his service and wish him luck and much happiness.CommissionerGovernment of the Northwest TerritoriesRetirement from workStatements by MembersTuccaro, GeorgeWayneEasterHon.MalpequeScottReidLanark—Frontenac—Kingston//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern. We recognize the importance of this emotional issue for the dairy farmers and we are working to reach sustainable solutions for the whole of the Canadian dairy sector. We will work with the dairy sector and we will come up with a solution to this issue.Dairy farmingDairy industryImportsMilk proteinOral questionsPublic consultationSupply managementRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéDarrenFisherDartmouth—Cole Harbour//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodYouth EmploymentInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, funding for the youth employment strategy was cut by more than $60 million under the previous government, with $30 million of that funding going unspent in the 2014 fiscal year. I recently met with students facing significant personal barriers to employment, who were taking part in training funded through skills link, a stream of the youth employment strategy that assists young Canadians facing such barriers. Could the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour provide the House with a timeline on increased funding for this important program?Government expendituresJob creationOral questionsSkills Link programYoung peopleYouth Employment StrategyStéphaneDionHon.Saint-LaurentMaryAnnMihychukHon.Kildonan—St. Paul//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPhysician-Assisted DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1510)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, yes, we did in fact hear evidence from representatives of the Barreau du Québec. However, we are very confident that the bill is consistent with the charter.The document we introduced in the House provides a detailed explanation of the measures we have taken, which are consistent with the charter.Amendments and subamendmentsBarreau du QuébecC-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Canadian Charter of Rights and FreedomsCaregivers and health care professionalsConstitutionalityGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingOral questionsRhéalFortinRivière-du-NordDenisLebelHon.Lac-Saint-Jean//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that we support agriculture in this government. All Canadian beef is certified as safe under science research. We have the safest high-quality beef in the world. It is the safest food we can eat, and Canadians are safe and should eat this food.BeefCattle farmingOral questionsProduct of CanadaRestaurantsChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenziePierre-LucDusseaultSherbrooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that this government supports supply management and we are fully aware of the industry's concerns about the use of diafiltered milk in the making of cheese.We are working to reach a sustainable solution that works for all of the Canadian dairy sector. I am also very pleased that the member for Fundy Royal gave notice of a motion today to the agriculture committee to work toward solutions on this issue.We are working on this issue.Dairy farmingDairy industryImportsMilk proteinOral questionsGabrielSte-MarieJolietteLouisPlamondonBécancour—Nicolet—Saurel//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (2225)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have a couple of questions for my colleague. First, he said if he were a doctor he would be worried because they are going to be forced to do something. I would ask him to point to the passage in the legislation that forces doctors to do anything. There is absolutely nothing there in that regard. I would also refer him to the position of the Canadian Medical Association, which has been strongly supportive of the legislation. However, I want to come back to the issue of not enough debate. The decision was on February 6, 2015. We brought forward a motion on February 24. The government defeated it. That motion would have had the committee's work done by July. Between the day of the decision on February 6 and the election, the previous Conservative government did nothing. How can Conservatives now say we do not have enough time? C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsFreedom of conscience and religionGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingPalliative careSecond readingZiadAboultaifEdmonton ManningZiadAboultaifEdmonton Manning//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (2240)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for a very thoughtful speech. Obviously we have come down on different sides of this issue, but certainly what he put into that speech is something that was clearly thought out and very well delivered and expressed.The member talked so passionately about the sanctity of life. If others in this chamber come down on this issue at this time in the same manner as the hon. member, we will be left on June 6 without any criminal law with respect to medical assistance in dying, and the safeguards that are built into Bill C-14 will not become the law of the land. There will not be a requirement for two doctors to pass opinion on a patient. There will not be a requirement for two independent witnesses. There will not be a requirement for a signed request.We are in a situation in this Parliament where the question before us is not whether, it is how, and the how that has been put forward is one that contains these safeguards that will be lost if this legislation is not advanced to committee. Given the member's deep-felt thoughts on the sanctity of life, could he respond to the ramifications that arise out of a defeat of this legislation on June 6?C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingPalliative careSecond readingBradTrostSaskatoon—UniversityBradTrostSaskatoon—University//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (2255)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to ask the member about what he describes as an “artificial” deadline. The Supreme Court has imposed a deadline of June 6. This is a deadline that was imposed after we asked for a later deadline. On June 6, there will be serious ramifications if a law is not passed. I am at a bit of a loss to understand what is artificial about what the Supreme Court has said.Surely this is not a reflection of disrespect for the court, but it must mean something. However, I am very unclear as to what it means, because I think the court was pretty clear.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingPalliative careSecond readingScottReidLanark—Frontenac—KingstonScottReidLanark—Frontenac—Kingston//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodDairy IndustryInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague and the House that our government is fully committed to the Canadian dairy industry and the supply management sector. That is why we have announced today that the government will be sitting down with the dairy industry in the coming weeks to get its views on the mitigation package as part of the CETA trade deal.Together, our government will help the industry adjust. We will reach the best possible outcome for our dairy industry, and ensure Canadian agriculture is safer, stronger, and more innovative.Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementDairy industryOral questionsJeanRiouxSaint-JeanColinCarrieOshawa//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1505)[English] Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the third report of the Standing Committee on Finance, in relation to Bill C-2, an act to amend the Income Tax Act.The committee has studied the bill and has decided to report the bill back to the House without amendment.8510-421-31 Third Report of the Standing Committee on Finance (Bill C-2, An Act to amend the Income Tax Act, without amendment)C-2, An Act to amend the Income Tax ActIncome taxStanding Committee on FinanceGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1640)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is my honour to stand to speak in support of Bill C-14, a significant piece of legislation that would allow for the first time in Canadian history the provision of medical assistance in dying across the country. I believe Bill C-14 directly and thoughtfully responds to the Supreme Court of Canada decision in Carter. This legislation would strike a careful balance between the autonomy of competent adults whose deaths are reasonably foreseeable to seek medical assistance in dying and the protection of vulnerable people through careful tailoring of the eligibility criteria and robust safeguards that are essential to prevent error and abuse.[Translation]As recognized by the Canadian Medical Association before the Special Joint Committee on Physician-Assisted Dying, one cannot underscore enough the significance of this sea change in Canadian medical practice and Canadian society as a whole. At present, there are eight jurisdictions in the world, in addition to Quebec, that have adopted precise legal rules on medical assistance in dying: four U.S. states, Colombia, and the European countries of Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg.The international community is looking at Canada's leadership on this issue right now, and I commend all hon. members on both sides of this House for their invaluable contributions to this complex and sensitive debate.(1645)[English]Bill C-14 would establish the criminal law rules regarding medical assistance in dying that address issues including eligibility, procedural safeguards, and the framework for a pan-Canadian monitoring system. In addition to the comprehensive legislative response proposed in Bill C-14, the government would undertake independent studies into three key issues that the Supreme Court declined to address in Carter: eligibility for persons under 18, advance requests, and requests for medical assistance in dying solely on the basis of a mental illness.Allow me today to provide all members with further clarifications on the eligibility criteria included in Bill C-14 and how they respond to the Carter ruling, a question that has been asked numerous times since the bill was introduced.Under Bill C-14, medical assistance in dying would only be available to mentally competent adults: one, who have a serious and incurable illness, disease or disability; two, who are in an advanced state of irreversible decline in capability; three, who experience enduring and intolerable physical or psychological suffering as a result of their medical situation; and four, whose natural death has become reasonably foreseeable taking into account all of their medical circumstances and without requiring any specific prognosis as to the length of time that they have remaining.I would emphasize that those are the exact words of the legislation, because there has been some incorrect reporting on what is actually required. It is also important to remember that the criteria must not be read in isolation. Each element mutually informs the meaning and scope of the others. They work together to create a clear picture.Some people wonder what reasonable foreseeability of death means given that everyone's death is reasonably foreseeable in the sense that death, like taxes, is inevitable for all of us. Bill C-14 expressly states that the person's natural death has become reasonably foreseeable, which clearly indicates that a change in the patient's medical circumstances is required. The patient is now on a path toward death, but previously he or she was not. A healthy person's death is not reasonably foreseeable unless the person experiences a change in his or her medical circumstances.Mr. Speaker, at the outset of my remarks, I neglected to inform you, but I do now, that I will be sharing my time with the esteemed member for Fredericton.The concept of reasonable foreseeability is also well known in law, and assessment depends on the context. In the context of medical assistance in dying, it would require a real possibility of the patient's death within a period of time that is not too remote from circumstances that can be predicted within a range of reasonable possibilities. Again, the legislation expressly states that a specific prognosis as to the time the patient has remaining would not be required. Because everyone's trajectory toward the end of life would be unique, this criterion was carefully crafted to provide maximum flexibility to medical practitioners so that they may assess the overall medical circumstances of a patient on a case-by-case basis. The overall medical circumstances, as opposed to any particular type of condition, are what matters when the objective is to give Canadians the option of a peaceful medically assisted death instead of having to endure a prolonged or painful one.As recognized by medical standards and guidelines on prognostic indicators, there are many factors that may contribute to a patient's being assessed as approaching the end of life, including the presence of an advanced, progressive, and incurable disease, but also completely different factors, such as age, the general frailty of the patient, and risks of death from complications of other conditions that may not be fatal on their own, but which can jeopardize the life of someone who is otherwise weakened.As recently recognized by the Canadian Medical Association, the requirement that natural death has become reasonably foreseeable would provide clearer guidance than the court's use of “grievous and irremediable” in that it would indicate , and I quote the CMA representative, that the condition should be “towards the end of the spectrum”, but does not mean “terminal or that death is immediately on the horizon”.If we consider the Carter ruling itself, the Supreme Court expressly stated that the scope of its declaration was intended to respond to the factual circumstances of the case, and that it made no pronouncement on other situations where physician-assisted dying may be sought. Bill C-14 would directly respond to the factual circumstances of both Kay Carter and Gloria Taylor, who were both in decline and suffering while on a trajectory toward the end of their lives without it being certain when exactly they would die. The Supreme Court did not define the term “grievous and irremediable medical condition”. It rather acknowledged that it was Parliament's task to weigh and balance the perspective of those who might be at risk in a permissive regime against those who seek assistance in dying. This is exactly what Bill C-14 does. It defines eligibility in a manner that is consistent with the Carter ruling read in its entirety, and provides necessary clarity on the assessment of eligibility.Some have expressed concern over the lack of express protection for conscience rights of health care providers. The legislative objectives of Bill C-14, which are clearly stated in its preamble, include respecting the personal convictions of health care providers while also recognizing the provinces' jurisdiction over various matters related to medical assistance in dying. Balancing the interests of medical practitioners and those of patients is such a matter. Importantly, nothing in Bill C-14 would compel health care providers to provide any assistance that may be contrary to their conscience rights. More important than legal protections in a statute book are the concrete and practical actions that are directly aimed at supporting conscience rights of practitioners. In this regard, the Minister of Health has offered to work in collaboration with the provinces and territories on the development of an end-of-life care coordination system to help respect the providers' conscience rights while facilitating patients' access to care including assistance in dying.Some have expressed concern that the safeguards in the bill are not sufficient. The proposed safeguards are generally consistent with and perhaps even a little stronger than the safeguards found in other medical assistance in dying regimes around the world.(1650)The trial judge in Carter considered voluminous evidence on the efficacy of these regimes, and the evidence persuaded her that the risks to vulnerable people could be adequately managed under such systems. We are equally confident that these safeguards would guard against abuse and error. I believe the proposed legislation is the right way forward on medical assistance in dying for Canada at this time and is a principled response to the Carter decision. I would urge all members to support second reading of Bill C-14. C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsCarter v. CanadaCourt ordersFreedom of conscience and religionGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingSecond readingSplitting speaking timeSupreme Court of CanadaTerminal illnessesVulnerable personsWaiting periodWayneStetskiKootenay—ColumbiaMartinShieldsBow River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1655)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is that very concern that was borne in mind when the decision was made to extend the exemption with respect to medical aid in dying to nurse practitioners. We see more and more in the country, with doctors being abundant in major centres and not so much outside of major centres, that much of the load has now fallen to nurse practitioners. That is the very reason why they are included. Access is important with respect to any charter right. The member raises a very valid concern and the specific attempt to address it is with respect to the inclusion of nurse practitioners. C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemHealth services accessibilityMedical assistance in dyingNursesRural communitiesSecond readingMartinShieldsBow RiverGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1655)[English]Mr. Speaker, clearly, the last two questions point out the unevenness of access to medical services right across the country.Today in Parliament we are debating an act to amend the Criminal Code. The government's response to the Carter decision was both legislative and non-legislative. The legislative measures are the ones we are debating now, but in terms of non-legislative measures, there is a commitment of $3 billion in home care, a significant part of which would be palliative care. This legislation alone would not resolve the inequality in access to medical services across the country. We acknowledge that. It cannot do that. That is something the government has to continue to strive to accomplish through the negotiation of the health accord and through working with provinces for a palliative care strategy and for medical coverage in rural and remote areas. Aboriginal reservesC-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemHealth services accessibilityMedical assistance in dyingPalliative careRural communitiesSecond readingGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill RiverNickWhalenSt. John's East//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1655)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for St. John's East for the question and also that he used part of his constituency week to consult with his constituents. That is extremely important. It is something that I did as well.The government has clearly proceeded carefully. Given the compressed time frame that we were given by virtue of the inaction prior to the election and the deadline imposed by the Supreme Court, I believe that this is the prudent course. The preamble of the bill and the non-legislative measures indicate that there will be a further, more detailed, thorough, and more drawn-out examination of the more sensitive questions, and I think that is the best solution for Canada at this time.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemLiving willsMedical assistance in dyingSecond readingNickWhalenSt. John's EastMattDeCourceyFredericton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (2210)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, the member for Yukon, for his remarks. Clearly, he has consulted widely through his community and through his riding.There are a couple of points arising, one is with respect to medical directives.There has been a lot of discussion around medical directives, but the international experience, certainly in the Netherlands, is that even where they are allowed, most of the time medical practitioners are reluctant to rely upon them; and so, we would be very much forging new ground in that regard in a very compressed time frame. Perhaps the member would like to give us some reflections in that regard.The second point, I think, relates more to his riding; that is, in this legislation, there is something that is fairly unique to Canada, which is an enhanced role for nurse practitioners. The goal of the government certainly was, by allowing an enhanced role for nurse practitioners, to ensure access or to provide greater access for rural and remote communities. Perhaps the member would like to comment on whether that is important in an area like Yukon.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsComplianceGovernment billsHealth care systemHealth services accessibilityLiving willsMedical assistance in dyingNursesSecond readingLarryBagnellHon.YukonAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (2255)[English]Mr. Speaker, I always appreciate the thoughtful remarks from the member for Saanich—Gulf Islands.However, I want to push back a little on her suggestion that this is bound for unsuccessful litigation and ask her these three questions. Would she agree that the court in its decision did not define “grievous and irremediable”? Would she agree that it was open to Parliament to provide such a definition? Would she agree that at page 98 of the decision, the Supreme Court said it would give a great degree of deference to any complex regulatory scheme that is put in place by Parliament to respond to the decision?C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingSecond readingTerminal illnessesTerminologyElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf Islands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1030)[English]Madam Speaker, I would like to thank and congratulate the minister on her speech and on her incredible leadership on a question that is so important in our country at this time.I have a couple of questions. In her speech, the minister talked about the fact that there were many influences on the decision that the government ultimately decided to take. I would invite her to perhaps talk about the influence of the special joint committee on Bill C-14, and also on the Quebec legislation on Bill C-14.The other question I would ask the minister to address arises out of the question from the Conservative member opposite and his expressed concern over the lack of clarity in the words “reasonable foreseeability”. Could the minister comment on how the terms have been recognized and interpreted by the courts, and the guidance that it should be able to provide us in understanding the purpose of the legislation?Bill No. 52, An Act respecting end-of-life careC-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingProvince of QuebecSecond readingSpecial Joint Committee on Physician-Assisted DyingTerminologyJodyWilson-RaybouldHon.Vancouver GranvilleJodyWilson-RaybouldHon.Vancouver Granville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1245)[English]Mr. Speaker, I thank the minister for her thoughtful speech and for her leadership on this extremely sensitive issue at an historic time for Canadians.Much of what falls within the health domain is within the jurisdiction of the provinces. There is no question that the provinces are looking to the federal government for leadership.Given the very compressed time frame that we have, I wonder if the minister could comment on the importance of the June 6 date with respect to the matters within the provincial domain. There is no question that the June 6 date is critical with respect to the matters that fall under the criminal law, but what is the significance of that date? Is it as important for the matters that are within the minister's jurisdiction?C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Caregivers and health care professionalsCourt ordersFederal-provincial-territorial relationsGovernment billsHealth care systemMedical assistance in dyingSecond readingJanePhilpottHon.Markham—StouffvilleJanePhilpottHon.Markham—Stouffville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Canadian Dairy Industry]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1035)[English]Mr. Speaker, I too congratulate the member for putting forward the motion.I disagree with the fact that they blame the situation on the trade agreements. I think that is a problem in the motion, and I hope it is not a poison pill. It is not the trade agreements that are causing the problem: it is the fact that diafiltered milk is allowed into Canada and is coming into Canada when it should not be allowed under our regulatory system.The fact of the matter is that one of the most stable industries in Canada since supply management came in is the dairy industry. It has been stable because we have been able to manage supply to meet market demand, and the way we do that is by controlling the amount of milk or milk products coming into Canada.Industry has found a way to break milk products down into ingredients, allow the ingredients in, and reconstitute them into dairy products. As a result, the market for Canadian producers is affected.Could the member explain what is wrong with allowing these diafiltered products into the country and allowing the system to be undermined? Could she explain that so that parliamentarians can understand it? That is an absolutely valid point. It is undermining the dairy industry in this country.Dairy industryImportsMilk proteinOpposition motionsAnne Minh-ThuQuachSalaberry—SuroîtAnne Minh-ThuQuachSalaberry—Suroît//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Canadian Dairy Industry]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1525)[English]Madam Speaker, I really enjoyed the remarks from the member for Tobique—Mactaquac. I know he has worked hard in the farm industry himself over the years. He understands how important supply management is and how important the dairy industry is to this country. I know he in fact campaigned on strengthening the farming sector. I just cannot accept the remarks earlier from the member for the Conservative Party when he tried to denigrate what the Liberal Party does in agriculture. We have been the party of agriculture. We are the ones who put in supply management.I wonder if the member would tell us how important the supply management industry is to this country.Dairy industryImportsMilk proteinOpposition motionsT.J.HarveyTobique—MactaquacT.J.HarveyTobique—Mactaquac//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessCriminal CodeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1745)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak to private member's Bill C-242, an act to amend the Criminal Code, inflicting torture.I would like to begin by thanking the member for London North Centre for his advocacy on this very serious issue. We can all agree that torture and all forms of violence have no place in our society.The bill before us seeks to amend the Criminal Code to create a new offence, specifically prohibiting any person from inflicting torture on any other person—that is, private torture—for the purpose of intimidating or coercing that person. This new offence would be punished by a maximum term of life imprisonment.As I have said, we do condemn all acts of torture; however the government has issues with this particular bill. Briefly, this bill aims to prohibit torture committed by non-state actors. The new offence would be punished by a maximum term of life imprisonment. In contrast, the existing crime of torture, found in section 269.1 of the Criminal Code, is restricted to state-actor torture, which is torture committed, instigated, consented to, or acquiesced in by a public official.This bill aims to specifically denounce the worst kind of assaults, those that cause severe pain and suffering over a prolonged period of time. Victims of such attacks could include women victimized by the most abhorrent kinds of sexual assaults, and our hearts go out to anyone who has suffered these deplorable acts.The amendments proposed by this bill, while put forward with good intention, are already addressed in our criminal justice system, and they create an inconsistency by proposing a punishment that is not consistent with how the Criminal Code already addresses torture; and it overlaps with the already existing crime of torture set out in section 269.1 of the Criminal Code. The Criminal Code currently has numerous assault provisions. For example, there is the basic crime of assault in section 265 of the Criminal Code, which has a maximum penalty of five years' imprisonment. There is the crime of assault with a weapon or causing bodily harm, which has a maximum punishment of 10 years' imprisonment. Bodily harm is defined in section 2 of the Criminal Code to mean any hurt or injury to a person that interferes with the health or comfort of the person and that is more than merely transient or trifling in nature.There is also the crime of aggravated assault, which has a maximum punishment of 14 years' imprisonment. Aggravated assault is defined as wounding, maiming, disfiguring, or endangering the life of the victim of the assault. Also there are offences of sexual assault in the Criminal Code. For example, there is the crime of sexual assault in section 271 of the Criminal Code, which has a maximum punishment of 10 years' imprisonment. There is the crime of sexual assault with a weapon or threatening or causing bodily harm to the victim, which has a maximum punishment of 14 years' imprisonment. There is the crime of aggravated sexual assault found in section 273 of the Criminal Code, with a maximum punishment of life imprisonment. Aggravated sexual assault is defined as, when committing a sexual assault, wounding, maiming, disfiguring, or endangering the life of the victim. As well, there is the crime of state-sanctioned torture set out in section 269.1 of the Criminal Code, which has a maximum punishment of 14 years' imprisonment. Furthermore, the Criminal Code contains sentencing principles that can apply to non-fatal violence inflicted on victims. For example, section 718.2 of the Criminal Code sets out a number of aggravating factors that must be considered by a judge before imposing a sentence in relation to any crime. Among these aggravating factors are the following: evidence that the offender, in committing the offence, abused the offender's spouse or common-law partner; evidence that the offence had a significant impact on the victim, considering their age and other personal circumstances, including their health and financial situation. In other words, the Criminal Code already contains crimes that capture the kind of conduct that Bill C-242 wishes to specifically catch, perhaps most notably the crimes of aggravated assault and aggravated sexual assault. Existing sentencing provisions do already provide a range of aggravating factors that could apply in a case of private torture.(1750)In effect, I believe there is no gap in the criminal law that requires the creation of a new offence of private torture to provide for a remedy. The proposed torture offence in Bill C-242 is therefore not necessary. It is also useful to know that these existing laws can and do work effectively to address these types of cases. Next let me address the issue that this would create an inconsistency in punishment. The proposed penalty for this new offence of private torture would be a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. I start with a basic proposition that similar crimes should be dealt with similarly. As I have previously outlined, the crimes of aggravated assault and torture in sections 268 and 269.1 of the Criminal Code have a maximum penalty of 14 years' imprisonment. Even if the crime of aggravated assault is omitted from this equation, leaving us to compare just the offence of torture in section 269.1 of the Criminal Code to the offence proposed in the bill, the stark contrast in punishment remains: maximum punishment of 14 years in relation to section 269.1 versus life imprisonment in relation to the proposed offence.Creating an offence of private torture could have the unintended effect of seriously weakening Canada's contribution to the focused global effort to prevent torture under the convention against torture. This could cause confusion as to what Canada considers to be its international obligation when it comes to the effective prevention of torture. This is because, as was indicated earlier in debate, there would be two definitions of torture, one of which, in the private torture offence, would be narrower than the internationally accepted definition of torture set out in section 269.1.States that are reluctant to abide by the obligations set out in the convention could argue that they need not accept the internationally accepted definition of torture because Canada has enacted a private torture offence that contains a narrower definition.It could be argued that this inconsistency could best be resolved by increasing the maximum punishment for torture in section 269.1 to life imprisonment. However, such a change would result in yet another inconsistency being created. The maximum punishment for aggravated assault would no longer be the same as that for torture under section 269.1 of the Criminal Code. It would remain at 14 years' imprisonment.The result would be that someone who maims another by, for example, cutting off his or her hand, would be seen as less blameworthy than the state official or private individual who whips someone repeatedly. In my view, it is far better to have the norm for maximum punishment for the most violent forms of non-fatal violence to be 14 years' imprisonment rather than to erode this norm by seeking higher maximum punishments for such conduct.Let me address the final effect that the proposed offence would have on the Criminal Code. It would not complement the offence of state-sanctioned torture found in section 269.1. Instead, it largely overlaps with section 269.1 and thereby undercuts the exclusive jurisdiction of section 269.1 to address state-sanctioned torture. This is because it is defined so broadly that it captures anyone who commits the conduct defined as torture by the offence, whether private citizen or public official. Put another way, it is not restricted to torture committed by a private citizen.The effect is that, if a case should arise where a public official commits torture as defined by the bill, a prosecutor would have the choice of prosecuting either under the new offence or the current offence found in section 269.1. Such a result is possible, especially if the prosecutor wishes to obtain the most severe sentence possible. He or she could avoid the 14-year maximum punishment for torture under section 269.1 of the Criminal Code by prosecuting under the proposed offence, which has a maximum punishment of life imprisonment.In my view, creating this crime would likely have immense symbolic value to some of the most vulnerable persons in our society. However, symbolism alone is not enough reason to add yet another offence to the vast array of offences and sentencing procedures that already catch the most harmful kinds of assault and that already speak to Canada's ongoing efforts to protect the most vulnerable among us.For these reasons, I am opposed to the bill, and I call on other members of the House to also oppose it. I do wish to say in closing that the goal of the bill and the intent of the member is to advocate against violence, and that is a goal which we can all support. C-242, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (inflicting torture)Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or PunishmentDenunciationInternational lawOffendersPrivate Members' BillsPublic office holdersSecond readingSentencingTortureVictims of violenceMurrayRankinVictoriaDanielBlaikieElmwood—Transcona//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessSafe and Regulated Sports Betting ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1750)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for the passion that he brings to this topic. I know it is extremely important to his riding. I was there for the debate in the last Parliament when Joe Comartin brought the bill in, which passed on a voice vote and then went to the Senate. It encountered some considerable headwinds at the Senate. It actually went to committee for study, as my hon. colleague would know. The Senate heard from the NCAA, the National Hockey League, the National Football League, and the Toronto Blue Jays on behalf of major league baseball, all of whom expressed concerns that this would affect the integrity of the game.In fairness, I would invite my colleague to speak to those concerns that were raised at the Senate committee. I fully expect that he is aware of them, and the House should be as well.C-221, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (sports betting)Private Members' BillsSecond readingSports bettingBrianMasseWindsor WestBrianMasseWindsor West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessSafe and Regulated Sports Betting ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1755)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am rising today to contribute to the debate on Bill C-221, an act to amend the Criminal Code with regard to sports betting, sponsored by the member for Windsor West.During my remarks, I will be highlighting the concerns I have with the proposed reforms. The government will be opposing the bill.As Canadian law now stands, single-event sports betting is illegal. However, provinces and territories may offer another type of sports betting, known as parlay betting, to their residents. Parlay betting requires the bettor to correctly predict the outcome for a number of games in order to win. Parlay betting offers bettors an opportunity to participate in a legal and provincially or territorially controlled betting environment.Single-event sports betting involves betting on the outcome of one single game, such as a game in the Stanley Cup finals. This private member's bill proposes to repeal paragraph 207(4)(b) of the Criminal Code, which prohibits betting on a single sporting event. If enacted, the amendment would allow a province or territory to offer this type of betting, if it chose to do so.In Canada, provinces are responsible for operating, licensing, and regulating most legal forms of lottery schemes. Each province determines the types, amount, and location of this kind of gambling activity within the province. If single-event sports betting were permitted, each province would be left to determine how to implement this reform.There are a whole host of issues that need to be considered when looking at legislative changes to the gambling provisions in the Criminal Code. The impact of Bill C-221 on issues such as match-fixing and problem gaming would be best examined in conjunction with provinces and territories, which would be responsible for single-event sports betting.The amendment proposed in Bill C-221 may be familiar to many parliamentarians because the same reform was proposed in former private member's Bill C-290 and before that in former private member's Bill C-627, both of which were sponsored by Joe Comartin, the former member for Windsor—Tecumseh.During debate and committee study of Bill C-290 in the Senate, senators and witnesses raised concerns with regard to the proposed reform. For example, the Senate Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights considered Bill C-290 in 2011, and it heard that the NCAA, the National Football League, the National Hockey League, and the Toronto Blue Jays, on behalf of Major League Baseball, were all against this proposed reform.The major concern for these leagues was that the proposed reform could affect the integrity of their games. The government shares these same concerns.It is possible, as suggested by many sports leagues, that legalizing single-event sports betting could encourage gamblers to fix games, especially in areas where players do not earn a lot of money and may be more susceptible to bribes. The current parlay system of betting makes it unattractive to fix a game, because the only way to achieve a guaranteed payout would be to rig multiple events, which would be much more difficult to accomplish. Single-event sports betting would make a fraudster's task easier, since only one event would need to be fixed.I believe it is very important to ensure that the integrity of the game is sedulously fostered, and I believe that we should oppose legislation that may significantly affect this integrity.One of the sponsor's stated objectives is to stimulate the economy and to bring American consumers to Canada. The provinces and territories would stand to gain economic benefits from the proposed reform, but the question arises: at what cost and, specifically, at what social cost?Studies suggest that 3% to 5% of Canadians are at risk for problem gambling, and 30% to 40% of gambling revenues come from that small percentage. In 2011, the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health in Toronto filed a letter with the Senate committee studying the former Bill C-290 and indicated that the empirical evidence in the field demonstrated that an increase in legal gambling opportunities could lead to an increase in problem gambling. The letter indicated a concern for sports betting in particular.The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health reported an Ontario study that found that people with incomes of less than $20,000 per year were the least likely to gamble. However when they did, they were more likely to experience problems than those in higher income brackets.(1800)These statistics indicate that the cohort of Canadians in the lower income bracket who gamble are the most vulnerable for experiencing problem gambling issues. As well, individuals who live at or below the poverty line have little or no disposable income to spend on gambling. The amount spent on gambling takes a bigger bite out of their monthly budget. For someone making $20,000, spending even $1,000 a year on gambling is a very significant percentage of their disposable income. Opposing this bill means protecting our most vulnerable citizens.The Centre for Addiction and Mental Health also demonstrated that people, now patrons of illegal bookmakers, would likely continue to do so because of easy access to credit, convenience, and better odds. The suggestion that this reform would be funnelling money away from organized crime and redirecting it into provincial coffers is clearly not strong enough to rationalize supporting the bill. In short, this proposed reform would bring about more gambling and would contribute to the many ills in society brought about by problem gambling. While I appreciate that many would see these changes as a welcome way to stimulate the economy and to fund provincial activities, I do not believe that it should be supported. As such, I would ask members to join me in opposing this private member's bill. Allegations of fraud and fraudC-221, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (sports betting)Compulsive gamblingIncome levelsLow incomePrivate Members' BillsProvincial jurisdictionSecond readingSports bettingBrianMasseWindsor WestGordonBrownLeeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and her concern. We, of course, support supply management and, as we indicated, we understand the importance of compensation in the supply management sector. It has been indicated by my colleague what will take place. We have fully consulted with the stakeholders across the country. There will be an open debate in this House, and then we will vote to see whether it will be approved.Dairy farmingGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéBobSaroyaMarkham—Unionville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersJacob KnockwoodInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1100)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise in the House to recognize the life of a great individual from Charlottetown, Jacob Knockwood, who passed away earlier this week. Jake was known for hanging out on his bench in downtown Charlottetown. There, he loved to listen to his Walkman, usually decked out in some Montreal Canadiens paraphernalia. He always appreciated any mention of his beloved Habs from passersby.Jake was an avid sportsman, bringing home countless medals in the Special Olympics as the goalie for the floor hockey team. Jake was born with a cleft lip and palate. He became a champion for the rights of people with disabilities out of necessity when he was placed in a psychiatric institution against his will. My heart was warmed to learn that Jake had his last eight months out of hospital, living with his advocate and friend, Pat Sobey.Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for letting me stand to recognize Jake and his downtown family in Charlottetown.City of CharlottetownCivil and human rightsDeaths and funeralsKnockwood, JacobPhysically disabled peoplePrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersJohnBrassardBarrie—InnisfilAlistairMacGregorCowichan—Malahat—Langford//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodMedical Assistance in DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1200)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, the short answer is yes. Medical assistance in dying is a difficult and extremely personal issue for all Canadians that is informed by life experience and personal beliefs. Medical assistance in dying is troubling for some, but for others this bill does not go far enough.We are of the opinion that this bill is the best approach to take in order to ensure that the rights of a dying patient are respected and that vulnerable people are protected.C-14, An Act to amend the Criminal Code and to make related amendments to other Acts (medical assistance in dying)Government billsInterpretive provisionMedical assistance in dyingOral questionsLucThériaultMontcalmBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, I was proud to join my colleague recently at McGill's Macdonald Campus to announce our government's investment of $27 million to the agricultural greenhouse gases program. This program funds vital research in practices and technology that can be adopted on farms across the country. This is a great example of our government's commitment to research and innovation and to ensuring that the Canadian agricultural sector is more innovative and sustainable than ever.Agricultural researchGovernment assistanceGreenhouse gasesOral questionsFrancisScarpaleggiaLac-Saint-LouisRandyHobackPrince Albert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1830)[English]Madam Speaker, our government is committed to renewing the relationship between Canada and indigenous peoples on a nation-to-nation basis.This relationship will be based on respect, co-operation, and partnership. A renewed nation-to-nation relationship is a political goal, but it reflects a history of crown-indigenous relations. Nation-to-nation relations are not a revolutionary break with our legal and constitutional order, but an evolution closer to the promise of section 35 of our Constitution as outlined in jurisprudence from the Supreme Court of Canada.Canada modernized its constitution in 1982 to reflect a confident, inclusive, and just country that respects diversity, with balance for individual and collective rights. In particular, section 35 recognizes indigenous peoples and provides protection for their rights. The inclusion of section 35 is a turning point in Canadian history.It is to this end that the Supreme Court of Canada has encouraged a purposive view of section 35 and its promise of a balanced relationship between the crown and indigenous peoples. We can see this balanced approach presented in the Supreme Court of Canada's decision that was referred to by my colleague, the Tsilhqot’in Nation v. British Columbia, from June 2014.The court held that the Tsilhqot’in Nation has title to approximately 1,750 square kilometres of land in the interior of British Columbia. In the decision, the indigenous perspective and legal traditions were given equal weight to common law property concepts, for example, what goes into proving title, how title content is defined by indigenous views, and how justification has to take into account indigenous perspectives as well as the interest of the general public.The Supreme Court of Canada did not address the issue of what happens when third party property interests intersect with title. However, an essential part of section 35 is to find an appropriate balance to reconcile the sometimes competing rights, claims, and ambitions of indigenous and non-indigenous Canadians.Reconciliation will be a multi-generational journey, requiring hard work and compromise by both indigenous nations and Canada's institutions. All Canadians will benefit from a balanced and respectful dialogue.I would like to thank the member for Kamloops—Thompson—Cariboo for bringing this question forward, and indeed for bringing the question forward in a manner that allows for a more complete response and opportunity to emphasize the balanced approach that will be necessary in this and in all land claim disputes involving indigenous peoples.Aboriginal land claimsAdjournment ProceedingsAjax MineGovernment of British ColumbiaKamloopsLegal proceedingsMining industryProperty rightsStk'emlupsemc te Secwepemc NationCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1835)[English]Madam Speaker, our government is committed to renewing the relationship between Canada and indigenous peoples on a nation-to-nation basis.This relationship will be based on respect, co-operation, and partnership. We support a vision of Canada that reflects a confident, inclusive, and just country that respects diversity, with balance for individual and collective rights. This includes recognition of indigenous peoples and their rights, as contained in section 35 of our Constitution.Balancing and recognizing all of our interests is a nation-building challenge. Reconciliation will be a multi-generational journey requiring hard work by all of us.Aboriginal land claimsAdjournment ProceedingsAjax MineGovernment of British ColumbiaKamloopsLegal proceedingsMining industryProperty rightsStk'emlupsemc te Secwepemc NationCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooSheriBensonSaskatoon West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgPrivate Members' BusinessImpaired Driving ActInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1755)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I would like to begin by congratulating my colleague from Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—Lévis and thanking him for his work on this issue. It is an extremely important issue and we obviously support the intent of this bill.[English]I am pleased to join the second reading debate on private member's Bill C-226. Bill C-226 proposes significant reforms to the Criminal Code provisions related to impaired driving. Sadly, impaired driving remains the leading criminal cause of death in Canada. It has been a plague on society for nearly a century. The recent case in Toronto, in which Mr. Muzzo was sentenced to 10 years after killing three children and their grandfather, once again focused attention on impaired driving and the devastation it causes. I believe that we can all agree that Parliament must do what we can in order to combat this crime, which continues to kill more than 1,000 Canadians every year and to injure many thousands more, often inflicting catastrophic injuries.To end impaired driving, we need a concerted effort on the part of individuals, families, provinces and territories, the hospitality industry, advocacy organizations, schools, health professionals, and addiction service providers. I submit that Parliament needs to be a part of this effort. Therefore, I thank the hon. member for bringing this issue to the attention of the House through Bill C-226. This is a very complex bill. The proposals represent a significant change to the laws on impaired driving and driving offences in general.Under Bill C-226, the Criminal Code driving provisions, including impaired driving and over-80 driving offences, would be repealed and reintroduced in a brand new part of the Criminal Code.This would not be the first time that Parliament has considered the problem of impaired driving. In fact, Parliament has a long history of trying to deal with the problem of drinking and driving.In 1921, Parliament first addressed the issue by enacting the crime of driving while intoxicated. In 1925, Parliament enacted the offence of driving while impaired by a drug. In 1951, Parliament replaced the offence of driving while intoxicated with driving while impaired. Later, in 1969, Parliament enacted a new offence that reflected developments in the area of forensic breath testing. This is the offence of driving with a blood alcohol concentration that exceeds 80 milligrams of alcohol in 100 millilitres of blood. This offence is commonly called “driving over 80”. It is a criminal offence separate and distinct from the crime of driving while impaired. It applies whether or not the driver exhibits bad driving or signs of impairment. The actual measurement of blood alcohol content is carried out on an approved instrument, often referred to as a breathalyzer, typically at the police station. The breath testing is done by a police officer who is specially trained as a qualified technician to operate the approved instrument. The Attorney General of Canada lists new approved instruments in a ministerial order after considering the advice of the Alcohol Test Committee of the Canadian Society of Forensic Science. The Canadian Society of Forensic Science is a non-governmental scientific body, and its committee is composed of very dedicated forensic scientists who, voluntarily and without remuneration, evaluate breath-testing equipment against the committee's published standards. The Alcohol Test Committee then provides its advice to the Attorney General of Canada for her consideration. In 1979, Parliament authorized the use of the approved screening device at the roadside. The roadside screening device permits police officers to screen drivers for alcohol consumption. If a driver registers a fail on the roadside screening device, the police officer would have reasonable grounds to believe an over-80 crime has been committed. This belief is required in order to make the demand for a test on the approved instrument back at the police station.(1800)It is only the result on the approved instrument that can be used in court to prove the over-80 offence. Despite Parliament's efforts to bring clarity to this area of the law, the impaired driving regime remains the most heavily litigated area of criminal law.One of the areas that receives significant court attention relates to the issue of proving blood alcohol content. Parliament enacted a rebuttable presumption that the blood alcohol concentration at the time of testing is presumed to be the same at the time of driving in the absence of any evidence to the contrary. The courts came to accept a defence strategy whereby the accused and one or two friends would testify to minimal consumption of alcohol. The defence would then ask an expert to calculate what the blood alcohol concentration would have been at the time of driving based on the testimony of the accused. This calculation, unsurprisingly, would be under 80, and therefore, it rebutted the presumption, leaving the prosecution no other way to prove the over-80 offence. This stratagem became known as the two-beer defence.This defence was severely limited in 2008 by the Tackling Violent Crime Act. In 2012, the Supreme Court of Canada, in the case of the R. v. St-Onge Lamoureux, upheld the key elements of that legislation. Now, in order to raise the defence, the accused must first show that the approved instrument was not working correctly or that it was not operated properly. Evidence of the amount a person drank is not by itself evidence that the approved instrument was malfunctioning.This has had the effect of greatly reducing trial time by reducing the number of cases where the defence challenges the accuracy of the approved instrument's analysis of blood alcohol concentration. It is important to note that modern approved instruments are very sophisticated with internal checks that ensure they are working properly.Despite these changes in 2008, I am given to understand that there remain significant challenges with proving blood alcohol concentration in the courts. I wish, therefore, to focus my remarks on the measures proposed by Bill C-226 with respect to proving blood alcohol concentration, which I believe respond to the St-Onge decision of the Supreme Court of Canada.Bill C-226 proposes to replace the current rebuttable presumption with respect to blood alcohol concentration with a provision that states that blood alcohol concentration is conclusively proven if three conditions are met: the approved instrument was in proper working order; there were two tests 15 minutes apart; and the two tests had results within 20 milligrams of one another. Of course, this raises the question: How is it proven that the approved instrument was in proper working order? Bill C-226 proposes that the instrument is considered to be in proper working order if the qualified technician complied with the operational procedures recommended from time to time by the Alcohol Test Committee. I note as well that the bill seeks to eliminate the defence of bolus drinking, sometimes called the drinking and dashing defence, where the driver consumes a large amount of alcohol just before driving and claims that although his or her blood alcohol concentration was over 80 at the time of testing, the alcohol was still being absorbed at the time of driving and he or she was under 80 when driving. The bill also proposes to limit the intervening drink defence, where the driver drinks after being stopped by the police but before the driver provides a breath sample. In that situation, the driver claims he or she was under 80 at the time of driving and it is the post-driving drinking that put the driver over the limit. Bill C-226 would limit this defence to situations where the driver has no objective reason to think that the police would make a demand for a breath sample. There is much more in this bill than I am able to convey in my allotted time. It is a significant piece of legislation proposing substantial reforms to the area of impaired driving and transportation offences in general. I look forward to listening to the continued debate on the bill and for a discussion of many of the other elements which are proposed.Breath alcohol analysisC-226, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (offences in relation to conveyances) and the Criminal Records Act and to make consequential amendments to other ActsDangerous drivingImpaired drivingLegal loopholesPrivate Members' BillsSecond readingStevenBlaneyHon.Bellechasse—Les Etchemins—LévisMurrayRankinVictoria//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think my colleague is fully aware that I met many stakeholders in the agricultural sector, including supply management and the dairy industry in particular.This issue was inherited from the previous government, and we are working with the industry to resolve the issue.Milk proteinOral questionsTrans-Pacific PartnershipRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéKenMcDonaldAvalon//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodCanada Revenue AgencyInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, there was a discussion at committee this morning. There were two motions before the committee, and the meeting had to adjourn before the second one was completely discussed. I would make a point that one of our members on committee suggested that most all of this activity happened under the previous government in terms of the way that it operated. This minister does not hold responsibility for those discussions, but the committee would consider bringing this minister before the committee after we hold the initial hearings on KPMG and CRA. Canada Revenue AgencyCommittee witnessesGovernment accountabilityKPMGLebouthillier, DianeMinister of National RevenueOral questionsReferences to membersStanding Committee on FinanceTax havensGuyCaronRimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les BasquesJohnBarlowFoothills//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgEmergency DebateSituation in Indigenous CommunitiesInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1900)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for her attention to this very serious issue across Canada. I come from the Northwest Territories, and suicide is also a very big issue there.The suicide rates in the Northwest Territories are double that of the national average, and they are not restricted only to aboriginal people. However, it is the leading cause of death among first nations, Métis, and Inuit people across Canada.Suicide is the ninth-leading cause of mortality in all ages and genders. The government of the Northwest Territories did a study in 2014 and concluded that there were 121 suicides within a 15-year period. They were highest among the Inuit, three times the territorial rate. The non-aboriginal population made up 27% of the suicides.Of the suicides, 79% were male and 21% were female. There are many risk factors that we can point to for this. Alcohol and drug use, depression, emotional stress, housing, poverty, education, and trauma are all issues that contribute to this issue. We need to be able to prevent suicides. We need to have people connect to the families and the culture. We need clinical care for mental, physical, and substance abuse disorders. There are many other things we can point to, but we have to conclude that people who are committing suicide usually feel overwhelmed, hopeless, helpless, desperate, and alone. We need programs and preventive strategies that target specific high-risk people. I would like to ask the member how a nation-to-nation relationship would help on this issue.Aboriginal peoplesAboriginal policyEmergency debatesGovernment policyHealth services accessibilityInuitMental healthNorthwest TerritoriesSocial supportStatisticsSuicidesGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill RiverGeorginaJoliboisDesnethé—Missinippi—Churchill River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1330)[English]Mr. Speaker, it gives me pleasure to speak to the budget entitled “Growing the Middle Class”. Let me start with a quote from the Minister of Finance himself. He really summed it all up in his opening remarks. He said:Today, we begin to restore hope for the middle class. Today, we begin to revitalize the economy. Today, we begin a long-term plan that will use smart investments and an unwavering belief that progress is possible to ensure that Canada's best days lie ahead.As I said, that really sums up what this budget is all about. It sums up the objective of the budget. However, the budget is made all the more difficult by what the previous government has left us, or has left us without. Program after program was cut by the previous government. Earlier, the Leader of the Opposition talked about how the Conservative government had a surplus. No it did not. That was a surplus on a monthly basis, but accounting is usually done over the long term. The Conservatives left this country with $160 billion of added debt imposed on every citizen in this country. Not only did they leave us with debt, as I said, but they also cut programs and services. Even worse, they created disunity in the country.If we are going to bring Canada ahead as a federation, we need to have a government that is willing to work with the provinces, to work together to grow the economy, to put in programs that we can utilize together to create growth in the economy and jobs for Canadians.In reality, the budget builds on the measures introduced in December which provided a middle-class tax cut. We are dealing with that now with Bill C-2. Really what that did is bring better balance to the taxation system by giving those in the middle class a tax break and balancing that by taking a little more from those who can afford it. This budget builds on that commitment. One of the key parts of this budget is looking to the future. That is done with the Canada child benefit, assisting those families in raising their children, giving them better opportunities to spend money where it is needed. The Canada child benefit will replace the current complicated child benefit system. The Canada child benefit will provide a maximum annual benefit of up to $6,400 per child under the age of six, and up to $5,400 per child for those ages six through 17. Families with less than $30,000 in net income will receive the maximum benefit. Nine out of 10 families will receive more child benefits under this program than under the current system. Specifically in my own province of Prince Edward Island, they will receive $47 million more in child benefits during the 2016-17 and 2017-18 period. That is a benefit to families. It is putting the money where the resources should be put.Not only are we dealing with families, but we are also dealing with the education of students so that we build for the future down the road. We are making post-secondary education more affordable through this budget. We are enhancing Canada student grants to give young people the opportunity to be able to afford to go to university and college.Budget 2016 proposes to increase Canada student grants by 50%, from $2,000 to $3,000 per year for students from low-income families, from $800 to $1,200 per year for students from middle-income families, and from $1,200 to $1,800 per year for part-time students. We are not only building on the very young people, but we are building the education system as well for all Canadians. (1335)I know this area is a little controversial, but for all Canadians we are improving the safety net for those who find themselves in difficult times as a result of being out of work. We are improving the employment insurance system after the disastrous way it was handled by the previous government. We are expanding access to new entrants and re-entrants by dropping the 910 hours' entrance requirement to whatever the regional rate is. We are reducing the two-week waiting period to one week. We are improving the program for working while on claim. That is extremely controversial. It was extremely controversial in my area, because under the previous government's system, a person was penalized for going to work. Even people who were on maternity leave were penalized for going to work and keeping up their skills, especially those who worked in a hospital setting for one day a week while on maternity leave.I do not mind admitting that there is some controversy around the next point I will make, and that is extending the five-week pilot project to those areas that were hardest hit by the downturn in the economy. I would say there is some controversy in my own region over that because that five weeks was not applied in that particular region, but it is targeted to those areas which have been greatly impacted by the downturn in some of the commodities in the marketplace.The minister has committed to look at that into the future. The minister has committed to review the employment insurance system and those measures going down the road. I look forward to that review, to ensure that we get fairness and equity throughout the total measures around employment insurance in this country. We improved the safety net for those finding themselves out of work. I do not have the time available to go into it, but we do look beyond employment insurance and we are investing in skills and training. We are enhancing the investments in training itself, strengthening the union-based apprenticeship training, supporting flexible work arrangements, and improving labour market information for Canadians. We are trying to put that workforce in a place where their skills will be needed in the future and expand on those skills to grow the economy.However, it is not enough to deal with today's reality. We are looking at the long-term future. During the election campaign we talked a lot about investment in infrastructure. While we are looking at $11.9 billion over five years starting right away, budget 2016 puts this plan into action with an immediate down payment on this plan: $3.4 billion over three years to upgrade and improve public transit systems across Canada; $5 billion over five years for investments in water, waste-water, and green infrastructure; $3.4 billion over five years for social infrastructure, including affordable housing, early learning and child care, cultural and recreational infrastructure, and community health care facilities.We are investing in the future. Specifically in my comments I should make this point: Major transfers to Prince Edward Island will total $582 million in 2016-17, an increase of $29 million from the previous year; $380 million through equalization, an increase of $19 million from last year; $147 million through the Canada health transfer, an increase of $8 million from the previous year; $54 million through the Canada social transfer, an increase of $1.6 million from the previous year.My point is, my province benefits from this budget in terms of the transfers, in terms of the programs, and Canada as a whole can look to the future with opportunity and excitement because of what this budget does. (1340)It addresses the problems created by the previous government and puts in place investments in families, infrastructure, education, and skills training, which is what Canadians really need to grow, with opportunity and the hope for prosperity in the future. That is what the Minister of Finance has done in this budget. I ask everyone in this House to be supportive of that to help build Canada's future.Benefits for childrenBudget 2016 (March 22, 2016)Budgetary policyC-2, An Act to amend the Income Tax ActEducation and trainingEmployment insuranceEmployment insurance benefits period extensionEmployment insurance reformInfrastructureMiddle classPrince Edward IslandStudent fundingTransfers to provinces and territoriesWays and Means No. 2JamesMaloneyEtobicoke—LakeshoreBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1340)[English]Mr. Speaker, the member for Milton talked about the electric cable. That is a very important infrastructure project for Prince Edward Island. It gives us the opportunity to import hydro electricity from the grid on the mainland when we need it. It also gives us the opportunity to export energy from our windmills on Prince Edward Island when they are producing more than is needed. Close to 30% of our energy in Prince Edward Island now comes from the renewable energy created by those windmills.I would also say that one of the sad points with respect to that cable was that a commitment had been made by the previous Paul Martin government for the federal government to pay 100% of the cost of that cable, which was just prior to the previous Conservative government coming into place, and that was the very first proposal it cut.With respect to the energy east pipeline, I fully support it as a member of Parliament, and we need it right across this country.Atlantic CanadaBudget 2016 (March 22, 2016)Budgetary policyElectricity supplyEnergy East Pipeline ProjectPrince Edward IslandWays and Means No. 2LisaRaittHon.MiltonCherylHardcastleWindsor—Tecumseh//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersThe Budget [Financial Statement of Minister of Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1345)[English]Mr. Speaker, I certainly would not say it is a shortchanged pot when it comes to infrastructure. It is the biggest infrastructure spending announcement that any federal government has ever made. As we said, it is looking at the future. It is looking at transit infrastructure, physical infrastructure, and social and green infrastructure. Therefore, it is a very comprehensive proposal by the government.Of course, it is extremely important that rural communities, be they small or medium sized, get their fair share out of that infrastructure money. I think it has been outlined by the previous minister, including the Minister of Infrastructure and Communities, that as the program rolls out it is the intent that it will be shared by small, medium, and large municipalities across Canada, so that all Canadians can benefit from the good investments that this Liberal government is making.Budget 2016 (March 22, 2016)Budgetary policyInfrastructureRural communitiesWays and Means No. 2CherylHardcastleWindsor—TecumsehLisaRaittHon.Milton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern. I think my hon. colleague is fully aware that, as a government, we support supply management, and this government fully understands the importance of compensation to the supply management sector.Dairy farmingDairy industryGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéLindaLapointeRivière-des-Mille-Îles//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsRecognition of Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.)(1015)[English]Bill C-253. Introduction and first reading moved for leave to introduce Bill C-253, an Act to Recognize Charlottetown as the Birthplace of Confederation. He said: Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to table today a private member's bill entitled “an act to recognize Charlottetown as the birthplace of Confederation”. I should note that this legislation was previously introduced by my colleague the member for Charlottetown.The purpose of the legislation is to place in statute the recognition extended by proclamation of the government of the Right Hon. Jean Chrétien, in September 1996, namely that Charlottetown, Prince Edward Island, be recognized as the birthplace of Confederation.As we approach the 150th anniversary of Confederation in 2017, the legislation I am tabling today affirms a significant historical event in our nation's history, and it is a measure I believe all members in this House can support. (Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed) C-253, An Act to Recognize Charlottetown as the Birthplace of ConfederationCanadian ConfederationCity of CharlottetownIntroduction and First readingPrivate Members' BillsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestChristineMooreAbitibi—Témiscamingue//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1150)[English]Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague's question gives me a chance to indicate that our government took essential steps to help grow the middle class, revitalize the economy, and put money in people's pockets.We also announced $500 million for rural broadband Internet, which is vitally important.I think the House must realize that we farmers live in rural areas. We farmers are business people. We farmers have business to conduct.Budget 2016 (March 22, 2016)Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementFarming and farmersGovernment compensationOral questionsPromisesTrade agreementsTraceyRamseyEssexKarenLudwigNew Brunswick Southwest//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1205)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my colleague's question, but the problem is he is dead wrong.The fact is that our government took essential steps to grow the middle class and revitalize the economy. The $5 million for broadband is vital for rural areas. We farmers live in rural areas. We farmers do business. We also put over $38 million in CFIA—Some hon. members: Oh, oh!Broadband Internet servicesBudget 2016 (March 22, 2016)Canadian Food Inspection AgencyFarming and farmersGovernment expendituresOral questionsRural communitiesChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay: (1205)[English]Thank you very much, Mr. Speaker.As I indicated, the broadband is so important, and so also is millions of dollars going into CFIA and millions of dollars into research. Research is so valuable in agriculture. As well, the gag order is lifted from the scientists.Agricultural researchBudget 2016 (March 22, 2016)Canadian Food Inspection AgencyFarming and farmersGovernment expendituresOral questionsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestAnne Minh-ThuQuachSalaberry—Suroît//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1210)[English]Mr. Speaker, I can assure my hon. colleague that this government supports supply management and understands the importance of compensation.In this budget, we were able to ensure that the middle class grew, that we revitalized the economy and put more money in the pockets of people. We also put broadband in so my hon. colleague's farmers would be able to talk on a cellphone. We farmers do business, and we deserve the right to talk on a cellphone.Budget 2016 (March 22, 2016)Canada-European Union Comprehensive Economic and Trade AgreementFarming and farmersGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipJacquesGourdeLévis—LotbinièreGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersJoseph Brady SmithInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Cardigan, Lib.): (1110)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to sincerely thank all members of the House for allowing me the great honour of making this statement today.Recently, Prince Edward Island lost a true gentleman and a hero to anyone who has ever battled addictions. Reverend Joseph Brady Smith faced his own fierce battle with alcohol in his early days, before he found his true calling. I too faced my own fierce battle with alcohol, and Father Brady was there to help me in my time of need. He ended up helping countless individuals and families throughout his life. Father Brady turned his struggles into his life's work and received the Order of Prince Edward Island for his compassion and dedication. Father Brady was certainly one of the greatest people I have ever known, and he will be dearly missed. It was an honour to call him a friend. Alcohol use and abuseDeaths and funeralsPrince Edward IslandSmith, Joseph BradyStatements by MembersZiadAboultaifEdmonton ManningCandiceBergenHon.Portage—Lisgar//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1130)[English]Mr. Speaker, as I indicated yesterday, the matter that gives rise to the hon. member's question is currently before the courts in British Columbia. It would be highly inappropriate to comment on a court case and the issues arising from the court case on the floor of the House of Commons. The matters pertaining to that litigation belong before the court.What I can tell the hon. member is that the Minister of Justice is currently reviewing the overall litigation strategy of the government to ensure that at all times it is consistent with our commitment to Canadians, to our values, and to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.Aboriginal peoplesLand registrationOral questionsProperty rightsCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1130)[English]Mr. Speaker, the Government of Canada is named as a defendant in this lawsuit. What it is going to say about the lawsuit will be said in court, not on the floor of the House of Commons.The positions taken by the government in court will be consistent with our commitment to Canadians, with our values, and with the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.Aboriginal peoplesLand registrationOral questionsProperty rightsCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooSheilaMalcolmsonNanaimo—Ladysmith//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1155)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my hon. colleague from Cambridge for his concern. I can assure him the Canadian cattle industry is a major driver of our economy, worth $10 billion. This week, I was proud to announce an investment of $4 million to the Canadian Cattlemen's Association for three initiatives to support the industry with new and existing markets. Our government's focus on investing in research, innovation, and markets will help keep Canada's 68,000 beef farmers on the cutting edge.BeefCattle farmingExportsOral questionsBryanMayCambridgeMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1200)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question and concern. I can assure him that I have met with many sectors in the agriculture industry, including the dairy farmers. Being a dairy farmer myself, I fully understand the problem. We are discussing it with the industry and we will come to a conclusion.Dairy farmingDairy industryGovernment compensationImportsMilk and dairy productsOral questionsGabrielSte-MarieJolietteMoniquePauzéRepentigny//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1205)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the second report of the Standing Committee on Finance, entitled “Final Report of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance Regarding its Consultations in Advance of the 2016 Budget”. In a very short time frame, the committee heard from 92 witnesses, with an additional 175 written submissions. I want to thank the witnesses, my colleagues here, and my colleagues across the way for working so hard to complete the report in such a tight time frame.I must also congratulate and thank the clerk, the analysts, and the management team at the Library of Parliament for really going beyond the call of duty to adhere to this extremely tight time frame to table this report today.8510-421-12 Second Report of the Standing Committee on Finance, "Final Report of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance Regarding Its Consultations in Advance of the 2016 Budget"Pre-budget consultationsStanding Committee on FinanceKimRuddNorthumberland—Peterborough SouthTomLukiwskiMoose Jaw—Lake Centre—Lanigan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersArctic Winter GamesInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to give a big shout-out to Team NWT athletes, coaches, and mission staff who have been in Nuuk, Greenland, since March 6 participating in the 24th Arctic Winter Games. What started out in Yellowknife in 1970 with competitors from Yukon, Alaska, and the NWT has turned into the largest multi-sport and cultural event for youth athletes from many of the world's arctic regions. There are now over 2,000 participating athletes from Nunavut, northern Alberta, Nunavik, Russia, Greenland, and Scandinavia. These athletes are competing in 15 different sports, from cross-country skiing and hockey to traditional Dene and Inuit games. Attending the games is a great achievement for all these youth. It will show them that hard work and perseverance pays off. These young athletes have developed skills and will gain experience that will serve them well in life. To all the Arctic Winter Games athletes, good luck and have fun.Arctic Winter GamesAthletesNorthwest TerritoriesStatements by MembersToddDohertyCariboo—Prince GeorgeArifViraniParkdale—High Park//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, as the justice minister clearly stated yesterday, this matter is before the courts. We cannot, therefore, talk about the specific case. What we can say is that the minister is working collaboratively with the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs on the issue of negotiating and settling the land question in B.C. Our government's approach will reflect our commitment to the goal of reconciliation and to our renewed nation-to-nation relationship with indigenous groups, based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership.Aboriginal land claimsAboriginal rightsBritish ColumbiaLandownersOral questionsProperty rightsCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—Cariboo//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, the issue of private property rights and the issue of aboriginal rights are before the courts, and it would be highly inappropriate for us to talk about this court case and about the matters that are an issue in the court case in this chamber.We, as a government, will continue to deal with first nation land claims in a manner that is consistent with our commitment to reconciliation and a renewed nation-to-nation relationship with indigenous groups based on recognition of rights, respect, co-operation, and partnership.Aboriginal land claimsBritish ColumbiaLandownersOral questionsProperty rightsCathyMcLeodKamloops—Thompson—CaribooMarkStrahlChilliwack—Hope//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, this case will not be litigated in this chamber. It will be litigated before the courts in British Columbia. It is early in the litigation process. There will be things that will happen in the litigation process and outside of the litigation process, but what will not happen is that it be litigated here. All matters pertaining to aboriginal land claims will be dealt with in an atmosphere of respect and a renewed nation-to-nation relationship.Aboriginal land claimsBritish ColumbiaLandownersOral questionsProperty rightsMarkStrahlChilliwack—HopeMarkStrahlChilliwack—Hope//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, this fight is before the courts and the competing interests will advance their cases before the courts. Matters that are before the courts will not be played out in this chamber. All of the private interests will have an opportunity to advance their case. This is not the forum for that. With respect to aboriginal land claims, this government is committed to a renewed relationship, a relationship that has been broken, a relationship that will continue in the future on a nation-to-nation basis.Aboriginal land claimsBritish ColumbiaLandownersOral questionsProperty rightsMarkStrahlChilliwack—HopeIreneMathyssenLondon—Fanshawe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, as the member knows, there has been some concern expressed by judges in courts in this land with respect to the pre-sentence custody credit arrangements. Those cases are being reviewed. There are others pending that are being reviewed. In fact, there is a comprehensive review of the criminal justice system that is under way in the department that will include these ongoing challenges and the modernization of the code, which has not happened since 1980. Criminal convictionOral questionsPre-sentencing custody creditRobNicholsonHon.Niagara FallsMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1445)[English]Mr. Speaker, we are well aware of the challenges that have been launched in the Ontario courts and the judgments that have been rendered.Those judgments, as well as other cases that are pending with respect to challenges to the pre-custody credit regime in our country, are being reviewed as part of a larger review to determine the efficiency and the effectiveness of sentencing and other criminal justice matters.Criminal convictionLaw enforcementOntarioOral questionsPre-sentencing custody creditTruth in Sentencing ActMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonBobSaroyaMarkham—Unionville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, we are fully aware of the milk problem. I am in full discussions with the dairy industry and will continue to be in discussions with the dairy industry.Agricultural productsDairy industryImportsMilk proteinOral questionsSupply managementRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéCandiceBergenHon.Portage—Lisgar//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodIndigenous AffairsInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1140)[English]Mr. Speaker, we certainly are aware of the situation raised by the hon. member. The Department of Justice officials will continue to work with first nations to resolve these conflicts and these issues. In any given situation, it is ultimately up to the tribunal in question, but we are apprised of the situation and will continue to work co-operatively to get it resolved.Oral questionsSheriBensonSaskatoon WestGaryAnandasangareeScarborough—Rouge Park//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPhysician-Assisted DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1150)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank this member for the question and also for his excellent work on the joint committee on physician-assisted death.As the member knows very well, we have been placed in a situation where there is a hard deadline to meet. The effort towards coming to a response in the Carter decision is one that is driven by the court. It is not exclusive to the efforts that need to be taken to improve the system of palliative care in this country. These are not mutually exclusive. We are and should be working on both at the same time.Medical assistance in dyingOral questionsPalliative careHaroldAlbrechtKitchener—ConestogaMarkWarawaLangley—Aldergrove//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPhysician-Assisted DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1155)[English]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank that member for the question and for his excellent work on the committee.The tone of the question is truly unfortunate, because the committee did work so well together. We are going to be relying on all parliamentarians to take very seriously the responsibility that the minister identified to protect our most vulnerable, while at the same time respecting the decision of the court. That is a process that has been given a key initial stage with this report, and it is a process that will continue through the crafting and the debate of the legislation here and in the Senate.Medical assistance in dyingOral questionsSenior citizensMarkWarawaLangley—AldergroveLenWebberCalgary Confederation//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsCommittees of the House [Finance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1205)[English]Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the first report of the Standing Committee on Finance entitled, “Our Consultations in Advance of the 2016 Budget: The Interim Report of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance”. An interim report at this stage is somewhat unusual, however, the committee wanted the House and the minister to know the broad range of topics the committee heard at their earliest possible time and provide a link to those submissions. We know the budget is on March 22. We will present our final report before then, on March 11. However, we wanted the minister and the House to be aware of the great presentations and submissions that came to committee.8510-421-4 First Report of the Standing Committee on Finance, "Our Consultations in Advance of the 2016 Budget: The Interim Report of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance"Pre-budget consultationsStanding Committee on FinanceGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestKevinWaughSaskatoon—Grasswood//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPhysician-Assisted DyingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1440)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for his question and his work on the committee.The committee's work will be vital as we strive to balance personal dignity with the rights of doctors and nurses.There are still many steps to take, including the debates in this place, in committee and in the Senate. There will be several other opportunities to participate—Medical assistance in dyingOral questionsYoung peopleGérardDeltellLouis-Saint-LaurentGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodPoints of Order [Special Joint Committee on Physician-Assisted Dying]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, on a point of order, I would like to point out that the “Fiscal Monitor” is a snapshot in time, and does not give the fiscal situation—Budget forecastsBudget surplusDepartment of FinanceMembers' remarksPoints of orderRequesting tabling of documentsThe Fiscal MonitorGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Employment Insurance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1600)[English]Madam Speaker, the member for Kenora talked about his region and the high unemployment rate, but I know his region is like a lot of Canada. There is a lot of diversity in the country. In his area, there are certainly a lot of seasonal industries, such as mining, tourism, and other such industries. I wonder if he could spell out to the House how important the changes that the Liberal government is proposing are to the seasonal industries and their health and prosperity in our country. Employment insurance variable entrance requirementsOpposition motionsPart-time workersCarolHughesAlgoma—Manitoulin—KapuskasingRobertNaultHon.Kenora//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Employment Insurance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1625)[English]Madam Speaker, I enjoyed most of the member's remarks. In fact, I agree with a lot of the motion that is before us. However, there is a glaring problem, and that relates to the 360 hours being universal.The member said in her speech that the 360 hours, according to the NDP, is affordable. I looked everywhere for the calculations behind the cost to the system of that 360 hours. Will it mean increased premiums? What will it mean?The member opposite claims it is affordable. Could she give the exact cost figure for what the 360 hours would mean to the system as a whole?Employment insurance variable entrance requirementsOpposition motionsRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell RiverRachelBlaneyNorth Island—Powell River//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Employment Insurance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1710)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to go back to a point that was made by the Conservative member for Carleton earlier. I was sitting here almost fuming listening to his remarks. The member for Carleton talked about 360 hours, and I disagree with that setting in the NDP motion, but the member's remarks were nothing but disingenuous to workers in this country. To claim that the NDP proposal of 360 hours would be paying people not to work, and that they would work nine weeks and draw 50 weeks is malarkey. What it goes to show is that it comes from a mentality that existed within the previous government that if people were penalized enough, they would be forced to work, and if they were left without income, they would be forced to work. That is not the mentality that I know the NDP has or this party has. We believe in incentives.Does the member opposite feel the same way, that the party over there is disingenuous to workers in this country, who deserve better respect?Employment insurance variable entrance requirementsOpposition motionsGuyCaronRimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les BasquesGuyCaronRimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les Basques//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Employment Insurance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1735)[English]Mr. Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Central Nova.I am quite pleased to speak to the motion that suggests certain changes be made to the employment insurance system. I agree with many of the changes that are in the NDP motion, with one major exception, and that is the 360-hour component.I tried to find out from a number of sources what that 360 hours would cost the system. If a government is going to make decisions, it has to make them in a reasonable and responsible way. I asked members opposite the question, but they did not have an answer. I have not been able to find it in any of the material related to the NDP motion. Someone could perhaps get up later and give us the numbers. Stating 360 hours, without having the numbers to go along with that, is not the proper way to change legislation.Beyond that, many of the points that the NDP made in the motion were in our election platform, and some of them are in the mandate letter to the Minister of Employment. We will be moving forward on those points.People who have to use the EI system want it to be as efficient as possible, and that is why I am opposed to 360 hours. In our discussions with workers, their concern was related to the initial qualifying hours of over 900. We will be moving to allow regional rates, which are lesser hours and dependent on the regional EI or job rate, to be the qualifying areas. In that way, workers will be treated more fairly.The difficulty that the economy is facing at the moment has put a lot of pressure on the employment insurance system. The Minister of Finance announced the new numbers in his mini economic update. Difficulty in the energy sector in this country is putting pressure on the system. Therefore, there is a greater need for the employment insurance system to operate effectively to get a social and economic safety net into the hands of workers. What is really unusual is that we are hearing calls from Alberta on the need to have the employment system work effectively.I want to turn to Alberta for a minute. The duration of EI benefits has increased in four economic regions in Alberta. The number of weeks available in hard-hit regions in Alberta has increased by five weeks, to the maximum entitlement nationally of 45 weeks. If we compare December 2014 to February 2016, qualification for EI regular benefits in the northern Alberta EI region has dropped, while the maximum entitlement has increased to 45 weeks, matching the highest level of support in the country.I want to make sure that the House and everyone knows that the energy difficulty in Alberta, the falling prices, is being caused by many global factors, and also in part by the fact that Alberta is landlocked in terms of getting our energy to market. That is posing greater difficulties for workers in a lot of regions of Canada, and mine in particular. There are a lot of people from Prince Edward Island, Nova Scotia, Alberta, Newfoundland and Labrador, who work in the oil industry in Newfoundland and Labrador, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and in the Peace River area of B.C. They are all being impacted as well, as a result, and they need to qualify for employment insurance.(1740)When we look at the Alberta EI numbers, we really have to factor in the cost to workers in the rest of the country, not just in that threshold of numbers. The number of people without work in Prince Edward Island and other areas of the country who travelled to work in Alberta and elsewhere are in the other regions' numbers. It is important that we do everything we can. That is what the Minister of Employment is trying to do with the changes we will be bringing in. Many of them are in the NDP motion. As we said in our platform and the mandate letter for the minister, we will reverse the 2012 changes to the employment insurance system that forced unemployed workers to move away from their communities and take lower-paying jobs. We will change that. We will develop more flexible parental benefits. We will be easing access to EI support for caregivers. The list goes on. However, there is one point I want to make with regard to my region and an absolutely pathetic move by the previous government. In trying to support the regional minister at the time, from my province, the government created two EI zones in Prince Edward Island. That has to be fixed too. I am encouraging the government to fix that along with the rest. It is not in the mandate letter I note, but it has to be fixed. Here is an example of what happens in a situation like that. We are a country of seasonal industries. Some talk about the need to work year round. It would be great, but we are in a country where it snows, freezes, and gets too cold for some industries. Therefore, they have to shut down for a while. The employers of those industries need their workers to come back and start when the season kicks in again, because they are the skilled workers who are trained and know how to work in their field. They want them back. The employment insurance system that these workers pay into is there to give them the safety net so they can have income, provide for their families, and spend their money is their communities in the off-season. That is what the employment insurance system is there for. It is not, as the Conservatives try to pretend, because people are lazy and do not want to work. People lose their jobs for many reasons. As well, when businesses shut down they need that safety net. These workers are very important for seasonal industries.I will give an example of the two zones. On Riverdale Road in my riding, one worker is in the Charlottetown zone. He needs more hours and gets less benefits. A worker on the west side of Riverside Road is in the rural zone. What happens? They both work at the same plant. They both work in a seasonal industry in New Glasgow. The one on the rural side qualifies for EI. The one on the Charlottetown side does not. That is a sad situation that the previous government put in place, which I am asking my government, my party, to fix, to get back to one zone in Prince Edward Island.Let me close. I know my time is limited. I will quote from the Progressive Economics Forum. There are a lot of labour groups who are part of that group. In its point number one, it says this:Repeal the 2012/13 EI changes. This includes but is not limited to the punitive and discriminatory job search rules, a detrimental ‘best weeks’ calculation for low income workers, removal of the extended benefit pilot project, erosion of the ‘working while on claim’ benefit for those taking casual work while unemployed, and the politically-motivated addition of new EI regions in Prince Edward Island and Canada’s North.That includes a list right across the country. It is asking the government to do most of what we said we would do in the election. The NDP motion does not even go as far as we said we would in the election, but it includes that 360 hours, which is a mistake. Otherwise, I could support the motion.(1745)I cannot support the motion, but I support the principle of it. As we move forward with this party and this government, we will indeed make the changes that we committed to in the election and that are outlined in the mandate letter.AlbertaEconomic boundaries for employment insuranceEmployment insurance variable entrance requirementsLayoffs and job lossesOpposition motionsPart-time workersSplitting speaking timeBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—Bagot//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Employment Insurance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1745)[English]Mr. Speaker, finally we get the numbers, or maybe. I do know sometimes the NDP's math leaves a little bit to be desired.However, in the context of the 360 hours, $1.2 billion, this is something that the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour will have to grapple with.We look at the number of things we have said we would do under the Employment Insurance Act: the parental care leave, the caregivers, the doing away with the five-week pilot project, and the list goes on. The minister and the government cannot be locked into hours when we start. We said we would go to the regional hours for qualifying, but we do not want to be locked into that because we want to be able to do all the other things that we have committed to do and we have to prioritize those.For that reason I still cannot support the 360 hours.Employment insurance variable entrance requirementsOpposition motionsBrigitteSansoucySaint-Hyacinthe—BagotMoniquePauzéRepentigny//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Employment Insurance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1745)[English]Mr. Speaker, the reason it was put in the consolidated fund in the first place is because that was the recommendation by the Auditor General and we had to do it. There is a book calculation as a result, following that, but we are here for the workers. We are here to try to create growth and prosperity in the country, and that is what we will continue to do.Employment insurance accountEmployment insurance variable entrance requirementsOpposition motionsMoniquePauzéRepentignyRobertNaultHon.Kenora//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Employment Insurance]InterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1750)[English]Mr. Speaker, part of our strategy outlined in the election campaign is for those people who contribute to the employment insurance system. We have to try to strive to increase the number of people who qualify. Some cannot for various reasons.Beyond that, when we look at the total package that the Liberal Party ran on, we find that there is greater advantage for skills training. The list goes on in terms of trying to find other means of ensuring that those people who do not fall under the system have the social safety net and the economic means to be able to look after their families.Employment insurance variable entrance requirementsOpposition motionsRobertNaultHon.KenoraSeanFraserCentral Nova//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersHalf Your Plate CampaignInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, I stand today to pay tribute to one of Prince Edward Island's most accomplished citizens, Chef Michael Smith. Members have probably seen him on television as the host of Chef Michael's Kitchen, Chef Abroad, or Chef at Home on Food Network Canada or Global, or as a judge on Chopped Canada. Chef Michael is a strong believer in the importance of getting Canadians to eat more fruits and vegetables and the need to make the healthy choice the simple choice. That is why he is proud to be the culinary ambassador for the Canadian Produce Marketing Association's Half Your Plate campaign, a healthy initiative that empowers Canadians to eat more fruits and vegetables. Although truly a chef and citizen of the world, Chef Michael's favourite role is dad at home on P.E.I. with his wife Chastity and his children: Gabe, Ariella, and Camille. On behalf of the House, we salute Chef Michael's many accomplishments and look forward to seeing him in action tonight at the CPMA reception, where he will show how easy filling half one's plate with fruits and vegetables can be. Eat healthy. Canadian Produce Marketing AssociationCooks and chefsFruit and vegetablesSmith, MichaelStatements by MembersKellyBlockCarlton Trail—Eagle CreekBryanMayCambridge//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada's Contribution to the Effort to Combat ISILInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1100)[English]Mr. Speaker, I first want to acknowledge and thank our military men and women who have been engaged in overseas combat over the years for their contribution, and for standing up for what this country believes in.I would ask my hon. colleague if he could explain to the House what difference the removal of the CF-18s will have on our mission, as well as the impact that moving toward what we feel is a more humanitarian mission will have on the lives of ordinary civilians.Canadian ForcesCF-18 aircraftGovernment Business No. 2IraqIslamic State of Iraq and the LevantMilitary operations and eventsTerrorism and terroristsGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersCanada's Contribution to the Effort to Combat ISILInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1740)[English]Mr. Speaker, I was really shocked to hear the remarks from the member for Battle River—Crowfoot.How could he be so far off base in terms of where Canada is at with respect to the ISIS mission? Canada is not withdrawing from a combat mission. Canada is strategically looking at how we can be best placed to defeat ISIS. That is what we are really doing. There still will be air support.For the member to stand up in the House and say that because we are withdrawing from air support, there will be no air support at all is absolutely not true. We are working with our coalition partners to ensure there is air support, support for our troops that are training on the ground, and support for our people who are doing humanitarian aid.We are not just standing around looking at nice aircraft and military weapons, as the previous prime minister did. We are strategically looking, with our coalition partners, at what is the best approach to defeat ISIS. That is exactly what the government is doing.Canadian ForcesGovernment Business No. 2IraqIslamic State of Iraq and the LevantMilitary operations and eventsTerrorism and terroristsKevinSorensonHon.Battle River—CrowfootKevinSorensonHon.Battle River—Crowfoot//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsInterparliamentary DelegationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1005)[English]Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, four reports of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group. The first concerns the 2015 Annual Summer Meeting of the National Governors Association, held in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, United States, July 23-25, 2015. The second concerns the 68th Annual Meeting of the Council of State Governments—WEST, CSG West, held in Vail, Colorado, United States, July 28-31, 2015. The third concerns the Annual Legislative Summit of the National Conference of State Legislatures, held in Seattle, Washington, United States, August 3-6, 2015.Finally, the fourth concerns the 55th Annual Meeting and Regional Policy Forum of the Council of State Governments' Eastern Regional Conference, held in Wilmington, Delaware, United States of America, August 16-19, 2015.8565-421-59-05 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 2015 Annual Summer Meeting of the National Governors Association (NGA), held in White Sulphur Springs, West Virginia, from July 23 to 25, 20158565-421-59-06 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 68th Annual Meeting of the Council of State Governments-WEST (CSG-WEST), held in Vail, Colorado, from July 28 to 31, 20158565-421-59-07 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the Annual Legislative Summit of the National Conference of State Legislatures (NCSL), held in Seattle, Washington, from August 3 to 6, 20158565-421-59-08 Report of the Canadian delegation of the Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary Group respecting its participation at the 55th Annual Meeting and Regional Policy Forum of the Council of State Governments' Eastern Regional Conference (ERC), held in Wilmington, Delaware, from August 16 to 19, 2015Canada-United States Inter-Parliamentary GroupEarlDreeshenRed Deer—Mountain ViewGordonBrownLeeds—Grenville—Thousand Islands and Rideau Lakes//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I recently announced $1.75 million in new funding for the dairy research cluster. This will help boost milk yields, increase farm production, and improve knowledge around the health benefits of milk products.Our government will continue to invest in the dairy industry and agricultural science and research, to ensure this great industry thrives.Dairy industryGovernment assistanceOral questionsResearch and researchersPierreBretonSheffordBradTrostSaskatoon—University//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Israel]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1755)[English]Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the outstanding member of Parliament for Humber River—Black Creek. The boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement, also known as the BDS movement, is a global campaign launched in 2005 in response to calls by Palestinians and international civil society groups for international sanctions against Israel. The BDS movement currently promotes a variety of actions intended to restrict trade with Israel. This includes targeting Canadian companies that engage in trade with Israel, or Israeli businesses, and calling for a boycott of those Canadian companies and their products. There have also been calls in Canada to boycott Israeli products. The BDS movement, however, goes well beyond trade issues. Much of the movement is focused on university campuses in Europe and North America and includes repeated calls and intense pressure in favour of academic and cultural boycotts of Israel. Examples of this include pressuring musicians, writers, poets, and artists not to perform in or visit Israel. Similarly, professors and researchers are increasingly being pressured not to work with Israeli universities. These bans threaten the intense and ongoing research collaboration between Israel and Canadian academics in areas such as the health and life sciences sector, environmental and clean technologies, and information and communication technologies. Activities, such as the annual Israeli Apartheid Week events at Canadian universities promote the BDS movement and seek to equate Israel with apartheid. Many organizations and individuals in Canada and abroad support the BDS movement out of the belief that it will somehow accelerate the peace process and lead to a lasting resolution of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. However, it is important to understand that the goal advocated and supported by Canada and many of our partners worldwide of a two-state solution with a secure, stable, and democratic Israel living side-by-side with a secure, stable, and democratic Palestinian state is not a solution that can be imposed from outside. A lasting peace will only come through direct negotiations between the two parties through negotiations without preconditions. Such actions only exacerbate the tensions in the region. The peace process would be better served by efforts to bring people together than those that seek to divide them. These facts lead to the conclusion that the real intention of the BDS movement is not to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict but to delegitimize and single out Israel. This is demonstrated by the one-sided nature of the movement. It targets Israel alone. It punishes Israel alone. It calls on Israel alone to act. Canada has been firm in its opposition to the Arab boycott of Israel since it began in the 1970s, and Canada remains deeply concerned by all ongoing efforts to single out Israel for criticism and to isolate Israel internationally. Once again, this is not a recipe for achieving a lasting peace settlement. It is important to recognize that the BDS movement is in fact a form of collective punishment. It is not carefully targeted toward the ends it claims to support, but instead seeks to punish all elements of Israeli society. Its effects go well beyond the government whose policies the BDS supporters claim to oppose. All segments of Israeli society are affected because the BDS movement's economic, cultural, and academic boycotts threaten to adversely affect all aspects of Israeli life. This highlights once again that the BDS movement is really about punishing Israel and not about advancing the peace process. Furthermore, there is evidence that the BDS movement is hurting the very people its supporters claim they are seeking to help, the Palestinian people. In one case, a world-renowned Israeli company, SodaStream, was forced through threats of a BDS boycott to close its factory, which was located in the West Bank, in order to preserve access to global markets. This resulted in the loss of hundreds of well-paying jobs for Palestinians. The owner of the company went on the record to condemn the BDS movement and highlight its negative effect on the Palestinian people and economy.(1800)Canada believes that supporting the economic prospects of the Palestinian people is a vital goal for ensuring their prosperity and dignity, and that it has the valuable side effect of creating stability and security in the region. Israel benefits when the Palestinian people are prosperous. In this spirit, Canada funds a host of projects to better the livelihood of the Palestinians. Working toward that goal is the sort of activity that will advance prospects for the peace process. Canada looks forward to being able to contribute to a reinvigorated Middle East peace process.We noted with optimism the recent announcement by the Quartet. The governments of the United States, the European Union, and Russia plus the United Nations would work with all key partners in the region to create a report that provides recommendations for relaunching the peace process and advancing down the road to a two-state solution. It is vital that such efforts receive the support they require in order to be successful, and that efforts that are counter-productive to a lasting peace, like the BDS movement, be abandoned immediately.Canada and Israel are strong, vibrant democracies where legitimate criticism within a legitimate discourse is expected and accepted. Nevertheless, discussion of the BDS movement too often descends into anti-Israel and even anti-Jewish rhetoric. There are also disturbing reports of Jewish students feeling unsafe at Canadian universities. As Canada considers the Middle East process and seeks opportunities to move it forward toward a lasting solution that meets the interests of all the Israeli and Palestinian peoples, we should not be asking ourselves how to punish one party, but instead how we can remotivate people to get into a dialogue again, and how to start a positive process with the Israelis and Palestinians to relaunch a peace process.Canada should reject the boycott, divestment, and sanctions movement wholeheartedly. We should oppose calls to boycott Israel and Israeli products or to ban cultural and academic exchanges. We should instead seek to build bridges among the people of the region rather than use divisive language and counter-productive tactics. Although Canada recognizes that Israel should not be immune from criticism, Canada will continue to work to defend Israel from the BDS movement.Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions MovementIsraelOpposition motionsSplitting speaking timeDavidSweetFlamborough—GlanbrookK. KellieLeitchHon.Simcoe—Grey//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Israel]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1800)[English]Mr. Speaker, there are two parts to my hon. colleague's question. First, why does this matter to me in particular and, second, what should Canadians be doing?I got into politics because of the importance of Canadian values and my firm belief back in 2011 that the country was on the wrong track. I do not mean to make this a divisive issue, but I feel very strongly about the rights that are enshrined in the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. That is really at the core of Canadian values. That, quite frankly, is at the core of this motion.The real key for Canadians here, as stated by my colleague from Winnipeg North, is very much education. BDS has to be singled out for what it is, and not for what it purports to be. The more that message is disseminated on university campuses by members of Parliament, in civil society, and in academia, the better the prospects for understanding and support of a peaceful two-state solution and a peaceful process leading to that.Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions MovementIsraelOpposition motionsK. KellieLeitchHon.Simcoe—GreyNathanCullenSkeena—Bulkley Valley//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Israel]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1805)[English]Mr. Speaker, what we have here in the BDS movement really is a wolf in sheep's clothing, and the veneer is extremely thin. The member makes extremely valid points with respect to freedom of expression. He makes extremely valid points with respect to the right to be able to criticize a government. Indeed, the Government of Israel and the Government of Canada share his view that a critique of the government is entirely fair game. However, when a movement gets to the point where Canadian students feel unsafe on their campus it has gone too far, it has gone beyond free speech. That is what we are dealing with here. It is more than free speech, it is worse than free speech, and it needs to be condemned.Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions MovementFreedom of speechIsraelOpposition motionsNathanCullenSkeena—Bulkley ValleyJudy A.SgroHon.Humber River—Black Creek//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1455)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, these young women and their families are in our thoughts and prayers. The disappearance of a child is a tragedy, especially in these circumstances. We are determined to achieve the important objectives of Bill C-452.I can guarantee that we will quickly take action that is in keeping with our values and the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.C-452, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (exploitation and trafficking in persons)Consecutive sentencesGirlsHuman traffickingOral questionsSexual abuse and exploitationKarineTrudelJonquièreRandallGarrisonEsquimalt—Saanich—Sooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1425)[English]Mr. Speaker, the commercialization of the Canadian Wheat Board was completed under the previous government. G3 Canada Limited is now a fully independent commercial entity that is operating in the competitive grain-handling business with no ties to government.Canadian Wheat BoardGrain handlingIncome and wagesMonopoliesOral questionsThomasMulcairHon.OutremontJamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—Eastman//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-FoodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, I think we are all aware of who ended the Canadian Wheat Board. However, I can assure members that this government will focus on its priorities for the sector, including an opening up of new trade rules to make sure that farmers receive proper remuneration for their grain. This government will make sure of that.Canadian Wheat BoardGrain handlingIncome and wagesMonopoliesOral questionsTrade agreementsSheriBensonSaskatoon WestBlaineCalkinsRed Deer—Lacombe//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodFinanceInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, a Statistics Canada revision to the territorial formula financing in December had people in my riding of Northwest Territories, as well as people in Yukon and Nunavut, worried about their territorial governments' ability to plan ahead for the 2016-17 fiscal year. The Minister of Finance pledged to identify options for addressing the impact of recent data revisions on territorial financial planning. Would the minister please update the House on what progress has been made on this file?Budget forecastsOral questionsTerritorial Formula FinancingTerritorial governmentJean-YvesDuclosHon.QuébecBillMorneauHon.Toronto Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1500)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our thoughts and prayers are with those young women and their families. The disappearance of a child is a tragedy, particularly under such circumstances.We are determined to achieve the important objectives of Bill C-452. I can guarantee that we will act quickly in a way that reflects our values and complies with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.C-452, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (exploitation and trafficking in persons)Centre jeunesse de LavalChild prostitutionChild sexual abuse and exploitationConsecutive sentencesHuman traffickingLavalMissing childrenOral questionsRhéalFortinRivière-du-NordGabrielSte-MarieJoliette//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsHuman TraffickingInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1850)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government is closely following the situation in Quebec, where young women have disappeared. Our thoughts and prayers go out to these young women and their families.We take human trafficking and the exploitation of women and girls very seriously. We are determined to build on the action we are taking to address this problem, so that some of the most vulnerable members of society have better protection. That is why we promised to hold an inquiry into missing and murdered indigenous women and girls.[English]Regrettably, the recruitment of children for the purposes of sexual exploitation and human trafficking remains a serious concern. It is a tragedy when a child disappears, particularly in circumstances that suggest the possibility of exploitation. The whole country shares the relief of parents whose daughters have been safely recovered in recent weeks. We are committed to working with provinces and territories, indigenous communities, law enforcement, and community organizations to combat exploitation and to support victims and potential victims.While we support the principle of Bill C-452 to strengthen our criminal justice system's approach to human trafficking, there are some parts of the bill that raise concerns.[Translation]If the bill were to come into force, it would require that the sentence imposed on a person for the offence of trafficking in persons be served consecutively to any other punishment imposed on the person for an offence arising out of the same event.There is a real risk that this provision could violate the charter, if applied in combination with the harsh mandatory minimum sentences established in 2014 for the offence of trafficking in persons under the Protection of Communities and Exploited Persons Act, the former Bill C-36. In conjunction, these two provisions, which impose mandatory sentences, could result in sentences that are disproportionate to the offence and to the justice system's approach to other offences.This disproportion could infringe on an individual's right to protection from cruel and unusual punishment, as set out in section 12 of the charter. In other words, there is a real risk that this bill could be unconstitutional.(1855)[English]We have committed to carefully review changes to the Criminal Code brought in over the last decade, with a view to determining their compliance with the charter and consistency with our values. We take this commitment very seriously. We will, therefore, take the necessary time to review the bill to ensure that we do not enact anything that may, in the end, be found to be unconstitutional.We will strengthen our efforts to address human trafficking, which is a complex issue that impacts on some of the most vulnerable members of our society, but we must do so responsibly, in a way that reflects our values and respects the charter. Accordingly, we are currently examining new ways to address this very important issue.Adjournment ProceedingsC-452, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (exploitation and trafficking in persons)Consecutive sentencesHuman traffickingPenaltiesKarineTrudelJonquièreKarineTrudelJonquière//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgAdjournment ProceedingsHuman TraffickingInterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1855)[Translation]Mr. Speaker, our government is determined to take measures to better protect victims of exploitation and those at risk of exploitation. We are also determined to ensure that traffickers properly answer for the crimes they commit against some of the most vulnerable members of our society. We support the important objectives of Bill C-452 and we are reviewing it on a priority basis in order to determine how the amendments it contains can be implemented. This review requires an in-depth analysis of the impacts the bill will have in relation to the charter.Examining these important issues is a priority, but in the meantime, I would like to point out that existing criminal law provides for heavy penalties for human traffickers, including lengthy mandatory minimum sentences.Adjournment ProceedingsHuman traffickingPenaltiesKarineTrudelJonquièreBruceStantonSimcoe North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1140)[English]Mr. Speaker, we believe that mandatory minimums should be the exception and not the rule. That is the reason we are conducting a complete and comprehensive review of the changes to sentencing and the changes to parole that were brought in under the previous government. The most serious offences should have the most serious sentences, however, it is not a one-size-fits-all. A comprehensive review of the Criminal Code is necessary, and that is what we are undertaking.Criminal record suspensionMandatory sentencingOral questionsRecidivistsViolent offendersMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonMichaelCooperSt. Albert—Edmonton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodJusticeInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1140)[English]Mr. Speaker, the criminal justice system in the country is about more than retribution. There are other elements that are important in sentencing. The most serious crimes should attract the most serious sentences. There is a place for mandatory minimums in our criminal justice system, but it is not everywhere. That is the reason why we are undertaking a comprehensive review. We are going to ensure that the hands of judges are not tied and that mandatory minimums are there for the most serious offences like the ones to which the member just referred.ChildrenCriminal record suspensionMandatory sentencingOral questionsRecidivistsSex offendersViolent offendersMichaelCooperSt. Albert—EdmontonDavidAndersonCypress Hills—Grasslands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgRoutine ProceedingsDemocratic ReformInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1205)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to present a petition on behalf of fair electoral representation from Fair Vote Canada. The petitioners prepared this petition to express their point of view on democratic reform.Electoral reformElectoral representationPetition 421-00061WayneStetskiKootenay—ColumbiaKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Department of Finance]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1155)[English]Mr. Speaker, I listened to my colleague from Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan deliver his speech and talk about timely, temporary, and modest deficits.During his time in the prime minister's office and during the Conservatives' time in office, those timely, temporary, and modest deficits added $160 billion to this country's debt.Just to be clear, the eight deficits that were run during the last government, were all of them timely, temporary, and modest?Budget deficitBudget surplusOpposition motionsPublic debtStatisticsGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort SaskatchewanGarnettGenuisSherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersRetirement CongratulationsInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1400)[English]Mr. Speaker, a dedicated public servant and influential businesswoman in the Northwest Territories retired from her position as chair of the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation last month. Nellie Cournoyea held this elected position for 20 years. Her continuing endorsement by the Inuvialuit is truly remarkable.Nellie has many other remarkable career highlights. She was elected premier of the Northwest Territories in 1991, meaning that she holds two records: Nellie was the second female premier and the first aboriginal premier in our country.Nellie was also made an Officer of the Order of Canada, was inducted into the Aboriginal Business Hall of Fame, and has been awarded honorary doctorates in law from Lakehead University, Carleton University, and the University of Toronto.From the oil companies in Calgary to the boardrooms in Ottawa, and throughout the north, the single name “Nellie” commands respect and admiration.I wish Ms. Cournoyea the best of luck and happiness in the future.Cournoyea, Nellie J.Inuvialuit Regional CorporationNorthwest TerritoriesRetirement from workStatements by MembersGeoffReganHon.Halifax WestRandyHobackPrince Albert//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, we have been clear on our commitment to engage with Canadians before taking a final position on the TPP. In fact the government has already held nearly 200 consultations.However, Canada needs to stay at the table, and that is why the Minister of International Trade will sign today. It is simply a technical step that will allow for full consideration of the deal.The only way the TPP can take effect is through ratification and a majority vote in this House.Layoffs and job lossesOral questionsTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipThomasMulcairHon.OutremontThomasMulcairHon.Outremont//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, extreme weather created difficulties for the western Canadian livestock industry last summer. This week our government released a list of additional regions for tax deferrals in many areas throughout the western provinces, which will help farmers focus on the future.Since taking office, we have announced over $50 million in cost-shared funding. Our government supports our hard-working farmers and ranchers.DroughtFarming and farmersOral questionsTax deferralWestern CanadaStephenFuhrKelowna—Lake CountryPierrePaul-HusCharlesbourg—Haute-Saint-Charles//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, the government is engaged with industry stakeholders on the outcome of the TPP. We understand the importance of compensation to the supply management sector. I have met with many stakeholders in the supply management sector and I met with the Canadian Dairy Farmers today. They understand we are working together to make things right.Dairy industryFarming and farmersGovernment compensationOral questionsSupply managementTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1435)[English]Mr. Speaker, the Government of Canada fully supports supply management, and the government is engaged with stakeholders on the outcome of the trans-Pacific partnership. We understand the importance of compensation to the supply management sector. This government supports supply management.Layoffs and job lossesOral questionsTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéGérardDeltellLouis-Saint-Laurent//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my hon. colleague's question. The fact is, we certainly support supply management, and we are consulting with the sector. That is what we should do, and that is what we are doing. We are signing the deal so that we can continue to consult with the sector, and we do understand the importance of compensation. Canada-European Free Trade Association Free Trade AgreementDairy industryGovernment compensationOral questionsTrade agreementsTrans-Pacific PartnershipSimonMarcilMirabelElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf Islands//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersIncome Tax ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1530)[English]Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to share my time with the member for Glengarry—Prescott—Russell, who is my new neighbour in our offices in the Valour building.It is really great to be able to speak on Bill C-2, an act to amend the Income Tax Act, which is really the first plank as we move to implement the commitments upon which we were elected. That plank was outlined in our platform of growth for the middle class. Our key message was real change, a new plan for a strong middle class. That platform specifically stated, as it relates to Bill C-2: We will give middle class Canadians a tax break, by making taxes more fair. When middle class Canadians have more money in their pockets to save, invest, and grow the economy, we all benefit. Bill C-2 follows through on that commitment.However, I will say this. Having listened to the discussion thus far today, it is only one plank among many. It is the first plank, in terms of a package that will assist the middle class and assist prosperity in this country.As stated in the summary of the bill:This enactment amends the Income Tax Act to reduce the second personal income tax rate from 22% to 20.5% and to introduce a new personal marginal tax rate of 33% for taxable income in excess of $200,000. It also amends other provisions of that Act to reflect the new 33% rate. What does this mean?What it really means is those with a taxable income of between $45,282 and $90,563 will see their current rate of taxation of 22% drop to 20.5%. That is a considerable saving for those individuals. We are targeting that group because they are a part of the middle class.On the other hand, those with taxable income of over $200,000 will increase from the current rate of 29% to 33%.In essence, what it really does is bring better fairness to the taxation system. It tries to lessen the income disparity and the tax advantages and disadvantages throughout the income tax system to bring better balance and ensure that those who are in the wealthiest sector of our society, who have the means, can contribute more to the fiscal coffers in a way that those monies can bring better balance to Canadians throughout society.The second major part of the bill from the summary is:In addition, it amends that Act to reduce the annual contribution limit for tax-free savings accounts from $10,000 to its previous level with indexation ($5,500 for 2016) starting January 1, 2016.This is extremely important as it brings greater tax fairness to our taxation system and ensures greater effort is made by those with the economic means to support our economic and social programs as a whole.I will speak a bit more on that aspect of the bill if I have time.(1535)However, it is important to note that members have already voted in support of a ways and means motion, which allowed these changes to come into effect on January 1. Bill C-2, now before the House, would formalize that motion, and it would give members and the public the opportunity to both criticize and praise the bill, and we have seen some of that here today, and maybe even find ways to further improve the bill, either through this act or through future legislation.As others have said before me, there will be more legislation coming forward that will continue to build on our commitment to income security for the middle class. The government, beyond these measures today, will introduce proposals in the budget to create a new Canada child benefit payment system under the new Canada child benefit, which will begin in July 2016. The proposed Canada child benefit will simplify and consolidate existing child benefits, while ensuring that help is better targeted to those who need it most. It is important because one of the difficulties in this place is we debate one bill at a time. In order to look at our package as a whole, this is just one plank in that package, and the Canada child benefit is an extremely important part of our ability to ensure fairness in the system and ensure those who need most and those with families get the benefits we said during the election campaign that we would provide.Let me come back to the tax-free savings account because there has been considerable discussion in the House on that point. There is no question that the previous government's plan to nearly double the contribution limit to the TFSA would have helped Canada's wealthiest individuals save more. However, we committed to a fairer tax system. We know that only 6.7% of Canadians eligible for the TFSAs contributed the maximum in 2013. The numbers show that a better policy would be to reduce those tax benefits that really only benefit the wealthy, and use those extra monies for other programs to bring greater fairness throughout the system, whether through the new child benefit or through other measures that we laid out in our platform.We have to look at the 6.7% of Canadians eligible for TFSAs who contributed the maximum. The fact is that most Canadians cannot even contribute $5,500, but those with the means can contribute $10,000, and they are using it more as a tax dodge than anything else. Those monies would be better spent in other ways and bring greater fairness.There are better ways than the current system of providing income equality for Canadians, and our platform was all about changing that system. This bill gets into two particular areas. It was moved as a ways and means motion in December so the tax changes would be in effect starting this year. This was the intent we talked about during the election. This follows through on that commitment. Again, I emphasize it is one part of our platform among many to make the package complete.I would encourage members in the House to support the bill and to see it for what it is: a system of tax fairness targeting programs to those who need it most in a way that would help Canada and Canadians gain greater prosperity.Benefits for childrenC-2, An Act to amend the Income Tax ActDistribution of wealthGovernment billsHigh incomeIncome taxIncome tax bracketMarginal tax rateMiddle classMiddle incomePersonal income taxPolitical programsPromisesSecond readingStatisticsTax avoidanceTax Free Savings AccountTax indexationTax policyTax reliefTax revenuesFrancisDrouinGlengarry—Prescott—RussellSheriBensonSaskatoon West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersIncome Tax ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1540)[English]Mr. Speaker, I should probably not say this in this place, but I always love to get questions from Saskatoon because it is one of my favourite cities. I had an office there for some 11 years. It is a great community.We are all about fairness in the taxation system. Those people in the low-income bracket that the member mentioned will be handled in other ways, as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister mentioned earlier, through housing programs and other means within our total package. That will target those people in the less than $45,000 tax bracket.Let me go through the tax brackets. Those at $90,563 to $140,388 would stay at the rate of 26%. Those at $140,388 to $200,000 would stay at the tax rate of 29%. The rate for those with an income over $200,000, as is proposed in the bill, would change from 29% to 33%. We would bring better balance to the tax regime within Canada.C-2, An Act to amend the Income Tax ActDistribution of wealthGovernment billsHigh incomeIncome taxIncome tax bracketLow incomeMarginal tax rateSecond readingSocial housingTax policySheriBensonSaskatoon WestBobSaroyaMarkham—Unionville//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersIncome Tax ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1545)[English]Mr. Speaker, the income levels of the middle class varies across the country, whether in my province of Prince Edward Island or in the province of B.C. What the member of the Conservative Party should understand and support is that the Liberal Party is supporting the average Canadian in the middle class. He is a member of a party that in the last four years supported the wealthy in our country. His party put a burden on our children and grandchildren going forward into the future.I heard some of the questions coming from members of the Conservative Party earlier. They were talking about their government ending up with a surplus, which is just a fictional surplus. All that government had were deficits. The Conservative government had the worst economic record in 80 years, since R.B. Bennett. In the last four years, the Conservative Party added $150 billion to Canada's debt. You, sir, should be standing up and supporting this government in getting our country back on track.Budget deficitBudget forecastsC-2, An Act to amend the Income Tax ActCost of livingGovernment billsIncome taxMiddle classMiddle incomePublic debtSecond readingTax policyWealthBobSaroyaMarkham—UnionvilleAnthonyRotaNipissing—Timiskaming//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersIncome Tax ActInterventionHon. Wayne Easter: (1545)[English]Mr. Speaker, it would actually take about 30 minutes to answer that question, but it is all good and it is all leading to the country being more prosperous, with greater benefits going to the middle class.As was said in my remarks, this is just the first plank. It deals with some of the necessary tax changes. It had to be done in a way that it would come into effect early this year. Following on that will be the new Canada child benefit, which will bring greater benefits to all families that are raising children, regardless of income. From there, we will go to housing programs, and on and on will go the list.Benefits for childrenC-2, An Act to amend the Income Tax ActGovernment billsIncome taxMiddle classPolitical programsSecond readingSocial housingTax reliefAnthonyRotaNipissing—TimiskamingErinO'TooleHon.Durham//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Opposition Motion—Energy East Pipeline Project]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1135)[English]Madam Speaker, I listened intently to the member's remarks. Certainly, over the years he is a frequent contributor to debate in the House, someone who speaks very passionately, but from time to time, I would say is prone to hyperbole. There was something I heard today that I invite the member to clarify. I thought his critique of the record of the Conservative government with respect to the gutting of environmental laws in the last Parliament was entirely fair. One of the things he said, and I would ask him to either clarify or withdraw, is that the Liberals voted with the Conservatives in the budget omnibus bills in the last Parliament. That, quite simply, is not true. I would ask him to either clarify or withdraw that remark.Energy East Pipeline ProjectOil and gasOpposition motionsPipeline transportationSustainable developmentPeterJulianNew Westminster—BurnabyPeterJulianNew Westminster—Burnaby//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/89374MichaelMcLeodMichael-McLeodNorthwest TerritoriesLiberal CaucusNorthwest Territories//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/McLeodMichaelV_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodTaxationInterventionMr. Michael McLeod (Northwest Territories, Lib.): (1455)[English]Mr. Speaker, residents in my riding of the Northwest Territories, as well as other northern and remote areas of Canada, live with the reality of a very high cost of living. One way to help address this challenge is through our tax system, specifically the northern residents deductions.Could the Minister of National Revenue please advise the House of the commitment to increase the northern residents deductions?Northern CanadaNorthern residents deductionOral questionsRemote communitiesOmarAlghabraMississauga CentreDianeLebouthillierHon.Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersAllan MacDonaldInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, I stand to pay tribute to Allan MacDonald from Nine Mile Creek, P.E.I., who recently passed away.Mr. MacDonald, at 87, was married to his beloved Mary for 67 years. They were the happy and dedicated parents of eight children.He fished the waters of Northumberland Strait for some 60 years. Serving on many fisheries organizations, including the P.E.I. Fishermen's Association, he was awarded for fighting for the issues of island, Canadian, and international fishermen. Allan was instrumental in changing the design of the Confederation Bridge pillars to include ice shields, thereby breaking ice flows and creating less impact on the fisheries, a design noted in National Geographic. An active community member, he volunteered all his life, including supporting the Liberal cause provincially and federally. Serving his community and family with dedication, Allan was trusted, faithful, and hard-working. We offer condolences to his family and our thanks for Allan's life's work.Deaths and funeralsFisheries and fishersMacDonald, Allan JamesPrince Edward IslandStatements by MembersElizabethMaySaanich—Gulf IslandsTonyClementHon.Parry Sound—Muskoka//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, my chief of staff is extremely qualified for the job and is dedicated to serve in the best interests of the entire agricultural sector and all Canadians.She is following the guidelines laid out by the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner and will fully comply with any advice provided by the non-partisan commissioner.Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSecurity checksChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—Mackenzie//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1505)[English]Mr. Speaker, I am proud that she has a strong agricultural background and is a pillar in her community and brings a deep commitment to agriculture. As all members know, all appropriate information will be publicly available on the Ethics Commissioner's website.Chief of staffConflict of interestDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsPolitical appointmentsSecurity checksChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieAlexanderNuttallBarrie—Springwater—Oro-Medonte//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodAgriculture and Agri-foodInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1510)[English]Mr. Speaker, of course, that any farms are closed for financial reasons is most unfortunate, but there has been a lot of amalgamation. I can assure my hon. colleague and the House that this government fully supports supply management.Farming and farmersImportsMilk proteinOral questionsSupply managementSimonMarcilMirabelGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, my chief of staff is extremely qualified for the job. I am proud that she has such a strong agricultural background. I can assure my hon. colleagues in the House that from day one in my office she was subject to the Conflict of Interest Act, and she will also abide by any direction from the Ethics Commissioner.Cabinet ministers' staffChief of staffConflict of interestOral questionsChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieAnne Minh-ThuQuachSalaberry—Suroît//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, my chief of staff has a strong agricultural background and is a pillar of her community. From day one in my office she was subject to the Conflict of Interest Act and any recommendations from the Ethics Commissioner will be followed in detail. Chief of staffDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsPolitical appointmentsChrisWarkentinGrande Prairie—MackenzieJacquesGourdeLévis—Lotbinière//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodGovernment AppointmentsInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1450)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is important for my chief of staff to have a strong agricultural background. As I said before, she is subject to the Conflict of Interest Act. Also, any recommendations provided by the non-partisan Ethics Commissioner will be followed. Chief of staffDepartment of Agriculture and Agri-FoodMcFall, Mary JeanOral questionsPolitical appointmentsJacquesGourdeLévis—LotbinièreTraceyRamseyEssex//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersRetirement CongratulationsInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1410)[English]Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Don Cudmore for his outstanding contribution to the tourism industry of Prince Edward Island. Executive director of the Tourism Industry Association of Prince Edward Island since 1996, he has provided leadership to an active membership, with roles in lobbying, education, and awareness. Through TIAPEI, he has been instrumental in improving educational opportunities for tourism operators and employees, and nationally raising awareness of the industry with the public. In 2010, the Tourism Industry Association of Canada recognized Don's dedication in making tourism an important part of his life's work by inducting him into the Tourism Hall of Fame. Last week, he was honoured with the 2015 Canadian Tourism Lifetime Achievement Award.Residing in Cornwall, P.E.I., with his wife, Diana, he has two grown children, Dana and Jolene. We wish him all the best in his retirement.Awards presentationsCudmore, DonPrince Edward IslandRetirement from workStatements by MembersTourismJamesBezanSelkirk—Interlake—EastmanJulieDzerowiczDavenport//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Supplementary Estimates (B), 2015-16]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1605)[English]Madam Chair, I understand that one of the key priorities for the minister's department and a campaign promise of our government is to reform the access to information regime. Could the President of the Treasury Board shed a little more light on the short-term plans or the road map for the reforms that have been committed to?Access to informationConsideration in a Committee of the WholePublic sectorSupplementary estimates (B) 2015-2016ScottBrisonHon.Kings—HantsScottBrisonHon.Kings—Hants//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Supplementary Estimates (B), 2015-16]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1630)[English]Madam Chair, I propose to allocate my time with remarks of about 10 minutes and then a question and answer period.I am pleased to rise on behalf of the Government of Canada to speak about how we will strengthen our access to information system, a key issue facing Treasury Board. We firmly believe that government data and information should be open by default, in formats that are modern and easy to use. We promise to deliver an improved access to information system, because we are committed to upholding the democratic principles of openness and transparency.We recognize that Canadians cannot meaningfully participate in a democracy without having the information they need. Indeed, we believe that information for which Canadians paid belongs to Canadians. They have every right to access it. To that end, we will review the Access to Information Act to ensure it provides the openness and accountability Canadians expect. We will ensure that the government is fair, open, and accountable to all Canadians.Reviewing the access to information system will also bring greater transparency, open the doors for greater public participation in governance, and support the Government of Canada's commitment to evidence-based decision-making.Canada's access to information legislation has not been substantially updated since 1983. How much our world has changed since then. The proliferation of personal technology, like smart phones, has altered so many aspects of our lives.We recognize that technology in all forms is changing how citizens interact with their government in powerful ways; so, in the coming months we will look at ways to align Canada's access to information system with those modern realities.Releasing information in easy to use formats, which will ensure that Canadians have meaningful access to their government, is one of the most important and substantive changes we can make. Our review of the access to information system will explore, among other updates, how we can make usable formats a reality.Another part of our commitment to openness involves eliminating barriers wherever we can. We committed to Canadians that we would eliminate fees for accessing government information, with the exception of the initial fee for filing a request. We believe that Canadians should not have to foot the bill for information that belongs to them.In addition to reducing financial barriers, we will look at reducing systemic barriers. For example, we will examine ways to expand the scope of the Access to Information Act so that it applies to the Prime Minister's office, to ministers' offices, and to bodies that support Parliament and the courts.We will do this because we know that Canadians want us to pull back the curtain on the factors that influence the decisions that affect their lives. Canadians expect to know how and why decisions are made on their behalf, though we also acknowledge the valid and important reasons behind protecting some information.These reasons include protecting Canadians' personal information, withholding information that would put someone's safety or national security at risk, and ensuring that officials can provide full, free, and frank advice to the government. We will work with all stakeholders to strike the right balance.The government also recognizes that Canadians want and deserve easier access to their own personal information. We will explore ways to strengthen this aspect of the existing system. We want to create a system that is more nimble, responsive, and convenient.These kinds of sweeping changes cannot happen in a vacuum. We look forward to working with the Information Commissioner and other interested Canadians on the review of the Access to Information Act. In fact, we consider the Information Commissioner to be an important partner in our review of Canada's access to information system.Indeed, we heard earlier from the President of the Treasury Board, in answer to a question, that the initial contact, initial meeting, initial approach, has already taken place.No access to information regime is complete without meaningful and effective oversight. We promised Canadians that we would find ways to empower the Office of the Information Commissioner to order government information to be released in situations where doing so would be in keeping with the purposes of the Access to Information Act.(1635)We look forward to working with the Information Commissioner to foster a strong and responsive access regime.We also recognize that this cannot be a one-off initiative. We have been witness to many changes in society and in technology since our access to information legislation came into force in 1983. We need to find ways to ensure that the system continues to grow and change alongside us. We cannot allow our access to information practices to become stagnant.A vibrant and evolving access to information system will support a strong, open, and transparent democracy. One way to ensure the continued strength of the access to information system is to undertake a full legislative review of the Access to Information Act every five years. Legislative reviews provide an important opportunity for Canadians to have their say on access rights and to help us ensure that the system continues to meet their needs.Given the importance of these changes and their complexity, the government will take the time necessary to hear from interested Canadians on this issue and to fully examine all the options. We will come forward with proposals to enhance and build on the existing strengths in the system. These are early days. We will announce more details about the review in the coming months. We look forward to working with all the stakeholders to ensure that we develop balanced, reasonable, and feasible proposals. I welcome the input from the committee members gathered here on ways in which we can enhance our access to information regime.Access to informationConsideration in a Committee of the WholePublic sectorSupplementary estimates (B) 2015-2016JohnMcCallumHon.Markham—ThornhillKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg North//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Supplementary Estimates (B), 2015-16]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1640)[English]Madam Chair, I would like to thank my colleague and friend from Winnipeg North, who can always be counted upon to raise interesting points, and when necessary, ensure that the debate is as fulsome and comprehensive as it can possibly be on virtually any given topic.The two topics the member raised in his question were proactive disclosure and the commitment of the Prime Minister. There is no question that, under the leadership of the present Prime Minister, it was the Liberal Party that indeed led the way with respect to proactive disclosure of expenses here in the House of Commons, and he did so on a voluntary basis almost immediately after his appointment as leader. Eventually other parties came along, and eventually the rules were changed such that the process that was put in place by our party was adopted by the House of Commons as a whole.The other element of the question is the Prime Minister's personal commitment to open government. The private member's bill that was brought forth by the then member for Papineau was about open government. When it came his time on the lottery, that was the topic he chose. It was defeated by the then government, but now we will see it come into government policy through the President of the Treasury Board.Consideration in a Committee of the WholePublic sectorRefugeesSupplementary estimates (B) 2015-2016SyriaKevinLamoureuxWinnipeg NorthJoyceMurrayVancouver Quadra//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Supplementary Estimates (B), 2015-16]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1640)[English]Madam Chair, it really comes back to bringing government into 2015, into modern times. We have an access to information system that has not been overhauled since 1983. If we look at what has happened in terms of technology, when we look at what has happened in terms of the information age and the availability of information online, we see that legislatively we are way behind. We are way behind society in terms of what the demands are, in terms of what the expectations are, and in terms of the degree to which people want to be involved and informed in the decisions that affect their everyday lives. That is really what this is about. It is a long-overdue modernization to give Canadians what they want.Access to informationConsideration in a Committee of the WholePublic sectorSupplementary estimates (B) 2015-2016JoyceMurrayVancouver QuadraScottBrisonHon.Kings—Hants//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Supplementary Estimates (B), 2015-16]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1640)[English]Madam Chair, one of the most common refrains from the opposition benches in the last Parliament was that we were in an environment where the government was driven by ideology and not by evidence. This was certainly characterized in the climate change debate and in the muzzling of scientists. I was so happy to hear in question period the Minister of Science rise in response to the first question posed to her and say that the war on science is over. It is a good day, it is a new day, and it is one when Canadians can rightly look forward to a change in the approach of government and the respect for science and evidence-based policy going forward.Consideration in a Committee of the WholePublic sectorScientific research and scientistsSupplementary estimates (B) 2015-2016ScottBrisonHon.Kings—HantsLloydLongfieldGuelph//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Supplementary Estimates (B), 2015-16]InterventionMr. Sean Casey: (1645)[English]Madam Chair, I would like to thank my colleague from Guelph and welcome him to the House. Guelph has been the beneficiary of some excellent representation in the last Parliament. I have no doubt that he will continue that tradition.It is so refreshing that one of the first orders of business of this government is to restore the long-form census, to put meaningful action to the commitment to evidence-based policy. With respect to how long it will take for the changes to bear fruit, which have been implemented virtually on day one, it is difficult to say, but the fact is that we have now set out on the right track, and only good things will come from the newfound respect and regard for evidence.Consideration in a Committee of the WholeLong-form census questionnairePublic sectorSupplementary estimates (B) 2015-2016LloydLongfieldGuelphLisaRaittHon.Milton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Supplementary Estimates (B), 2015-16]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1710)[English]Mr. Chair, I would like to thank my colleague from Vancouver Quadra for that speech. It is refreshing to hear the government benches espouse the virtues of evidence-based decision-making.I know my colleague has served time as the Liberal Party critic for National Defence, and also as a provincial environment minister.It seems as though most of the time when we talk about evidence-based decision-making, we revert to talking about science and climate change. As the justice critic in the last Parliament, the lack of evidence-based decision-making in criminal justice policy was a hallmark of the previous government, and it has resulted in us having a sizable agenda going forward.My question to the member is twofold. Could she talk a bit about the importance of evidence-based decision-making in her previous portfolio in defence, to the extent that there is a connection there? Also, could the member talk about the importance of the long-form census, the restoration of it, and where it fits in the whole evidence-based decision-making thrust of the government?Consideration in a Committee of the WholeDecision-making processPublic sectorSupplementary estimates (B) 2015-2016JoyceMurrayVancouver QuadraJoyceMurrayVancouver Quadra//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgGovernment OrdersBusiness of Supply [Supplementary Estimates (B), 2015-16]InterventionMr. Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada, Lib.): (1740)[English]Mr. Chair, I welcome the member for Richmond Hill to the House. It could not be more appropriate than for someone with a background in management consulting and information technology to give his maiden speech in the House on open government. I would invite my colleague to perhaps talk a bit about his background as a management consultant in the information technology field and how it gives him an appreciation of the availability of data, and particularly the availability of data in usable, machine-readable format, and how that is important to business.Consideration in a Committee of the WholeInformation technologyPublic sectorSupplementary estimates (B) 2015-2016MajidJowhariRichmond HillMajidJowhariRichmond Hill//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/71270SeanCaseySean-CaseyCharlottetownLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/CaseySean_Lib.jpgStatements by MembersGreater Charlottetown Area Chamber of CommerceInterventionMr. Sean Casey (Charlottetown, Lib.): (1405)[English]Mr. Speaker, as this is the first time on my feet in the chamber in this session, allow me to express my appreciation to the good people of Charlottetown, the birthplace of Confederation, in Canada's smallest and nicest province, for having re-elected me to represent them in Parliament. I am proudly honoured to have re-earned their support.Today I rise to recognize one such constituent, Kathy Hambly, the executive director of the Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of Commerce. Kathy joined the chamber as a member in 1978, was on the board, served as its president in 2002, and began her career as executive director in 2005. In that role, she has transformed the organization, introducing initiatives such as Island Advance, PEI Connectors, Biz2Biz Expo, and the annual excellence awards.As a crowning achievement to her legacy of excellence, she was honoured by the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Executives of Canada as executive director of the year—Greater Charlottetown Area Chamber of CommerceHambly, KathyStatements by MembersHedyFryHon.Vancouver CentreGeoffReganHon.Halifax West//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1440)[English]Mr. Speaker, I congratulate my hon. colleague on her appointment as critic for agriculture.I can assure my hon. colleague that our government is fully committed to supply management. We are engaging with the stakeholders continually. The Minister of Trade and I have continually met stakeholders and we will protect supply management. Dairy industryInternational tradeOral questionsSupply managementTrans-Pacific PartnershipRuth EllenBrosseauBerthier—MaskinongéBillCaseyCumberland—Colchester//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/33LawrenceMacAulayHon.Lawrence-MacAulayCardiganLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MacAulayLawrence_Lib.jpgOral Question PeriodInternational TradeInterventionHon. Lawrence MacAulay (Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, Lib.): (1500)[English]Mr. Speaker, the Government of Canada fully supports supply management. The government, as I indicated before, is fully engaged with the stakeholders. We understand fully the importance of compensation for the supply management sector. The Government of Canada supports compensation in the context of the Canada-EU trade agreement and the trans-Pacific partnership, should it come into force.Dairy industryInternational tradeOral questionsSupply managementTrans-Pacific PartnershipSimonMarcilMirabelPabloRodriguezHonoré-Mercier//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgSpeech from the Throne Resumption of Debate on Address in ReplyInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1240)[English]Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate my former seatmate, in the last House, on her election for her eighth term in this House. Both as a doctor and as a parliamentarian, she has a strong passion for health care. We know, from being in several parliaments together, that some governments look at spending as just adding to the debt and spending in itself.This government has a hope and desire to invest in Canadians' future. I wonder if the member wants to expand on what she sees a federal government can do in building a better health care system for Canada as a whole.Address in Reply to the Speech from the ThroneHealth care systemHedyFryHon.Vancouver CentreHedyFryHon.Vancouver Centre//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgSpeech from the ThroneResumption of debate on Address in ReplyInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey (Egmont, Lib.): (1620)[English]Mr. Speaker, it is indeed a pleasure to rise in the House today for this my maiden speech in the House of Commons. I want to congratulate you, Mr. Speaker, on your position in the chair, but first and foremost, congratulate my colleague from the riding of Halifax West on his successful re-election to the House of Commons. It is a true tribute to his character to be chosen as Speaker of the House by his peers. That speaks a lot to the member. I understand that he is the first speaker from Atlantic Canada in close to a hundred years. We have a lot of people to thank when we are first elected, or indeed in any election where we are successful. However, I want to deviate a bit and acknowledge those people who participate in the public process, which is so important in preserving our democracy. Those are the people who were not successful. In order for me to be here, to be successful, I had to defeat a number of candidates. One was the former member of the House from my riding. I want to acknowledge the contribution that she made to our country when she served here in the House of Commons. Sometimes we forget about the contributions that people make. If we are fortunate we will all become former members of the House of Commons, although we do not always get to choose how we become former members. Therefore, it is important that we acknowledge from time to time the contribution of former members, even of those who are not of the same political stripe as we are. I have a lot of people to thank for my successful election to Parliament. We all get here with a very dedicated campaign team. We get here with the dedication and support of our family, our friends, and our peers. I would not be here without the support I received from my parents, who instilled in me the values and confidence to seek public office. This is my second public office. I am a former member of the provincial legislature. It was my parents who instilled in me the values that led me to pursue whatever goal I chose for my path in life. Being the son of a fisher and a work-at-home mother, they gave me those values that allowed me to be successful in the paths I chose. Today, I want to acknowledge that support and thank them. I also have to thank the people of my riding who by majority chose me as the person they wished to represent them in the House of Commons for this 42nd Parliament. It is a very onerous task that we take on. It is one with a lot of responsibility, because once we are elected we must represent all the people who live in the riding regardless of their political stripe and whom they chose to support during that election. I am committed to do that. My riding of Egmont is unique, as all ridings are, and I am as proud of it as all members are of the ridings they represent. Egmont is in the western part of Prince Edward Island. I am proud that it encompasses a first nations community, strong and vibrant Acadian communities, and small communities of people of Irish and English ancestry. We have a growing population of Asian people and people of various ethnic backgrounds, much like the House of Commons. It also includes the dynamic city of Summerside. (1625)I may be out of step here, but I want to acknowledge one of the pages serving in the House of Commons who comes from my riding, by the name of Ryan Arsenault. I believe his name is one I can use in the House. I want to acknowledge that he is a young person who I am sure will be a future leader some day.The people of Egmont chose me to be their representative in the House of Commons. As I indicated, I take that responsibility seriously. I am proud to be part of a government that is as diverse as the members who were elected in this last election.I must say that I listened intently to the mover and the seconder of the throne speech. Rarely have I witnessed the kind of passion that I witnessed from the mover of the throne speech during his speech with respect to his part of the country, as well as the pride and enthusiasm he is bringing to the job. I was also touched by the seconder, who spoke about how unique her journey was to become a citizen of this country.We are all proud to be Canadians. It is truly one of the great nations of this world. We all arrive here differently. On my mother's side I have Acadian ancestry, but I am also a first generation Canadian as well, given that she was born in the United States to an American father. However, I am proud of that background, as I am sure each and every member is of his or hers.When I spoke about my riding and about how impressed I was with the seconder of the throne speech, it was because our small communities are reaching out to refugee families in a positive way by supporting and welcoming them to these small communities. That says a lot about who we are as a nation and as a people. We should all be proud of that.The throne speech outlined a number of measures in areas that will have a significant and positive impact on the people whom I represent. The one that I was most proud of as a candidate in the election was our position on changing and improving the Canada child benefit, because it is our responsibility to make sure that the children of this country receive the benefits they are entitled to. We have talked a lot about eradicating child poverty. This will go a long way toward eradicating child poverty.The second area is reform to the employment insurance system to recognize that in parts of this country we truly have a seasonal economy. With a seasonal economy we must have a very dedicated, highly skilled, highly motivated workforce to allow those seasonal industries to thrive. To do that we must have an insurance system in place that protects the earnings of those seasonal workers when they no longer have work. That is part of our platform that I was pleased to see included in the throne speech. I believe it may have been the first time that I recall seeing recognition of employment insurance referred to in a Speech from the Throne.In another area we must signal our government's commitment to re-establishing the sacred trust and bond to the veterans who have served this country so well.There are numerous other parts of the Speech from the Throne that I could highlight today. However, I am sure they will be covered by various other speakers over the course of time.With that, I conclude my comments.Address in Reply to the Speech from the ThroneBenefits for childrenCultural diversityEmployment insurancePart-time workersRefugeesSettlement of immigrantsVeteransBruceStantonSimcoe NorthMarilynGladuSarnia—Lambton//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgSpeech from the ThroneResumption of debate on Address in ReplyInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey: (1630)[English]Mr. Speaker, I believe the position of the government is to work with the provinces in coming up with an effective way of reducing carbon in this country. If we do not do that, the cost that our citizens will bear will be significantly higher than anything we may face today.Address in Reply to the Speech from the ThroneCarbon taxLayoffs and job lossesOil and gasMarilynGladuSarnia—LambtonPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrooke//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgSpeech from the ThroneResumption of debate on Address in ReplyInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey: (1630)[English]Mr. Speaker, that is an excellent question from the hon. member. Of course, it is a concern. One of the most negative parts of the changes to the EI program by the former government was that it hurt those in the lower income bracket the most. Any time that government puts forward policy, it should be to advance and improve the financial well-being of its lower-income people.This is directed toward single parents, mostly female. We have to ensure that the EI program attaches a value to every hour of work that can be achieved. This was not occurring in the former program.I am hopeful that with our government's proposals, on which we campaigned, it will do a lot toward changing those negative aspects of the old program. Address in Reply to the Speech from the ThroneEmployment insurance reformPart-time workersPierre-LucDusseaultSherbrookeWayneEasterHon.Malpeque//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/43WayneEasterHon.Wayne-EasterMalpequeLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/43/EasterWayne_Lib.jpgSpeech from the ThroneResumption of debate on Address in ReplyInterventionHon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.): (1635)[English]Mr. Speaker, I congratulate my fellow Prince Edward Islander on his maiden speech in the House. The last two questions related to the terrible damage that the previous government did to the employment insurance system in this country. It was clearly an attack on both seasonal industries and seasonal workers. The member for Egmont comes from a rural riding, where seasonal industries, especially the fisheries, are very important. The throne speech talked about reversing those damaging changes.I wonder if the member for Egmont could spell out to this House how serious the clawback, in terms of working while on claim, was to families within his riding, so that we get to the point of making those changes quickly.Address in Reply to the Speech from the ThroneClawbackEmployment insurance reformFamilies and childrenIncome securityPart-time workersRural communitiesRobertMorrisseyEgmontRobertMorrisseyEgmont//www.ourcommons.ca/Parliamentarians/en/members/88308RobertMorrisseyRobert-MorrisseyEgmontLiberal CaucusPrince Edward Island//www.ourcommons.ca/Content/Parliamentarians/Images/OfficialMPPhotos/44/MorrisseyRobertJ._Lib.jpgSpeech from the ThroneResumption of debate on Address in ReplyInterventionMr. Robert Morrissey: (1635)[English]Mr. Speaker, the clawback was one of the most damaging and regressive aspects of the old EI system because it penalized people for going back to work. It took 50¢ of each dollar earned from them. The old system allowed a person to earn well over $100 a week while on EI before it came back on them. That impacted single parents more than any other demographic in the population. The changes that we make will have a significant economic impact on the small rural communities that depend on seasonal employment.Address in Reply to the Speech from the ThroneClawbackEmployment insurance reformFamilies and childrenIncome securityPart-time workersRural communitiesWayneEasterHon.MalpequeGérardDeltellLouis-Saint-LaurentINTERVENTIONParliament and SessionOrder of BusinessDiscussed TopicProcedural TermPerson SpeakingProvince / TerritoryCaucusSearchResults per pageOrder byTarget search languageSide by SideMaximum returned rowsPagePUBLICATION TYPE