Amandeep Sodhi

Mr. Speaker, the world economy has been disrupted by rising protectionism, global conflicts and a reshaping of the international order. As a result, the cost of living for Canadians has taken a hit. In response, we are focusing on what we can control, by putting money back into their pockets. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, my constituents want to know what steps the government has taken to make their lives more affordable.

Mr. Speaker, olé, olé, olé. Today I rise with great pride as Canada competes on the world stage at the FIFA World Cup. This year, team Canada includes six players from Brampton: Tajon Buchanan, Promise David, Cyle Larin, Liam Millar, Jonathan Osorio and Jayden Nelson. Their talent, discipline and dedication are a true reflection of the hard work that it takes to compete at the highest level. This is a remarkable achievement. I would also like to take a moment to recognize the parents, coaches, volunteers and families who work day and night to support our young athletes and push them to believe in our country. To all of the players, Canada is cheering them on. On behalf of all members of the House, I would like to wish team Canada the best of luck as they represent our country on the international stage. Together, let us make Canada proud. Go Canada, go!

Madam Speaker, a few weeks ago, I rose in the House in support of Bill C-16, and today I rise again for the same reason. In Peel Region, every year, the police receive approximately 16,000 calls of family and intimate partner violence. That is 16,000 calls for help and 16,000 moments of fear. Can the minister speak to the importance of passing this legislation and how it will continue to protect the most vulnerable in our communities?

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Bill C-16, the protecting victims act. The bill would give our justice system the tools to act before violence escalates and before it is too late. Women are being hurt, controlled and isolated, most often by the very people they should feel the safest with. In Peel Region alone, police respond to roughly 16,000 incidents of family and intimate partner violence every year. That is 16,000 calls for help and 16,000 moments of fear. Those are only the ones we hear about. Behind closed doors, in silence, there are countless more. Sometimes, that silence ends in tragedy. We call it femicide. Bill C-16 says clearly that this must stop. It recognizes femicide as first-degree murder and it acknowledges that abuse is not only physical. It is coercion, control and fear. The need is urgent. I urge every member of the House to stand with victims, to stand for justice and to support Bill C-16.

Mr. Speaker, this April marks the seventh anniversary of Sikh Heritage Month, a time to honour the incredible contributions Sikh Canadians have made to our country. Canada is home to the second-largest Sikh population in the world. From health care to business, education, public service and even our armed forces, Sikh Canadians have helped build this country in every sense. Earlier this month, communities across Canada came together to celebrate Vaisakhi, the holiest day of the Sikh calendar. Vaisakhi commemorates the creation of the Khalsa Panth by Guru Gobind Singh Ji in 1699, and it carries with it the timeless teachings of equality, unity and social justice. Seva, the Sikh tradition of selfless service, puts these values into action every single day and reflects the very best of who we are as Canadians. I wish everyone a happy Sikh Heritage Month and happy Vaisakhi.