Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate your allowing me to speak to Bill C-38, the Canadian fuel affordability act. While Canada is starting from a position of strength, the global economy is becoming increasingly uncertain. New and unjustified tariffs, trade tensions, and conflicts in the Middle East and Europe are driving up costs for households and businesses and are creating economic uncertainty here at home for all Canadians. Our government recognizes this and is taking action to help Canadians manage rising costs and navigate these global economic uncertainties. Earlier this year, we temporarily suspended the federal fuel excise tax, saving Canadians and Canadian businesses 10¢ per litre on gasoline and 11¢ per litre on leaded aviation fuel. The impact was immediate, with gasoline prices declining by 11¢ per litre on the first day of implementation. That was real relief for Canadians from coast to coast to coast. Building on our decision earlier this month, the Minister of Finance and National Revenue announced our intention to extend that temporary suspension until January 31, 2027, and apply 50% of the regular excise tax rate from February 1 through March 31, 2027. That means that Canadians in my riding of Mississauga—Lakeshore on the shores of the great Lake Ontario would benefit with extended relief and continued cost reduction per litre for gasoline and diesel. Let me be clear: This measure would help lower costs for Canadians, including truckers and businesses in the food and agriculture, housing, construction and delivery sectors. This is another example of our government's delivering timely and meaningful relief when Canadians need it most. By reducing pressure on gasoline and diesel prices, we would be helping Canadians manage today's challenges, while laying the foundation for longer-term growth and prosperity as we build on the strongest economy in the G7. This is just one part of a broader effort to lower costs for Canadians. It is one of the first measures our government took after assuming office. Members opposite will recall that one of the first things the Prime Minister did upon assuming office was to cancel the consumer fuel charge, helping Canadians to save money at the pump in most provinces and territories. Our government also removed the requirement for provinces and territories to have a consumer-facing carbon price as of April 1, 2025. At the same time, our government recognizes that affordability challenges extend well beyond the cost of fuel, and that is why we have taken additional steps to put money, and more money, back into Canadians' pockets. For example, we introduced the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. By building on the former goods and services tax credit, we are increasing the amount provided to low- and modest-income Canadians by 25% for the first five years, as of July, 2026. In addition to that, we provided a one-time payment in June, equivalent to 50% of increases in 2025-26, with an annual value of the GST credit. Our government is responding to global challenges with a responsible and pragmatic fiscal approach. It is important to note that while we may not control every global event, with respect to the ones that are impacting prices, I want to assure my hon. colleagues and all Canadians that our government is doing what is necessary to take and make a deal that helps those impacts. By lowering costs for Canadians from coast to coast to coast, the government is providing supports to their affordability challenge while creating an economy where Canadians have more control in building their own future. Above all, these government measures will empower Canadians to get ahead and minimize the impacts on their cost of living. Canadians naturally want to keep more of the money they earn. They want greater opportunities to support their families, invest in their communities and build their future with confidence. Our country is at a crossroads. Many people around the world choose Canada. New Canadians are seeking freedom and opportunity. Throughout history, Canadians have proven themselves to be resilient, to overcome adversity, and over the years, they have grown more prosperous. They will continue to build. We will persevere, more united than ever, to protect our sovereignty and strengthen its resolve. Standing together, we are navigating this crossroads. I returned recently from overseas, and I had witnessed many around the world celebrating Canada's standing. The Prime Minister is sought after for his leadership and experience, just as much as Canada is sought after for its critical minerals and untapped potential. Canada is valued as a trusted partner that abides by the rule of law and social justice. As chair of the defence committee, I can attest that boosting Canada's defence industrial strategy is renewing our confidence while stimulating our economy. More than that, it bolsters our national pride. Events recently, such as the major attraction at the investment summit, speak volumes. They will enable major projects and build our economy, which sustains and supports the social programs Canadians rely on and expect. Just as the EU and so many around the world welcome Canada, we welcome every effort to broaden our reach and foster relations to reduce geopolitical threats that have impacted price challenges here at home. This bill would help support Canadians, and I hope my colleagues will support this measure for the greater benefit of all Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, the hon. member makes reference to excise taxes in other parts of the world. Most European countries, which is where I was, actually do have excise taxes on their fuel. In fact, fuel was much more expensive than it is here at home in Canada. More importantly than that, the countries I was in were also harnessing renewable energy. They are at the forefront of some of the most critical measures to foster wind power and solar power. They are relying so much more on other energy sources. To answer the member's question, they in fact have very high excise taxes on their fuel.

Mr. Speaker, during the time I was there, provincially we did quite a bit to decarbonize Ontario's reliance on coal. We became one of the lowest-emitting provinces as a result of those measures. We tried to do everything we could to modernize that system, which was expensive but long-term and has great benefits to the overall costs and to the climate. We were trying to make our green energy process an economic process with greater long-term benefits. I value the member's question. I value her desire to have us do more in that regard, and I know that the Prime Minister also has a great desire for climate initiatives to harness green energy alongside the things we are doing as an energy superpower.

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the parliamentary secretary's initiative around looking at this as a wholesome package. Bill C-38 is only a portion of the work that is being done by the government to lower overall costs and improve affordability measures for Canadians, including introducing the Canada groceries and essentials benefit, cutting taxes for 22 million Canadians, providing and eliminating the goods and services tax for first-time homebuyers, cancelling the federal consumer carbon tax, making the national school food program permanent, introducing automatic federal benefits, lowering costs and strengthening competition for essential services, expanding and entrenching the Canada child benefit, lowering costs for child care and kids' essential services, like the $10-a-day child care and interest-free student loans, for that matter, and the Canadian dental care plan—

Mr. Speaker, Portuguese people around the world commemorate their rich history and vibrant culture today. June 10 honours the passing of Luís de Camões, a national hero and a legend who penned Os Lusíadas, a renowned collection of epic poems that capture stories of brave explorers and the Enlightenment during the age of discoveries in the 15th and 16th centuries. Those mariners were the first to circumnavigate the globe and open trade routes around the world, including the initial mapping of Terra Nova's shores off the Grand Banks. Centuries later, a wave of new Portuguese migration arrived at Pier 21 in 1953. My father, among the migrants, sailed across the Atlantic in search of opportunity in Canada. The migrants opened doors for generations that followed. Today we celebrate a strong and vibrant Portuguese diaspora. I congratulate its members and the unifying voice of the Alliance of Portuguese Clubs and Associations of Ontario, which showcases the annual Portugal Day parade in Toronto. Feliz Dia de Portugal. Feliz Dia de Camões. Feliz Dia das Comunidades Portuguesas à volta do Mundo. Happy Portugal Day.

Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Rivière-des-Mille-Îles. I am pleased to have this opportunity to discuss the Government of Canada's Build Canada Homes act, specifically the importance that Build Canada Homes has in relation to supporting the Canadian economy and the federal government's buy Canadian policy. Since September of 2025, Build Canada Homes has been a special operating agency within Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada. Working quickly and efficiently, this new federal agency has already made significant progress to deliver more affordable housing for Canadians. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes would have the flexibility and operational autonomy to deliver on its mandate, all while maintaining a clear accountability framework to Parliament. That is why the Build Canada Homes act is landmark legislation. The Government of Canada needs to strengthen its capacity to address Canada's housing crisis, improve housing supply and accelerate innovation in homebuilding. Far too many Canadians are struggling to find a home they can afford. Housing costs are creating havoc, and productivity in the construction sector is low. Traditional construction and funding approaches alone are not delivering the scale or speed Canadians need. Build Canada Homes will centralize functions that were previously spread across multiple departments, agencies and programs that limited the government's ability to have maximum impact. It will act as a developer, a financier, a convenor and a catalyst for a more productive homebuilding sector. Canadians need more homes, and the Build Canada Homes act would help make it possible to build more quickly, more efficiently and at the scale that is required. The global trade landscape is rapidly changing. In response, we are building a more resilient and more independent Canadian economy. At the core of this strategy is an ambitious plan to construct nation-building projects, more affordable homes and stronger local infrastructure. We are forging strong relationships among all levels of government, municipal, territorial and provincial, and with indigenous partners. We are making strategic investments to build a stronger, more sustainable economy that works towards cutting red tape, eliminating barriers to international trade and making new deals that will drive local economies. This will in turn require a strong skilled trades workforce. That is why, on April 29, as part of the spring economic update, the Prime Minister announced team Canada strong. This is a $6-billion nationwide effort that will recruit, train and hire 80,000 to 100,000 new Red Seal trade workers in the next five years. Team Canada strong will transform the skilled trades and bring more apprentices into the workforce. It will ensure that young Canadians are ready to build the housing and infrastructure that we need. It will create new jobs, good careers and strengthen Canada's future workforce. The Government of Canada is taking decisive action now, making Canada's economy one of the fastest-growing and most competitive in the world and ushering in a new era of economic security and prosperity for Canadians. The Government of Canada, also building on the solid foundation of strong industries, will do so by promoting the buy Canadian policy. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes would be funded through the initial envelope of $13 billion that was announced in budget 2025. It is designed to bring federal supports for affordable housing together in one place, working in tandem with other government departments and organizations. It would move quickly to leverage federal land, support innovative building approaches and partner broadly across sectors to deliver affordable homes. Build Canada Homes is a key part of Canada's new industrial strategy, driving a more productive homebuilding sector. Build Canada Homes will prioritize projects that use Canadian-made materials such as mass timber, lumber, steel and aluminum. It will promote modern construction methods such as modular and prefabricated housing to reduce build times, material waste and environmental impact. The federal government is leveraging key stakeholder relationships with private developers, businesses and community and not-for-profit organizations, as well as with other government and indigenous partners. By working together, we are creating job opportunities here at home and supporting the Canadian workforce. Together, we are building stronger communities and a stronger Canada. The Government of Canada introduced a new buy Canadian policy framework, effective as of December 16, 2025. The policy leverages federal investments by prioritizing Canadian domestic suppliers, content and materials to help make Canada's economy stronger, more resilient to global shocks and better able to support Canadian workers and businesses. The policy is comprehensive, covering not only direct purchasing but also the breadth of federal investments. It is being applied by federal departments, agencies and Crown corporations. Build Canada Homes adheres to the Government of Canada's buy Canadian policy. It will do so by strengthening domestic supply chains, and every new home will mean more demand for Canadian steel, lumber and aluminum, helping workers and businesses thrive. The buy Canadian policy also provides flexibility and a framework for recognizing the provinces and territories, which may also apply their similar standards. These changes to procurement rules will help Canadian industries become more self-sufficient and resilient to changes in the global economy. The buy Canadian policy supports strategic sectors, such as the Canadian construction and defence industries, and it applies to projects such as buildings, bridges, aircraft parts and much more. It requires that large federal construction and defence purchases use Canadian-produced steel, aluminum and wood products. The Government of Canada is also increasing economic opportunities for first nation, Inuit and Métis businesses. Through the federal procurement process, federal departments and agencies are required to ensure that a minimum of 5% of the total value of contracts be held by indigenous businesses. This includes businesses owned and operated by elder, band and tribal councils; businesses registered in the Government of Canada's indigenous business directory; or businesses registered on a modern treaty beneficiary business list. Through the new buy Canadian policy, we are making the government a force of nation building, becoming our own best customer, protecting Canadian businesses and empowering our workers through high-paying careers that build prosperity at home. The Government of Canada is moving forward with legislation such as the Build Canada Homes act in order to build strength at home. We are investing in Canadian industries and creating more jobs as a result. Build Canada Homes is a part of the federal government's strategic effort to invest in our modern nation, protect Canadian interests and make our economy one of the strongest in the G7. By making Build Canada Homes a Crown corporation, the Government of Canada would be better placed to ensure that Canadians have access to affordable housing. Across the country, we want to build more homes quickly and efficiently using Canadian materials, Canadian workers and Canadian businesses. The Build Canada Homes act would enable the federal government to have a greater and more positive influence on Canada's housing system. Together, investments made through Build Canada Homes, in collaboration with key partners, would help strengthen our economy and create lasting economic benefits for communities right across our country.

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the member opposite for his effort to be moderate during OGGO briefings, as chair. We do appreciate his manner. In this case, though, I want to let him be better appreciative of the effort of the Build Canada Homes act to coordinate all these agencies into one in order to minimize costs and to elaborate and expand affordable housing. The president who has been appointed to that housing agency is one of the leaders across the country in affordable housing, and we welcome her initiatives and her endeavours to produce greater value for homes in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I hope the member is wrong, because what the Build Canada Homes act and the agency itself have recognized is that there are a number of other provinces that already operate procurement practices. We want to use those practices concurrently. We would not be duplicating them. We want all of Canada, including Quebec, to benefit from lower costs, greater efficiencies and greater speed, enabling Quebeckers to afford homes here in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, it is essential to my riding of Mississauga—Lakeshore. We actually have a Canada Lands property. A lot of people are talking about the redevelopment and revitalization of our waterfront, but we also need affordable housing. As a result, there are now three projects in my riding that are being initiated and built. There has been great support from Peel Region to facilitate those projects, because the federal Government of Canada stepped up to the plate and enabled it to happen.

Mr. Speaker, the member is moderate, except on this question. The fact of the matter is that we are reducing costs and working with other provinces. Ontario has actually matched some of those cuts, and that is important. We have to work collaboratively. I reach out to the members of the opposition to come on board to help their citizens and constituents lower their cost of housing. Let us join together to make housing more affordable right across Canada.

Mr. Speaker, how does the member perceive the reaction in trade negotiations when the opposition is proposing that Canada is in a gloomy position, while most economists and experts are not positioning it that way at all? The Conservatives are positioning this as though Canada is in the midst of a tremendous downfall, when in fact it is the opposite, but that is giving leverage and strength to the United States in trade discussions. Can the member comment, please?

Mr. Speaker, I am participating in today's debate to speak about the government's plan to maintain fiscal stability and provide a bit more clarity on Canada's economy. The government's fiscal plan remains rooted in fiscal responsibility. This is not for its own sake, but to create capacity and invest in long-term economic strength and greater self-reliance. Consistent with this approach, the recent spring economic update of 2026 is the government's next step in building a stronger, more independent and more resilient Canada. It advances the building of more affordable housing and houses. It talks about major infrastructure that transforms and connects our economy while bringing down costs to help Canadians get ahead. It is absolutely important to give a clear and transparent account of Canada's economy and its performance in an increasingly uncertain world, and to not promote fear. We are advancing major projects that connect and transform our nation, supercharging our housing construction and forging new economic partnerships. We are acting decisively to protect our economic sovereignty and position Canada for greater long-term growth. It is a principled and pragmatic approach. However, some long-term payoffs will take time. To ensure that Canadians have the support they need right now, the government is providing bridging supports. For over a year, Canada's government has been focused on making life more affordable. Nearly 22 million Canadians are keeping more of what they earn with the middle-income tax cut. First-time homebuyers are saving up to $50,000 with the removal or reduction of the goods and services tax on new homes. The removal of the consumer carbon price has lowered gas prices by 18¢ per litre. The government has temporarily suspended the federal fuel excise tax. Last week, more than 12 million Canadians began receiving hundreds of dollars more through the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. These are important measures. In a world of geopolitical instability, governments need to rethink how they respond to the headwinds. From a fiscal perspective, especially in light of these challenges, we are delivering up to $11.5 billion in improvements to our project deficit going forward in our budgetary balance. This strength carries into future years, providing the budgetary balance relative to that of budget 2025 by an average of $10.7 billion per year from 2026-27 to 2029-30 before those new measures. This fiscal room allows the government to improve affordability and raise the Canadian standard of living through targeted policy measures. The recent budget marked a strategic shift in the government's management of public finances. It is focused on expanding federal capital spending to mobilize investments while maintaining those critical programs that so many Canadians rely on. With significant investments in infrastructure, innovation and industrial capabilities, budget 2025 set out a clear plan to build the strongest economy in the G7. The government also remains committed to being disciplined. This includes the comprehensive expenditure review, which now totals over $60 billion in savings and revenues over the next five years. The focus is targeted, beginning with efforts to rein in spending on external management and other consulting services. These challenging actions are necessary. They have the objective of spending less so that we can invest more in Canadians. Canadians are navigating a rapidly changing and increasingly fragmented world. Economic security, industrial policy and geopolitical competition are increasingly shaping investment, trade and financial decisions. The conflict in the Middle East, of course, has disrupted key shipping routes, and damaged energy infrastructure has pushed energy prices higher, underscoring the fragility of global supply chains and adding to an already elevated level of uncertainty. Despite this environment, Canada's economy continued to expand, growing by 1.9% in 2025. Domestic activity remained solid, even with the elevated tariffs and the impacts they have on our trade tensions. North American supply chains withstood disruptions more effectively than expected, with the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement, the CUSMA, protecting approximately 85% of Canadian goods exports from these recent U.S. measures. Businesses and workers have shown remarkable resilience in the face of significant uncertainty. Contrary to the naysayers, firms continue to invest, diversify suppliers and expand into new markets. Canada continues to attract significant global capital, leading the G7 in per capita direct investment inflows. A Statistics Canada survey of planned capital expenditures for 2026 indicates that businesses plan to step up capital spending this year. Reflecting on Canadian adaptability, the International Monetary Fund, the IMF, expects Canada to post the second-fastest growth in the G7 over 2026 and 2027. Labour market conditions have also remained resilient. Since 2024, Canada has added more jobs per capita than the U.S. In May alone, the Canadian economy added 88,000 jobs, which has already been mentioned a number of times today. These jobs are mainly in the private sector, and all of them are full-time. The unemployment rate has fallen to 6.6%. Wage growth has now outpaced inflation for more than three consecutive years, supporting continued gains in real incomes. Overall, the Canadian economy has shown resilience in the face of significant trade tensions and geopolitical uncertainty, and most respected economists and experts agree. Let me remind the hon. members in the House that even with all of the global challenges, Canada starts from a position of strength. Canada's net debt burden today is lower than any other G7 country's. It is even below the levels of those countries' prior to the pandemic. Canada also has one of the smallest deficits in the G7 as a share of its economy. This fiscal challenge gives the government the capacity and responsibility to act to build a stronger economy, make life more affordable, create high-paying jobs, take care of each other and determine our future. Canada's fiscal position also stands well among 30 other advanced economies. We are one of only two G7 economies, alongside Germany, to maintain a AAA credit rating with most global credit rating agencies. This AAA rating supports investor confidence and keeps us borrowing at lower costs than would otherwise be possible. We know some of the payoffs will take time. That is why our government is standing with Canadians through uncertain and rapidly changing times by acting responsibly to provide supports today and making smart, long-term investments that strengthen Canada's economy. This means creating the mechanisms to ensure that Canadians thrive today and tomorrow, supporting workers and young people, enhancing the housing sector, combatting financial crimes and investing in strong communities. We need to be on the right track. All members of the House should be collaborating effectively to promote Canada, not creating fearmongering and not giving enough sway and support to the likes of those who are leveraging to downplay the Canadian economy and its strength and the unifying effect that we are seeing. We will stand strong for Canadians, and Canadians will stand strong by continuing to do what they do well.

Mr. Speaker, the member opposite brings up a very important point, which is that during these moments of challenge, it is important for the government to stand by Canadian citizens, especially those who are most vulnerable. What has the government done? We have made middle-income tax cuts, which the opposition member did not approve. We provided the groceries and essentials benefit program. We eliminated the GST for first-time homebuyers. We are putting a pause on the fuel excise tax. We have also launched the automatic federal benefits program to provide more support for those very individuals. The member opposite did not support those measures to help her constituents.

Mr. Speaker, the hon. member is bringing the question to me by way of what economists are saying. Let me tell the House what some of the economists are saying. According to Desjardins, “real GDP has contracted for two consecutive quarters”, but according to its analysis, “More than half of the industries in Canada have been expanding over the past six months, and consumers have continued to increase their purchases of good and services.” According to RBC, “we continue to think underlying details in both the labour market and GDP data are better than” what is being headlined and stated in the growth of numbers. According to TD Bank, “Looking to Q2, some bounce-back should be expected.” According to the National Bank, “Two consecutive quarters of negative GDP growth can mean very different things depending on what’s happening to the population. Canada’s economy registered a tiny contraction in Q1, following a decline in Q4. Yet real GDP per capita rose nearly 1% in Q1”—

Mr. Speaker, it is important that all levels of government recognize that during points of difficulty, it is important to stimulate economic growth. It is counter-cyclical. That is what is happening here. We have to create the bridge to enable our citizens to weather the challenges before us. We cannot just stand in the House and create fear, saying the sky is falling, and do nothing to help. We have to approve some of the work that is being done to support them in this case.

Mr. Speaker, it would be great if we installed some of the crime bills that are right before the House, as well as some of the bail sections. We are combatting crime. On this side of the House, we recognize the impact it has on my community, specifically. We are creating the reverse onus and making it harder for criminals to make bail. We are toughening sentencing for repeat and violent offenders. We are criminalizing coercive control to stop domestic violence. We are ending house arrest for criminals who commit—

Mr. Speaker, these are challenging times. The global market and trade landscape has shifted rapidly, over the last year especially. This includes, of course, the imposition of tariffs. I want to speak today about the opposition day motion, item (c) specifically, which states, “express concern that this new trade environment will have irreparable effects on our manufacturing sector and the jobs that depend on it”. My colleagues have spoken at length about the economic impact of the tremendous work that the government is doing to try to transform the economy, protect our sovereignty and bolster economic growth, but today I want to speak specifically about labour. Tariffs have had a broad impact on Canada's labour market. It has been rightly stated that they have hit the steel, automotive and softwood lumber sectors the hardest. They are creating stress for workers, employers and communities right across the country. My city of Mississauga and the surrounding GTA, especially Steeltown, Hamilton, have been rocked by tariffs, but the people of Steeltown are fighters. They are strong, and the Canadian government is fighting alongside them. In the midst of this, the member from Joliette—Manawan wants us to step back and condemn the imposition of American tariffs. He wants us to express our concern about the effects they will have on our jobs and our manufacturing sector. I get it. I understand, but I can assure the member opposite that we are well beyond polite expressions of outrage. Instead, we are meeting today's challenges with disciplined focus on building a stronger, more resilient economy. That is enough with the belly aching. It is time to take action, and we are. We are doing so co-operatively with stakeholders, industry and labour. That is how we will mitigate the impact of the tariffs. A year ago, the Prime Minister was elected with a vision to build Canada strong together. Since that time, we have been relentlessly focused on protecting our sovereignty and our capacity to grow. We are not backing down from tariffs. We are standing up for workers to make sure they have the support they need to succeed. As we build Canadian and as we buy Canadian, we are giving every worker the tools they need to succeed in a changing economy. That is what investing in people means. It is about building the foundation for long-term economic strength. The Prime Minister has said numerous times that as we cope with economic uncertainty, our most powerful recourse and our most powerful tool is to control what is within our power to control. In other words, we should take the bull by the horns. How do we do this? How do we mitigate the impact of these uncertain times to build a stronger, more inclusive economy? We invest in Canada. We invest in infrastructure, the defence industrial strategy and major projects, and we invest in Canadians, in people. First are the skilled trades and apprenticeships. The government knows how vital tradespeople are. They build our homes, keep our cities running and take care of infrastructure we rely on. A strong skilled trades workforce builds Canada. It builds us strong. Canada needs more skilled trades to build the nation-building projects, the affordable homes, the new defence industries and stronger infrastructure. To meet this, team Canada Strong will recruit, train and hire up to 100,000 new Red Seal trade workers in the next five years. It is an ambitious agenda, one that will generate good-paying jobs now and into the future. Step one of that plan is recruitment. Team Canada strong will provide young people with a clear path to learn and enter the trades, and to link up with employers. Young people will start in registered apprenticeships, earning income, gaining experience and contributing immediately to those major projects. The second phase is training. We are boosting modernizing the apprenticeship training to expedite the Red Seal certification with $331 million in funding over five years, starting in 2026-27. We will also expand union training and innovation programs to enable union-run training centres to upgrade facilities and invest in modern equipment. The final stage is hiring. Once certified in a Red Seal trade, tradespersons can receive up to $5,000 as a completion bonus. Income supports will also be available for those who are between the periods of training and work. Training for the trades can take a long time, and sometimes income stability is a concern during the completion of those years, so we are going to make sure that apprentices get the financial support they need, starting now. We recently announced $75 million over three years, starting in 2026-27, to double the union training and innovation program, which supports union-based apprenticeship training. This is part of our current investment of nearly $1 billion a year to support the Red Seal program through tax credits and EI benefits and the project funding of unions, other tradespeople and stakeholders. Next, I want to talk about why the Government of Canada is creating workforce alliances to help Canadian workers weather the tariff storm. Our government is committed to protecting and supporting workers in this period of uncertainty by creating one labour market. Existing workforce development approaches are fragmented and not well coordinated. There is a need for greater cohesion. As part of a broader tariff package announced by the Prime Minister on September 5, and echoed in our budget of 2025, we are investing in modern measures to protect, build and transform Canada's workforce in these strategic industries. New investments include workforce alliances to tackle urgent labour market challenges in six priority areas: housing and construction, transportation and supply chains, advanced manufacturing, the care economy, mining and minerals, and energy and electricity. Our workforce alliances are unified by one core mission, which is to create lasting job opportunities for Canada's workers where they are needed most. Canada's workforce is the strongest when employers, unions and training partners work together. Together, they will keep Canada's workforce strategy grounded in the real needs of the country. All this investment is essential. Canadian industry is the backbone of our country's economy. Every sector matters. That starts with steel, Canadian aluminum and Canadian lumber. Supporting these industries is about reinforcing our made-in-Canada industrial capacity, protecting good jobs and strengthening our communities. Big things are getting built. What is going to strengthen our economy for generations to come is having them built. We set up the Major Projects Office. Fifteen projects have been referred, which will support 60,000 jobs across the country, from the Crawford nickel mine in Timmins, the Darlington nuclear plant in Ontario and the terminal container project in Montreal to the Grays Bay road and port project in Nunavut and the LNG project in B.C. That is just to name a few. The work we are doing is focused on one thing: building a strong economy that supports great-paying jobs. This is the backbone of the build Canada strong agenda. Canada's labour market is indeed experiencing unprecedented pressures from tariffs, skill shortages, supply chain disruptions and broader economic shifts. Our focus is on building the strongest economy in the G7, and we are holding our own despite the headwinds. Our economy is growing twice as fast as Germany's and three times as fast as Italy's. It does not feel that way sometimes in communities like Steeltown, but we are going to get there. We are going to make sure that no one is left behind. Without skilled workers, we cannot meet the moment. Canada's independence and prosperity depend on the workers who build them. That is why, in March of this year, we announced $228 million for Ontario under the workforce tariff response. It is to support the people who are affected in the hardest-hit sectors to help adjust, especially to the new opportunities. It has never been more important for a government to invest in people. It is all about investing. It is all about people. It is all about Canadians. Workforce development is the cornerstone of economic strength. To meet the challenge of this moment, we are equipping workers with greater tools to strengthen Canada. To this end, in 2025, we introduced—

Mr. Speaker, just yesterday, the Minister of Industry and the Minister of AI announced $1.5 billion. This is the quote from workers at the United Steelworkers: “Today’s announcement is a positive step for companies facing serious pressure from the ongoing U.S. trade war. It matters to workers because these businesses support good jobs across Canada’s industrial supply chain.” Canada is stepping up to support them now.

Mr. Speaker, I disagree on a couple of issues, primarily the lack of government supports and interventions. I believe they are going to be immediate and sustainable supports. In fact, in the year that has passed, there have been the initiatives of the government through major projects, the defence industrial strategy, the workmen and apprenticeship programs and the supports for those who are affected by the tariffs. These are the supports the government is providing as a bridge to get through it. The greatest ability is economic growth, and we are outpacing most of the G7 to create those jobs and protect Canada's sovereignty. That is going to play well and will support Canada's strength.

Mr. Speaker, the member is with me on the defence committee, and he does an extraordinary job. The extraordinary job of the government is highlighted in a particular instance of the defence industrial strategy, which is the extraction of the critical minerals that we can then deploy to make greater services. This is from New Economy Canada: “With North America...we are moving beyond extraction and turning our natural resources into the advanced materials that power EVs, defence technologies, and the next generation of innovation. This is about building a stronger economy by doing more of the work here at home.” Creating jobs, building and selling at home and leveraging the strength of Canada will propel us ahead.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Canadian military intelligence day on the Hill. The service provided by members of the Canadian Military Intelligence Association is critical. Since 1948, it has monitored adversaries and protected us against potential crisis. Each day, more than 3,500 uniformed and civilian intelligence professionals enable the Canadian Armed Forces and the Department of National Defence to stay abreast of evolving threats and to act with strength and confidence. On behalf of the Parliament of Canada, we stand in the House to commemorate and thank the men and women of our intelligence community for their duty to national security. Our freedom and sovereignty depend on the work they do every day.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for his contribution at the national defence committee. At committee, we heard that 36 recommendations by Justice Arbour have been implemented. That is a tremendous accomplishment and one of the reasons things have improved. However, there is something experts have said. I know the opposition has talked about having choice, but experts say that is a false choice. Could you elaborate, please?

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to discuss the future of Canada's automotive industry and how the government is working to protect the industry and Canadian workers. Canada's automotive sector has long been and remains a cornerstone of our economy. It has defined communities, strengthened our middle class and anchored Canada as a trusted partner in global manufacturing, while supporting hundreds of thousands of additional jobs across supply chains right across the country, including in my riding of Mississauga—Lakeshore. I am proud to represent many hard-working members of Unifor Local 707 from the Ford assembly complex. Safeguarding local economies like mine is exactly why the Government of Canada has reacted quickly in the face of unjustified U.S. tariffs on vehicles. Moreover, we have demonstrated that we are here to protect Canadian workers. When Stellantis and GM announced that they were moving some of their production to the United States, we immediately took action to hold both companies accountable. The Government of Canada has made clear that these decisions are unacceptable and that Canada expects the company to honour the commitments it made to Canada, Ontario and the union. However, it appears that the Conservatives could not care less about working with labour unions. Their leader's proposal was developed without input from auto workers, and it lacks a single measure to support auto workers. How can Conservatives claim to protect Canadian workers when they do not even listen to them? Unifor has been clear that the Conservatives' so-called policy would jeopardize long-term stability and the future of the Brampton and Ingersoll assembly plants. Members heard that right. The Conservatives want us to adopt a policy that would discourage manufacturers from allocating new work to these Ontario plants. Unlike the Conservatives, our government worked hand-in-hand with labour unions, with industry experts and with other levels of government to develop an auto strategy that is focused on the future of our auto industry, not one that is stuck in the past. Canadians were clear last April that we need to work urgently to pursue new trade deals, diversify our economy, protect industry and stand up to unjust and illegal tariffs. To that end, on February 5, 2026, we announced Canada's new automotive strategy to secure domestic manufacturing, support innovation, and position Canada to become a leader in electric vehicle production. The strategy includes a commitment to allocate $3 billion from the strategic response fund and another $100 million from the regional tariff response initiative to help the industry adapt, grow and diversify. We will also establish a comprehensive trade regime to drive the competitiveness of the auto sector. This will be achieved in part by strengthening Canada's automotive duty remissions framework to more strategically reinforce domestic production and attract new investment. Some people may know that I am familiar with Ontario's economy. Throughout my career, I have been privileged to meet Ontarians from every corner of the province. I have worked with many proud Windsorites who were champions for Windsor's auto sector, including Ford's engine manufacturing plants. What does Windsor get in exchange for two Conservative MPs? It gets an auto proposal that does not even recognize engine manufacturing. GM workers in Cambridge, Magna workers in Aurora, Honda workers in Alliston and Martinrea workers in Vaughan are all parts manufacturers, all left behind by their Conservative MPs. I agree with Unifor Local 200's leadership, who said that the Leader of the Opposition did not bother to do his homework. We all recognize that the automotive sector has been built on nation-to-nation collaboration. I was in D.C. recently, and I heard from both Democrats and Republicans that the North American auto industry succeeds when our integrated supply chains are strong and when we compete globally. Canada has maintained a long and successful history of partnership with the U.S. and Mexico, as well as with Japan, to establish its automotive manufacturing footprint, but these are not conventional times. Canada must seize this generational opportunity to transform our auto sector from one that is reliant on a single trading partner to one that is a global leader in the vehicles of the future. Recently, Canada has signed new agreements with Japan, Germany and South Korea to bolster auto manufacturing in Canada, including electric vehicles and a battery supply chain, and Canada has what the world wants. From China and the Indo-Pacific to the G7, Canada has entered a new era of global auto partnerships. This means new markets, new business and new jobs for Canadians, all grounded in building our economy and delivering affordable options for Canadian consumers. Canada is well positioned to attract new investments and diversify export markets by leveraging its free trade agreements, which span 51 countries and provide access to more than 1.5 billion consumers. Priority will be given to attracting new entrants that are leaders in EV manufacturing and connected vehicle technologies to strengthen the sector's resilience. Through the strategic response fund, we are supporting car companies to export more Canadian-made cars to non-U.S. markets like Europe and the Middle East. We are also securing key investments that will drive new opportunities in Canadian auto manufacturing and create new resilient jobs in the auto and battery sector. Unlike the Leader of the Opposition, this side of the House does not ignore foreign threats to dismantle Canadian auto manufacturing. During a rupture in the global trading system, Canadians know that nostalgia is not a strategy. While the Leader of the Opposition is banking on wishes and prayers to get Washington to reverse tariffs, we are focused on real action to build a better future to secure and grow the industry that supports 500,000 Canadian jobs. The actions we take now will have a lasting impact on Canada's auto industry. By safeguarding the industry and incentivizing vehicle manufacturers to build here, we are helping to enhance our productivity and transform Canada's automotive industry to compete and win in a world where the future of autos is electric, connected and globally diversified. I want to reiterate that the Conservative proposal was developed without input from auto workers, lacks a single measure to support auto workers and would disincentivize new work going to the Brampton and Ingersoll plants. That is not smart policy-making. It is political posturing. Our government will continue to focus on investing in those who invest in Canada and building Canada strong with Canadian auto workers.

Mr. Speaker, the member reminds us that when I was finance minister, we bailed out and supported the auto industry in Windsor. If it were not for Ontario's participation, against the wishes of the Conservatives, they would have faltered. We stood by the Canadian auto workers, we stood by the industry and we safeguarded those jobs and those companies. We will continue to do so. Foreign direct investment was at its peak when I was there to try to attract that investment. The members opposite worked against those auto workers, and they continue to do so now with a plan that does not make any sense for the benefit of those workers,

Mr. Speaker, it is important that Canada stays at the forefront of industry and innovation. It is important that we continue to attract investment because we are trusted partners. It is important that we look at the auto sector in a broader scope. It is important that we look to the future of auto. We do not pick winners and losers. They are picking losers. We need to ensure that those competitors who are attracted to Canada recognize that we are an opportunity to provide services to the rest of the world. Canada is broadening its reach with other trading partners because of that very fact. The auto sector will thrive and succeed if we work collaboratively for their benefit and if we look and point to the issues that will prevent and provide future benefit in the long term, not yesterday's viewpoint.

Mr. Speaker, I agree that every sector of our economy from coast to coast to coast matters. Canada united and supporting every industry throughout the country is important, which includes, of course, those very same companies in Quebec. When the auto sector took a dive in 2008, the Ontario government and the federal government at the time stepped in to provide that support. Had it not been for that, the rest of the country would have faltered too. We needed to support the industry, just as we need to support aluminum, forestry, aerospace and industries all across, including oil and gas, where we are one of the largest. We will continue to do so. In fact, one of the things I was trying to do at the time was work with every province with a capital co-operative securities regulatory system to enable all those companies to compete more effectively without the pressures of other parts of Canada's interference. We need to work collaboratively. We support every sector, Quebec included.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand before the House to speak to the third reading of the budget. The finance minister has done an extraordinary job of putting forward a blueprint for Canada that would enable us to be more competitive, to provide for prosperity and to protect our sovereignty. These are important steps, so I thank the minister of finance for doing so. These are values that are critically important to all of us. I believe it is a vision shared by all parties and certainly by Canadians. I came back into politics for a number of reasons. I think many members have as well. It is important for us to provide value in the House and to enable the next generation to be better off than we are, given the circumstances and the opportunities that we have in this place to do something better. We are at a pivotal moment in our history. Geopolitical challenges are before us. Our largest trading partner is becoming less dependable, which is requiring us to be more forthright, to broaden our reach. The budget speaks to that. These are complex issues, so gimmicks do not work in this case. We need a serious road map. We need some serious engagement by all sides to enable this to succeed and to enable Canada to succeed. At times, I hear us attacking the independent institutions in our democratic society that make us trusted partners around the world. I hear attacks on the Governor of the Bank of Canada or our securities commissions or our independent judges. We create the laws, but judges enact them, and we need that to be the case. The blame game that we sometimes see in the House can only go so far. We are all accountable here. We are all accountable to our constituents. We are all accountable to our children and to our parents. We in this House are trying to enable our society to care for our elders and to provide every opportunity for our children, which brings us to the budget. I joined politics after 25 years in the private sector having my own business. I spent 20-plus years in the banking sector, supporting commercial business clients and participating in the capital markets. I enabled mergers and acquisitions and fostered ways for Canada to succeed. In that circumstance, I recognized—

Thank you, Madam Speaker. I know the members are very interested in what is happening. It is creating discussion, and that is important. After 25 years in the private sector, I wanted to give back to a society that enabled us to have opportunity. Many of us are products of immigration. My parents came in 1953 from a postwar fascist regime in Europe, seeking that opportunity to continue to prosper, to allow us that engagement and recognize that we all play an essential role in the well-being of Canada. My first priority in politics and government is to promote economic growth, to promote economic stability and to enable opportunity and prosperity. That is essential to who we are and what we do in the House. The budget speaks to that in a large way. The second priority is to be able to sustain social programs. We cannot do that without a strong economic force, and those programs are essential to help those less fortunate, to ensure that we have education and health care and that we have the backstop for those who are most in need. My community in Mississauga—Lakeshore cares about our economic prosperity and our ability to have jobs but also about ensuring that no one is left behind and that we support our elders as they move on to retirement. Another priority has been unity. Spending the years I did in the private sector, I recognized some of the challenges between provinces. Tearing down those barriers and enabling us to foster greater competitiveness as a country means we have to have stronger unity as a country between provinces. I tried at one point to foster a national co-operative securities regulator across all provinces, and I was able to get eight provinces to sign on. That enabled us to have a shared vision, one where we could attract more foreign direct investment at a lower cost to them, and people of all political stripes understood that. National unity is essential for Canada's prosperity. We can have our differences, but we recognize that when we work in tandem and try to help one another, we all succeed in our federation. At that time, I was representing the Province of Ontario, and we in that provincial government were going through some challenges with the 2008 downturn and the financial crisis. We still picked up, and we still contributed more to the rest of the federation than we brought in, because we understood that Canada is one, notwithstanding all the provincial differences. I strongly support co-operation and success in Quebec, success in British Columbia, success in Alberta and success in all of our provinces, because that way we all succeed. Last, a fourth priority in this engagement, as to why I became a member and sought elected office, is to ensure that Canada stands proudly on the world stage. We have a lot to be proud of. Some may say we are reliant on major powers, and others may say Canada is a trusted partner and one that actually provides engagement regarding peace and the rule of law. That stands Canada apart. It is why we are a major force in NATO. It is why we continue to be a major force in the United Nations. It is why we must continue to stand tall and stand proud, to enable the rule of international law to prevail. Canada is sought after because of our sense of peace, our sense of democracy and our sense of rule of law. We are not here to dictate what others should do but to, by our own example, encourage other parts of the world to behave appropriately, with respect. The budget speaks to respect: respect of our businesses, respect of our citizens and respect of those around the world. Yes, we have global challenges, and Canada is facing them. In Mississauga—Lakeshore, in my community where I grew up, people care about the community. They care about education, jobs and security. They do not care about who is responsible. They just care about the results. They do not care about us deflecting blame to others. They care about us working together to ensure that greater security is had at home, that protection measures are there for them, and that prosperity and opportunity are provided for them as we go forward. The budget speaks to their priorities, investing to build more homes and protecting our society through a number of bills beyond our budget, on crime and bail. In the budget, there is already an allotment for greater border security, greater RCMP and greater measures of protection to ensure that Canada remains safe. More importantly, this budget is about empowering Canadians, giving them skills and job opportunities and providing a number of aspects within industry, with our trade routes and our negotiations abroad, to enable Canada and Canadians to do even more. The budget not only charts a course for Canada, but it charts a course for individuals to succeed. There are a lot of discussions around generational investments in the budget to build major infrastructure. The major projects being proposed would unleash the great potential that Canada has. It is why so many are seeking to invest in Canada and so many are trying to control those investments. We need to foster and protect our indigenous communities and protect Canadians. We must protect our borders, and we must empower Canadians by also providing better measures of affordability. Again, the budget would provide tax cuts for low-income Canadians, incentives to produce more housing, and support within the mix so people can afford those groceries that have been costed up by inflation, which has been under control, but we need to do better in the interim. We must compete, and the budget talks about how we can compete and prosper, how we can build to enable that support and that prosperity, but it also says we must be more responsible and eliminate some wasteful spending. There are measures within the budget to empower us to invest but also to be mindful of where we spend. That is clear in the budget and the process by which we are proceeding without impeding those social programs that are so critical to all Canadians. Attracting investment is a third issue in the budget that I want to touch upon. Canada is one of the strongest in the G7. We are unleashing over $1 trillion over the next five years through our major projects, our critical minerals sovereign fund, roads and bridges, our communities strong fund and Build Canada Homes. The defence industrial strategy is yet another piece of an economic imperative as well as a sovereign imperative. The Major Projects Office will trigger $150 billion in total capital investment, which is critical. Many Canadians want to see Canada invest in itself. It is not just about taking minerals out of our ground. It is about processing and refining those minerals for value-added use. These things are essential as we proceed. Let us talk about the fiscal impacts in the budget. We are in the midst of many trade agreements. We have witnessed a record number of measures already being taken by the Prime Minister, the trade commissioner and our trade minister. The world is looking to work with Canada. Canada is the only country that has trade agreements with all G7 countries That says something about how we are viewed by other parts of the world. Canada is also sought after because we are an energy superpower, one that has a sufficient amount of oil and natural gas that has yet to be taken to its full potential. We recognize that, but we also recognize the clean energy grid that is also important in our ability to trade and to enable some of our industry to be even more competitive in the long term. Those measures are taken into account. Our fiscal capacity is strong. We have a strong credit rating. We have very low net debt to GDP among others. Interest rates have come down, and we have locked in our bonds and yields for the long term to enable us to take advantage of the low rates today. The skills, training and career ability of our people are also essential. This attracts people to Canada, knowing that we have the talent pool to enable manufacturing and advanced manufacturing innovation to succeed. Canada is nurturing that. We are an incubator as well as a builder. Those things must be maintained within Canada. We know that companies all too often will go after larger markets to enable them to succeed. We can do more to help them succeed here at home by having alternative trade routes across other parts of the world. We have talked about affordability, the grocery benefit, and having the ability to ensure that people who are less able today would be able to reduce their taxes and have a way to foster greater engagement if they have found it difficult, certainly after the COVID years. We all recognize that. We talk about that, but Canada, by enabling greater prosperity and job creation, is also able to provide greater support and opportunity for people who have had a difficult time. However, that measure is one of global effect, as colleagues know. The United States is going through the same thing, as well as other parts of Europe and other parts of the world. Canada is one of the few countries that has stood out in providing help and supports directly to the people most in need. We also supported industry, providing stimulus and other measures to help it be more competitive through the industrial strategy. We have a housing strategy to try to foster and create more affordable homes, reduce homelessness and provide greater social well-being. The acceleration of some of those housing projects through our housing strategy will enable that to take place. Many are now breaking ground. Public safety, as I talked about earlier, is an essential part within this budget. So many border security officers have now been hired For the RCMP, the funding of those essential supports are part of this budget. Also considered as a part of this budget is fraud and financial crime, which affects so many and is hard to engage. Within this budget, as we go forward, we are engaged in those protection measures. Our defence strategy recently came out, funded by the opportunities within this budget. It will help us bolster Canadian-made supports in aerospace, ammunitions and critical minerals. Our defence industrial strategy is aligned also with NATO and Europe, our allies, because we need to ensure that we are able to broaden our reach and our markets so we can have those measures invested here in Canada to enable Canadians to invest and also to prosper within those skills and manufacturing sites. The key to this is our defence investment agency to foster and partner with the manufacturing and production facilities at home. The security action plan with Europe, and our strategic investments as we align ourselves across this country to support the industry, will help support and guarantee northern sovereignty, as well as our overall sovereignty in Canada and the Arctic, and provide an international boost for new careers across Canada. Our focus is on Arctic and northern defence, technology and innovation, and, more importantly, on maintaining and securing a strong Canadian supply chain. We are talking about a budget that encompasses housing abilities, our defence ability, our industrial major projects ability, the enablement of energy, the opportunity to maximize our critical minerals, and, above all, to be a trusted partner in the engagement with other parts of the world. Buy Canadian is a big part of this budget. We recognize that is a key factor for Canadians, our citizens, to succeed. It is a positive vision, one with confidence and discipline and one that abides by the rule of law. I thank all members across the way as we maintain and strengthen Canada to keep Canada strong.

Madam Speaker, having engaged with the member opposite in OGGO, I appreciate his reminding the House that I did six budgets and that I did balance the books. Ontario was the largest contributor to the rest of the federation. Even when it was a so-called have-not province, we contributed more to Canada, over $11 billion, than all the other provinces, while Quebec and others were receiving some of that funding. Ontario was also the first to increase its credit rating, during the time I was there, recognizing the strength of our measures being taken. Over one million net new jobs were brought to the province of Ontario during that time, after we had to suffer the 2008 recession, during which the Conservatives were in power. We were still able to balance the books. The member opposite talked about the PBO being an independent member of the House. That is essential, and I am sure it will happen in time. We will require that to be the case. All of us are held to account, and the truth matters.

Madam Speaker, the question enables us to talk about some of the measures that I took when I was minister of finance, as the member opposite reminds us. We brought in a cap-and-trade system in Ontario, aligning ourselves with Quebec. Quebec was part of the western climate initiative with California. Ontario had decarbonized its system, so we were great receivers of $1.3 billion annually through that system. It was the Conservatives who brought in carbon tax pricing to Ontario as a gas tax. We were the ones who were exempt. The Liberal Party of Ontario was able to provide an exemption on that very issue, as was Quebec. We talk about the $1.3 billion that we use for dollar-for-dollar reinvestment in inspiring economic growth in the province of Ontario. This has now been delayed because the Conservatives brought forward a carbon gas tax that was unnecessary. As it stands, all of us should be paying a little extra to provide greener opportunities for all of Canada.

Madam Speaker, it is an essential part of the budget. Expanding our trade routes and expanding trade across the world is part of what gives Canada an opportunity to provide a measure, a step, for some countries to deal in the western hemisphere. Canada has been succeeding. Over $1 trillion is now being projected in supports with Canada's engagement. We are punching above our weight. In fact, Canada remains one of the top destinations for foreign direct investments, and the reason is that investors believe in Canada.

Madam Speaker, the member opposite is speaking about exemptions for opportunities to make Canada more effective, to expedite matters more essential to our economy. I would refer her to those particulars. Every exemption that occurs has to be fully transparent. There is one thing that should never be hampered but is when the Conservatives try to control the Governor of the Bank of Canada, the Ontario Securities Commission or judges. That is uncalled for, and it is one of the reasons a public budget officer is also essential to this role.

Madam Speaker, the member opposite may or may not know that CANDU reactors and the corporation are within my riding. I have met with representatives of Candu Energy on a number of occasions. We talked about small modular reactors providing supports and electricity to those remote communities in the far north that rely primarily on diesel, which is extremely dirty, to provide greater sources of, and more secure, electricity in those areas. As we move into major projects around Canada, we are going to need some greater degree of energy. I can say that world markets are looking to Canada-made reactors and that our CANDU reactors, not just the small modular reactors but our CANDUs, are sought after because of their ability, effectiveness, competitiveness and safety measures. I support our nuclear program in Canada for that very reason.

Madam Speaker, I appreciate that very much, and I think all of us appreciate it. All of us in the House should stand proud and tall for the fact that Canada is seen around the world, and by the G7 and the IMF, for its ability and capacity to grow and invest. Canada has done extraordinary things during downturns. Certainly in 2008, we weathered it better than any other part of the world because we had taken those steps. The IMF appreciates Canada. I think the rest of the world does as well, and so should we.

Mr. Speaker, the world is changing rapidly and Canadians gave the government a strong mandate to protect our workers and industries, all while building Canada strong. Last week, we announced the defence industrial strategy, designed to transform our defence industry and make Canada more secure. Can the Minister of Industry please share what this strategy means for Canadian workers and industries across Canada?

Mr. Speaker, it is with heavy hearts that we mourn the passing of Miguel Domingos. A cherished leader and musician, he was a pillar of the Portuguese community. Miguel was a maestro of his beloved Banda do Sagrado Coração de Jesus of Toronto for decades and the conductor of the Banda do Senhor Santo Cristo. In their words, he stood at the helm of these marching bands, guiding their musicians with passion and an unwavering love for music. Under his baton, the bands not only flourished musically but also served as a vital touchstone for the community. Miguel's powerful operatic voice and leadership ensured that their cultural traditions remained alive, bringing joy and a sense of belonging to countless festivals, processions and concerts. His legacy is written in the notes he taught and in the camaraderie that he fostered among the band members he mentored. He will be remembered not only for his musical talent but also for his dedication to the arts and his commitment to preserving our unique heritage. He was a dedicated husband and a loving father. Our deepest condolences go to his extraordinary wife, Pitty, their children, family and countless friends. May Miguel rest in eternal peace.

Mr. Speaker, I am very fortunate to live in a community that comes together to support those most in need. For the 17th year in a row, I am proud to partner with 'Twas the Bite Before Christmas and my annual holiday turkey drive. Over these years, working together, we have raised more than $1.2 million to support food banks in Mississauga. We are once again raising money to provide turkey dinners for families throughout this holiday season. I am grateful for the generous support of my neighbours and volunteers, and I appreciate the continued spirit of giving. The 'Twas the Bite Before Christmas campaign and the holiday turkey drive go a long way toward fighting despair and feeding hope. I wish everyone peace, joy and good health.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Marc-Aurèle-Fortin for sharing his time. I am proud to rise today in support of budget 2025. The budget would address the global challenges Canada is facing and seize the opportunity to reshape our economy and our nation’s future. I want to thank the many residents of Mississauga—Lakeshore who have spoken to me directly at town halls and constituency meetings to share their input on what they wanted to see in budget 2025. This budget reflects their priorities. It also speaks to the priorities and values of our new government: making the necessary investments to build, protect and empower Canada. Canada stands at a moment of profound transformation. Global economic systems, trade routes and alliances are shifting faster than at any point in recent memory. This instability is creating challenges for workers, families and businesses, but it also offers opportunities for Canada to chart its own course. Global trade disruptions, tariffs and slower growth are being felt across Canada. Families are struggling with higher costs, young people are finding it harder to start careers, and small businesses are delaying plans because of unpredictability. However, the economy remains steady, with growth projected at just above 1% in 2025. This stability reflects Canadians' resilience and determination. The government rejects the path of austerity and retreat. Instead of slashing programs and waiting for recovery through trickle-down economics, Canada will invest decisively in itself, strengthening national capacity, independence and opportunity. Budget 2025 has been designed as a generational response to historic challenges. Canada enters this period from a position of fiscal strength, with the lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio in the G7 and one of the smallest deficits in comparison. Debt is a function and it is relative to wealth. This stability proves there is room for bold, strategic investments. Over the next five years, public and private initiatives are expected to generate more than $1 trillion in total investment. The past year has shown that relying heavily on a single market or supplier leaves the country vulnerable. This budget commits to helping strategic sectors, including steel, aluminum, the automotive industry, forestry and agriculture, adapt and expand. A $5-billion strategic response fund would help support companies in retooling, designing new products and accessing new markets. A $1-billion liquidity package would support small and medium-sized businesses through uncertainty, and new retraining programs will prepare 50,000 workers for emerging industries. To build our strength at home, we need to focus on who we buy from and who buys from us. Canada’s trade diversification strategy aims to double overseas exports within a decade, unlocking $300 billion in new opportunities, while a new buy Canadian policy would ensure that federal procurement prioritizes domestic suppliers. From steel in Hamilton and Sault Ste. Marie to aluminum in Saguenay and autos from factories throughout Ontario and across the country, we are creating good jobs in our communities and supporting Canadian industry in the face of illegal and unjust tariffs, building resilient domestic supply chains that Canadians can rely on. The buy Canadian policy is how we make sure that every public dollar we spend contributes to a stronger, more secure and more prosperous Canada for everyone. These initiatives will strengthen domestic capacity, ensuring that future economic shocks can be met with made-in-Canada solutions. Strong nations build strong foundations. Budget 2025 introduces the largest wave of infrastructure investment in decades. Projects would modernize highways, ports, airstrips and energy grids to connect regions and strengthen supply chains. A dedicated Arctic infrastructure fund and a build communities strong program would expand opportunity to northern and rural areas, creating high-paying jobs and new corridors for trade and travel. For many Canadians, home ownership feels increasingly out of reach. Under the leadership of Ana Bailão, a good friend, Build Canada Homes would tackle this crisis, together with the government, by doubling the pace of construction over the next decade, leveraging Canadian-made materials, domestic skilled trades and strategic partnerships across the country. To make daily life more affordable, the government has reduced personal income taxes for 22 million Canadians. The budget would make the national school food program permanent and ensure the automatic delivery of federal benefits to 5.5 million low-income households. Together, these measures would target the immediate cost of living pressures while larger investments take shape. A confident, sovereign nation must be able to protect itself. Budget 2025 would commit $30 billion over five years, the largest defence investment in decades, to modernize Canada’s military, reinforce Arctic security and support NATO and NORAD commitments. These funds would expand the shipbuilding, aerospace and cybersecurity industries while creating domestic jobs in technology and advanced manufacturing. This budget would invest in both protection and prosperity, building Canadian capabilities that defend our national sovereignty and drive international growth. Raising productivity is central to long-term prosperity. The budget responds with targeted measures to mobilize talent, ideas and investment. New incentives would encourage research and commercialization in clean technology, quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Expanded tax credits would reward business innovation and worker training, especially in high-demand sectors such as construction, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy. The government would work with unions and employers to help Canadians upgrade skills and transition into new, better-paying careers. Major investment must be matched with fiscal discipline. The government would introduce a capital budgeting framework to clearly separate everyday operating expenses from long-term growth investments. This transparency would ensure that public dollars are used strategically to strengthen productivity and prosperity. We are committed to balancing the operating budget by the 2028-29 fiscal year, with a steadily declining deficit-to-GDP ratio. As someone who has tabled a balanced budget, I can say it is harder than it looks, but trust us when we say the Prime Minister is the only leader in this House who has the experience and ability to get us there. This is not short-term. This goes beyond election cycles. Years ahead, many others will be doing the ribbon cutting for the initiatives taken by this government today. Over five years, we would achieve $60 billion in savings. We would protect vital social programs, like $10-a-day child care, dental care and pharmacare and redirect resources away from duplication and inefficiency. This would mean smarter government, fewer overlaps, modernized service delivery and leaner operations. The result would be a smarter, leaner government that invests ambitiously, but spends responsibly. It is about investing and, at the same time, sustaining those important social programs that Canadians and our neighbours value. Generational investment is not only about infrastructure; it is about people. The government would expand opportunities for Canadians to learn, work and succeed. Training and mobility programs would help young people and workers move into trades, clean energy and advanced manufacturing. Support for unions and apprenticeships would ensure that Canadians build the future with their own hands. Economic transformation will depend on a workforce that is adaptable, skilled and secure. Budget 2025 would strengthen this foundation by aligning immigration policy, education and labour market strategies to fill shortages and open pathways for every generation. When Canadians have access to meaningful work, affordable housing and reliable public services, confidence grows. Prosperity is strongest when it is shared, and inclusivity remains at the heart of this government’s approach. Budget 2025 is rooted in confidence in Canada’s people, resources and values. It acknowledges uncertainty, but refuses to be defined by it. The plan would position Canada to lead in energy, critical minerals, technology and innovation, while safeguarding the environment and social programs that define national identity. Canada’s advantages are clear: abundant resources, world-class talent and stable democratic institutions. Through targeted spending, disciplined fiscal management and deep collaboration with the provinces, indigenous communities and private partners, this government would transform resilience into growth. Every investment, from homes to highways and training to trade corridors, would serve one purpose: ensuring that Canadians shape their own destiny. The choices made in 2025 will shape Canada’s next generation. The government’s path is one of investment and empowerment. We will continue to foster growth and support Canada and Canadians for a better future.

Mr. Speaker, the question is about debt and deficits. I understand them fully. I delivered six budgets in the past. I recognized, after the 2008 financial crisis, that we were at the lowest we could be across Canada, not just in Ontario. We invested in infrastructure to stimulate economic growth and we tackled the situation by growing and stimulating the economy. Debt is a function of wealth. We could borrow to provide for investment and greater revenue in power, and that is what we did. It enabled us to have greater revenues and be able to come to balance. This budget speaks about Canada and the opportunities afforded to Canadians for future benefit. The member opposite may know that his grandmother had a $20,000 debt on a home worth only $80,000. Today, an average home of about $800,000 carries an approximate debt of $100,000 to $200,000. It is the net benefit to Canadians that matters, and we are working for the benefit of Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, we recognize it very well. My colleague, the former minister of finance for Quebec, and I delivered around 11 budgets between us. One thing we did that is similar to what is in this budget was ensure that we distinguished between borrowing for operating and borrowing to make investments and increase our prosperity. We delved very precisely into infrastructure spending programs, which subsequently enabled us to have a much greater level of prosperity and revenues. Even to this day, former governments are still doing ribbon cuttings for the things we approved, because our budgets went beyond election cycles and looked forward to the future of families and the future of Canada. That is how we achieved balance.

Mr. Speaker, it is important to recognize that there are two ways to stimulate economic growth in this country. One way is monetary policy, which the opposition has determined should not even exist. We need to have an independent and arm's-length overview of monetary policy to control inflation, and it has happened. Canadians had to endure some suffering, but the world suffers still to this day. The Bank of Canada took the necessary steps to control inflation, which has been a global phenomenon. Here in the House, we have the opportunity to control what we can focus on, and that is fiscal policy. We are investing to stimulate growth. That is what this budget is all about.

Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Davenport. It is both a privilege and a responsibility to rise in the House today to discuss a matter that affects not only the Canadian Armed Forces, but the very fabric of our democracy: Bill C-11, the military justice system modernization act. As chair of the national defence committee, I am acutely aware of the critical work being done to ensure that our military and our military justice system are modern, accountable and aligned with the values of Canadian society. As we make major investments in Canada's national defence, we must not lose sight of the brave men and women in the armed forces and their needs. We have heard from members that they need a modern military justice system to support them, and that is why the changes proposed in Bill C-11 are so crucial. They represent a significant and meaningful shift in how we view military justice. It is one that underscores the importance of culture change within the Canadian Armed Forces. For those who do not know me, before I was elected to serve in this House, I had the privilege of working in many sectors of the government and public service where I have seen first-hand how important it is for systems to evolve. We cannot afford to be complacent. We must act decisively and without hesitation. That is exactly what this government has done by introducing Bill C-11. This bill represents not just an update to legal processes, but a commitment to a new era of accountability and transparency within the Canadian Armed Forces. We are not living in an isolated, insular world. The global security environment is more volatile than it has been in decades. As our military faces increasing and complex challenges around the world, we must ensure that our women and men in uniform are prepared, resilient and, most importantly, supported. One of the most crucial elements of Bill C-11 is ensuring that the military justice system reflects the values we hold as Canadians. These are values of fairness, accountability and respect for human dignity. That is why Bill C-11 includes recommendations from Justice Arbour and Justice Fish to modernize the justice system, focusing on greater transparency, enhanced support for victims and a more independent framework for addressing sexual misconduct. A key provision of this bill is the removal of the Canadian Armed Forces' jurisdiction over Criminal Code sexual offences committed within Canada. This is a direct response to Justice Arbour's recommendation that military sexual misconduct cases be handled by civilian authorities. This reform would increase public trust in the military justice system and demonstrate to the world that Canada takes sexual misconduct seriously. However, it is important to understand that this bill is not just about legal reform. It is about transforming military culture itself. Culture change is never easy, especially in an institution like the Canadian Armed Forces, but it is absolutely essential. As we move forward with Bill C-11, we must ensure that the CAF is a place where all members, regardless of gender, rank or background, feel that they are not only safe, but also heard, respected and valued. This is about creating a safe, modern and 21st century workplace for our forces. One of the most crucial aspects of this bill is the support it provides to survivors of sexual misconduct. The introduction of the victim's liaison officer program and expanded support services would ensure that survivors are not just heard but supported at every stage of their journey. Victims and survivors can also access the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre, SMSRC, for 24-7 free and confidential support. It does tremendous work and its staff have appeared before our committee to highlight some of the resources available to our armed forces. This bill would put a renewed focus on improving oversight and accountability in military policing and strengthen the role of military judges in ensuring fairness in the justice system. These are all tangible steps toward building a culture of respect, fairness and trust. Time and time again, members of the Canadian Armed Forces have cited the need for a modern military justice system where their concerns and cases can be brought forward and evaluated in a fair and transparent manner. To our members: we have heard them, and we are acting swiftly. Bill C-11 represents an important step forward for the Canadian Armed Forces, and it is only the beginning. The reforms we are proposing today will lay the foundation for future changes. However, those changes will require continued dedication and co-operation from all levels of government, military leadership and the defence team. As we move forward with these reforms, we must remain committed to the work that still lies ahead. The cultural changes needed within CAF will require ongoing attention, investment and accountability, but with Bill C-11, we are taking a decisive step in the right direction, based on independent and expert recommendations. The time has come for us, and indeed all Canadians, to support transformative measures for the Canadian Armed Forces. I urge all of my colleagues to support Bill C-11 and the vision of a stronger, safer, more inclusive Canadian Armed Forces.

Mr. Speaker, a lot of filibustering was happening in the previous session, a lot of delays, a lot of activity that obstructed government from doing its job. The member opposite is now talking about some partisan issues, recognizing full well that he himself wanted an election, and he lost because people supported the Liberal Party going forward and they are supporting our actions to support our military. When the Conservatives were in power, it was under 1% of GDP. We are strengthening the forces. We are investing in our people, and we are making every effort for them to be safe in our judicial system as well.

Mr. Speaker, I wish to reflect on the very nature of why this bill is important. As noted, there have been expert independent recommendations made by two justices recognizing its importance. One of the major priorities is the civilian enablement of the justice system to have more independence and protection for our armed forces and the individuals involved. All of us agree with that. I believe the opposition agrees with it as well. Let us support Bill C-11.

Mr. Speaker, having visited Latvia and Estonia, having gone to our bases in the U.K. and having been recently in Petawawa during military exercises, I was able to meet and talk first-hand with some of the soldiers and men and women on the front lines. Believe me, the soldiers, officers and leaders want discipline, but they want fairness and transparency and for their troops to be cared for. They recognize the civilian system is an appropriate step forward.

Mr. Speaker, that is another great question. We need a coordinated effort. We need to ensure that the federal government and provincial jurisdictions, which act on the law and are supposed to enforce laws, deal with matters like court delays, the collection of bail data, the funding and resources necessary, and even the justice platform by the BQ. We will continue to work in collaboration with the provincial level of judicial authority to ensure we enable those courts to act and put criminals in jail.

Mr. Speaker, there we go. The member opposite is making a personal attack over the fact that I balanced the books in Ontario, which did not happen under the Conservatives in the last go-around. We will continue to fight for Canadians. We will continue to fight for public safety. I will not be addressing rhetoric like that. It only causes concern and enables the heightening of people's hate, which is what the very law we are trying to put forward is for.