Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, I would like to highlight the remarkable work done by Garde-manger pour tous, La Cantine pour tous, Toujours ensemble and the Breakfast Club in the fight against food insecurity in LaSalle—Émard—Verdun. Thanks to their engagement, thousands of children have access to nutritious meals and snacks every day. In my riding, more than 44,500 meals were served in just one year across four schools, thanks to Garde-manger pour tous. Too many families are experiencing food insecurity. No child should have to go to school on an empty stomach. A nutritious meal means a better chance to learn, thrive and succeed. I am proud that our government has made the national school food program permanent, allowing 400,000 children across the country to benefit. Food security also matters at school.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for raising that point. It is unacceptable that these documents were not provided in French. We agree that Quebeckers must be able to understand and participate in discussions on projects that could affect their communities. We have made it clear to Canadian Nuclear Laboratories that it must support engagement, discussion and consultation in both official languages.

Mr. Speaker, our colleagues have short memories, and I am not convinced they read the news. They seem to have forgotten that we announced the Contrecoeur expansion of the port of Montreal, which will create 8,000 direct and indirect jobs and attract $1.2 billion in investment. The Nouveau Monde Graphite mine in Matawinie will create 1,000 new jobs and attract $1.2 billion in investment. Did they also miss the news about the new Indonesian aircraft that are to be built at Bombardier in Quebec, creating thousands of additional jobs in the aerospace sector? We are going to—

Mr. Speaker, Canadians want us to build a stronger, more independent and more resilient economy in partnership with the provinces, territories and indigenous peoples. The Conservatives are ignoring everything going on around the world and in geopolitics. They are disparaging Canada. We will continue to build Canada strong. Projects like Nouveau Monde Graphite, the port of Contrecoeur, the Alto train and many others are proof of that. However, the Conservatives have voted against every measure aiming to build Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, we are in a trade war, something the Leader of the Opposition conveniently forgets or does not forget, depending on how it serves him. That is why today, with the lumber tariffs remaining unjustified and unfair to workers, businesses and communities, we have announced enhanced BDC loans, two new direct lending facilities, $400 million to regional development agencies and billions of dollars to support our forestry projects across Canada. We are going to continue to work with provinces and territories—

Mr. Speaker, today, over 20 residents from my community of LaSalle—Émard—Verdun rose early, packed into a tour bus and came to our nation's capital to see their democracy at work. They have toured the Parliament, they have experienced a rich and evolving history and they will watch the important discussion that we have in this place this afternoon. Like so many others across Canada, my constituents are small business owners and community leaders, actively involved in community organizations that they lead with pride and passion. Some have been here for generations; others are just beginning their journey. Together, they embody our country's diversity, which is its richness, its strength and its identity. I would like to extend my warmest thanks to Bienvenue à l'immigrant, CARD, Association Calabrese, the Maison d'Entraide St-Paul et Émard and Association Messinese for all the work they do for our community.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the members for the opportunity to speak to Bill C-264, an act to repeal certain restrictions on shipping. If the hon. members listen carefully to my speech, they may find answers to some of the questions they have raised today. As proposed, the bill seeks to repeal the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act even though there are no project proposals on the table that even require it to be amended. This means that all the large-tonnage oil tanker bans and legal requirements currently in force on the north coast of British Columbia would no longer apply, nor would the environmental protection measures that this legislation supports. Let me be clear: Canada's oceans are a source of pride for Canadians and are of national importance. Our oceans are the cornerstones of our livelihoods and our sovereignty, and protecting them is essential to our economic security and Canada's future. Canada's sovereignty is strengthened when our waters are safe, our ecosystems are protected, our communities are supported and our shipping industry is resilient. Canada has one of the most stringent marine safety regimes in the world and enforces strict rules on safety, the environment and spill response. We must ensure that any changes to this regime are subject to thorough review and consultation, and that any actions taken are in the public interest of all Canadians. The act, which received royal assent in 2019, prohibits vessels carrying more than 12,500 metric tons of crude oil or persistent oil products as cargo from stopping, loading or unloading at ports or marine installations within the moratorium area. The protected area extends from the Canada-U.S. border in the north to the tip of British Columbia across from the northern tip of Vancouver Island. It includes Haida Gwaii and protects the Dixon Entrance, Hecate Strait and Queen Charlotte Strait. The act complements the voluntary tanker exclusion zone, which has been in place since 1985. The scope of the act is carefully defined. Shipments of less than 12,500 tons are permitted in order to ensure that communities and industry in the north coast receive essential supplies, particularly home heating oil and other oil products. The Oil Tanker Moratorium Act also does not apply to the transportation of non-persistent oils such as gasoline, naphtha, kerosene and propane, nor to liquefied natural gas or other alternative fuels such as hydrogen, ammonia and methane, which dissipate quickly in the event of a spill. We all know that the global economy is undergoing significant disruption and that the government is working to diversify our trade relationships and to attract significant investment to build a stronger, more sustainable and more resilient economy. The government is investing in trade-enabling transportation infrastructure and supply chain capacity, as well as working to promote nation-building projects, particularly those that connect our economy and diversify our trade. As we know, last November, Canada and Alberta signed a memorandum of understanding in the energy sector, which provided that amendments to the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act could be considered if necessary. This does not mean that we are repealing the act, but rather that we recognize the importance of a balanced approach that allows for amendments to the act in the context of a specific project, where the risks, opportunities and mitigation measures specific to that project could be taken into account. Just as the provisions of the act were carefully considered, any amendments to it must also be carefully considered to ensure that we support economic growth while also protecting our environment. Any amendments to the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act should be considered within the context of a specific project proposal that allows for a clear assessment. This would enable us to take a strategic approach to potential amendments, so as to mitigate risks while continuing to protect the environment. Canada has not chosen between economic growth and prosperity on one hand and environmental protection on the other. We have pursued both of these objectives simultaneously, and we must continue to do so. We must continue to welcome economic proposals that boost national productivity and market access. However, we must also demand credible plans to protect ecosystems, partnerships with indigenous rights holders and the continued existence of environmental protection measures in the most sensitive areas. If a proposal affecting the area covered by the moratorium is put before us, we will assess it thoroughly and transparently and, if necessary, carefully consider how to adapt the legislation. Until then, we do not support amending or repealing the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act. I urge the hon. members of the House to oppose Bill C-264 and to support our environmental protection measures.

Mr. Speaker, I want to ask my colleague, the parliamentary secretary, if, when she speaks to her constituents in her riding, they fully understand the argument we constantly hear from the Conservatives about the so-called Liberal Party credit card. I get the feeling that Canadians understand that we need to invest during this difficult time. We are going through a tariff war. Now is the time to take advantage of the fact that we are in the best economic position to be able to invest in our country. What is she hearing from her constituents?

Mr. Speaker, we have been clear. Our goal is to catalyze half a trillion dollars in private sector investment. The Major Projects Office plays an important role in that. Alberta has indicated that it will submit a proposal by July 1. We will evaluate it against the criteria set out in the Building Canada Act. According to the memorandum of understanding, the federal government is willing to utilize Canada Indigenous Loan Guarantee Corporation to help backstop indigenous co-ownership if necessary.

Mr. Speaker, my dear Montreal Canadiens, the second-youngest team in the National Hockey League, are competing in the Stanley Cup Playoffs following an exciting season. It brings back memories of my childhood in Montreal, when I could watch the Canadiens practise at the Verdun Auditorium, standing just a few feet from the legends that lit up the Forum and our TV set. We know their names: Dryden, Savard, Robinson, Lapointe, Lafleur, Lemaire, Shutt, Gainey, Cournoyer. During those same years, when I was in high school, just a stone's throw from the old Forum, we experienced three incredible Stanley Cups. Three times I was in detention, smiling, for having skipped school to attend the Stanley Cup parade. We have just as much pride in today's young Habs. I now summon all the ghosts of the old Montreal Forum, with all the fans from LaSalle—Émard—Verdun and across the country, to shout, “Go Habs, go”.

Mr. Speaker, I sit on the natural resources committee with the hon. member. She knows too well how complicated it is to do a project like the Ring of Fire, which is actually multiple projects. We are working with the Government of Ontario. We have already started to work with them on the road to access the Ring of Fire, because it requires major infrastructure to get to the Ring of Fire. She should understand that.

Mr. Speaker, a sad incident occurred in my riding of LaSalle—Émard—Verdun on February 23. The former Saint-Paul church was destroyed in a major fire, which forced nearly 100 seniors to be evacuated from their nearby home in the middle of the night. Thanks to the bravery and professionalism of the Montreal fire department and the rapid support of the Canadian Red Cross, no lives were lost. However, a vital community lifeline lost everything. The La Main Qui Partage food bank, which feeds the most vulnerable and offers hope and dignity to over 200 families, lost all of its equipment. Our community came together. Residents stepped up. Volunteers showed up, and members of Parliament from across Montreal answered the call to offer concrete support to help the organization replace its equipment. I cannot thank my colleagues enough. The food bank's mission is to ensure that no one falls through the cracks. When hardship strikes, our community comes together and acts in solidarity—

Mr. Speaker, the leader of the Bloc Québécois talked a lot about taking care of people. We will assume that he is talking about Canadians in general. In order to do that, at a time when gas and energy prices are rising, we have major projects in Canada. For example, there is the agreement with Alberta. There are even rumours of a possible liquefied natural gas project in Quebec. I want to know the leader's position on energy development projects to keep energy prices low in Canada and also to put money in the pockets of Canadians, which will help us pay for all our social programs.

Mr. Chair, I would like the Minister of National Defence to convey the gratitude of all Canadians to the members of the armed forces for the work they do every day. This weekend, General Carignan said, and the Prime Minister was very clear, that it is possible that the Canadian Armed Forces may be involved at some point. However, he said that we would not be involved in any offensive strikes. General Carignan said she was working with her team on all sorts of possible situations. Can the Minister of National Defence explain to us what the armed forces may be asked to participate in in situations like this? Is it about evacuating people, escorting oil tankers? Based perhaps on past examples, can he tell us what the Canadian Armed Forces might do in such situations?

Mr. Speaker, housing affordability is the number one concern for people in my riding. Rents are too high, young people are unable to save up enough for a down payment and seniors are worried that they might be forced out of their own neighbourhoods. This is why my top priority from day one has been simple and clear, to build more homes. Last year, I announced two new social housing projects in our riding. These projects are now making headway and creating housing for real people in our community. With the new Canada-Quebec housing agreement and our collaboration with Build Canada Homes, even more local projects are already in the works. Every new home we build means more than a roof over someone's head: It means stability for a family, dignity for a senior or person experiencing homelessness, and resilience for our community. We are building faster, building smarter and delivering results where it counts.

Mr. Speaker, as our economy pivots and modernizes, it is important to appreciate the fact that existing regulations may not fit the needs of new and emerging technologies. This can cause significant delays or even stop new products or services from entering the Canadian marketplace. Doing so can hamper Canadian entrepreneurship and innovation, reduce competition and make life less affordable for Canadians. That is why, in order to help regulation keep pace with innovation, our government committed in budget 2025 to expanding the use of regulatory sandboxes through amendments to the Red Tape Reduction Act. As members know, regulatory sandboxes are commonly used devices that permit a new product or service to be tested in the marketplace under a temporary set of rules and controlled by regulatory supervision. This can help regulators safely decide whether to make any permanent regulatory changes to how that product or service should be regulated. Our government is of the view that regulatory sandboxes would help support economic growth, reduce red tape, and improve Canada's investment environment by permitting new products and new technologies to get to market in a safe and efficient manner. However, the concerns raised by the member opposite are valid. I would like to reassure my hon. colleague that it would not be the wild west; there would be guardrails in place. Indeed, the government has included safeguards in both the legislation and supporting policy to ensure that regulatory sandboxes would be used responsibly and consistently across the government. Our goal is to protect the economy, the environment and the welfare of Canadians in the use of regulatory sandboxes. Bill C-15 would not allow ministers to exempt any person or business from any federal law for broad policy purposes. For example, the legislation includes several safeguards, including providing clear time limits for exemption; requiring exemptions be in the public interest; requiring that public health, public safety and the environment be protected; and limiting exemption to individual entities. Exempting entire sectors of an industry or fast-tracking an entire major project is not within the scope. The legislation also includes explicit transparency and accountability requirements that would allow for continued oversight and prevent executive overreach. The minister would have to publish exception orders and an explanation of the decision-making process, while protecting confidential business information as required by law. Furthermore, the President of the Treasury Board would have to table an annual report in Parliament listing all exemption orders issued in the previous fiscal year, the rationale for each, and the ministers responsible. This oversight mechanism would ensure that Parliament is informed and able to scrutinize the use of these authorities.

Mr. Speaker, ministers could not use these provisions to exempt themselves or others from obligation under statutes such as the Conflict of Interest Act, for example. The authorities would apply it only to laws within a minister's portfolio and only for the purpose of testing and innovating under regulatory supervision. Nor is it intended to bypass important protections and lead to regulatory changes that compromise safety or environmental standards. Regulatory sandboxes are a valuable tool. We would use them to support innovation and to help grow our economy, making it more competitive by creating environments and processes for companies to grow in a way that continues to protect the best interests of Canadian workers, consumers, businesses, the public and the environment.

Mr. Speaker, we are committed to making Canada an energy superpower, both in clean and conventional energy, while protecting our environment, including northern B.C. coasts, and respecting indigenous rights, something we did not hear in the member's elocution. So far, the government has not received a proposal for the project being referenced by the member opposite. If this pipeline is to be considered, as with any other project, the government is committed to robust consultation with indigenous people. We have been clear that indigenous people must benefit from our efforts to get major projects built faster. Last summer, the Building Canada Act was passed, an important step toward increasing certainty surrounding infrastructure and natural resources projects. The Major Projects Office is streamlining federal approval processes to accelerate the completion of major projects. These projects include ports, transmission lines, critical mineral projects and both clean and conventional projects. In the Building Canada Act, we emphasized that one of the criteria is that it should advance the interests of indigenous people. Today, many of the projects referred to the Major Projects Office include indigenous communities as partners with ownership stakes and co-operation agreements. This includes the Red Chris mine expansion in northwest B.C., which is being developed in partnership with the Tahltan Nation. It includes the Iqaluit hydro project in Nunavut, a 100% Inuit-owned renewable energy project. It includes Canada's Crawford nickel project in northern Ontario, with agreements having been signed with Mattagami First Nation, Matachewan First Nation and Flying Post First Nation for early employment opportunities and long-term economic benefits. These nation-building projects show how indigenous partnerships with the government and industry are unlocking Canada's potential, making Canada an energy superpower while honouring indigenous rights. This effort is bringing jobs to our communities across the country and higher wages to Canadian workers and is creating opportunities for indigenous people. The government is increasing regulatory certainty, attracting capital and protecting our industry from dependence on American exports as we face the trade war imposed on us by the United States. As part of this work, we concluded a historic memorandum of understanding with Alberta. It is based on concrete solutions, more rigorous and effective industrial carbon pricing, significant private sector investment in clean technology and responsible energy development for workers and communities. The MOU will bring about, as the member mentioned, the Pathways project, a massive carbon capture project reducing emissions across the oil sector as we work toward net zero by 2050. When it comes to the west coast pipeline, I understand that the Government of Alberta has begun consultations with indigenous rights holders. Premier Danielle Smith already stated that Kitimat is no longer being considered as one of the options for the pipeline project. Important discussions have already been held with Premier David Eby, who expressed openness to such a project if the conditions are met. Our approach is based on collaboration with indigenous people, Alberta and British Columbia. It is about working together to get projects built faster with certainty, while creating jobs and strengthening our economy.

Mr. Speaker, the government will always work with indigenous people to find the right way forward when it comes to building energy and natural resource projects. These projects can strengthen our economy, diversify our trade and build the resilience we need to face the trade war with the United States. At the same time, they can represent incredible economic opportunities for indigenous people. That is why many projects referred to the Major Projects Office include indigenous nations as partners with equity stakes. That is why one of the first actions of the government was to double the indigenous loan guarantee program from $5 billion to $10 billion. We are making Canada an energy superpower, while respecting indigenous rights.

Madam Speaker, there now seems to be a consensus in the House that we are in the middle of a trade war and that the tariffs imposed by the United States on our softwood lumber are completely unjustified. We announced $2.5 billion in support for forestry companies and workers, delivered through a single window. This includes funds for diversification and innovation, while implementing the buy Canadian policy to increase domestic demand in Canada and thereby strengthen the forestry sector. We also have a task force developing recommendations.

Madam Speaker, the closure of a mill is difficult news for workers, their families and their communities. The federal government has come forward with supports for the sector, and we urge the provincial government to work with us, as partners, to protect these jobs. The forest sector transformation task force is right now hard at work to formulate recommendations to grow and build a new future for the sector. While the opposition casts blame and rages, we will continue to examine every option available, because workers across Canada—

Mr. Speaker, the mill closures are a challenge across the country, not just in British Columbia. We feel for every worker who is being impacted with that situation, as well as their families, but the reality is that we are faced with an unjustified tariff war from our neighbour to the south, which is affecting this industry and has been affecting it for many years. We have been fighting numerous tariffs over the years, but the government is taking on a series of activities to help the industry, and these require profound measures. Some of those measures include the $1.2 billion the member mentioned, which is really to help, from a liquidity perspective, the companies that are facing these tariffs. The larger companies are taking advantage of SIF, the strategic innovation fund, to survive or combat those tariffs, but there is also a $500-million program that we have announced, which is related to retooling—

Mr. Speaker, it is $50 million for the workers. The $500 million is actually to help companies diversify into new products and changes, which is required. The reality is that it is going to take a while to address these problems that are specific to an industry that has been affected for so long. Last but not least, we have worked with the British Columbia government, because it is also within their purview. We have also recently created a working group for 90 days, with representatives from across the country who are going to make suggestions to the government as to what needs to happen. It is going to happen very soon. We also have, as the member mentioned, the program to help in terms of salary and retraining for the employees. It is a difficult challenge across the country. We have heard about multiple mill closures, not just in British Columbia, but particularly in British Columbia, Quebec and Ontario. We take this very seriously, and we are there to help not only the employees. We have to help the companies too, if the companies are to hire those employees and provide them with work.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for making it very clear and obvious what is happening across the country, not just in his riding or in British Columbia. Resolving the trade issue is actually a challenge, just as it is in steel, in auto, in aluminum and in forestry. The challenges in forestry have been going on for many years, and we need some fundamental structural solutions to be able to strengthen our industry across the country and take care and offer good jobs. We have actually been talking about the Build Canada Homes program and the buy Canadian program, because if we actually consume more of our wood, we will be able to employ more employees in our mills across the country.

Mr. Speaker, the member opposite is trying to suggest that we are not building. I would remind him that we just saw the largest private sector investment in Canada. LNG Canada shipped its first LNG to Asia. Cedar LNG is now under construction. Woodfibre LNG is now under construction. Ksi Lisims LNG is now approved, and its pipeline is now ready for construction. When Alberta's project is ready, it will be evaluated as well. Let us stop with the manufactured rage, and let us build Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, it is difficult news, the closure of any mill, whether it is on Vancouver Island or anywhere in the country. We have come forward with a lot of support from a financial perspective. We work with the provincial governments as partners to protect these. The Conservatives may have missed the news that we announced a forestry sector transformation task force for the industry. It has already met and is formulating recommendations for the government for the future. We will continue to examine every option available. I urge the members to work with us on those—

Madam Speaker, during the last election, we made a clear promise to Canadians to make Canada an energy superpower. From day one, we have been working hard to achieve that goal, building major projects for clean and conventional energy across the country. We made that promise because Canada is a nation of builders, innovators and explorers. Whether it is the development of hydroelectric power in Quebec, nuclear power in Ontario or conventional energy in Alberta, not to mention all the other energy projects across the country, Canada has the natural resources the world needs. Making Canada an energy superpower means creating jobs, increasing wages and providing opportunities for communities across the country. It means strengthening our economy to deal with the uncertainty that exists both worldwide and in the United States. To start, we passed the Building Canada Act and created the Major Projects Office. The goal was clear: to accelerate the construction of major projects. Since then, 11 major projects have been submitted to the Major Projects Office, including the port of Montreal expansion project, which is expected to begin construction this year, and critical minerals projects that will strengthen our national security, such as the Nouveau Monde Graphite mine in Quebec, the Sisson mine in New Brunswick and the Foran copper mine in Saskatchewan. I am also talking about projects such as phase 2 of LNG Canada and Ksi Lisims LNG, which are among the largest private investments in Canadian history, and clean energy projects that will provide reliable and affordable energy, such as the Iqaluit hydroelectric project in Nunavut and the north coast transmission line in British Columbia. Together, these projects represent $116 billion in investments in our economy and they will support more than 68,000 jobs in Canada. This work is essential in making Canada an energy superpower, but it is only the beginning. Our government intends to speed up the approval and construction of all infrastructure, energy and natural resource projects. That is why we are implementing the “one project, one review” approach. We will eliminate duplication between federal and provincial assessments. We have already signed co-operation agreements on environmental assessments with three provinces, and we will soon be signing two more. Our goal is to sign agreements with all the provinces to speed up project construction, unlock major investments and create jobs across Canada. We are not stopping there. In the coming months, our government will introduce our electricity strategy, a strategy that will generate billions of dollars in investments in clean Canadian electricity and our power grid. We will also be introducing our nuclear energy strategy, which will involve developing major nuclear projects to provide even more clean and reliable energy in Canada. This work will create jobs in communities across the country, lead to higher wages for Canadian workers and build a stronger, more resilient economy. In order to deal with the U.S. tariffs, we need better cards to play. Our energy and natural resources are winning cards for building a prosperous country in an uncertain world. Making Canada an energy superpower does not stop at our borders. The idea is not only to accelerate energy projects here at home, but to diversify our exports as well. In a world where our closest trading partner has imposed tariffs on us, diversification is a necessity. Diversifying our exports improves our resilience, strengthens our industries and protects our jobs. Diversification allows us to build a strong economy that provides good jobs and good wages for Canadians. Our government has signed 12 trade and security deals on four continents in six months. The Minister of Energy and Natural Resources is in India as we speak, working to expand our trade network and attract even more investment to Canada. Here is our plan to make Canada an energy superpower: first, speed up the construction of infrastructure and natural resource projects; second, unlock major investments in clean and conventional energy; and third, diversify our exports to strengthen our economy. This work must be done in partnership with indigenous peoples. Our government will always act in accordance with the constitutional rights of first nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. That is why one of our government's first actions was to double the indigenous loan guarantee program. Reconciliation must be at the heart of our efforts to build major projects because the best projects are those that benefit everyone. By working together with the provinces, territories and indigenous peoples, we can make Canada an energy superpower. Canada can become a reliable energy supplier in a world in crisis because we have the resources the world needs, the talent to build a prosperous economy and values that unite us. In the months ahead, we will go further and be more ambitious, because that is what Canadians deserve. We are building Canada strong, with good, well-paying jobs for our workers. We can achieve all this while continuing to fight climate change, a topic our friends in the opposition never seem to mention. Now I want to talk about our net-zero-by-2050 targets. Today's motion, proposed by the Conservatives, would weaken Canada's position. Their proposal to eliminate all environmental assessments would take us back to the days of Prime Minister Harper, when projects were stalled in court and nothing was getting built, even though there were no official regulations. The Conservative proposal would increase uncertainty and undermine investment at the worst possible time, when we need to build a strong and resilient economy. Our government's collaborative approach is already accelerating the construction of major projects, and our agreements to achieve the “one project, one review” goal will speed things up even more. Our electricity and nuclear strategies will unlock major investments in our energy sector and ensure a clean future for our children. However, there is no mention of that in their proposal. Our work on the international stage is diversifying our markets to strengthen our economy. That is how we make Canada an energy superpower. That is how we build a country.

Madam Speaker, what happened in the member's riding is sad, but I am very confused by his position. He is the first Conservative member I have heard mention the words “climate change”. We know that the long-term strategy to fight climate change is carbon neutrality, to get to net zero, which the government is staying steadfast to meet by 2050. The proposal by the Conservatives today would be an unbridled race. There is nothing mentioned about net zero in their proposal. It would actually remove a whole bunch of legislation that could actually help us attain net zero. I feel for the member and the situation in his riding. From a long-term perspective, we have to fight climate change and get to net zero. I am happy to discuss with the member what else we can do to help the farmers at the present time.

Madam Speaker, I agree with my colleague on one point: Like him, I am a bit puzzled by the proposal before us today. However, here is where we differ a little: In my speech, I talked about clean energy and conventional energy. The government wants to do both, and we think we can do both. Naturally, however, doing both while meeting our climate change commitments will take a certain framework. My colleague did not say so, but I believe we are thinking the same thing. This proposal is similar to one we have seen before from a certain party south of the border, where all the regulations were thrown out, as if that was the way to build an economy of the future. We, as Canadians, do not believe that. We believe that we can build a strong country while remaining responsible and holding the course on our net-zero targets.

Mr. Speaker, as my first year in the House draws to a close, I am proud of what we have accomplished together, including presenting our first budget and supporting major projects like the Nouveau Monde Graphite mine. Now comes my first holiday as a member of Parliament. Let us just say, it is not quite what I am used to. Most years I would be home, trying and failing to get my Christmas lights to work. Instead, I will be at Maison d'Entraide St-Paul et Émard sharing a warm meal with the community. Normally, I would be rushing around doing my last-minute shopping, but this year, I will be handing out holiday hampers with the Society of Saint Vincent de Paul. Instead of spending an evening wrapping presents, I will be proudly attending the 55th anniversary of the 796 LaSalle Air Cadet Squadron at the LaSalle Legion. If this is what a holiday looks like as an MP, I am grateful for every moment. I wish every member of the House and the people of LaSalle—Émard—Verdun a very happy holiday season.

Mr. Speaker, Canada is in a trade war, one we did not ask for, but one which we must win. In a moment like this, we need to be united and focused on building our country up. We should not be playing partisan Conservative games. Canadians expect more from the House, and we are delivering for Canadians. That is why the federal government and Premier Smith signed and support the full memorandum of understanding. The Conservative motion yesterday cherry-picked parts of the MOU, ignoring crucial parts of the agreement in an attempt to score cheap political points. I encourage the Conservative member to read the entire MOU. The Conservatives excluded from their motion that Alberta signed up to increase its industrial carbon price from a current effective price of around $25 to a minimum of $130. A report from Clean Prosperity says this measure could unlock over $90 billion of investment in clean energy and clean technology. The Conservatives also excluded the Pathways project from their motion, a crucial carbon capture and storage project representing over $16 billion of investment in Alberta's clean technology sector, which is expected to create over 18,000 jobs for Albertans. The Conservatives excluded from their motion the importance of trilateral discussions with the Government of British Columbia, and that the MOU requires close alignment between Alberta and British Columbia on shared benefits. Endorsing the Conservative approach of omitting parts of the MOU does not bring a pipeline closer. In fact, by ignoring the importance of indigenous co-ownership, engagement with the British Columbia government, the need for a private sector proponent and decarbonization efforts, the Conservatives are showing that they do not support the MOU signed by Premier Smith. The Conservatives are playing a game of pretending their motion can substitute for a real project proposal, real financing and the work needed to get a project built. If the Conservatives were serious, they would have moved a motion with the full text of the MOU, including industrial carbon pricing, interties, nuclear, AI, engagement with B.C., consultation with indigenous peoples and indigenous co-ownership. While the Premier of Alberta says that industrial carbon pricing is necessary to stimulate investment in the emissions reduction technology needed to make Canada an energy superpower, federal Conservatives say they disagree with Alberta and continue to undermine industrial carbon pricing. By refusing to support all elements of this MOU, including industrial carbon pricing, Conservatives are demonstrating that they disagree with Premier Smith and that they oppose the policies needed to grow Canada's economy while fighting climate change.

Mr. Speaker, I am not going to talk about history. I am going to talk about the here and now. I would submit that the Conservative Party did not move a motion that supports the entire MOU, specifically because their caucus and even their leader, for that matter, do not support the MOU that Alberta signed, which includes strengthening industrial carbon pricing. On this side of the House, the government is focused on outcomes. We will keep working with Alberta, British Columbia and indigenous people, so that we can deliver a better future for all Canadians and build Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Humber River—Black Creek. Throughout Canada, from the far north to our urban centres and smaller communities, Canadians expect their government to show true leadership in dealing with the greatest challenge of our time, and that is climate change. Our path to prosperity, our vision for energy, the economy and security, cannot and must not come at the expense of our planet, our children, or our duty to act with courage and conviction to reach net zero. That is why the memorandum of understanding recently signed between Canada and Alberta is so important. It is proof of our commitment to building Canada while reducing our greenhouse gas emissions. Canada must provide the energy the world needs with environmental rigour and by advancing unwaveringly towards a prosperous and sustainable economy. While Canada and Alberta work together in a renewed spirit of collaboration, as evidenced by the MOU, we are creating the conditions for projects that will strengthen our economy while fighting climate change. Together, we are moving forward on the Pathways Plus project, the largest carbon capture and storage initiative in the world. The Pathways Plus project will help cut emissions in our conventional energy sector to make it more competitive globally while generating significant economic benefits, including investments of more than $16 billion and the creation of more than 18,000 jobs. That is what happens when we collaborate: We have the opportunity to shape a future where Canada's energy leadership and its climate ambitions move forward together. As long as the world is using oil and gas, we must ensure that the oil that Canada provides is produced with the lowest carbon emissions possible. Technologies such as carbon capture and storage will help Canada produce some of the lowest-emitting oil and gas in the world. These initiatives will strengthen Canada's industrial and climate competitiveness, support the development of Canadian clean technologies, and move us closer to our goal of becoming a clean and conventional energy superpower while achieving net zero. Furthermore, our industrial carbon pricing system is pushing industries to adopt clean technologies and develop clean energy. The MOU signed with Alberta is clear: Alberta's industrial carbon price has to increase from $25 to at least $130. According to a report by Clean Prosperity, a minimum price of $130 in Alberta could reduce carbon emissions by 70 megatonnes a year and unlock more than $90 billion in clean tech and energy investments. Consistent industrial carbon pricing guarantees a sustainable and predictable financial incentive for reducing emissions, investing in clean tech and decarbonizing supply chains. Industrial carbon pricing deserves credit for the largest emissions reduction in our climate plan. The MOU with Alberta is strengthening industrial carbon pricing while building a national consensus in support of it. It is one example of how co-operation and technological innovation can work together to achieve real progress. The MOU clearly states that growth in the conventional energy sector will have to include some of the largest, measurable reductions in greenhouse gas emissions in the world, along with concrete measures for fighting climate change. These are the facts: The MOU reaffirms the commitments made by Canada and Alberta to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. That is a section that was left out of the Conservative Party's motion. This is not just a dream. This commitment is based on measures to reduce emissions from oil production through Pathways Plus, a carbon capture and storage project, as well as through robust industrial carbon pricing and through methane emissions reductions. Indeed, the MOU sets the path for Alberta and Canada to reduce methane emissions. It aims for a 75% reduction in methane emissions from the sector by 2035 compared with 2014 levels. In short, resource development and climate leadership will advance together, ensuring that growth is directly linked to real, verified greenhouse gas emission reductions. These are not generic targets. The MOU sets a goal for Canadian heavy oil to achieve excellence in carbon emissions reduction and reach net-zero emissions by 2050. To achieve these results, the MOU links progress to key investments in transformative technologies. The MOU supports and promotes rapid growth in the clean energy sectors. By integrating new interconnections between provinces and promoting the expansion of renewable energy production in western Canada, the MOU enables system-wide decarbonization. This is not just about reducing emissions from oil production, but also about building a clean electricity grid. We cannot call on other countries to cut their emissions while failing to demonstrate that prosperity can go hand in hand with the fight against climate change. Our world-class record in terms of emissions, the rights of indigenous peoples and consultation is precisely what makes Canada an attractive energy supplier for our allies that care about reliability, security and environmental progress. By setting ambitious greenhouse gas emission targets in all sectors, investing in low-carbon technologies and encouraging innovation through a predictable and robust industrial carbon pricing system, Canada sends a clear signal to investors and its trade partners that Canada will influence global trends in the fight against climate change. There is no trade-off between prosperity and the fight against climate change. There is only leadership and collaboration. The government's goal is to work with provinces, territories and indigenous people to build Canada. A collaborative approach is the very foundation of our Confederation. One of the next steps in the implementation of the agreement will consist in engaging in immediate trilateral discussion with British Columbia and Alberta. Some constructive conversations with British Columbia have already taken place. Indigenous rights must also be respected by engaging in meaningful consultation and encouraging participation and partnership with indigenous peoples. We have made it clear that shared ownership with indigenous communities is an essential requirement for any prospective pipeline project. That is one more thing that was left out of the Conservative motion. Canada stands ready to lead with bold action, striking a balance between growth and responsible stewardship and showing the world that prosperity uplifts people and the planet. We are ready to lead by example and to build.

Mr. Speaker, I am not sure what my hon. colleague was doing during my 10-minute speech in which I talked about climate change and all the measures we included in the framework agreement we signed with Alberta. We are very proud to have persuaded Alberta to agree to diversify our conventional and clean energy sources by signing this agreement, which includes many climate change measures and related language. My response to my hon. colleague is that, yes, we believe in climate change, and we will continue to address it while building a strong Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I think it is important to call attention to the last motion moved by our Conservative colleagues. This motion seeks to divide Canada. Conservative representatives from different provinces across the country support the framework agreement. We have persuaded a province that had been relatively reluctant until now to participate in our decarbonization measures and to embrace a series of federal government measures, and we should be very proud of that. I find it unfortunate that our Conservative friends chose to include only one aspect of the framework agreement in a motion that says nothing about climate change.