Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my hon. colleague, who is also from Nova Scotia, for his passion for our province. I share that passion. I have often used the example that many young people had to leave Nova Scotia and go to some of the bigger cities in Canada to find their way, and now they would no longer have to. Could the hon. parliamentary secretary describe the genesis of this project? Why this location? What is the strategic advantage of this project in this location in Nova Scotia?

Madam Speaker, I have an opposite opinion to that of the member for Brandon—Souris. I think what this member brought up is the thing that has bothered me the most in my 10 and a bit years here, which is that parliamentary privilege allows us to lie in the House. If we call out a lie, we will be made to apologize, but we are never made to correct a lie. That is one of the things that have bothered me the most in 10 years, and it has really upset decorum in this House. I would ask the member, through you, Madam Speaker, how he might suggest a fix for that.

Mr. Speaker, 'Twas two weeks before Christmas. I still can't hold back the smile. Even we didn't believe we'd be back on this side of the aisle. Canada needed someone smart, a proven young steed. That ruled out a guy who blew a 22-point lead. The Conservatives were lost with the carbon tax dead, While visions of Trudeau on a yacht danced in their leader's head. The Bloc dreamed of kingmaking, of holding great sway, But His Majesty's loyal opposition? Oh, mon Dieu, not even for a day! The NDP, well, they were reduced to seven. My gosh, even Nova Scotia now has 11. Now, for a “new” government, we sure have a lot of grey hairs, But we won four in a row, so... “Who cares?” A trade war with friends, what's ahead is a fight. Christmas came early. Canadians chose right. There'll be no Christmas election, of that I'm now certain, Thanks to two Conservatives hiding behind that curtain. Now, I've thrown a lot of jabs, but I promise they're in jest. To each and every one of you, I truly wish you all the best. I hope you all could hear me, with my voice raised up. All we hear in this place these days are heckles— I hope the Speaker doesn't wake up! Merry Christmas, everyone.

Mr. Speaker, I am rising to present Petition e-6931, spearheaded by my constituent Emily McEwan-Fujita, regarding the Gaelic language and culture. The petition recognizes that Nova Scotia is the only region outside Scotland where the Gaelic language and culture remain everyday aspects of community life, and that Gaelic is a heritage language for 6 million Scottish Canadians. The petitioners also point out that Gaelic publishing has taken place in Canada for nearly 200 years and that Gaelic publishers are struggling to access the federal supports they need. They call on the government to ensure that Gaelic publishers have proper access to federal funding.

Mr. Speaker, tomorrow is Giving Tuesday, the day that follows Black Friday and Cyber Monday. It is a day that asks us to turn our attention to something entirely different. Instead of deals and discounts, Giving Tuesday encourages us to look around our community and ask, “How can I help today?” It is a day built on simple gestures that mean a lot: supporting a local charity, checking in on a neighbour, giving a ride, sharing a meal or stepping up for someone who could use a hand. In Dartmouth—Cole Harbour, and in communities across this great country, we see this spirit every day, especially from non-profits, charities and the incredible volunteers that keep them going. Giving Tuesday is a moment to shine a little extra light on their work and to join in. Let us take tomorrow and lift people up in big and small ways. Generosity is contagious, and I hope we all catch it.

Madam Speaker, Atlantic Canada is a culture of innovation, and my riding of Dartmouth—Cole Harbour is home to leading ocean technology and maritime defence researchers and innovators, many of whom are located strategically along the shores of beautiful Dartmouth Cove. These companies and partners are driving major advances in ocean tech and strengthening Canada's national defence and security. Can the minister highlight the work the government is doing to support these important security and defence initiatives in Dartmouth—Cole Harbour?

Madam Speaker, what I took from my hon. colleague's speech was the focus on investment in our country versus expenses. He used mortgages as an example and how mortgages can be seen as an expense. Certainly, they are one of the largest investments in a Canadian's life. We hear on a regular basis from across the aisle about things like the CPP, the Canada pension plan, being a tax or a bill. How do we combat that misinformation and disinformation when we think about young people in our country being told that things like the Canada pension plan are a tax, rather than an investment in their own future?

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to honour the life of a remarkable Nova Scotian, Peter Baylis, a man who poured his heart, his voice and his extraordinary talent into every stage he stepped onto. Peter's devotion to the arts began in the early teens; by 18, he was already woven into the fabric of Halifax's music scene. Through the 1980s he fronted Steps Around the House, and then he became the dynamic force in the Hopping Penguins, one of our most enduring and beloved ska-reggae bands, for decades. His artistry reached beyond the bandstand. Many will never forget his powerful portrayal of Judas in Neptune Theatre's Jesus Christ Superstar, a role he described as the opportunity of a lifetime. Peter was known to thousands as the Halifax Mooseheads' national anthem singer, his voice rising through the arena, clear and steady. It was a moment fans like me came to treasure. My heart goes out to all who loved him. His wife, Jennifer, shared a wish that reflects his spirit so beautifully: “hold him in your hearts [and turn the music up] loud.... He’d like that”.

Mr. Speaker, last week in Nova Scotia, NHL star Brad Marchand showed us what real friendship and heart look like. In the middle of his NHL season, Brad came home to stand behind the bench for his lifelong friend JP MacCallum, head coach of Dartmouth's U18 major hockey team, who is facing every parent's worst heartbreak: the loss of his 10-year-old daughter, Selah, after a courageous battle with cancer. More than 1,000 people filled the Halifax Forum to lift the family up. There were bake sales, jersey auctions and a whole community coming together, showing the kind of love and support that defines Nova Scotia and Nova Scotians. I want to send all the love in the world to JP, his loved ones and the team, and I want to thank Brad Marchand for reminding us that true greatness is not measured just in goals but in heart.

Mr. Speaker, Canada has what the world wants and needs: the resources, ingenuity, technology and skills, to make us a clean energy superpower. Atlantic Canada is ready, willing and able. With budget 2025, we know that the government is making generational investments to ensure that our economy remains strong, focused and resilient. This historic budget will build on the work already started by the Major Projects Office, which is going to cut red tape and fast-track major nation-building projects as well. Can the parliamentary secretary for finance tell us how budget 2025 and the Major Projects Office are helping to build Canada strong?

Mr. Speaker, this year marks the 100th anniversary of Commissionaires, an extraordinary not-for-profit organization that has proudly served Canadians and supported our veterans for a full century. Founded in 1925 to provide meaningful employment for veterans returning from war, Commissionaires has grown into one of the largest private security employers in the country, offering thousands of good jobs while continuing its original mission. From protecting federal buildings to supporting local communities, its work is vital, but its impact goes deeper. For countless former members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the RCMP, Commissionaires offers not just employment, but dignity, purpose and camaraderie after service. We thank the entire Commissionaires family, past and present, for a century of service, loyalty and care. Here is to the next 100 years.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Dartmouth—Cole Harbour's Anne Ring, an extraordinary educator, athlete and community leader whose warmth and spirit touched all who knew her. Anne led with heart in everything that she did, from hatching chicks in her classroom for the students to empowering young minds as a beloved principal. She brought joy and creativity to learning and believed deeply in the potential of every child. A national record-holding swimmer, ringette player, paddler, coach and Girl Guide leader, Anne had boundless energy. She skydived, scuba-dived, rode motorcycles and lived life fully and fearlessly. I had the pleasure of getting to know Anne better through her passionate work to preserve and modernize the Banook Canoe Club. She was kind, smart and deeply committed to leaving this legacy for future generations on the lake she loved. Anne Ring led a remarkable life. My thoughts are with her husband and all those who knew and loved her.

Mr. Speaker, I think we can all use a little chuckle today, so with that, I am proud to deliver this year's Liberal Christmas roast. 'Twas the week before Christmas, Conservative MPs were muzzled. Our investments in housing, Have old P.P. puzzled. Their party won't talk about foreign interference, For Christmas, will their leader get his security clearance? Dental care, child care, what more could there be? School food and pharmacare—

Mr. Speaker, They tore up our deal. They started to gloat, But guess what happened on the next confidence vote. Supply management and seniors, the Bloc has lots to say— I don't really understand, Mr. Speaker, je ne parle pas français. To calm caucus rebels, we cut the GST, A small Christmas gift from the Liberals and me. Groceries are high. There's trouble with the mail, But we still have a chance to win Cloverdale. Now, Mr. Speaker, it's not a contest, so I don't mean to brag, But it's only our leader whose name is on a flag. One final thought though, Canada ain't broke. Though I will admit we may be a bit woke. Mr. Speaker, colleagues, merry Christmas and happy holidays, too. May we all get a Christmas card from a Randy or two.

Mr. Speaker, today I rise to celebrate an incredible milestone for a small but mighty voice in Dartmouth: The North Dartmouth Echo. Twenty years ago, this non-profit newspaper was born out of a single but powerful vision: to amplify the good news in the community, news that too often went unheard. Since then, The Echo has become a beacon of positivity, staffed entirely by dedicated volunteers. There is now an all-woman team that publishes five inspiring issues a year. This is more than a newspaper. It is the heartbeat of a community. The Echo shares the triumphs of local schools, small businesses, non-profits and everyday residents. It connects, celebrates and uplifts North Dartmouth. I want to give a quick recognition to Sylvia Anthony, a co-founder whose tireless efforts selling ads, gathering stories and even delivering the newspaper herself keep this incredible initiative alive. As The Echo publishes its December issue, let us all celebrate this 20-year legacy of community spirit and good news. Here is to another 20 years of making North Dartmouth proud.

Madam Speaker, the Halifax regional municipality is on the front lines when it comes to responding to the housing crisis. That is why last year we announced an $80 million federal housing investment in HRM to unlock nearly 9,000 homes over the next decade. Last week, the Conservative leader announced his plan to shut down homebuilding in HRM and across the country by making dangerous cuts to federal housing investments. People in my riding of Dartmouth—Cole Harbour could not afford these reckless Conservative housing cuts. To the Minister of Housing, how can we stop these Conservative cuts and solve the housing crisis?

Mr. Speaker, pharmacare matters to my constituents in Dartmouth—Cole Harbour, and I will never stop advocating for national pharmacare. I do not believe that anyone should have to choose between paying their rent and paying for the prescription drugs they need. That is why we have laid a strong framework and launched the first phase of our plan. Cost is one of the biggest barriers for women to access contraceptives, but under our new pharmacare plan, women will get the access they need without having to empty their wallet. No Nova Scotian with diabetes should ever feel the need to stretch their insulin doses or other medication just to try to make it last longer. Our pharmacare plan will be there to support folks living with diabetes so they no longer need to worry about the costs; they can focus on their health and well-being. Canada is the only country in the world with universal health care that does not provide universal coverage for prescription drugs, and our Liberal government is working to fix that.

Madam Speaker, Nova Scotians are smart, passionate, hard-working people. Nova Scotians are seizing our strong winds, turning them into big revenue that will drive our economy and produce good jobs for generations to come. Unlike the Conservatives, we believe that Nova Scotians should reap the rewards of the multi-trillion dollar offshore wind and clean hydrogen industries. That is why the passage of Bill C-49 represents a huge step for Nova Scotians and Atlantic Canadians, unlocking a generational economic opportunity for our region. However, just like the Harper Conservatives of the past, who tried to push Atlantic Canada down by taking our offshore revenues, Conservatives are again doing everything they can to block this huge opportunity for Atlantic Canadians. We will not let them. We are standing up for Nova Scotians and Atlantic Canadians because our hard-working people deserve to prosper.

Madam Speaker, the Halifax Regional Municipality is home to a thriving maritime defence industry, Fleet Week, the Halifax International Security Forum and, of course, our Atlantic navy fleet. In Dartmouth—Cole Harbour alone, we are home to a thriving defence innovation ecosystem, including the Centre for Ocean Ventures and Entrepreneurship and hundreds of start-ups and established companies working and innovating in this sector. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence share with the House how our government's investments in defence and industry will benefit the Halifax Regional Municipality, Canada and the world?

Mr. Speaker, Canada's border services employees deliver important services that ensure Canadians are safe, secure and have timely access to goods coming from other countries. It is no secret that Canada's public servants have seen previous Conservative governments cut their jobs and cut services instead of giving them the respect they deserve by reaching deals at the table that are fair for them and reasonable for Canadian taxpayers. Could the President of the Treasury Board share an update on her work to ensure a fair deal is made with our border services officers to maintain Canada's border security while ensuring respect for the work of our public servants?

Mr. Speaker, my hometown of Dartmouth rests on the shores of Halifax harbour, on beautiful Dartmouth Cove. Two years ago, a proponent applied to use Dartmouth Cove as a dump for pyritic slate from construction sites to infill nearly seven acres of this cove, a cover where important marine research and activities take place and where evidence clearly shows that fish and other species are flourishing. The local councillor made it very clear that this infill would be a moonscape, not zoned for development. Dartmouth spoke out. We continue to speak out against this infill for the sake of infill, because Dartmouth Cove is not a dump for someone's fill. Now the proponent is threatening to sue me if I speak out. I was elected to represent the people of Dartmouth—Cole Harbour to be their voice. It is my job to bring their concerns to Ottawa, to advocate, to stand up and to speak out. Dartmouth Cove is not a dumpsite for someone's fill. I will not be silenced.

Mr. Speaker, May 12 was international myalgic encephalomyelitis awareness day. I would like to acknowledge the approximately two to three million Canadians now living with this debilitating illness. ME, formerly known as chronic fatigue syndrome, is a devastating, chronic, complex, multi-system illness. It occurs in children, adolescents and adults of all ages and backgrounds, and three-quarters of people living with the illness are women. Up to 75% are unable to work, and one-quarter are consistently bed-bound or housebound. ME is an urgent health crisis, with research showing that 50% or more of those with long COVID go on to develop ME. People with ME are suffering and desperately want their lives back. There is currently no cure or approved treatment for it at this time. It is therefore crucial that Canada take action, increase funding for ME research and provide resources for national education and training.

Mr. Speaker, I believe that no one in this country should ever spend their days in pain because they cannot afford to see a dentist. Oral health is health. I heard from seniors in Dartmouth—Cole Harbour that the new Canadian dental care plan is going to make a real difference in their quality of life, yet the Conservatives just do not care. The Conservatives voted against dental care for Canadians, and we know that Conservatives always choose cuts over care. Can the Minister of Citizens’ Services please let Canadians know how many people have applied for the program, and how many seniors will lose their dental coverage if the Conservatives get their way?

Mr. Speaker, I am rising to recognize and honour my good friend and former parliamentarian from Dartmouth—Cole Harbour, the three-term Mayor of Halifax, Mike Savage. Mike is known as a leader who can work with any order of government, no matter the political stripe, to get things done. When I served with him as a municipal councillor and his deputy mayor, I appreciated how open and accessible he was. Whether as the chair of FCM’s Big City Mayors’ Caucus, or as co-chair of FCM’s 2015 Syrian refugee resettlement task force, his strong sense of civic duty and drive to foster greater economic and social inclusion for everyone guides his path. Mike is someone who deeply cares about people. Regardless of the challenge, the issue or even the jurisdiction, he works hard, advocating for folks across the municipality. After more than a decade as our mayor, Mike will not be seeking re-election. It is no secret that under his leadership our city has experienced record growth. Our next mayor has big shoes to fill. I want to thank Mayor Mike Savage and his entire team for their years of service and dedication to our municipality.

Mr. Speaker, “If you're not outraged, you're not paying attention.” Rick Howe, Nova Scotian broadcasting legend, the voice of Nova Scotia, has passed away at the age of 69. Rick was funny, energetic, outspoken, entertaining, kind and brutally honest. It was clear that he loved the medium of radio so much. In turn, Nova Scotians loved him, tuning in for almost 50 years: same bat time, same bat channel. Rick got his radio start in rural New Brunswick, but it was his gig with CJCH in Halifax that truly launched his career. This is where he became the host of “The Hotline” and the most recognizable voice in Nova Scotian radio. Before his retirement, he ended his career hosting “The Rick Howe Show” on 95.7, now known as CityNews. Rick was also an author of several books. His search for truths and for good, local stories shaped his career. I thank Yvonne and family for sharing him with us. Rick Howe leaves a legacy in Nova Scotia that we could never forget.

Mr. Speaker, 'Twas the week before Christmas and I must admit, Thirty hours was a long time to sit. But Liberals prevailed on behalf of the masses, While Tories stepped back and sat on their hands. On the other side we witness a continuing saga. Diefenbaker's party looks much more like MAGA. I know they have been challenged by a leader's swinging door, But they think they have struck gold with leader number four. They gave him a makeover with etiquette classes, Pumped up his chest and took off his glasses, But no matter the issue they put on the docket, We still persevere with the Dippers in our pocket. This marriage of convenience might seem like a rental, But because of this deal, Canadians got dental. In that glorious moment, I looked up and saw Not a lick of support from the Bloc Québécois. But now it is time to return to our ridings And share with our friends the best Christmas tidings. Mr. Speaker, I know you will hate to see us go. If you think of us over Christmas, please do not send us a video.

Mr. Speaker, Nova Scotia lost one of its own yesterday. Myles Goodwyn of Canada's legendary band April Wine has passed away. For decades, Myles and April Wine have ruled the airwaves in Canada. Not a day goes by that Canadian radio does not play their classics. A proud Nova Scotian and Waverley boy, Myles and his band regularly crossed Canada coast to coast to coast, playing high schools, rinks, arenas and all the way up to stadiums at their peak, leaving behind a catalogue of Canadiana. From Say Hello and Rock N' Roll is a Vicious Game to Roller and Just Between You and Me, they have had dozens and dozens of hits that members probably know all the words to. One of the honours of my life was introducing the band in front of thousands of Nova Scotians at Alderney Landing in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, last year. Oh, what a night. I thank Myles for being an amazing ambassador for Nova Scotia, for all the music and for the stacks of vinyl records that I still play and enjoy to this day.

Madam Speaker, December 1 marks World AIDS Day and the beginning of Indigenous AIDS Awareness Week. During this time, we remember those we lost to HIV and show our support for those living with it by raising awareness, increasing our knowledge and working to end discrimination surrounding HIV. This year's theme, “Let communities lead”, is a reminder to listen to communities as we work to end the stigma surrounding HIV. We are working to ensure that people across the country have access to testing and treatment for infectious diseases like HIV and that these resources are reaching those who need it most. The first step to treatment is care and knowing your status. This week, we encourage people to get tested and learn more about the facts of HIV, because when we work together, we can put an end to AIDS.

Madam Speaker, on this World AIDS Day, ensuring that Canadians have access to testing and treatment for HIV is a top priority for our government. That is why we recently announced nearly $18 million in funding to make decentralized forms of HIV testing, including HIV self-test kits, more widely available across Canada. HIV self-test kits are helpful in reaching those who are undiagnosed, by offering greater accessibility, privacy and convenience. They can also reduce stigma.

Mr. Speaker, this week marks National Pain Awareness Week, a time to raise awareness about chronic pain, the severe impact it has on people's lives and the resources available to support those living with pain. One in five Canadians suffers from chronic pain, a health condition with major impacts on physical and mental health. When pain goes unmanaged, it can have a significant effect on a person's everyday life, including working or going to school. It can also lead to significant health issues such as depression and higher risk of substance use. Family, friends and sometimes even health workers might not understand what someone is going through. If someone lives with pain, they should know they are not alone. This week, let us have those important conversations and raise awareness of the impact of chronic pain on friends and neighbours.

Mr. Speaker, since 2017, guided by the Canadian drugs and substances strategy, CDSS, the Government of Canada has taken a comprehensive approach to address substance use issues and the overdose crisis, supported by over $1 billion in spending. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to prevent or reduce overdose deaths; a full range of services and supports are needed. Safer supply sits within a continuum of services where medications are prescribed in the context of a therapeutic relationship between a health care provider and a patient. Safer supply services are informed by well-established domestic and international evidence from medication-assisted treatment, MAT, services, which are considered the gold standard of treatment for substance use disorder. With regard to questions (a) and (b), surveillance conducted by the Public Health Agency of Canada, PHAC, on the overdose crisis shows a significant increase in apparent opioid-toxicity deaths in Canada beginning with the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, and rates remain elevated today. PHAC also conducts forward modelling to provide estimates of how many opioid-related deaths may occur over the coming months in Canada. Projections are based on assumptions regarding the toxicity of the illegal drug supply and the impact of health interventions. The model considers all health interventions together and does not report projections for specific interventions, such as safer supply. The model is updated twice a year, in June and December. Health Canada recognizes that additional high-quality evidence is needed that addresses potential benefits and risks of safer supply. To help build this evidence, Health Canada is supporting assessment and evaluation projects related to pilot projects funded by the substance use and addictions program, SUAP. This includes a preliminary assessment of 10 safer supply pilot projects in Ontario, British Columbia and New Brunswick. The federal government, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, CIHR, is also supporting a study being conducted by a research team from the Canadian research initiative in substance misuse. This four-year evaluation research project focuses on program implementation and the short-term health outcomes of 11 of the government-funded safer supply pilot projects. The final results of this study are expected in 2025. Additionally, CIHR has awarded $2 million to the University of Victoria to support a four-year study evaluating the safer supply initiatives in British Columbia in partnership with indigenous leaders, elders and system partners. With regard to questions (c) and (d), there is no one single intervention alone that will reduce overdose deaths and solve the overdose crisis. This crisis is being driven by a highly toxic illegal drug supply and a number of underlying socio-economic factors. This is why the federal government has taken a broad, comprehensive approach under the CDSS focusing on prevention, treatment, harm reduction and enforcement. All SUAP-funded safer supply pilot projects are time-limited, innovative interventions designed to evaluate the effectiveness of providing pharmaceutical-grade medications as safer alternatives to the contaminated illegal drug supply in Canada. These pilot projects must have linkages to provincial and/or territorial health systems, involvement of people with lived and living experience of substance use in design and planning and prescriber or health care provider oversight, and must demonstrate commitments to research and evaluation. Safer supply services exist in a limited number of locations in Canada, and currently serve a relatively small number of clients compared to the total number of people who use drugs and who are at risk of overdose due to the toxic illegal drug supply in Canada. At the federal level, there are 29 funded pilot projects, serving approximately 4,300 clients nationally. The focus of federally funded projects has been on building the evidence around this new practice. Under the CDSS, the Government of Canada will continue to undertake a comprehensive and evidence-based approach to substance use issues and the overdose crisis, including testing new ideas and approaches to help save lives and reduce harms. We will continue to work with all levels of governments and key stakeholders, who also have critical roles to play. We will continue to monitor and assess all available evidence regarding our approach, including studying the outcomes of safer supply pilot projects, to inform both current and future actions and make adjustments, including implementing risk mitigation measures as appropriate.

Mr. Speaker, we are making sure that the collective bargaining process is as free and fair as it can be. We have wrapped up consultations, and we are going to take the feedback that we received from unions, employers and indigenous groups to inform legislation, to be tabled by the end of this year. This is the latest evolution in policy to protect the collective bargaining process. We need to strike a balance between doing it quickly and getting it right.

Madam Speaker, I am rising to honour an outstanding individual from my riding, Dartmouth—Cole Harbour's Leo MacKenzie. Leo spent the past 40 years working with the non-profit Regional Residential Services Society in support of adults with intellectual disabilities, and he spent the last 14 years helping his friends on Hilton Drive live their best lives while supporting the amazing work of Better Together Nova Scotia. Leo has always ensured that the people he supports are active members of our community. He has always listened to their ideas and helped make them a reality. Leo has empowered and inspired so many through his positive attitude and his eagerness to give back to his community. Leo has changed so many lives for the better and we owe him our gratitude. I ask that all members join me in congratulating Leo MacKenzie on his retirement. I thank Leo for everything.

Mr. Speaker, we want to save people money and fight climate change at the same time. We know that a price on pollution reduces emissions and puts more money in the pockets of middle-class families. We also know that many families who use home heating oil in Atlantic Canada are having trouble making the switch to a cleaner and cheaper source of heat, particularly in rural communities. It is a switch they want to make. That is why we are pausing the price on pollution on home heating oil for three years, doubling the rural rebate and creating a new program to deliver cleaner, more affordable heat pumps to families in the region while we save them thousands of dollars every year.

Mr. Speaker, that is a very serious question. Since 2016, the government has had the view that we need a comprehensive, collaborative and evidence-based substance use policy with harm reduction and treatment as the key part. This is a public health issue, not a criminal one, and it must be addressed alongside well-trained, monitored and resourced public safety components. People who are struggling need everyone at the table, everyone in this room, with the federal government working with provinces and territories on a system that includes health and mental health services.

Madam Speaker, I am pleased to join the second reading debate of Bill S-205, an act to amend the Criminal Code and to make consequential amendments to another act. I am pleased to reiterate the government's support for Bill S-205. This legislation has the important goal of better protecting victims of intimate partner violence. In light of last week's tragic instance of intimate partner violence in Sault Ste. Marie, we are reminded of the devastating impact these crimes have on individuals and communities. My heart breaks for the senseless loss of life in Sault Ste. Marie, and I am thinking of the victims' loved ones. Intimate partner violence and gender-based violence in general have no place in Canada. I know my colleagues from all parties share this sentiment. Bill S-205 would make changes to the Criminal Code's bail and peace bond regimes in order to address intimate partner violence. The bill would also make consequential amendments to the Youth Criminal Justice Act. These are important objectives. Today, I will elaborate on some concerns that we have with this bill and how we think it can be improved. I will also discuss our government's most recent complementary efforts to support victims of intimate partner violence and victims of crime in general. As my colleagues have mentioned, Bill S-205 would require prosecutors to ask courts whether the victim has been consulted about their safety and security needs prior to making a bail order for an individual who is charged with an intimate partner violence offence. In addition, Bill S-205 would require courts to ask prosecutors whether victims have been informed of their right to request a copy of the bail order made by the court. The next element of Bill S-205 that I would like to highlight is the expansion of a reverse onus for bail on intimate partner violence crimes. The reverse onus would be expanded so that it applies not only to accused persons who were previously convicted but also to those previously discharged, conditional or absolute, for an intimate partner violence offence. This particular measure is also contained in our government's bill, Bill C-48, which already passed this House and is awaiting third reading in the Senate. We were certainly concerned to see that the senators voted to remove this measure from the bill, and I hope that my colleagues agree that we should reinstate it in Bill C-48. This provision builds upon previous government legislation that enhances our federal response to intimate partner violence, including former Bill C-75. I hope this House rejects the amendments to Bill C-48. Next, Bill S-205 would require a justice to consider, on request of the Crown, whether the accused should wear an electronic monitoring device as a condition of release. I want to point out that this provision would also undo an important change made by Bill C-233, an act to amend the Criminal Code and the Judges Act, violence against an intimate partner, which received royal assent on April 27. If Bill S-205 is passed, electronic monitoring would be identified as an explicit condition of bail that could be imposed in all cases, and not just in cases involving violence against an intimate partner as is now the case because of the changes enacted in Bill C-233. Last, this bill would create a new peace bond specific to cases involving intimate partner violence with a duration of up to two years, or three years if the defendant was previously convicted of an intimate partner violence offence. I want to reiterate that I support the objectives of this bill, but I believe that changes should be considered to better align the proposed amendments with its objective. These changes could also minimize the potential for unintended negative impacts on groups who are already overrepresented in the criminal justice system, and ensure coherence with existing criminal law. Next, I want to discuss how Bill S-205 fits into a broader framework of our government's support for victims of crime. I have already mentioned Bill C-48, which passed here on unanimous consent of all members. I want to thank colleagues across the aisle for their support and for recognizing the importance and urgency of Bill C-48. It is a direct response to requests made by the provinces and territories, as well as law enforcement agencies from across our country. This piece of legislation would strengthen Canada's bail laws to address the public's concerns relating to repeat violent offenders in offences involving firearms and other weapons. Bill C-48 would introduce a reverse onus at bail on the use of dangerous weapons such as firearms, knives and bear spray. Bill C-48 would also create a reverse onus for additional indictable firearms offences, including unlawful possession of a loaded or easily loaded prohibited or restricted firearm, breaking and entering to steal a firearm, robbery to steal a firearm and making an automatic firearm. Through this bill, we are sending a strong message that crimes committed involving a firearm are unacceptable and represent a dire threat to public safety. We have seen too many lives lost to gun crime. As I have mentioned previously, Bill C-48 would also strengthen the existing reverse onus that applies to accused persons charged with an offence involving intimate partner violence when they have a previous conviction for this type of an offence. Bill S-205 has this same objective, and I am glad to see members from all parties take intimate partner violence seriously. Another proposal in Bill C-48 relates to what considerations the court must make when deciding whether to release someone on bail. A former bill, Bill C-75, passed in 2019, amended the Criminal Code to provide that before making a bail order, courts must consider any relevant factor, including the criminal record of the accused or if the charges involve intimate partner violence. Bill C-48 would expand this provision to require courts to consider if the accused's criminal record includes a history of convictions involving violence. Bail courts would be specifically directed to consider whether the accused has any previous violent convictions and whether they represent an increased risk of reoffending, even when the proposed reverse onus does not apply. This change would enhance public safety, and I am again pleased that my colleagues support the passage of Bill C-48. A second bill I wanted to highlight is Bill S-12. Just this week, we debated this legislation. Bill S-12 would improve our national response to sexual offences by strengthening the national sex offender registry regime. We have responded to concerns raised by the Supreme Court and law enforcement agencies in this legislation. The list of designated offences that qualify an offender to be registered on the national sex offender registry would be expanded by Bill S-12, and this list would include non-consensual sharing of intimate images and sextortion, two crimes that have had terrible impacts on the lives of Canadians, especially women and children. This would be a very positive step forward. Bill S-12 is a direct product of conversations with survivors and victims of sexual crime. Bill S-12 would reform the publication regime to recognize the diversity of victim experiences and ensure that survivors have agency to tell their own stories if they so choose. Bill S-12 would also change the process for providing victims with information on their cases to better reflect the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights. Both of these changes are about one key element: choice. There is no one right way to be a victim. Bill S-12 reflects this reality. I am happy to support Bill S-205, and I hope that the elements I have raised as potential concerns with the bill can be further studied at committee.

Madam Speaker, I want to thank the member for his passion on this topic. I have spoken to him several times already since I started in this role, and I can only learn from this member and continue to appreciate his passion and knowledge on this topic. This toxic drug and overdose crisis is having a tragic and unrelenting toll on Canadians, their families and communities, and the member knows this. There are four pillars recognized internationally that are necessary for a successful substance use strategy: prevention, harm reduction, treatment and enforcement. We are committed to a comprehensive approach that implements policies and supports in all four of these essential areas. The member opposite is a key ally in solving this crisis. Every person who overdoses is somebody who has a family and somebody who has people who care about them. I believe these deaths are, as the member said, preventable. Many of these individuals have perhaps hidden their drug use and feel unable or afraid to seek help. Many died alone. We must take urgent action to save lives and protect the health and safety of Canadians. We have committed more than $1 billion for a full range of evidence-based actions focused on prevention, harm reduction, treatment and enforcement. Sadly, this crisis is evolving and worsening. The drugs are getting more toxic. Substance use intersects with other issues like poverty, homelessness and mental health. We need to evolve our understanding of the crisis and continue to improve the government's work to save lives, and protect the health and safety of Canadians. Substance use is a health issue and health care is a shared responsibility across all levels of government. Most importantly, because I know some members in this House still disagree with this, harm reduction is health care. This is why we continue to support provinces, territories and indigenous communities to improve access to integrated, evidence-based substance use services and supports for all Canadians when and where they need it. Creating false narratives is not useful to anyone. I am happy that the member for Courtenay—Alberni agrees with us on this and is helping us fight misinformation. We are providing nearly $200 billion to the provinces and territories over the next 10 years to support health system reform across Canada, and $25 billion of that money is for shared health priorities such as improving access to mental health and substance use services. These historic investments will seek to integrate mental health and substance use care across the entire health system. This means that no matter where, when or how someone reaches out for help, there will be no wrong door, and I am optimistic we can get there. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to address this complex crisis. Each person's circumstance is unique. Solutions to the crisis must recognize that people use substances for different reasons and in different ways. Offering treatment alone is not enough. Providing a broad array of care options and wraparound supports allows people to access the right services at the right time to improve their overall health and well-being. We cannot end this crisis alone. It is our collective responsibility to work together as parliamentarians, with the member for Courtenay—Alberni, local communities, provinces and territories, as well as indigenous communities. We cannot be working in silos or through an approach that is not integrated.

Madam Speaker, I agree, and we do know that substance abuse is an extremely complex issue. Discrimination and trauma can place individuals at an increased risk for substance use harms. We are focused on improving the availability and accessibility of a range of services and supports as a means to address the overdose crisis. This complex issue calls for a comprehensive and integrated response, as I said and as the member acknowledged. People who are struggling need everyone at the table. They need everyone in the House of Commons, including the federal government, working with the provinces and territories on a system that includes health and mental health teams and services. This is a public health issue, not a criminal one, and it must be addressed that way alongside well-trained, monitored and resourced public safety components. I look forward to discussing the trip you took and learning a bit more about the model in Portugal.

Mr. Speaker, whether people are in my home riding of Dartmouth—Cole Harbour or in any town in any city across Canada, young entrepreneurs are taking their smart ideas and turning them into viable businesses. For over 25 years, Futurpreneur has assisted over 17,000 entrepreneurs aged 18 to 39 launch new businesses in communities from coast to coast to coast. It has even helped launched one of Canada's most successful companies, Knix, whose founder Joanna now gives back by sitting as a board member. I am thrilled to welcome Futurpreneur as it takes part in meetings on Parliament Hill today, including young entrepreneurs from across Canada, like Nicholas LaValle from my riding of Dartmouth—Cole Harbour. Nicholas is the founder of Clean Valley CIC, an innovative clean technology company that specializes in biofiltration. I ask all members of the House to join me today in celebrating these entrepreneurs and their big ideas. Let us all support Futurpreneur today and into the future.

Madam Speaker, this evening, I am pleased to speak about the procurement process in the federal government. This is a process that is run by a professional, non-partisan public service that Canadians can be proud of. Canadians can rest assured that public servants are held to the highest standards when they enter into contracts. Canadians can also be assured that public servants are guided by best value when they evaluate proposals and make contracting decisions. These contracts help the public service deliver the programs and services that Canadians rely on. The central document guiding the public service in the contracting process is “Directive on the Management of Procurement”. This directive came into effect in May 2021. The directive replaced the previous contracting policy, which had been in place for 33 years. After a one-year transition period, the contracting policy was rescinded. This directive was part of the government's plan to modernize policies on managing the assets and services the federal government acquires. The government is proud of this achievement. The directive is principle-based and focused on outcomes. It supports business owners, who are a critical partner in the procurement process, by outlining roles and responsibilities. It also places an emphasis on socio-economic, indigenous and environmental objectives, and I will get back to that point later on. The directive sets out guidance and obligations for the professional public service to follow when procuring goods and services. Fundamentally, the directive ensures that the procurement of goods and services continues to be done in a way that is fair, open and transparent. Canadians can be assured that these principles are the backbone of all government contracts. This is demonstrated in the objective of the directive, which says, “The objective of this directive is that procurement of goods, services and construction obtains the necessary assets and services that support the delivery of programs and services to Canadians, while ensuring best value to the Crown.” This objective is backed up with six results the directive intends to achieve. For example, procurement must support operational outcomes while demonstrating sound stewardship and best value. I would like to get back to the point I made earlier about the emphasis the directive puts on socio-economic, indigenous and environmental objectives. In 2019, the government made a fundamental change in procurement policy. It redefined “best value” to mean a balance between competitive pricing and best outcome. This means that public servants who evaluate bills are able to consider the socio-economic and environmental returns of their contracts. This extends throughout the life cycle of the good or service being purchased. This represents a fundamental shift in procurement, where best value is not always the lowest price but the optimal balance of resources and outcomes. This includes outcomes from a socio-economic perspective and outcomes for the environment. The directive reflects this policy change by enabling departments to use their procurement processes to support environmental, indigenous and socio-economic considerations, as appropriate, to achieve the best value for Canadians. To achieve this result, and all six expected results, the directive creates the new role of senior designated official. Each department will appoint a senior designated official who will be responsible for establishing a departmental procurement framework that consists of processes, systems and controls that will guide procurement in their department. The senior designated official is also responsible for developing guidance regarding procurement officials within their organization. This includes identifying competencies, building capacity and establishing professional development for these officials. The government has considered procurement carefully and taken a comprehensive approach in “Directive on the Management of Procurement”. Canadians can be assured that the professional, non-partisan public service is guided by a modernized directive on procurement that ensures that contracting is fair, open—

Madam Speaker, I can assure the member that under the directive on the management of procurement, as I said, professional, non-partisan public servants must maintain the integrity of the procurement process. Departments must obtain the best value in their procurement decisions, which has been redefined by our government to allow a comprehensive assessment of socio-economic and environmental returns throughout the life cycle of the good or service. The directive on the management of procurement is to establish guidelines and controls to guide the professional, non-partisan public service in achieving these goals.

Mr. Speaker, May is National Physiotherapy Month; it is an opportunity to celebrate and recognize the incredible work physiotherapy professionals do to improve the health of Canadians. This year's focus is on pain management and rehabilitation. Nearly eight million people are affected by chronic pain in Canada. In recent years, the convergence of the opioid crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic have intensified the urgent need for a new approach to pain care in this country. Canadian physiotherapy professionals are taking the lead in implementing innovative approaches to non-pharmacological pain management. It is an honour to be here today to speak about National Physiotherapy Month and to recognize the 27,000 physiotherapy professionals in Canada for their groundbreaking collaborative work across the health care system.

Mr. Chair, I want to take a moment, if I could, to ask the minister a question. First of all, I wanted to thank the minister for the rapid housing investment. We have seen great successes with the RHI in Halifax and in the Dartmouth area. I have spoken to the mayor, Mayor Mike Savage, in Halifax, and no one really and truly knows more about what to do with the housing money than the municipalities do. I think partnering with them directly has been a real win. I would like to ask the minister whether there is a way of moving in a more flexible way so that we can work with the municipalities and allow them to be flexible to build what they need with the funds they get.

Mr. Speaker, I first met the member when I was moving a bill through the House of Commons, Bill S-211, on sickle cell awareness. I know she cares. She is a good MP, and she cares about people. She talks about supporting seniors, yet Bloc members have voted against seniors in the House for years. They voted against taking the age of eligibility for retirement benefits from 67 to 65 years of age. They voted against that. I would ask the member why she felt that seniors should have to work two more years to access the benefits they deserve and which they contributed to for decades. It surprises me that someone who cares so much about seniors would vote against seniors on a regular basis.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to participate in the second reading debate on Bill C-319. I would like to thank the member for Shefford for sponsoring this bill. Private members' bills play an important role in focusing parliamentary attention on issues of concern to Canadians. Last spring, for instance, we had bills on mandatory immunization, employment insurance for adoptive parents, school food programs and, just recently, a bill to amend the Criminal Code for vulnerable adults. Seniors are the backbone of Canadian society. They are our parents, our grandmothers and our grandfathers. They are our mentors and loved ones. They are our former teachers, our bosses and our leaders. Seniors built our amazing country and they deserve to live out their retirement without worrying about their financial security. I want to speak today to all the measures our government has delivered that support Canadian seniors. Increasing old age security by 10% for seniors over the age of 75 was the right thing to do, because it was delivering targeted support to those who need it the most. We know that the older seniors get, the more likely they are to experience higher costs due to the onset of illness or disability and increased health-related expenses. The facts and data support the government's decision, because here, on this side of the House, we, unlike some of the other parties in this place, make decisions based upon data and facts. Let us turn to the numbers to get an idea of how our government's plan has been effective in ensuring that taxpayer dollars are hard at work supporting those who need it most. In 2020, 39% of seniors aged 75 and over received the guaranteed income supplement, compared to 29% of those aged 65 to 74. There are also more women in the over-75 age group than men, and there are more Canadians with a disability in that age group as well. According to the Canadian Survey on Disability, in 2017, 47% of seniors over the age of 75 had a disability, compared to 32% under the age of 75. This evidence tells us that seniors over the age of 75 are more likely to be in vulnerable circumstances. This means that they are more likely to need additional support, so that is exactly what the government delivered. Conscious of the facts, our government made the responsible decision to make a historic increase to the old age security pension for seniors aged 75 and older. Let us be clear: This was a huge win for seniors. This change represented the first increase to OAS in 50 years. This policy has helped approximately 3.3 million seniors. They received more than $800 extra over the first year of the increase, and the benefit, of course, is indexed to rise with the cost of living, so it will continue to go up. However, we did not stop there. Since 2015, we have implemented a range of targeted actions that have not only contributed to the lowest poverty rates among seniors in Canadian history, but also positioned Canada as a country with one of the lowest poverty rates in the world for seniors. In fact, one of the very first things the government did after we were elected was reverse the reckless Conservative plan to increase the age of retirement. We immediately lowered the age of eligibility for OAS and GIS, from 67 back to 65, allowing Canadians to retire sooner. This put hundreds of thousands of dollars back in the pockets of Canadian seniors. Bill C-29 was the budget implementation act in 2016. When we look at the voting record, the Conservatives voted against it and the Bloc voted against it. That is where the vote was for the return from 67 to 65 in 2016. We also raised the guaranteed income supplement by almost $1,000 a year, which helped nearly one million vulnerable single seniors. We know that many seniors want to continue to work past retirement. That is why we extended eligibility for the GIS earnings exemption to include self-employment income and increased the exemption by over 40%, to enable seniors who wished to continue working to do so. On top of all this, we are ensuring that those benefits keep up with the cost of living. In fact, over the past year, OAS and GIS have actually increased by 7.1%, while CPP and QPP have increased by 6.5%. We are proud of our record, which shows that, year after year, we have strengthened seniors' financial security, while lifting hundreds of thousands of seniors out of poverty. Of course, there is much more work to do. That is why we are bringing the largest expansion of health care in 60 years by providing uninsured seniors access to high-quality dental care. I sincerely hope that the member across the way who is moving the bill will vote for our budget so that she can support seniors with dental care. We are always better when we work together. I encourage members across the way, including the Bloc, to work with us to support seniors in Quebec and across Canada. However, time and time again, Bloc members are choosing politics over supporting seniors. We can just look at the voting record, and I'll give a few more examples. I just mentioned dental care for seniors, but they have also already voted against the early stage of the budget, and I assume they are going to vote against the budget when it is ready to be voted on. There was also lowering the age of retirement, with Bill C-29, the Budget Implementation Act, in 2016; strengthening the GIS; and our OAS increase that supports the most vulnerable seniors. These are things that they voted against. However, people should not worry. While opposition parties are playing political games, we are going to stay focused on delivering real results for seniors from coast to coast to coast. Canada's population is aging. Seniors are the fastest-growing demographic, and we need to be thoughtful in our approach to supporting them. We will continue to be proud of the record that we have in supporting seniors.