Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, as Parliament reconvenes, I wish you and all members a productive session. I also want to pay tribute to someone who made a profound impact on Sherbrooke. Mural artist Serge Malenfant passed away on July 11. He was a happy, audacious and dedicated man whom I had the pleasure of knowing personally. He was one of Sherbrooke's most talented artists and he had a deep love for our city. He showed that love by making Sherbrooke's walls his canvas. His trompe-l'oeil murals adorn the streets of Sherbrooke and make the downtown into a real open-air art gallery. Some of these unique works of art tell the story of our region, while others disguise the doors of elevators in seniors' care facilities to prevent residents from wandering off. This friend of the arts has left behind much more than just murals. He left a part of himself in our city. I want to express my deepest condolences to his wife, Julie, and to his family and friends. Serge Malenfant helped make Sherbrooke a city that leaves a lasting impression, and his work will continue to do just that for a long time to come.

Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Sophie Faucher, a highly talented actress and undoubtedly one of the most beautiful voices on Quebec's cultural scene. Whether on stage, on screen or behind a microphone, Sophie Faucher left her mark on several generations, be it through her elegance, her passion and fire or her ability to light up a room. Throughout an exceptional career spanning nearly five decades, she brought to life memorable characters, including the incomparable Crystale Bouvier-Montgomery in Le cœur a ses raisons. Audiences will also remember her uniquely husky voice as she sat in heaven, dressed as an angel, bagel in hand, making us smile as she complained about messy crumbs. Her recent moving portrayal of opera singer Maria Callas, as well as that of her idol Frida Kahlo in the play La Casa Azul, directed by her friend Robert Lepage, rank among the defining roles of her career. Quebec has lost an exceptional artist, but her immense contribution to our culture will leave a lasting mark on our collective memory.

Mr. Speaker, the Eastern Townships are mourning the loss of Claude Métras following his passing on April 16, 2026. As a prominent certified appraiser with Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton in Sherbrooke, Mr. Métras was known to all as a leader recognized for his generosity and profound love for our region. He was a true community builder who chaired many boards of directors and events. He was also a great philanthropist who shone a spotlight on regional culture, particularly by organizing exhibitions at the offices of Raymond Chabot Grant Thornton to launch the careers of local artists. His outstanding commitment earned him a number of accolades, including the title “Grand Estrien”, the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Medal, the Lieutenant Governor of Quebec's gold medal and the Mérite Estrien award. This devoted family man, loving partner to his dear Marylin and avid tennis fan leaves behind an immense legacy. Everyone who knew him will carry the memory of his dedication and warmth with them forever. I want to thank Mr. Métras. It was a privilege to know him.

Mr. Speaker, my colleague painted a very rosy picture of all the measures we are putting in place to help Canadians in a volatile and complex context. We know that the price of fuel is very unpredictable because of all the supply chain disruptions in the Middle East. How will the measure announced today regarding the excise tax help trucking companies, particularly those in the food and agriculture sectors, save money?

Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, we celebrated International Women's Day. In honour of the occasion, I celebrate women and all of our essential contributions to our country. Let us recognize the tremendous work of the women who came before us and ushered in the rights we enjoy today. Women have demonstrated remarkable perseverance and determination in so many domains. For a long time, they were discriminated against or excluded from domains such as sport. With the Olympic and Paralympic Games top of mind, I want to take this opportunity to celebrate the courageous female athletes who wear our colours. One of those women is Sherbrooke's Kim Boutin, a six-time Olympic medallist who is tied for most decorated Canadian female athlete in the history of the winter games. That is quite an accomplishment. Another is Lyne‑Marie Bilodeau, also from Sherbrooke. She was the youngest Canadian athlete at the Beijing Olympics and won three gold medals at the Canada Winter Games. Her journey proves that nothing is impossible. In celebrating these women, we celebrate all women. Their victories, their ambitions and their triumphs are, by extension, our own.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to speak today at second reading to Bill C-20, an act respecting the establishment of Build Canada Homes. The housing crisis is hitting hard across the country. Too many families, too many young people, too many seniors are spending more than 30% of their income on housing. Too many people are priced out of the market. We have a collective responsibility to take ambitious, thorough and creative action. Bill C-20 is a strategic response. By making Build Canada Homes a Crown corporation, we are giving it operational independence, the ability to take calculated risks and the governance necessary to achieve large-scale results, while remaining fully accountable to Parliament and Canadians. Backed by an initial investment of $13 billion announced in the 2025 budget, Build Canada Homes will have the tools it needs to build more housing that is more affordable, more quickly. A clear definition of affordable housing is housing that does not exceed 30% of a household's pre-tax income, based on regional realities. Beyond the structures and numbers, this bill is first and foremost a partnership project with the provinces and territories. Examples include the agreements reached between Quebec and Nova Scotia; the partnerships with indigenous communities, such as the agreement in principle signed between Nunavut and Nunavut Tunngavik Incorporated; and the partnerships with municipalities. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities has clearly welcomed this measure. Other examples include the partnerships with non-profit organizations, housing co-ops and private developers that are ready to build. I would now like to talk about my riding of Sherbrooke. The housing crisis is very real in my community. Vacancy rates remain very low. Families, students and vulnerable people have serious needs. Then again, Sherbrooke is also a laboratory for innovation. It is a vibrant university town, driven by the Université de Sherbrooke and the Sherbrooke CEGEP, where population growth is accompanied by a remarkable entrepreneurial spirit. Our developers are not just builders. They are partners in social and economic development. They have been able to think up human-scale projects that are integrated into their neighbourhood, promoting diversity and architectural quality. A number of recent projects in Sherbrooke illustrate that creativity: mixed-income housing projects, which combine market-priced housing with affordable units; projects that incorporate community spaces and local services; initiatives that prioritize wood, energy efficiency and sustainable practices. That is exactly the spirit that Build Canada Homes wants to encourage. Thanks to its new Crown corporation structure, Build Canada Homes will be able to make better use of public lands, particularly by integrating federal expertise in real estate development; deploy flexible financial tools to support complex arrangements; encourage modern construction methods, including prefabricated housing; and support non-commercial and community housing where the market alone is not enough. In Sherbrooke, as elsewhere, we are seeing the emergence of a new generation of developers who understand that profitability and social responsibility are not mutually exclusive, but complementary. Bill C‑20 is creating the conditions needed to amplify that momentum. This is not about replacing the market, but about complementing it, structuring it and stimulating it where the needs are greatest. The CMHC will continue to play its key role. Build Canada Homes will focus on persistent gaps, non-market housing, the strategic use of public lands and the structural transformation of our capacity to build. We need a streamlined organization focused solely on delivering housing. We are already getting results. In just a few months, Build Canada Homes has launched its national portal, published its investment policy framework, issued requests for qualifications for thousands of units on federal lands and signed major memoranda of understanding. That is not theory. It is action. The developers I meet in Sherbrooke talk about clear needs: predictability, quick decision-making and financial flexibility. By becoming a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes will be able to hold assets, invest directly, enter into complex transactions and act with the agility required in a rapidly changing market. This will enable us to support more meaningful projects, such as housing for women fleeing violence, adapted housing for people with disabilities, cooperative projects led by community-based organizations and residential complexes for seniors who wish to remain in their community. We will do this with local workers and businesses. Our buy Canadian policy aims to mobilize public funds to strengthen our economic sovereignty. In an uncertain global context, investing in housing also means investing in our industrial capacity, our materials and our expertise. In Sherbrooke, this means supporting entrepreneurs, engineers, construction workers and the entire regional supply chain. Housing is a key economic policy. Every home built generates activity, jobs and tax revenue. Every completed project contributes to the attractiveness of our region and the vitality of our neighbourhoods. Bill C‑20 is a bold and necessary change in the way we plan, fund and build housing. It gives Build Canada Homes the independence and means to act. It recognizes that governments, municipalities, community organizations, co-ops and private developers have to work together to succeed. It taps into the very real energy I see in Sherbrooke, that ability to turn ambitious ideas into tangible projects for the good of families, now and into the future. By passing Bill C‑20, we are sending a clear message: We take the housing crisis seriously, we trust our partners on the ground and we choose to act ambitiously for Sherbrooke, for Quebec and for all Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for the question. As I said in my speech, transforming this agency into a Crown corporation gives it all the independence it needs to speed up housing construction. We are already seeing real results. Just last Thursday, I was in Saint‑Jean‑Port‑Joli to announce the opening of a nine-unit building for women fleeing violence. Everyone was thrilled. The Coalition Avenir Québec member representing Minister Proulx was there. Everyone was of the opinion that the agreement signed with Quebec would make it easier to build housing faster in our communities.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my esteemed colleague for this important question. When we travel elsewhere in the country, we see how important it is to work with the provinces, particularly in times of crisis. Everyone here today has mentioned how serious the housing crisis is and the many consequences it is having on the lives of Canadians. We must therefore work together with the provinces. This collaboration will really help speed up and facilitate housing starts. I would like to add that during my visit to Saint-Jean-Port-Joli on Thursday, the Coalition Avenir Québec representative highlighted this fact and even said that we should work together more often in order to achieve tangible results more quickly.

Mr. Speaker, with only days remaining before the new defence industrial strategy is unveiled, I would like to highlight a remarkable achievement by one of our own companies, DARIT Technologies. In a national challenge held in Ottawa as part of the Department of National Defence's IDEaS program, DARIT Technologies took first prize, worth $1 million. After rigorous testing by defence experts, the Canadian Armed Forces, the RCMP and a number of partners, DARIT Technologies' urban drone detection solution won the day. It consists of surveillance equipment based on a unique acoustic detection technology. Sherbrooke has reason to be proud. This award is a testament not only to the technological excellence of DARIT Technologies, but also to the vitality of our innovation ecosystem. I sincerely congratulate its entire team for putting a spotlight on Sherbrooke and helping us strengthen security and innovation in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina officially open tomorrow, and more than 3,000 passionate athletes from around the world will compete in the sports they have mastered to get there. More than 200 athletes will wear Canada's colours with heart and courage, and for the first time, there will be more women than men. Sherbrooke will be proudly represented by Kim Boutin, Félix Roussel, and Jordan Pierre-Gilles in short track speed skating; Antoine Gélinas-Beaulieu in long track speed skating; and Marion Thénault in freestyle skiing. Nutritionist Martin Fréchette will keep our athletes in top shape. To our Olympians, I hope that this event will be an opportunity for you to go above and beyond and live your passion to the fullest. Go for gold, have fun, push yourselves and, most importantly, know that the whole country is cheering you on. Go Canada! Go Sherbrooke!

Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the Minister of International Trade for this bill. I would also like to commend all the work being done by the Prime Minister and his entire team to develop new partnerships such as this one. In my riding of Sherbrooke, businesses and entrepreneurs understand full well the importance of diversifying markets, particularly in the current context, and they are ready. I would like the minister to tell us what tools we are giving them to enable them to take full advantage of partnerships such as the one we are discussing this afternoon.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his speech. He did a great job of outlining some issues that I hope will be considered in the agreement. However, coming from a very agricultural riding, I am a bit surprised. I do not think my colleague has spoken much on that matter before. Furthermore, 45% of manufacturing companies in his riding export products outside Quebec. Can my colleague tell me how this agreement will help businesses in his riding?

Mr. Speaker, on behalf of my constituents in Sherbrooke and the Eastern Townships more broadly, I am pleased to present a petition that deals with an important environmental issue and that complements Motion No. 15, which was moved by my colleague from Brome—Missisquoi. Canada is already protecting a large portion of its ecologically sensitive land through the natural heritage conservation program and land trusts in particular. This petition calls on the Government of Canada to extend the natural heritage conservation program, to invest to help land trusts and to create an endowment fund to care for natural spaces in perpetuity.

Mr. Speaker, allow me to begin by thanking and congratulating our colleague, the Secretary of State for Nature, for her strength and courage, as well as her statement on violence against women. Too many women are losing their lives here in Canada and around the world, which is why this call to end violence and promote equality is so important and why we are marking the 16 days of activism starting today. I rise in the House today to call attention to the tangible benefits of the federal budget tabled on November 4, particularly for my riding of Sherbrooke. The government is presenting a budget to build a strong Canada, a budget that capitalizes on significant, strategic investments to support and stimulate key sectors. These major investments will strengthen our economy, create jobs and improve our quality of life in Sherbrooke and across Canada. I had a host of interesting topics to choose from, but I decided to speak specifically on four topics: housing and infrastructure; affordability; defence and security; and artificial intelligence and quantum. The budget includes billions of dollars for housing, which is a critical issue in my riding, and for infrastructure projects such as roads, bridges, water, transportation and hospitals. The government wants to stimulate construction by cutting red tape and empowering industry to be more productive. For Sherbrooke, the budget provides opportunities to build and renovate more affordable housing faster, invest in more efficient public transit, and improve local infrastructure. This will make our city stronger and more resilient. Thanks to this support from the federal government, a number of fantastic projects can now be built. One example that comes to mind is the Coopérative d'habitation des Cantons de l'Est's Quartier du Cap project with 121 affordable housing units. This budget is channelling significant investments into housing to make housing more accessible for our young families. We are also offering measures that make a real difference in Canadians' lives, such as cutting taxes for 22 million middle-class Canadians and renewing programs like the Canada child benefit, which has lifted 400,000 children in Canada out of poverty, the Canadian dental care plan and the national school food program. The Canadian dental care plan is helping more than 30,000 people in Sherbrooke. Furthermore, many Canadians do not receive the federal benefits they are entitled to, because they believe they do not owe any tax, because they do not need to file a tax return, or because they do not have access to a tax filing service or simply to the Internet. Introducing automatic federal benefits will enable millions of people in Canada, including thousands of people in Sherbrooke, to receive the support they are entitled to. The budget allocates more than $82 billion to defence and security. Substantial funding will go toward upgrading and sustaining Canadian Armed Forces capabilities, including training infrastructure. When I was first elected in 2019, I worked to secure a commitment from our government to rehabilitate our two armouries, namely the William Street and Colonel Gaëtan Côté armouries, to give our five reserve units facilities that are tailored to their needs. This major project is perfectly consistent with our whole-of-government approach to building sovereign defence capacity. Other funding amounts have been earmarked for modernizing our digital cybersecurity infrastructure, communications and technologies. The budget also launches the defence industrial strategy to drive innovation within the Canadian defence industry. For Sherbrooke, these investments represent economic opportunities, well-paying jobs, contracts for our local businesses, and participation in defence supply chains. In addition, strengthening our national security infrastructure contributes to stability and builds local pride. A number of economic players in Sherbrooke already contribute to this industry, such as Royer, which manufactures boots for the Canadian Armed Forces, and there are many others that look forward to playing a role. More broadly, in terms of industrial prosperity, to build Canada strong, we must focus on what we can control. For example, we can control who we buy from. That is why we are adopting the new buy Canadian policy. It will apply to all federal agencies and corporations, but with the renewed sense of unity that is sweeping the country, many individuals and businesses have already embraced this approach and started buying local. The budget also invests $925.6 million over five years in developing a sovereign public AI infrastructure. A portion of this funding will be used to create a sovereign Canadian cloud that would give researchers and businesses access to secure, national resources. The government is going to implement TechStat, or the artificial intelligence and technology measurement program, which will measure the adoption of AI and its impact on the Canadian economy. At the same time, the government's office of digital transformation will work with industry to identify and support AI projects of national interest. With the Université de Sherbrooke and our research centres, Sherbrooke is already an innovation hub, and this funding will strengthen our capacity to execute ambitious AI projects. This will help us attract researchers, support the development of start-ups, and build public-private partnerships. The budget earmarks substantial funding for the quantum ecosystem as part of the defence industrial strategy. For my riding, this means that Sherbrooke will remain a quantum centre of excellence, as it is already home to the Université de Sherbrooke's Quantum Institute, university laboratories, technology start-ups and defence sector partnerships. These investments will create highly specialized jobs and position our region as a strategic player in the technology economy of the 21st century. With businesses such as Nord Quantique, which is working on developing an error-correcting quantum computer, Sherbrooke is a major player in global innovation. When it comes to quantum, all roads lead to Sherbrooke. Our complete ecosystem, with its technologically advanced infrastructure, is where innovative companies come together to collaborate. It is the envy of the world. In summary, the November 4 federal budget will create exciting opportunities for Sherbrooke. These include more affordable housing and modernized infrastructure, as well as shorter permit processing times to encourage affordable housing projects. It also includes $1 billion to provide transitional housing for people experiencing homelessness. Jobs will be created through our investments, particularly in defence, and many businesses in the region will be able to participate in terms of products and supply chains. The budget includes a boost for artificial intelligence and quantum, strengthening our local innovation ecosystem. Finally, it will lead to sustainable prosperity rooted in cutting-edge technologies and a resilient economy. In Sherbrooke, we have good reason to be optimistic. These investments are more than just a promise. They are laying the foundation for a brighter, more innovative and more prosperous future.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for pointing out the quality of the work done at the Université de Sherbrooke's Quantum Institute. I fully support our local media. I believe in the importance of local journalism. I had the opportunity to speak to Jasmin, a TVA reporter in my riding, and obviously, I understand the repercussions of this decision, particularly just a few weeks before Christmas. However, the budget sets out major, historic investments to support various cultural and media sectors. Yes, we announced a $1-million investment earlier to support local journalism, We need to do more and we will be there to help this industry.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for her question, and I congratulate her for asking it in French. In fact, 7.5 million seniors receive Canada's old age security pension. We have increased funding for the New Horizons for Seniors program, which supports projects that promote social participation among seniors and help them remain active in their communities. The tax cut for 22 million middle-class Canadians will also benefit seniors.

Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to answer my hon. colleague's question. This budget contains several significant and essential investments for Quebec. With its 44 members from Quebec, the Liberal caucus proudly defends the interests of Quebeckers. These investments will enable large-scale projects to take shape. To strengthen Canada's economy, we must help Canadian businesses become more productive and competitive, and that is exactly what we are doing with the measures that we are proposing in the budget.

Madam Speaker, my colleague from Bourassa has reminded us of the measures we are taking to invest in Canada and Canadians. We are making major investments, such as the sports centre in Montreal North, in the member's riding. We are proving that we are taking action for our country and to build a strong Canada. I would like to hear my colleague's thoughts on why it is so important to invest and build in the current context.

Mr. Speaker, November 14 was World Diabetes Day, and I would like to take this opportunity to talk about my son's experience and the situation of all those who are living with type 1 diabetes. Despite the daily challenges he faces because of his diabetes, Charles is an example of discipline and determination. Every day, he shows that anything is possible with courage and perseverance. As a physical education teacher, he is a true role model for his students and shows them that obstacles can become opportunities for growth. His commitment extends beyond his own situation. As chair of the board of Diabète Estrie, Charles actively contributes to advancing the cause and supporting the community. A century ago, the discovery of insulin in Canada changed the world. Still today, Canada remains a leader in research advances because we have the talent and the opportunities. Our government believes in science and supports our researchers, which makes a real difference. I am proud to highlight Charles's struggle and, more importantly, the wonderful man that he is.

Mr. Speaker, as part of Women's History Month, I would like to pay tribute to an ally of women past and present: artist Adèle Blais. From activist Thérèse Casgrain to civil rights figure Claudette Colvin and writer Gabrielle Roy, Ms. Blais chooses to use her art to celebrate iconic figures and give a voice to women who have been forgotten for too long. She tells the stories of all these great women, but her own story is just as inspiring. Despite having a difficult time at school, she persevered, earned her diploma and taught herself to read after being functionally illiterate until the age of 25. Today, the Sherbrooke native is charming the world with exhibitions in London, Hong Kong, and Stockholm. Her unique approach inspires the artists of tomorrow to use art to convey powerful messages. If my colleagues find themselves in Sherbrooke, I invite them to stop by Whiting Alley to see for themselves the nuance of her striking works. October is coming to an end, but the impact of women endures.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for her speech. I also want to thank Madam Arbour for her report, of which approximately 20 recommendations have already been implemented. The face of the Canadian Armed Forces has changed over the decades. Obviously, more women are joining today and that is a good thing. Does my colleague believe that Bill C‑11 must also be accompanied by a cultural change within the armed forces, so that women are better supported, better heard, and their needs are properly addressed?

Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate women's history, I want to call attention to the outstanding achievement of a young woman from Sherbrooke who made history on September 27. At the tender age of 24, Magdeleine Vallières-Mill, made it the top of the podium, winning gold in the road world championships in Rwanda. After racing over 160 kilometres and making a decisive push at the end, she crossed the finish line with a solid lead. Never before has Canada won this title, that is, until Magdeleine came along. The young champion from Sherbrooke is living a dream right now and taking us along for the ride. Her victory has left her team, Sherbrooke and the entire country bursting with pride, with a story to tell and re-tell for years to come. Canada will be hosting the world road championships next September, and our celebrated Sherbrooke champion will be on hand to defend her title, with the whole country there to cheer her on. Congratulations Magdeleine, and happy Women's History Month to everyone.

Mr. Speaker, I want to welcome back my lovely colleagues. We are returning from our ridings after a busy summer, no doubt more motivated than ever to take part in this new parliamentary session. I have returned with such pride in Sherbrooke that I cannot keep it to myself. Today marks the 10th anniversary of Sherbrooke's Quantum Institute, which is accomplishing great things in a very competitive field. Created under Canada first, with the smallest grant awarded that year, the institute managed to turn its ambition into concrete results with the creation of companies such as Qubic, Nord Quantique and SB Quantum. These companies, born from student projects, are living proof of Sherbrooke's success. With over $230 million in research, 100 scientific articles per year in the most prestigious journals or international partnerships with France and Australia, the institute puts the Université de Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke and Canada on the map and establishes itself as a world leader.

Mr. Speaker, 50 years ago, on June 20, 1975, the legendary Gilles Vigneault performed his song, Gens du pays, for the very first time on Mount Royal in Montreal. On stage, three Quebec music greats, Gilles Vigneault, Louise Forestier, and Yvon Deschamps, sang the now-famous lyrics that ring out during our national holiday celebrations as well on as birthdays. Gens du pays is one of the greatest gifts to francophone song. It is a classic, an anthem for Quebeckers. It is a testimony to our collective memory. This year, our national holiday will give us an opportunity to pay tribute to this iconic song. The singer from Natashquan will be proud to hear his words, which unite us and bring us together, being sung throughout Quebec. I would like to thank Mr. Vigneault for leaving such a lasting impression on our culture. I wish everyone a happy national holiday.

Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate my colleague on her speech and on her return to the House. Over the past few years, she has been there for us, day in and day out. Now, she will be able to focus on her constituents once again. I congratulate her. In her speech, she mentioned the importance of fighting for women's rights. We see what has happened in the U.S. since Roe v. Wade was struck down. We also see how hard it is for the Conservatives to pick a side. They did everything they could to prevent one of their own from testifying before the Standing Committee on Justice. I would like my colleague to reiterate the importance of supporting women's rights in all spheres of life.

Mr. Speaker, first off, I want to congratulate you on your new role as Deputy Speaker. I also want to congratulate the Speaker of the House. Bad habits are hard to break. Given the respect that all members have for you, I am confident that you will be able to maintain order and decorum in the House. I will be sharing my time with the member for Don Valley West. I would also like to congratulate all re-elected and new members, especially the members for Compton—Stanstead and Brome—Missisquoi. We form a strong Eastern Townships caucus focused on the needs of our beautiful region. I would also like to take a moment to thank the voters in my riding of Sherbrooke. Earning their trust for a third term is a great privilege, and I can assure them that I will always represent them with the same commitment, attentiveness and tenacity. After an election campaign in which all voices were heard, Canadians gave us a mandate that comes with certain obligations and expectations, as always, and that is demanding and deeply realistic. To fulfill this mandate, we must now present an ambitious plan. The first part of the vast transformation we are undertaking for our economy consists of three measures. First, we are cutting taxes for nearly 22 million Canadians, saving two-income families up to $840 a year. This middle-class tax cut will promote economic growth and help families feel financially secure. To provide them with a little more relief, we are keeping programs such as the child care program and the Canadian dental care plan, which now covers even more Canadians. These programs are having a real impact on people's lives. Second, we are eliminating the GST on homes at or under $1 million for first-time homebuyers and lowering the GST on homes between $1 million and $1.5 million. Third, we are getting rid of consumer carbon pricing. Carbon pricing for large industrial polluters continues to apply. It is part of our emissions reduction plan, which seeks to flatten the curve and meet Canada's greenhouse gas emissions reduction target for 2030. Canadians have called for change, for a concrete plan to deal with the rising cost of living. The government is answering that call. At a time when the entire planet is facing unprecedented challenges relating to global peace and stability, the economic situation and climate change, we are proud to look to our communities, which have all the know-how and determination needed to find solutions. In this context, the government's role will be to act as a facilitator to attract new investment and create wealth. It must create the conditions that will enable our entrepreneurs to use their energy and ideas to drive economic growth. Our business people have shown great resilience in the face of tariffs, both actual and potential. When I visit businesses in Sherbrooke, I am always impressed by their ability to adapt and the fact that they are constantly looking for solutions. They are ready to diversify their markets, innovate and pursue a green transition. We must offer them a clearer, longer-term vision. We must provide them with the tools they need to continue to grow and remain competitive. I will address three points in that regard. First, we need to leverage our strengths and skills. In Canada and in Quebec, we have outstanding expertise in clean technologies, like Hydro-Québec, as well as substantial natural resources and unique digital technologies, including quantum computing and artificial intelligence. With its Quantum Institute and the scientific ecosystem surrounding it, Sherbrooke is a world leader in quantum science and technology. The Quantum Institute works with internationally renowned partners such as IBM and Pasqal. C2MI in Bromont continues to expand by focusing on manufacturing superconducting quantum microchips to ensure that Quebec companies are at the forefront of this booming industry. These are two examples from the Eastern Townships, but there are many other centres of expertise and leadership across Canada that need our support in order to maintain our position as a leader. Let us talk about labour. Faced with the aging workforce and the labour shortage, business owners are turning to foreign workers. I hear about that a lot. Sherbrooke's business community is mobilizing and looking for solutions, particularly when it comes to temporary foreign workers. The government is listening. It continues to monitor labour market conditions and provides employers with training programs to improve the skills of their current workers. We will take steps to build trust in our immigration system and restore balance. We will also remove barriers to interprovincial trade and labour mobility. In times of crisis, such as the one we are experiencing with the United States, we need to be open to changing our approach. Change can be destabilizing, but it also presents opportunities. Working together with the provinces, territories and indigenous peoples, the government will create a nationwide free trade system by Canada Day. According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, the CFIB, strengthening strategic ties and reducing trade barriers could benefit hundreds of thousands of SMEs. Currently, juggling the different rules and standards that exist from one province to the next adds costs and hinders internal trade in practically every sector. Tax measures, duplication, when it comes to inspections for example, and issues related to transportation and logistics are the primary barriers. Eliminating interprovincial barriers by harmonizing regulations will help increase GDP, inject $200 billion into the national economy and reduce the impact of U.S. tariffs. Seizing this historic opportunity to eliminate interprovincial trade barriers, the government started by abolishing 20 of the 39 federal exemptions. The provinces and territories are obviously invited to follow suit and take similar measures. Some already have, in fact. This is a fitting time to implement an industrial strategy. Now is the time for major projects that will strengthen our national economy and create well-paying jobs. With the establishment of a major federal project office, projects will be completed more quickly. In the wake of these major changes, we are taking a series of measures to help double the rate of home building while creating a housing industry that will use Canadian technology, our skilled workers and our lumber, all while meeting our climate challenges. With the “build Canada homes” program, we will accelerate the development of new affordable housing, invest in the prefabricated and modular housing industry and provide significant financing to affordable home builders. In fact, we have already begun work utilizing the programs put in place during our previous mandate, and projects such as La Grande Vie in Sherbrooke have been completed. The desire to build a better and stronger Canada is at the heart of the government's agenda. Canadians are rallying with renewed national pride. This is an opportunity to think big. This is an opportunity to work together to achieve great things. Let us put aside empty slogans and fruitless debates. The Prime Minister talks about leadership in action. That is what we are putting into practice. It is time to take action.

Mr. Speaker, the fact is, this is a choice we have to make today and in the few weeks remaining before this session ends. We have already announced tax cuts and the elimination or reduction of the GST based on a new home's value. We have measures to put more money back in people's pockets. People have told us that the cost of living is an important issue for them, and that is what we are addressing.

Mr. Speaker, I too congratulate my colleague on his re-election. As I mentioned in my speech, we need to focus on the strengths, the leadership and expertise hubs in Canada and Quebec. The three sectors that the member mentioned are obviously pillars of the Quebec economy and the national economy. That is why the government is always there to support these sectors, especially in the current context of the tariff crisis with the United States.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for her question and congratulate her on her election and her first question in the House. Our Eastern Townships caucus is incredible. There are three of us, one re-elected member and two new ones with big shoes to fill. There is no shortage of projects in our region. We also have great strengths. I talked about the Quantum Institute and the C2MI in Bromont. All these people and all businesses can count on us to continue supporting their projects and being their strong voice here in Ottawa.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague and congratulate him on his re-election. I will always be a staunch defender of new technologies in my region. As I mentioned in my speech, the Quantum Institute and all new technologies are very important, not to mention economic drivers. Canada is a leader on this and must continue to be there, to support them so that we can continue to have good jobs in these sectors.

Mr. Speaker, today, in my riding, Fondation Rock Guertin is distributing Christmas hampers. I would like to thank all of the volunteers and the executive director, Solange, for the work that they do. When I meet with them, they always remind me of how important the Canada child benefit is for the families they serve. This benefit can provide up to $7,800 per child. The Conservatives would do away with this vital support that was put in place by the Minister of Finance.

Madam Speaker, the Conservative member cites a number of studies. I have one that was released today. It comes from two economists at the University of Calgary, Trevor Tombe and Jennifer Winter. These two economists found that the price on pollution has had a minimal impact on inflation since 2019. Most price increases are the result of global factors. This is a far cry from the nuclear winter that the Conservatives were announcing. The study also says that hyperbole by politicians is nothing new and that voters should keep that in mind. I say all of this to set the record straight.

Mr. Speaker, through budget 2021, the Government of Canada is investing more than $27 billion over five years (2021-22 through 2025-26) to build a Canada-wide early learning and child care, ELCC, system with provinces and territories, PTs. When combined with other investments, including in indigenous early learning and child care, IELCC, up to $30 billion will be invested in support of ELCC over the same period. The goal is for families in Canada to have access to regulated ELCC for an average cost of $10 a day by March 2026. On March 27, 2022, the governments of Canada and Ontario entered into the mutually agreed-upon Canada–Ontario Canada-wide early learning and child care agreement to deliver on average $10-a-day child care for Ontario families by the end of March 2026 and support the creation of 86,000 new licensed spaces by the end of 2026. As per section 2.1 of the agreement, Canada and Ontario committed to a number of objectives and targets related to access to ELCC. Ontario commits to using federal funding to increase the net number of licensed spaces for children under age six by flowing funds by the end of fiscal year 2025-26 to support the creation of 76,700 spaces, from 2019 levels, by March 31, 2026, and 86,000 child care spaces, from 2019 levels, by December 31, 2026. In creating these child care spaces, Ontario commits that federal funding will be exclusively used to support licensed child care and that federal funding will be used predominantly to support the creation of not-for-profit child care spaces to ensure that the existing proportion of not-for-profit licensed child care spaces for children age 0 to 5 will be maintained or increased by the end of this agreement. For further clarity, at the end of this agreement, the proportion of not-for-profit licensed child care spaces for children aged 0 to 5 compared to the total number of licensed child care spaces for children aged 0 to 5 will be 70% or higher. In addition, as noted by the Government of Ontario in its March 28, 2022, news release announcing the Canada-wide agreement, the agreement includes the “protection of all for-profit and non-profit child care spaces, helping to support predominantly female entrepreneurs across the province who provide high-quality child care services.” Ontario will receive approximately $10.2 billion in federal investments to support its commitments as per the agreement, including commitments to support the creation of 76,700 new affordable child care spaces and lower child care fees to an average of $10 a day by March 2026, and creating a total of 86,000 spaces by December 31, 2026. This $10.2 billion of federal funding is in addition to other federal investments such as approximately $765 million through the Canada-Ontario early learning and child care agreement, 2021 to 2025; close to $150 million through the Canada-Ontario early childhood workforce funding agreement, 2021 to 2022; and over $135 million through the 2023-26 Canada-Ontario ELCC infrastructure agreement. In total, Ontario is scheduled to receive over $11.3 billion in federal funding between 2021-22 to 2025-26 to support child care in the province. On August 15, the Government of Ontario announced a new parent fee cap of $22 a day along with a new cost-based funding formula for child care operators enrolled in the Canada-wide ELCC system, both of which will come into effect in January 2025. On October 21, Jill Dunlop, Ontario Minister of Education, wrote to the Minister of Families, Children, and Social Development to note the high interest of for-profit providers in some service system managers in Ontario to join the Canada-wide ELCC system. In this letter, Minister Dunlop highlighted challenges in creating child care spaces in particular regions due to the 70-30 ratio of not-for-profit to for-profit spaces that Ontario committed to uphold in the Canada-Ontario Canada-wide ELCC agreement. The Government of Canada and the Government of Ontario are in ongoing discussions to support the successful implementation of the Canada-wide ELCC agreement. Canada-wide ELCC agreements predominantly support not-for-profit, public and family-based child care providers, but given the unique ELCC landscape in each province and territory, the Government of Canada recognizes that licensed for-profit providers also play a role. Provincial and territorial early learning and child care systems vary in terms of the proportion of ELCC spaces that are not-for-profit or for-profit. While Ontario and Canada agreed to keep the proportion of not-for-profit child care spaces at 70% or higher, in New Brunswick, the ratio of for-profit providers is higher than not-for-profit. Under the Canada-New Brunswick Canada-wide ELCC agreement, New Brunswick committed to creating predominantly not-for-profit child care spaces, e.g. 2,000 of the 3,400 spaces to be created. All new child care spaces created are part of the province’s designation system, which ensures high quality standards and includes a market fee threshold to control fees charged to parents. Due to the high demand and challenges faced in creating not-for-profit child care spaces in rural areas and in francophone settings in New Brunswick, additional flexibility was agreed to, allowing for the creation of a limited number of additional designated spaces in the for-profit sector in rural areas and francophone settings and as part of New Brunswick’s target to create 3,400 designated child care spaces by March 2026, as per the Canada-New Brunswick Canada-wide ELCC agreement.

Madam Speaker, candles, roses, beams of light, masculinism, harassment, violence, hate; it has been 35 years today. Thirty-five years ago, 14 women full of promise and ambition lost their lives at the hands of a man in a tragic act of anti-feminism. There is no hiding what was behind this act. These leaders of tomorrow were ripped from their future, but their memory pushes us to action. That is why we have taken robust measures with respect to so-called assault-style firearms, including expanding the list of banned guns in Canada yesterday. Women are strong and courageous. Their safety and their freedom must be protected. To be a feminist is to have the social will to improve the situation for all women. It is about equality for all individuals. This evening, in Montreal, 14 beams of light will light up the sky and we will remember. We will never give up the fight. Today, these 14 women are no longer with us, but the pain remains and so does the urgency to combat violence against women.

Mr. Speaker, on July 24, Sherbrooke lost one of its bright lights with the passing of a beloved resident at the age of 94. Lilianne Poulin was extremely active on Sherbrooke's political scene. As a seasoned volunteer, Ms. Poulin followed wherever her convictions and deep faith in democracy led her. She cared about the well-being of her community and worked tirelessly to convince people to get involved in politics if they wanted to effect change. Her interest in politics led her to take on a wide range of duties during numerous election campaigns. At age 90, she was forced to curb her political involvement due to health issues, but she remained passionate about politics to the end. I want to express my deepest condolences to Ms. Poulin's loved ones and thank them for sharing this extraordinary woman with the Sherbrooke community.

Mr. Speaker, Employment and Social Development Canada, ESDC, does not use a benchmark as there is currently no officially recognized benchmark for the minimum cost of raising a child in Canada. Most analytical approaches that examine the cost of raising children focus on direct or out-of-pocket costs. A 2023 study from Statistics Canada examined pooled data from the survey of household spending, SHS, for the period of 2014-17 to provide Canada-level estimates on child expenditures that account for children aged 0 to 22 years who live at home. The results from this study indicated as follows. A two-parent, middle-income family with two children spends about $293,000, on average, from birth to age 17, an average of $17,235 per year, raising a child. Two-parent families with two children and an annual income of more than $135,790 spent on average $403,910 per child from birth to age 17. The same sized family making less than $83,013, by comparison, spent on average 52% less per child, or $238,190. One-parent families with two children and an annual average income of less than $83,013 spent on average $231,260 per child from birth to age 17, while those making $83,013 or more spent $372,110 per child. When adult children aged 18 to 22 living with their parent or parents are considered, the overall amount spent rises by almost one-third, or 29%, for both single- and two-parent families.

Madam Speaker, we know that we are going through expensive times. This is exactly why we have made investments like the Canada child benefit. This means that we send parents over $7,000 per year to help with the cost of raising kids. When the Conservative leader talks about cuts, he is saying that he will cut these cheques and make families worse off. Is this what families need? No, I do not think so. We fight for Canadians and we are there when times are tough.

Mr. Speaker, November 14 is World Diabetes Day. It is an opportunity to raise public awareness about a disease that affects one in 10 adults around the world. In Canada, more than 300,000 people live with type 1 diabetes. Today I met two young girls with diabetes who are visiting Parliament. They told me their story and talked to me about what it is like to live with this disease on a daily basis. I was impressed by their courage and their resilience, but also by their determination to pursue their hopes and dreams despite their diagnosis. I can relate to what these two young girls are experiencing, because my son Charles was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in February 2017, when he was 18. Thanks to research, the supplies Charles uses have gotten a lot better. Now it is much easier for him to manage his disease on a daily basis, which enables him to thrive as a phys. ed. teacher. I want to take this opportunity to acknowledge the people living with diabetes and the loved ones who support them. I am pleased that our government is working to develop a national universal plan that will provide coverage for a wide range of medications.

Mr. Speaker, I am amazed by the winding roads some people take to reach their destination. We know that the Leader of the Opposition does not want to obtain security clearance for national security matters. What does my colleague think of the fact that the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Auditor General and legal advisors have said that it is precisely for security reasons that documents should not be turned over this way?

Mr. Speaker, in his speech, my colleague talked about training. I congratulate him on going back to university. On the Liberal side, we are offering free training to the Leader of the Opposition to get his security clearance. That is something he could consider. With respect to the question, I really wonder whether the Conservatives understand the process here. Everyone here in the House agrees to vote to refer the matter to committee, so I wonder why they continue to want to paralyze Parliament. If my colleague is really sincere about his constituents who come to his office and say that they need help, why does he not agree that we should vote on this and send it to committee so that Parliament can get back to work and get things done?