Eric St-Pierre

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a petition brought forth by Raksha Bhayana and the Bhayana Family Foundation, supported by the philanthropic and charitable sector, and signed by 1,377 Canadians from across all provinces. The petitioners ask our government and the House to officially recognize the third Thursday of February as the day of appreciation for the non-profit sector. The petitioners would like to bring to the attention of the House the fact that 170,000 organizations work in the non-profit space, that the non-profit sector contributes over 8% to our GDP, employs 2.7 million Canadians and engages millions of volunteers. This includes non-profits in the arts, food security, mental health, faith organizations, sports, environment, seniors, youth and all other community charities. The petitioners believe that the non-profit sector should get more credit for being a bedrock for our society and for ensuring the well-being and vitality of communities across Canada.

Mr. Speaker, the world is facing major headwinds, geopolitical, economic and trade pressures, headwinds that Canada must face as united people. External threats pose a challenge for Canada. We know what we are doing here in Canada is the best way to respond because when we seek unity, Canada thrives. In a rapidly changing world, it is more important than ever that we stay united. I noticed that this summer in Rivière‑des‑Prairies—Pointe-aux-Trembles and in Anjou. My constituents have been very direct with me: We are stronger together. What I continue to hear from Canadians is an overwhelming desire for national unity. Let us keep Canada strong. Let us keep Canada united. Through partnership, we will all come out stronger together.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a petition brought forth by Emilie Grenier and Efficiency Canada, which was signed by over 2,400 Canadians, that calls upon our government to designate energy efficiency as a nation-building priority. First, the petitioners would like to bring to the attention of the House their desire to double the pace of Canada's energy productivity. Second, they also wish to bring to the attention of the House the importance of eliminating energy poverty in Canada while progressing toward net zero. The timing of this petition coincides with national energy efficiency day, which we celebrate on October 1.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize five colleagues who collectively have given more than 50 years of service to Canadians and are now moving on from federal politics. First, I recognize the member for Laurier—Sainte-Marie for his unmatched environmental and climate advocacy. I also commend the member for Saint-Hyacinthe—Bagot—Acton for his work as an opposition member and, if I may, for his great taste in ties. I also want to thank the member for Rosemont—La Petite-Patrie for his work as an opposition member and for his impressive commitment to his riding. I also recognize the member for Beaches—East York for his thoughtful and powerful voice in this House. Finally, I recognize the member for North Vancouver—Capilano for his steadfast commitment to climate, natural resources and the environment. I thank them for their service to democracy.