Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a petition signed by people from La Prairie—Atateken and across the country who are concerned about the impact that social media is having on our children. This petition is part of a national initiative, AgeStandard, that has collected over 17,600 signatures online from parents, some of whom work in the tech industry themselves. This petition reminds us of the documented effects that social media is having on the mental health of our children, whose rates of anxiety and depression have doubled since the creation of these platforms. I would like to remind the House that these platforms filter and tailor their content using algorithmic recommendations and promote violent and sensationalistic content. Users' feeds are constantly being adjusted based on their interactions and set to autoplay to encourage endless scrolling. The petition therefore calls on the government to pass legislation that would prevent children under the age of 16 from creating social media accounts. The petitioners want users to have to do more than simply check a box. They want certified third parties that are independent from the platforms to be responsible for verifying users' age based on a common technical standard that respects privacy. In the spring, our government introduced its own response to this issue. However, I believe that AgeStandard's proposal is in keeping with that discussion and should inform our debates on Bill C-34.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Repentigny for his speech, which has made it very clear where the Bloc Québécois stands on the environmental aspects of Bill C-39. However, I would now like to ask him to speak to us about another area, namely labour relations and the right to strike, and more specifically the use of section 107. This type of recourse has always been exceptional and should remain that way even more so under Bill C-39. This bill introduces the concept of national interest, which, in my view, makes perfect sense. I would just like to hear the MP's opinion and perhaps get his response on how this criterion of national interest should be defined.

Mr. Speaker, after listening to the Conservatives, the perception is that this government has been slow to react. I would like to remind my friend on the other side of the aisle that the Iranian war started on February 28 and by April, this government came up with the fuel tax suspension. It is not adequate to say that we have been slow to react. I think we have actually been quite quick to react. The Conservatives would like to make this measure permanent. If they want us to make this permanent, then I must assume the Conservatives feel they can confidently predict oil prices over the next six to 12 months. I certainly have not heard any expert saying that, so I am curious to know how they can.

Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to speak to the debate on the Canadian fuel affordability act. This measure is truly helping the people of my riding, La Prairie—Atateken, who sometimes have to travel long distances to get to work or as part of their job. Our government is well aware of the pressures associated with the cost of living in Canada, specifically the rising cost of fuel as the world faces serious geopolitical tensions. Across the country, we have seen gas prices skyrocket. This is causing difficulties for many Canadians, so much so that filling up at the gas station has become a source of anxiety for many people. Our government understands this situation well. That is why we have decided to extend a concrete measure that gives consumers a break. One day, all Canadians will have electric vehicles and will no longer be at the mercy of international events, such as closures of the Strait of Hormuz. However, that day has yet to arrive. That is why the Prime Minister announced in April that the government would suspend the federal excise tax on gasoline and diesel until Labour Day, September 7. Still, our approach has always been flexible. It became clear over the summer that geopolitical tensions were still elevated, which was keeping prices at the pump high. That is why the Minister of Finance announced this month that the full suspension would be extended until January 31, 2027, followed by a 50% reduction until March. In my opinion, this decision demonstrates that our government is truly listening to Canadians, studying the facts and developing tangible measures to support Canadian families and businesses. With this announcement, we are suspending the federal excise tax of 10¢ per litre of gasoline and four cents per litre of diesel. We estimate that this suspension of the excise tax is saving Canadian consumers about $5.75 on filling a 50-litre tank using regular gasoline. This suspension comes on the heels of the cancellation of the federal consumer fuel charge that was enacted on April 1, 2025, which was already delivering direct savings to Canadians at the pump. That measure helped reduce overall inflation and lower costs for all Canadians. The suspension of the federal excise tax is a step in the same direction. This is just one way our government is working to make life more affordable for all Canadians. I want to mention the tax cut to lower the tax burden on Canadians, which came into effect on July 1, 2025. Canadians are paying less tax because our government lowered the first marginal personal income tax rate from 15% to 14%. Thanks to this change, 22 million Canadians now benefit from tax relief of up to $840 per year for a two-income family. The government also cut the GST for first-time homebuyers of new homes valued up to $1 million and reduced it for new homes valued between $1 million and $1.5 million. This represents savings of up to $50,000. Furthermore, we are helping 12 million low- and moderate-income Canadians pay for essential goods with the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. Since the spring, we have been making regular, increased payments to the families and individuals who are eligible for this benefit. The amount has been increased by 25% for five years, starting in July 2026. These payments, made at the start of each quarter, will provide quick access to funds to help families cover their day-to-day expenses. In total, these measures mean that a family of four will receive up to $1,890 this year thanks to the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. They will then receive $1,400 per year for the next four years. A single person, meanwhile, will receive $950 this year and $700 a year after that. Our government also made the national school food program permanent. I am especially proud of this measure, which provides school meals to nearly 400,000 children every year, saving participating families with two children in school roughly $800 a year in grocery bills. Another equally fundamental but less publicized measure is our roll-out of automatic federal benefits. By the 2028 tax year, 5.5 million low-income Canadians will automatically get the benefits they are entitled to, including the Canada groceries and essentials benefit and the Canada child benefit. Automatic income tax filing for these Canadians ensures that they receive the benefits they are eligible for without having to apply. Finally, I will close by also mentioning the ambitious measures we have implemented to foster competition in the telecommunications and financial services sectors in order to lower prices, allowing Canadians to change providers more easily and pay less in banking and service fees. At a time when disruptions in global supply chains and geopolitical tensions are pushing prices up, our government is taking action. Our government wants to build a stronger economy to create more job opportunities and higher wages. Simultaneously, we will lower costs to make life more affordable across the country. That's how we can ensure more certainty, security and prosperity for more Canadians, now and in the future. I hope this bill will provide Canadian consumers with some much-needed relief when it comes to gasoline and diesel.

Mr. Speaker, it is important to understand the timing of the tax suspension. Our Conservative friends will tell us they have been advocating for this measure for years. However, a measure is only effective when it is implemented at the right time. Right now, we are experiencing geopolitical tensions due to the war in Ukraine and especially to the war in Iran and the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. A measure is only effective when it is implemented for a specific reason, and we will be able to cancel it once this risk disappears, which I hope will be as soon as possible.

Mr. Speaker, my colleague is glossing over the fact that this measure is temporary, whereas he is proposing a measure that will be permanent and may not be appropriate. That said, his concerns are valid. I think we do need to monitor the situation. I have no indications and have not heard anything to suggest that the tax suspension has benefited the oil companies. Obviously, the cost of gas has continued to rise, but I think that can mostly be attributed to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz. I think that, without the tax suspension, the price at the pumps would be even higher today, probably above $2 per litre.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Brome—Missisquoi for that excellent question. As we know, affordability means economic security, income, employment, food security, and healthy food to eat. These are all key determinants of health that enable Canadians to be productive and enjoy life. This is what I saw every day in my office. Our job is not just to heal all ills. We must also advocate for quality of life, and that starts by looking at the key determinants of health, economic security being probably the most fundamental one. I am very pleased to say that my government is constantly thinking about this issue.

Mr. Speaker, in 2015 Canada committed to supporting the sustainable development goals, including improving the health and well-being of everyone around the world. As I look back on how far we have come, I am reminded of the progress Canada has supported, being most notably a long-standing leader in global health. During those years, we have committed essential funding through a 10-year commitment to global health and rights and have supported organizations like The Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis and Malaria. This Global Goals Week serves as a crucial reminder that Canada's global health leadership is more important than ever, as we inch closer to the end of this decade and try to make this world a healthier place for all of us. Now, more than ever, Canada must remain a leader in defending the right to health care. There is still work to be done.

Mr. Speaker, I want to extend my deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Constable Pinizzotto, as well as officers of the Toronto Police Service. Constable Pinizzotto was killed while participating in an investigation relating to multiple shootings in Toronto, including the shooting of the U.S. consulate. Updates will be provided as more information is available. We will know more in the next day as the investigation progresses. We will make this information—

Mr. Speaker, I was heartbroken to learn about Toronto Police Constable Marc Pinizzotto, who was killed in the line of duty yesterday. My heart is with his family and loved ones. With an 18-year stellar record, Marc was known as someone who was courageous and respected, and a man who put others before himself. His death comes only days after OPP Constable Tarun Bali was also killed in the line of duty. Mr. Bali was known as someone who just wanted to help others. To all our frontline officers, we thank for them work they do each and every day to keep all Canadians safe. We appreciate their service.

Mr. Speaker, the government is aware of the challenges facing SMEs, particularly the issue of hiring well-trained employees. With the team Canada strong initiative, we want to address these challenges by offering grants to apprentices in Red Seal skilled trades and to the SMEs that hire them. That could include the bakery Le Duo Choc in Candiac, owned by two dynamic individuals, Katryne Deguire and Florent Lehmann, where apprentices would learn from the best, and for good reason. Florent and his employee, Félix Jeandot, were recently recognized at the Bakery Cup of Canada, winning the categories of best croissant and best baguette. Félix also won the award for outstanding assistant. I want to congratulate these two artisans. I wish Le Duo Choc bakery every success, as it will be proudly representing Canada at the Mondial du Pain championship to be held next year in France.

Mr. Speaker, I found it interesting that the hon. member raised that subject, since the government, within one year, has done more than any government before it: Bill C-8 on cyberthreat, Bill C-9 on heinous crimes, Bill C-12 on border security, Bill C-14 on bail reform and more severe sentences, Bill C-16 on protecting victims and accelerating justice, and now Bill C-22 on legal access. I hope that this time the Conservatives will vote with us.

Mr. Speaker, it is always an honour to rise in the House on behalf of my constituents in La Prairie, Candiac, Sainte‑Catherine, Saint‑Constant, Delson, Saint‑Philippe, Saint‑Mathieu and Kahnawake. This is especially true today as I rise to illustrate what the spring economic update means in concrete terms for the families of La Prairie—Atateken, for our jobs, and for the future of our community. Let me be blunt: This government is working for the people of La Prairie—Atateken, and the measures announced in the recent economic statement are proof of that. The world has changed. Trade tensions with our neighbour, geopolitical turmoil such as the war in Iran, and disruptions in supply chains are creating real uncertainty. For the past year, we have been navigating an increasingly fragmented, rapidly changing world. However, what I can say is that, while other countries are retreating as they wait for better days to return, Canada is acting with conviction and resolve, without hesitation. The spring economic update confirms Canada's fiscal strength, while investing in Canadians where it truly matters. The results speak for themselves. With an $11.5‑billion reduction in the projected deficit, our fiscal position is much stronger than expected. We are managing things well—all spending items have been reviewed—we are spending wisely, and we are focusing on long-term prosperity. Let us recall that, by 2028-29, the deficit will consist only of capital investment. The operating deficit, meanwhile, will have been eliminated. That is what is known as long-term vision. Let me begin by addressing something that has an immediate bearing on the day-to-day finances of my constituents. The Canada groceries and essentials benefit will support more than 30,000 residents of La Prairie—Atateken so they can buy groceries and essential goods. Payments will go out starting June 5. This support will go directly into the bank accounts of many of my constituents. It is not a promise. It is a cheque. We also made the national school food program permanent. This means that, year after year, Quebec will now receive its share to ensure that our schools can feed our children. Full bellies help children learn better. My colleague says that Quebec is handling that, but the federal government is also providing funds. Another measure has to do with bank fees. The government is now capping overdraft fees at $10, thereby strengthening consumer protection. It is these small, cumulative measures that make a real difference in a tight family budget. We have also simplified the application process for the disability tax credit for people with certain long-term medical conditions. For families who have been battling bureaucracy for years, this simplification is a tangible victory. I used to be a family doctor, so I can attest to this. The government is also extending assistance to people experiencing homelessness and working to ensure that victims of gender-based violence have access to safe housing. Of course, as is the case across the country, there is a shortage of public housing and transitional housing, but we are committed to supporting projects that address this need. Significant budgets are allocated for this purpose through Build Canada Homes, because a strong government is one that leaves no one behind. I said this during the election campaign, and I will say it again: Housing is a key priority for the government, particularly for La Prairie—Atateken. This economic update clearly demonstrates that. One of the things the government is doing is reducing development charges. The government is also providing GST relief for first-time homebuyers, as well as simplifying rules and modernizing building codes to facilitate the construction of prefabricated and modular housing. In fact, $7 billion in low-cost financing is being fast-tracked to CMHC so builders can get projects built sooner and get more rental units to market faster. Over the past year, there has been a significant increase in the supply of affordable housing in my region. Given that young families are looking to settle down and that property prices have skyrocketed in recent years, these measures are a lifeline that will help our children find housing close to home, not three hours away. Our constituency is made up of working people—people who build houses, work in factories and keep the south shore economy going. This economic update recognizes them. For example, I would like to mention the reduced CPP contribution rate, which will fall from 9.9% to 9.5% on January 1. This represents an annual saving of about $133 for an employee earning $70,000 a year, and equivalent savings for the employer. This is no small matter. For a couple where both partners work, that is nearly $270 more in their pockets each year. Parents hope that their children will be able to build a stable career on the south shore. For our young people who are about to enter the job market and who are being hit hard by current unemployment rates, the government is launching a national initiative aimed at recruiting, training and hiring between 80,000 and 100,000 new skilled trades workers by 2030-31. These are more than 50 in-demand trades with solid wages, such as electricians, plumbers, carpenters and welders. Now there is a national program to access these trades, and it is going to be funded to the tune of $2 billion over five years. The spring economic update also offers a long-term vision for Canada's economy, and our region will benefit from it directly. The Major Projects Office will oversee 21 initiatives of national interest that will interconnect, diversify and power our economy. These initiatives will support the creation of 60,000 jobs during construction and generate over $125 billion in new investments. These infrastructure, road, trade corridor and energy projects will have a direct impact on our region, at the centre of Quebec's economic corridor. Consider, for example, Canada's defence industrial strategy and the proximity of the Saint-Jean military base. Consider, for example, the expansion of the Port of Montreal at Contrecoeur, which is expected to generate $140 million in spinoffs every year, including in my riding. Finally, consider the Saint-Hubert metropolitan airport, launched this week by Minister MacKinnon, which will soon welcome four million travellers a year—

Mr. Speaker, consider the Saint-Hubert metropolitan airport, which was inaugurated this week by the Minister of Transport and will soon welcome four million travellers a year, with major implications for the tourism industry, to name just one. Canada is buzzing with excitement. That is why the country has attracted more than $100 billion in foreign investment over the past year, a level not seen in nearly two decades. It also explains why we have established some 20 new economic and defence partnerships across four continents. Canada has also increased its exports to markets outside the United States by $33 billion this year. That means jobs are being created here in Canada, including on the south shore. Some might say we are spending too much, but let us hear what the experts have to say. Canada is on track for long-term prosperity, according to estimates from the International Monetary Fund, which ranks Canada second among G7 nations this year in terms of projected growth. We are investing in what matters, and we are doing so responsibly. As the member for La Prairie—Atateken, I want to tell my constituents that this economic update demonstrates that the government is working for them with lower taxes, greater affordability, more help with groceries, more accessible housing, jobs for our young people and a clear vision for Canada's economic future, a future that is diverse and focused on buying local. That is what we are delivering. La Prairie—Atateken is growing, and the government will be there to support its development.

Mr. Speaker, in response to my colleague, I would say that, on the contrary, our government is currently doing a great deal to develop the economy of the western provinces, and I would refer him to the statements made by Danielle Smith, who has welcomed the projects we are launching with Alberta. That said, there is no conflict here. I think that Canada, as a responsible country, must be concerned about the environment, certainly more than some of the countries my colleague mentioned. I believe we can do better than some of the countries he mentioned. There is no contradiction between building a strong economy and doing so efficiently and in an environmentally friendly way. I believe Canadians understand this and support the plan we are proposing.

Mr. Speaker, I am not sure that I properly understood the question. I understand that it had to do with buying local. I think the government has made its intentions clear on that subject. It took a tremendous amount of work to validate that. It was highly complex. The government buys a lot. There are a lot of contracts. However, our intention is very clear. We intend to deliver something that will stimulate our local industry and Canadian industry, not only in terms of materials, but also in terms of hours worked here, domestically. I also believe that provisions covering this should be included in the contracts. That is my position. I hope that my government will support it.

Mr. Speaker, I want to take this occasion to thank the members of the public safety committee for the important work they are currently doing. The bill is an essential piece of our government plan to ensure that communities are safe. The bill is all about victims. By making sure that law enforcement has the tools it needs to combat crime, it intends to make sure we catch the bad guys before they make more victims. It is time that law enforcement had an updated Canadian solution to counter all criminals, most of all the ones who exploit children.

Mr. Speaker, today I want to welcome to Parliament the grade six students from the École Jean XXIII in La Prairie. I have seen their eyes light up. They are curious. They want to learn. They are interested in democracy and want to contribute to making Canada a sovereign country. We chatted about the work we do here in Parliament, about the bills that have had or will have positive effects on their lives. We talked about programs like the Canada groceries and essentials benefit, through which families will receive $1,900 this year. We also talked about the national school food program, which ensures that children have a full belly so they can learn, and the support for skilled trades programs, which will help them find a good job when they are older. Let us have faith in the future. One day, a young person, like the students from École Jean XXIII, will sit in my seat and take up the torch so that Canada remains a fair and inclusive country.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my colleague for the excellent work she does to ensure that the government is aware of the public safety issues in her riding. It was a true pleasure to see my colleagues from all parties at the parliamentary reception of the Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police where we had a chance to discuss Bill C‑22. It is high time that we equipped our law enforcement agencies with the modern tools they need to effectively fight serious crime, including extortion, child sexual exploitation and money laundering. Law enforcement officials clearly informed us that what they needed—

Mr. Speaker, under the provisions of Standing Order 32(2), and in accordance with the policy on the tabling of treaties in Parliament, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the treaty entitled “Treaty Between the Government of Canada and the Government of the Republic of the Philippines on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons and on Cooperation in the Enforcement of Penal Sentences”, done at Manila on May 22, 2003.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for Medicine Hat—Cardston—Warner, for a very thorough analysis. I salute the depth of his analysis. As a retired policeman and investigator, he obviously knows this subject well. I am especially pleased with his endorsement of lawful access. I noticed that he retired after the Spencer decision by the Supreme Court in 2014. Bill C-2 is directly in response to the Bykovets and Spencer decisions. I wonder if the member would care to elaborate on why his party's stance went from opposing lawful access in Bill C-2 to now recommending it in Bill C-22.

Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Eglinton—Lawrence. I appreciate the opportunity to speak to Bill C-22. Since my time is limited, I will focus on part 2 of the bill, which deals with the technical capabilities of electronic service providers, while part 1 deals with the legal framework for obtaining information. It is widely accepted that most crimes committed today leave a digital footprint. No matter what crime is committed, there is almost always a trace that enables investigators to track the perpetrator and understand how it was done. In the case of organized crime, the digital footprint helps shed light on its ramifications. These criminals and individuals who pose a threat to Canada's security exploit the digital environment to carry out a wide range of malicious activities. It is also an open secret that our laws on lawful access have not kept pace with advances in modern technology. Canada is the only G7 and Five Eyes country that does not have a modern lawful access regime requiring electronic service providers to establish ways to ensure authorized and timely access to information. That is where the paradox lies. Currently, law enforcement agencies and CSIS already have the legal authority to obtain information from electronic service providers. However, there is no law requiring these providers to maintain a system that enables them to respond effectively to lawful access requests. This means that even if a provider has the requested information in its systems, it does not necessarily have the ability to retrieve that information and provide it to law enforcement agencies with a valid warrant, because it is not required to do so. Without a modernized framework, law enforcement wastes valuable time and potential leads and misses out on crucial information. This can even lead to investigations being abandoned, particularly since the Jordan decision. Above all, these delays result in an increase in the number of crimes and victims. That is important, and it is worth reiterating. Take, for example, the wave of extortion cases observed in British Columbia and Ontario. The same individuals, likely affiliated with organized crime, are behind multiple attacks. As things stand, even with the proper authority, if electronic service providers are unable to quickly extract the metadata needed, investigations can run into significant delays. Arrests that take several weeks result in a much larger number of victims than arrests made within days of the initial offence. The same applies to cybercrime, sextortion or Internet fraud cases. Being able to conduct investigations quickly can make a huge difference. Apart from its impact on our ability to conduct investigations, this situation also prevents us from fully participating in security-related international co-operation activities and thereby benefiting from our partners' information and support at a time when transnational gangs and terrorists are especially active. Bill C‑22, especially part 2, entitled “Supporting Authorized Access to Information Act”, will correct these problems and establish a modern framework for lawful technical access while continuing to safeguard the privacy of Canadians. It is important to note that part 2 of Bill C-22 does not create any new surveillance powers, either for law enforcement agencies or for the Canadian Security Intelligence Service. There will be no surveillance of social media content, web browsing history or text message content. I would like to correct the record on something my colleague, the member for Rivière-du-Nord, said this morning. He claimed that this would be the case, but that is not accurate. This is only about the metadata transmitted by electronic service providers. The production of such transmission data has already been approved by the courts, with a valid search warrant. Imagine that a missing teenage girl, 16 years old, makes an emergency call 10 days after her disappearance. Although the telecommunications service provider is able to confirm the call and the antenna used, it cannot precisely identify the last known location of the phone before it was disconnected, because it is not required to have that capability. Bill C‑22 will correct this situation by requiring that these suppliers, considered essential suppliers, maintain consistent and reliable technical capabilities nationwide. Let me remind the House that these capabilities are already the norm in Europe and in Five Eyes countries. Under this bill, a supplier could be required to develop and maintain technical capabilities in two ways: based on specific requirements for major suppliers or, in other cases, pursuant to a ministerial order based on operational needs as new technologies emerge. Instead of requiring entire industries, including small businesses, to develop the same capabilities, the proposed framework takes a more targeted approach by providing for the necessary capability development through ministerial orders based on strict criteria. Let me be clear. As an additional safeguard and external oversight mechanism, the bill requires the Minister of Public Safety to first consult with the relevant provider and then obtain approval from the intelligence commissioner before an order becomes valid. In addition, if the order is approved by the intelligence commissioner, the electronic service provider in question still has the option of challenging the order before a judge. We have done our homework. We are talking about protecting the public and our country from bad actors in the digital world as we already do in the physical world, while protecting the privacy of Canadians and the rights enshrined in the charter. Criminals are constantly adapting to new technologies and finding new ways to commit crimes. We must ensure that our law enforcement and intelligence agencies can adapt as well. Our government is committed to doing everything it can to prevent criminals from threatening the security of Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague is referring to part I of the bill, which clearly outlines the information that may be requested. Bill C-22 does not expand existing powers. In fact, it narrows the scope within which investigators can seek information. What the bill does, however, is speed up the process so that this information can be obtained within the prescribed time frames, allowing investigations to move forward quickly.

Mr. Speaker, as I mentioned, in an ideal world, the agency would have all the resources it needs. However, it has had to comply with the rules being applied across the entire government, particularly with regard to budget cuts. That said, this analysis was conducted with a view to ensuring that the agency can continue to fulfill its mandate, and we are confident that it will be able to carry it out as required.

Mr. Speaker, in committee, we heard witnesses say that they have been wanting this measure for more than 20 years. This is not new. It is something that is constantly evolving. We have also heard law enforcement officials tell us, time and again, that they are unable to conduct their investigations effectively, that there are delays and that more crimes are being committed. It is in this context that we have put forward this proposal. The hon. member across the way mentioned that some people wanted a specific bill. As far as I am concerned, what matters is that we have—

Mr. Speaker, with all due respect to my hon. colleague from Calgary Nose Hill, this is a typical anti-immigration rant from the Conservative Party. What is this argument based on? Essentially, it is based on the ruling in Quebec (Attorney General) v. Kanyinda, a decision that is not fundamentally about immigration. It is a decision that upholds gender equality and the protection of the most vulnerable. My colleague may see it differently and that is her prerogative, but this decision is not primarily about immigration. Our colleague used the words “we are supreme”. Can we remind her that neither the Supreme Court nor the House of Commons is supreme? The Constitution of Canada is supreme. This decision is based on the Constitution. Is our hon. colleague for or against the Constitution of Canada?

Mr. Speaker, I applaud my colleague from Gaspésie—Les Îles‑de‑la‑Madeleine—Listuguj for his open-mindedness. He mentioned at the outset that there are currently 300,000 asylum claims. In light of that, it is easy to see why Bill C‑12 is so important. He rightly observed that he thought Bill C‑12 might help clear up this huge backlog. As for the integrity of the process, I agree with his comments. However, I want to remind him that the government has earmarked $1 billion to develop the CBSA. We are now increasing the number of officers responsible for deporting people without a valid reason to be in Canada to 500. In 2025, we increased the number of deportations to 22,000. That has been steadily increasing for the past four years. As for the distribution of asylum seekers, there are some things the government can do, but at a certain point, it becomes artificial. At a certain point, employment becomes the main motivator. I would like my colleague to talk about that issue. What can we do to encourage asylum seekers to settle outside the cities—

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for her question. It is indeed a very important issue. The government is concerned about copper theft, as these structures are essential to ensure that people can communicate and that our telecommunications networks are secure. We are taking all necessary measures. We are in communication with the RCMP and the police, and we are conducting investigations to prevent this type of crime.

Mr. Speaker, the Riverains, the M18 AAA hockey team at Collège Charles-Lemoyne in Sainte-Catherine has had another excellent season. They climbed to the top of their division in the Quebec M18 AAA hockey league. I was impressed not only by the players' talent but also by the discipline required by their sports education program. Players have to juggle a strict training schedule, a lot of homework and 42 games played across Quebec with school days upon their return. They are coping with this demanding pace, as evidenced today by their outstanding game play and academic excellence. The leaders behind their success include their general manager, David Crowdis, and their head coach, Olivier Latendresse, whose work and dedication inspire the whole team. The Riverains are now in the playoffs, and having seen how well they play, I can say that this is top-level hockey. I wish the Riverains the best of luck this evening at the Sportium arena in Sainte-Catherine.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Saint-Jean, a riding that borders mine. Bill C-14 needs to do three things. It needs to protect Canadian communities and protect victims, which it does. It also needs to protect the independence and impartiality of judges, which it does. The third thing it needs to do is ensure that Canadians have confidence in the justice system. This is about ensuring that the administration of justice is not brought into disrepute. I would argue that it fulfills these three objectives. It was important that it did so. I would like my colleague to comment on that.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to scouting week 2026, which is taking place across Canada from February 16 to 22. The francophone scouting movement includes over 10,000 youths and 3,700 adult volunteers. Becoming a scout means embracing the values of service to others, leadership, solidarity and respect for nature. Simply put, scouting means patiently helping 10,000 young people learn to be responsible citizens and get involved in their communities. I would like to send a special shout-out to the 33rd Candiac-La Prairie scout group in my riding of La Prairie—Mackenzie—Atateken. These enthusiastic young people and their mentor, François De l'Étoile, worked hard raising funds at Christmas markets for their trip this summer to the Kandersteg International Scout Centre in Switzerland. Their initiative and determination would make Baden‑Powell proud. I would like to give a scout salute to everyone participating in scouting week 2026, and I thank them for their outstanding commitment.

Madam Speaker, my ears are burning. The opposition's motion seeks, among other things, to repeal the Impact Assessment Act. We are going back to the 19th century. Companies are being told they can do what they want and that Canadians will foot the environmental bill and pay the billion-dollar invoice. What does the member for Winnipeg North think about our vision, the vision of the Liberal Party of Canada, which, in my view, is based on reason and common sense? Does he not agree that Bill C‑5 does not diminish the importance of the environment and that, in fact, with its commitment to “one project, one review”, it streamlines assessments and projects? That is what the industry wants. The rules are clear and the message is clear. We are providing a boost to the industry and protecting the environment at the same time. Does the member agree that this is what the industry and Canadians want?

Madam Speaker, did I mention earlier that my ears were ringing? Among other things, the opposition motion seeks to remove the federal ban on plastic manufacturing. There is that eternal fascination with oil again. However, Canada is internationally recognized for its commitment to fighting plastic pollution, and we are seeing that microplastics are now everywhere in our environment, even in the food we eat. I would like to hear my hon. colleague's opinion on this part of the opposition motion. I want to know what he thinks.

Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to rise in the House today to speak to Bill C‑12, strengthening Canada's immigration system and borders act. I want to begin by thanking the members of the Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security for their thorough study of the bill and the seriousness with which they approached their work. I also want to thank the many witnesses who shared their comments and suggestions about Bill C‑12. Our border with the United States is the longest in the world. Every day last year, nearly $3.6 billion in goods and about 400,000 people crossed the border. Our RCMP and CBSA officers work hard, 24 hours a day and seven days a week, to ensure that our border remains one of the most secure in the world. However, our methods need to evolve all the time, just as the methods used by criminals and transnational organized crime groups are evolving. That is why Bill C‑12 is important. It amends our laws so that law enforcement finally has the tools and powers it needs to address the threats to our border. There are three main thrusts to the bill: strengthening border security; combatting transnational organized crime, illicit fentanyl and illicit financing; and modernizing how we process immigration applications, including for asylum seekers. To strengthen our border security, Bill C‑12 would amend the Customs Act to protect our borders from illicit drug trafficking, firearms smuggling and auto theft. Regarding auto theft, owners and operators of certain ports of entry and exit will be required to provide and equip facilities to enable the administration and enforcement of the CBSA's mandate, including examining and detaining goods for export. This will go a long way toward curbing the illegal export of stolen vehicles. The bill would also amend the Oceans Act to add security activities to the range of services already provided by the Canadian Coast Guard. This will allow the Canadian Coast Guard to conduct security patrols and collect, analyze and share information and intelligence for security purposes. With respect to information sharing, the bill proposes to strengthen the RCMP's ability to share information about registered sex offenders with domestic and international law enforcement partners. In addition to border security measures, the bill also contains measures that will strengthen our response to transnational organized crime, particularly when it comes to money laundering. Transnational organized crime groups cannot operate without access to funds. By making it more difficult for them to obtain additional funds, we are undermining their illegal activities. Bill C-12 will thus make it possible to impose tougher, higher penalties to combat money laundering. In fact, the monetary penalties have been multiplied by 40 to ensure that they have a major impact on the finances of businesses that may be tempted to tolerate money laundering operations. The measures proposed in the bill will also enhance supervisory collaboration and support high standards of regulatory compliance. They will enable the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, or FINTRAC, to share supervisory information on federally regulated financial institutions with the Financial Institutions Supervisory Committee, thus improving co-operation and communication. All of the measures set out in Bill C-12 will strengthen current efforts to protect our border from coast to coast to coast. These measures include the creation of the joint operational intelligence cell, which builds on existing co-operation mechanisms between law enforcement partners and security agencies to better leverage information sharing to target transnational organized crime, money laundering and drug trafficking. The government has also established the integrated money laundering intelligence partnership with Canada's big banks. This partnership strengthens our ability to develop and use financial intelligence to fight fentanyl trafficking and other crimes. Bill C-12 complements other measures, such as the fentanyl czar, who ensures coordination between the Canadian and U.S. governments, or the listing of eight transnational organized crime groups as terrorist entities under the Criminal Code. Of course, everyone knows that transnational organized crime groups pose a serious threat to our allies and to our own security. It serves the common good that we use every means available to neutralize them. Bill C-12 goes hand in hand with another bill previously introduced, Bill C-2, the strong borders act. Bill C-2 also advances measures that give law enforcement access to basic information essential to police investigations. It provides for enactment of the supporting authorized access to information act, expands the inspection authority of Canada Post and imposes new restrictions on third party deposits and large cash transfers. The government listened to the concerns of stakeholders and parliamentarians, and we drafted Bill C-12, which will advance essential measures while giving us more time to study Bill C-2. In conclusion, Bill C-12 grants the necessary powers to take decisive action to protect Canadians. I am therefore counting on my colleagues in Parliament to quickly pass this bill so that we can implement these essential measures as soon as possible.

Mr. Speaker, the work to determine where these officers will be stationed is already complete. The budgets were recently approved and arrangements have been made with schools in Rigaud for the Canada Border Services Agency, the CBSA, and at the Depot Division in Saskatchewan for the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the RCMP. The president of the CBSA and the RCMP commissioner both estimate that, three years from now, these 1,000 additional officers combined will be on the job.

Mr. Speaker, what everyone needs to understand is that the processes of both crime reduction and immigration reform are dynamic. They must evolve in response to global changes and organized crime, which is constantly using increasingly sophisticated methods to transport illegal drugs and launder money. The government must constantly improve and refocus its measures to effectively combat organized crime. Our government has demonstrated that it is listening to law enforcement and public safety agencies in order to effectively combat crime and protect Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, my hon. colleague will certainly have the opportunity to ask a question afterward. The member for Calgary Nose Hill is asking what is in this budget for her constituents. I will keep the debate very simple. I will ask the member what she thinks of the productivity superdeduction, which will essentially enable Canadian businesses, businesses in her riding of Calgary Nose Hill, to quickly write off their capital investment costs for capital expenditures, process transformation, automation, renewable energy, research, experimental development and so on. I think it is an incredible economic stimulus that is going to kick-start our economy—

Mr. Speaker, I would like to commend my colleague on her bill. This is a very important issue that needs to be debated and that requires our full attention. All 343 of us here share the horror of these crimes committed by sexual predators. We all want these crimes to be severely punished in a way that acts as a deterrent. However, the government has an obligation to act responsibly. It has an obligation to ensure that legislation is constitutional and that it will not be a waste of time. There is no point in wasting time. Considering—