Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, we know that Canadians are facing hard times right now. We know that affordability is top of mind for them. That is why our government is taking steps to support Canadians. That is why we are investing in making the national school nutrition program permanent. That is why we have introduced the groceries and essentials benefit to help families with up to $1,900 per year, and that is why we are building more housing and getting housing starts going so we can make affordable housing available. We are standing with Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, I thank all members of the Women Veterans Council for their service to our country and for the advice and insight they offer as a council. Their lived experiences have shaped important conversations, and I remain grateful to the ongoing conversations. It is a voluntary advisory group, and I respect the decision of any member who chooses to move on to other opportunities. I welcome all advocacy on issues affecting veterans.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from the other side for the question specifically about youth jobs and youth employment. Youth employment rose by 22,000 jobs in May. Youth unemployment fell by 0.9%, the first decline since January. That means we have more work to do, which is why we have announced a $6‑billion investment in our team “Canada Strong” plan, mobilizing skilled trades for the workforce. It builds on youth-focused employment programs, like the Canada summer jobs. Youth in British Columbia see the opportunities ahead.

Mr. Speaker, British Columbians are talking to me about the fact that they see we are facing headwinds for our economy right now. They see the U.S. charging tariffs that have not been seen since the Great Depression. They see the work that we are doing to invest in labour and to invest in good jobs for individuals, and they see the employment numbers coming up. British Columbians are optimistic, and they want us to continue the work we are doing.

Mr. Speaker, as I said, British Columbians see that we are facing headwinds caused by geopolitical events and tariffs. The U.S. has fundamentally changed its approach to trade, raising tariffs to levels that have not been seen since the Great Depression. Canadians want to see the steps that we are taking to address this. They want to see the diversification of trade. They want to see us invest in major projects, and they want to see us invest in Canadian workers. Why can our colleagues not join with us to make these investments?

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for sharing the story of Shirley in his riding. I have news for Shirley. There are steps we are taking to support her. Shirley could be one of the individuals who might benefit from the middle-class tax cut, which is helping 22 million Canadians. She might also be somebody who is going to benefit from the expanded criteria for and accessibility to the disability tax credit. She might also be one of the individuals who is benefiting from the reduction of the fuel tax by 10¢ a litre. These are all things that can impact seniors but can also impact all British Columbians.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Vancouver Island for bringing up that there are some headwinds facing our economy right now. That is why I think it is really important for us to talk about the forestry sector, which I know is really prevalent on Vancouver Island. This week, we announced that we are providing an additional $400 million through regional development agencies, and some of that money is going to be going to British Columbia to support its businesses. We are also investing $130 million in 56 projects to transform the industry, and more than 50% of that is going to British Columbia. This is how we are supporting British Columbia—

Mr. Speaker, our government knows that the path of reconciliation with first nations is how Canada moves forward as a country. Negotiated agreements, like that with Tsawwassen in my riding of Delta, are one solution. With Cowichan, negotiations failed, and the case went to the courts. We disagree with the B.C. Supreme Court decision and have filed our appeal. Our government has always defended and will always defend private property ownership.

Mr. Speaker, our colleagues across the way have brought up this issue numerous times, and we have been very clear that we will stand for private property rights and protect those rights in British Columbia. This is about creating fear and uncertainty where it is unnecessary, and it is not helping us to move forward as a country, as a province and as a community. We are focused on defending private property rights in Canada, period.

Mr. Speaker, let us be clear. What is happening with the opposition is that they are creating uncertainty and fear. They are intentionally scaring Canadians, they are making investors scared, and they are making reconciliation out to be a bad thing. Our government has appealed. We will continue to defend private property rights in Canada. Real leadership means working together to address problems, not creating more fear in the world. Real leadership is respecting the Constitution, respecting the courts and respecting the work of advancing reconciliation.

Mr. Speaker, I thank all my colleagues who were able to join us a short time ago for today's groundbreaking ceremony at the site of the national monument to Canada's mission in Afghanistan. This is a long overdue step in ensuring that the service and sacrifice of Canadians, notably the 158 Canadian Armed Forces members and the seven civilians who gave their lives, are remembered. The monument will serve as a place of solemn reflection, remembrance and learning for generations to come, a place where Canadians can better understand the contributions made in the pursuit of peace, security and human dignity. For all Canadians, this day is an opportunity to come together in gratitude to honour those who have served and to reaffirm—

Madam Speaker, I have a lot of respect for my colleague opposite. Coming from British Columbia, we know that British Columbians want to see measures that are going to support them. That is why things like the groceries and essentials benefit are helping Canadians. It is going to be in their bank accounts on June 5. They want to see measures like the reduction in the fuel tax, which is saving 10¢ a litre, and that is keeping money in their pockets between now and Labour Day. They want to see the steps that we are taking. British Columbia can see that we are doing the work to support Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, my colleague is from British Columbia, and he is saying that people are concerned that we are not making enough investments in Canadians. We are making those investments in Canadians. We know that an ambitious Canada needs skilled trade workers. We are investing $2 billion to encourage young people to pursue careers in the skilled trades. We are investing in a training top-up and a $5,000 Red Seal bonus. We are investing $10,000 per apprentice in SMEs across British Columbia. We are building Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, people in Conservative and B.C. ridings are telling me this week that our new government is delivering the things they need. We are bringing major projects, such as LNG train 2 and Red Chris mine, which are going to invest in our natural resources and build B.C.'s economy. We are delivering the team Canada strong program, which is going to recruit, train and hire over 80,000 new skilled workers. This means jobs for British Columbians. This is good news.

Mr. Speaker, I had a conversation with the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade this week, and we were talking about the need for skilled workers in British Columbia. In yesterday's spring economic update, we announced that we are investing in the recruiting, training and hiring of more than 80,000 workers in the skilled trades. We are going to grow the Canadian economy. We are going to invest in those projects. We are doing what B.C. needs.

Mr. Speaker, government policies must evolve as the goals they speak to change. In 1945, the first right of refusal was designed to respond to the needs of soldiers returning from war. Today, this policy no longer meets the needs of veterans. Today, the average age of a releasing veteran is 34. They have a range of transferable hard and soft skills. These skills are in demand in the Canadian economy. Guard services will continue to be one option for veterans, and I will continue to advance all options for veterans.

Mr. Speaker, I also attended that Vaisakhi parade in Surrey last weekend, and it was a tremendous opportunity to be in the community. For nearly three decades, I ran a small business. I know the challenges that SMEs and entrepreneurs face. I have been there and know how close the margins can be. Things like the savings on fuel and diesel can make a difference for those drivers. It can put money back in their pockets, and it is just one part of the measures we are taking to support Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, Canadians are getting support with affordability with the measures we are taking right now. They are getting support with the school nutrition program. We are making changes to support first-time homebuyers. We have brought in the groceries and essentials benefit. We have removed the federal excise tax on fuel until September 7. These are measures that are supporting Canadians. My question is why the member from British Columbia is not also supporting these measures to make a difference for Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, supporting veterans in their rehabilitation journey is a top priority. While many veterans are seeing positive results in their overall well-being, we know there are still many we can continue to help. That is why I have directed my department to launch an independent review of the rehabilitation program. The goal is to identify where the program is working well and where it can be strengthened so that we can continue to support the outcomes and better support veterans through this transition.

Mr. Speaker, our top priority will always be ensuring that veterans receive improved support, service and rehabilitation outcomes through the rehabilitation program. Since its launch in 2021, the program has expanded to over 15,000 service providers and has supported more than 23,000 veterans. We recognize that there are always opportunities to improve. I have just said that we are going to be undertaking an independent review. We will continue to put the care of veterans at the forefront of the work that we are doing.

Mr. Speaker, British Columbians are happy to hear that we are investing in them and that we are addressing affordability for them. They are happy to hear that we are making a reduction in fuel costs from now until Labour Day. British Columbians are going to use that to go and enjoy our country as they can this summer. Maybe they will also combine that with the Canada Strong pass as they go and explore this wonderful country.

Mr. Speaker, we are helping make food more affordable by introducing the new Canadian groceries and essentials benefit, giving family direct support when they need it most. We have also created the $150-million food security fund to help communities expand access to nutritious, affordable food close to home. That is not all. We are strengthening local food infrastructure across the country so producers can connect more easily with consumers. We are working hard to keep prices down and make more healthy food options accessible for more Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, we understand Canadians are facing affordability challenges, and Canadians in British Columbia understand there is uncertainty in the world. Canada's economy has been impacted by heightened uncertainty from emerging conflicts and unjust trade decisions. Our government is delivering measures to help Canadians weather current challenges, from automatic tax filings to the groceries and essentials benefit for 12 million Canadians and reducing taxes for 22 million Canadians. Our commitment to improving affordability remains unchanged and unwavering.

Mr. Speaker, we thank all Canadian Forces members and their families for their service to Canada. We acknowledge the incredible contributions that Canadians made in Afghanistan, including the 158 who made the ultimate sacrifice. Acknowledgement of Canada's serving members is incredibly important, and we continue to move forward with that. I look forward to sharing more with the member opposite in due course.

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister has a plan to build Canada. He has laid it out, and we are taking action to advance that. Individuals in British Columbia want to see the investments that we are making. They want to see the major projects move forward. They want to see the new housing, and they want to see us grow this economy to be the strongest economy in the G7. We are moving forward with this plan. Can we count on the Conservatives to join us?

Mr. Speaker, my colleague from British Columbia is asking a question about something that is incredibly important to all Canadians. Guess what: The government has taken steps to address this. We are introducing the groceries and essentials benefit, which is going to put money in the pockets of families so they can acquire the things they need. A family of four will receive up to $1,890 this year and $1,400 for the next four years. We are taking action to support the families in B.C.

Mr. Speaker, I am confused by and concerned about the member's question. I am confused over the question not being about last week's important announcement. I am concerned that the Conservatives are missing the details of Canada's groceries and essentials benefit. It is a 25% increase to the GST tax credit for five years, with a one-time payment equivalent to 50% this year. It is $500 million to address supply chain disruptions and keep prices down. This is important news, and we need to focus on what we are doing for Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, the rise in extortion-related threats, shootings and intimidation across Ontario and the Lower Mainland is a grave concern. I know how much fear it is causing for families, businesses and our communities. Our government is advancing expanded legislative powers so that law enforcement has the tools it needs to effectively combat extortion and organized criminal networks. Political opponents in Surrey put aside their differences to act with quick urgency. I am asking their Conservative counterparts to stop obstructing necessary legislation and work with us to provide practical solutions. Our communities need to feel safe at home.

Mr. Speaker, when NATO invoked article 5 after 9/11, we fought the Taliban alongside our allies in Afghanistan. There were 40,000 Canadians deployed, and 158 CAF soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice. Thirty Canadian soldiers received the U.S. Bronze Star for their bravery. The Canadian Armed Forces have made and continue to make invaluable contributions around the world. As a nation, Canada will always stand with our allies, including the U.S. As Canadians, we stand behind the women and men in uniform who serve.

Mr. Speaker, opposition MPs are too comfortable with fiction and fantasies. British Columbians demand facts, and the respect that they can tell the difference. Here are the facts: We are delivering a middle-class tax cut to put savings in the pockets of 22 million Canadians. We have made the national school food program permanent to save families up to $800 a year, and we are investing in 175,000 youth and student employment opportunities. British Columbians deserve the facts, and the fact is that we are delivering for Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, I know the people in British Columbia are concerned about prices, and we are too. We are taking care of them. They want a government that is going to stand with them. That is why we are investing in the national school food program to support 400,000 families. That is why we are investing in supports for seniors, and it is why we are investing in supports for families to take care of their children. We are going to stand with British Columbians. We are going to stand with all Canadians and take care of them.

Mr. Speaker, this is a generational budget that will increase Canada's competitiveness and prosperity. That is good news for our small, medium and large business owners. The president and CEO of the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, Candace Laing, said that “the government has heard business’ call to focus on the economy and has made some tough choices to attract investment.” This is about building the strongest economy in the G7. I hope we can count on our colleagues' support.

Madam Speaker and colleagues, as Veterans' Week approaches, I rise to share a heartfelt message with Canada's veterans and their families. To every veteran, past, present and future, and to the families who stand with them, we see them, we thank them and we honour them. In the week ahead, leading to Remembrance Day on November 11, Canadians from coast to coast to coast will gather in communities large and small to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who have served in uniform. Canada's veterans and Canadian Armed Forces members have selflessly stood on the front lines in times of war and peace, at home and around the world, to protect what matters most: our safety, our freedoms and our way of life. It is because of their service that Canadians live in peace, our sovereignty is protected and our communities are secure. We must never forget that these freedoms have come at a cost, a cost carried not only by those who serve but by their families, their friends and the communities that support them. Some made the ultimate sacrifice and gave their lives in defence of our freedoms. Their absence reminds us of the true price of service. Those who returned continued to bear the weight of that commitment in ways both visible and invisible. It is our solemn duty as Canadians, as a government and as a nation to honour their courage and to stand steadfastly beside them as they continue their lives beyond service. This is not only our responsibility; it is our promise. All Canadians owe them a debt that can never be fully repaid, but we can and must show our gratitude through action, support and remembrance. Those who came before laid the foundation upon which our country stands, and they continue to inspire us to build a better Canada and a better world. However, remembrance is not only about honouring history; it is also about recognizing the contributions of modern-day veterans. Many continue to serve their communities in new ways, as first responders, volunteers, mentors and leaders. Their legacy endures not only in what they have achieved in uniform, but in the ways they continue to make a difference every day. My time in the role as Minister of Veterans Affairs has broadened my understanding of the exceptional people who protect our country. While there are too many to mention individually, the stories I have heard of resilience, breaking barriers, dedication and commitment will inspire me always. To those listening today in communities from St. John's to Victoria, from Windsor to Iqaluit, who will gather in remembrance of family, friends and neighbours, we thank them for keeping the stories of our service members alive. To my fellow parliamentarians who have worn the uniform and served, we thank them for their service and for bringing the spirit of duty into this House. To the veterans of tomorrow, those who are just beginning their service or nearing its end, we recognize their sacrifices and the example they carry forward. Canada remembers and stands with them, today, tomorrow and always. I close by encouraging all members in the House and those listening to join in a moment of pause and quiet reflection in the coming days. I invite them to honour those who have served and continue to serve on behalf of Canada, our veterans. Lest we forget.

Madam Speaker, I note the presence on the Hill today of my colleague, the member for Port Moody—Coquitlam's spouse, Gaetan, a 22-year Canadian air force veteran. I also thank the member for Kitchener—Conestoga for leading the first poppy flag raising on Parliament Hill this morning. The poppy is an enduring symbol of leadership, of loss and of the responsibility to remember those who have served and sacrificed in uniform. As the Royal Canadian Legion launches the 2025 poppy campaign, I encourage all Canadians to commemorate and remember the veterans who have served.

Mr. Speaker, my colleague brings up an important point. As was referenced in both his question and previous remarks, there is an opportunity, through the passage of Bill C-11, to be able to advance one of the recommendations, which then puts us on track to have all of the recommendations implemented by the end of this year. I think that is an incredibly important accomplishment that will move our ability to support our veterans and our service members forward in responding to military sexual trauma.