Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to address Bill C-39, the building Canada strong act. I would also like to take the opportunity to welcome my colleagues to this new parliamentary session. This is the first time I have spoken since we came back. I hope that we will have a good session of constructive work and that we will move quickly on all the bills that we need to move forward and pass. When we talk about building Canada strong, we often think of major projects. We think of infrastructure. This includes ports, railways and major investments. In my view, a strong Canada starts in our communities. It starts at home. I proudly represent the riding of Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, which is located in the Lower Laurentians of Quebec and includes the cities of Boisbriand, Rosemère, Deux-Montagnes and Saint-Eustache. I am very proud of these communities. I meet families and workers there, as well as entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized business owners. I meet people from the manufacturing sector who want to continue to produce and create good local jobs. What they want from us is simple. They want stability. They want clear rules. They want to be able to invest. They want to be able to hire as well as grow their businesses. They want us to get things done. This issue is even more important today. We live in a world where economic uncertainty has become a daily reality. We see it particularly clearly in our trade relationship with the United States. Just a few months ago, entrepreneurs in my riding were telling me about plans to expand. They were talking to me about growing their businesses, buying new equipment and hiring more workers. I was told about plans in Saint-Eustache and elsewhere in the Lower Laurentians. Today, the context has changed. With the uncertainty coming from the United States, some entrepreneurs are being more cautious. Some are re-evaluating their plans, while others prefer to wait before making a major decision. I can understand them. I was an entrepreneur before I got into politics. Expanding a plant, buying equipment and hiring workers are big decisions. A business needs to know where the markets will be. It needs to know what it will be able to get in return for its goods. It also needs to know that it will be able to deliver its products to its customers. It needs predictability. We do not control every decision made south of the border, but we can act on what we control here in Canada. We can make our processes more efficient, strengthen our infrastructure, diversify our markets and create a climate where businesses have more confidence to invest within Canada. A significant portion of Bill C‑39 focuses specifically on how we review major projects in Canada. Currently, a proponent may have to work with multiple departments. They may also need to go through a process to get the necessary authorizations. Bill C‑39 seeks to better coordinate these efforts. For certain designated projects, a decision should be made within a year once the required studies and information have been provided. A one-year timeline would be fantastic. The bill also calls for better coordination of assessments, federal authorizations and, of course, consultations with indigenous groups. In my view, the idea is simple. Companies that want to invest in Canada need to know the rules. They need to know what the steps are. They also need to know how quickly a decision can be made. That does not mean that we are setting aside our environmental responsibilities, nor does it mean that we are setting aside consultations with indigenous peoples We need to do things right, but we also need to be able to do them efficiently. We can build faster, and we can build responsibly. Another aspect of Bill C‑39 is particularly important to me. I have been a member of the Standing Committee on International Trade for several years, and I am thinking here of supply chains and trade corridors. At committee, we talk a lot about trade agreements. In fact, we have signed about 20 of them in the past year. We are talking about new markets. We are talking about exporting more Canadian products. However, trade agreements are not enough. We need to be able to deliver the products. I will give a very concrete example that we heard at the Standing Committee on International Trade. Earlier this year, we heard from Antoine Morin, senior vice-president at Olymel, a company with a strong presence in Quebec's pork production market. We are talking about Canadian exports to Japan, a very important market. Some of that pork is sold fresh, never frozen. It is a very valuable commodity that needs to be delivered in a very specific time frame. Mr. Morin explained that Olymel uses the port of Vancouver as its main gateway to Asia. He also explained what happens when there is a service disruption or a strike. When fresh pork piles up at the port, the company has to make a decision quickly. They may need to freeze a product that has to be sold fresh. They may also need to redirect it to another market. The product is not necessarily lost, but some of its value may be. They also have to pay for storage. There are delays and additional pressure on trading partners. Olymel explained that roughly 250 containers pass through the port of Vancouver every week. That represents a lot of money and a lot of jobs in Quebec and Canada. When service is disrupted, up to 50 containers a day could be delayed. If a disruption lasts for as long as a week, losses can run into the millions of dollars. That is real money. Getting a container of fresh pork to market requires producers, factory workers, shippers, railways, the port and, at the end of the chain, customers in Asia waiting for their product. When just one link in that supply chain fails, the consequences can be felt everywhere. That is why reliability matters. Our partners need to know that when they buy a Canadian product, we can deliver it on time. We need to be able to deliver on time. It is a matter of trust. It is also a matter of Canada's reputation. That is why Bill C‑39 proposes, among other things, the designation of trade corridors. The bill would also allow for the creation of a national trade corridors council. This council would track the movement of goods, analyze significant disruptions and recommend solutions. The bill also provides for the possibility of establishing a transportation project office. The goal is to better coordinate federal authorizations related to transportation projects. This objective is particularly important for Quebec. Quebec has the St. Lawrence River, ports, and road and rail networks. Quebec has businesses that sell products across Canada and around the world. The Lower Laurentians is part of that network. A business in Boisbriand may depend on a supplier on the other side of the country. A business in Saint‑Eustache may have customers in the United States, Europe or Asia. Everything is connected. A trade agreement can open the door, but we still have to deliver the goods. We also need to talk about workers because we cannot have a strong economy without the men and women who keep it running every day. Bill C-39 will not do away with labour disputes, but it does seek to encourage the parties to begin bargaining earlier. It seeks to strengthen the use of mediation and to provide more opportunities for workers and employers to come to an agreement on their own. It is important to note that workers must be able to defend their interests and rights, while employers need stability and predictability. The best solutions are often those that the parties are able to negotiate themselves. The bill also seeks to strengthen occupational health and safety resources. It provides for additional resources for the Canada Industrial Relations Board. If we look at what happened with Olymel, we see just how closely related labour relations and supply chains are. A disruption can have consequences far beyond the place where it occurs. I want to come back to my riding of Rivière‑des‑Mille‑Îles. When we debate an important bill here in Ottawa, we always need to be thinking of the people we are doing this work for. I am thinking of the business owners that I know in my riding. Some of them had plans to expand. Today, they are being more cautious about those plans.

Welcome to the Standing Committee on International Trade. I understand you are to be our new member. I very much look forward to working with you on the Standing Committee on International Trade. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to hear that he is going to join our committee. His question was about consultations. Before a major project is approved and implemented, there is a one-year period for the environmental assessment and consultations with indigenous peoples. No, we will not cut corners.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my highly esteemed colleague. Bill C‑39 will be studied by a special committee. If amendments are suggested and the parliamentarians on that committee accept them, there is definitely a way to move them forward. When it comes to the environment, “one project, one year” still involves environmental studies and respect for indigenous peoples' rights and consultations.

Mr. Speaker, now that summer is here, I would like to invite everyone to come discover the wonders of the Lower Laurentians. Our region offers a unique one-day agri-tourism experience that gives visitors an opportunity to meet local producers, sample local flavours and support our local businesses. The Vieux-Saint-Eustache farmers' market is a must-visit destination for fresh produce, a friendly atmosphere and our artisans' expertise. It is open every Saturday morning through the end of September. I also encourage everyone to visit Vieux-Saint-Eustache. Known for its rich history, heritage and culture, it is the perfect place for a stroll with family or friends. This summer, I urge everyone, including all my colleagues, to come enjoy our delightful region, support our local businesses and experience the beauty of the Lower Laurentians. I wish everyone a wonderful summer.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my hon. colleague, the member for Mirabel, a riding to the north of my riding. I really enjoy his sense of humour and quick wit. I like that in my colleagues. My colleague just told me a short while ago that he is leaning slightly in favour of Bill C‑26, an act to authorize certain payments to be made out of the consolidated revenue fund for the purpose of improving housing supply. It would indeed allow housing construction to move forward as quickly as possible. I would like to know what my colleague thinks about that, considering that this is federal legislation. We are in a federation. What are his thoughts on this matter, since we will be able to build housing faster in the provinces, the territories and his riding, Mirabel?

Mr. Speaker, today I would like to recognize the excellence, discipline, and determination of the 785 St‑Eustache Kiwanis squadron. On June 6, during the 2026 provincial military drill competition organized by the eastern division of the Regional Cadet Support Unit, 785 Squadron took first place in the triumph category, earning the title of best squad in its category. This victory is the result of remarkable hard work, strong team spirit and exemplary dedication on the part of our young cadets. I would like to congratulate the cadets, their instructors, the volunteers, the families and everyone who supports them on their journey. They proudly represent St‑Eustache and the entire Rivière-des-Mille-Îles riding. Congratulations to the 785 St‑Eustache Kiwanis squadron on this tremendous achievement.

Mr. Speaker, thank you for the opportunity to rise today to speak in support of the Build Canada Homes act. This landmark legislation will establish Build Canada Homes as a Crown corporation tasked with building and expanding affordable housing for Canadians. Canada is in the midst of a housing crisis. To date, federal efforts have been spread across multiple departments, agencies and provinces, limiting the government's ability to have maximum impact. Traditional approaches to construction and financing do not provide the scale and capacity that Canadians need. That is why we are taking a new approach. Every Canadian deserves an affordable place to call home. Housing is a basic need, and the growing demand for housing across the country requires urgent action. Build Canada Homes was created to act quickly and effectively. This legislation will give Build Canada Homes the flexibility and operational autonomy it needs to carry out its mandate. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes will maintain a clear framework of accountability with respect to the government. That will strengthen its ability to develop partnerships across the housing ecosystem and provide affordable housing at the scale and speed that Canadians need. Build Canada Homes will streamline federal housing efforts by acting as a developer, a funder, a unifying force and a catalyst for innovation in the housing sector. It will play a central role in building strong partnerships with all levels of government and indigenous communities. It will also work with non-profit organizations and other key stakeholders in the housing sector to stimulate the construction of affordable housing across Canada. This includes private developers and community organizations. As members know, people in Rivière‑des‑Mille‑Îles are already engaging with organizations interested in working with Build Canada Homes. We already have community housing, built with community organizations, in Saint‑Eustache, Boisbriand, Deux‑Montagnes and Rosemère. Obviously, we all want to build affordable housing. Build Canada Homes cannot act alone. The success of its initiatives depends on partnerships. Greater collaboration among all levels of government, whether municipal, federal or provincial, and with key partners, is needed to address the housing challenges we face across the country. Build Canada Homes will streamline and accelerate the delivery of large-scale affordable housing projects. The agency will attract public, private and philanthropic investment, maximizing its impact. The Build Canada Homes act will foster partnerships across the housing ecosystem to connect the right funding to the right projects. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes will consolidate access to federal lands, development expertise and flexible financial tools through a single entity. It will speed up the delivery of affordable housing by working with non-profit organizations, indigenous organizations and all levels of government. This approach will limit risk, eliminate barriers and guide projects throughout the development process. Build Canada Homes will also work in close collaboration with developers, investors and manufacturers on securing funding and building homes. It will work directly with builders and housing providers that are focused on long-term affordability. That includes non-profit organizations, co-operatives, community housing providers and organizations that promote different housing options for Canadians. These strategic partnerships will make it possible to create affordable housing for a wide range of households, regardless of their income. We are working with stakeholders in Rivière-des-Mille-Îles to fast-track the construction of affordable housing across the riding. Build Canada Homes will have the authority to work under agreements with all levels of government and community partners on financial support, joint ventures and joint development initiatives. The agency will seek to establish close collaboration and coordination with the provinces and territories, which will help advance priority projects. This could include making land available, expediting approval processes and waiving applicable fees. I will now turn to partnerships with indigenous communities. Indigenous peoples face unique housing challenges. Build Canada Homes will collaborate with first nations, Inuit and Métis governments, indigenous housing providers and urban indigenous organizations on proposals that will deliver consistent housing outcomes. Build Canada Homes will work collaboratively to address the housing needs of indigenous communities. The Government of Canada respects indigenous sovereignty and supports self-determined housing solutions that apply an indigenous lens to design and implementation. Our indigenous partners know how to integrate culture and adopt housing solutions that enable their communities to thrive. Build Canada Homes is committed to fostering close collaboration with indigenous peoples and advancing indigenous housing priorities. I would now like to talk about provincial partnerships. Since its launch, Build Canada Homes has moved quickly to initiate housing projects. The Government of Canada has identified public lands that can be converted for housing. We have partnered with local governments to cut red tape and speed up approvals. In April 2026, the Government of Canada and the Government of Quebec announced an initial partnership to support the construction of about 865 new affordable housing units across the province. The total investment in affordable housing, supportive housing and transitional housing in the province amounts to $200 million. Build Canada Homes is providing approximately $100 million, and Quebec is contributing $100 million. Supportive and transitional housing is very important for people experiencing domestic violence. Addressing domestic violence is one of the priorities of the Liberal women's caucus. This new housing is a direct result of the memorandum of understanding setting out the principles of collaboration for the rollout of Build Canada Homes in Quebec. Signed in January 2026, this memorandum of understanding will guide future collaboration and ensure the coordinated rollout of Build Canada Homes projects across Quebec. Through their collaboration, the federal and Quebec governments will speed up the approval process and identify additional housing projects. The combined investments will help build more affordable housing in the communities that need it most. In March 2026, the Government of Canada, through Build Canada Homes, and New Brunswick partnered to build affordable housing. This partnership is accelerating the delivery of up to 1,200 shovel‑ready homes, with the potential to scale to 1,500. At least half of the homes will be for low-income Canadians, and at least 160 will be supportive or transitional housing. Approximately 30% of the homes, representing up to 450 units, will be built in smaller rural communities. I have been a member of the rural caucus for several years, and one of the comments that I often hear is that we must ensure that affordable housing is built in rural communities as well. In conclusion, developing and strengthening partnerships is vital to building homes for Canadians. By pooling resources and finding innovative solutions with its partners, Build Canada Homes is laying a foundation for sustainable solutions. The Build Canada Homes act will make Build Canada Homes a Crown corporation with its own mandate, governance structure and clear powers. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes will have the operational independence, governance and flexibility needed to deliver affordable housing at scale. This legislation will allow Build Canada Homes to operate at arm's length from the government, manage its assets, deploy innovative financial tools and make long-term investment decisions more effectively. That is the true strength of partnership: implementing transformative changes. We are working together to develop a strong, more unified approach to housing across the country.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my hon. colleague for her excellent question. My riding is home to Deux-Montagnes, Saint‑Eustache, Boisbriand and Rosemère. People may not remember, but in 2017, we had once-in-a-century floods. Homes in Deux‑Montagnes were demolished. We are waiting for approval from the Montreal metropolitan area to reuse that land. Thanks to the federal government, there is a fund dedicated to the effects of climate change. That land is now inside a dike. Housing can be built there quickly. That is what is going on in Deux‑Montagnes. In Saint‑Eustache, there are already community projects. They will be ready for implementation as soon as the government moves forward. The other two cities, Boisbriand and Rosemère, also have projects. I encourage members to come and visit Rosemère. We are going to find a way to build apartment buildings.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his excellent question. Yes, we are transitioning from CMHC to Build Canada Homes. This new structure will be more flexible. The funds can be used in collaboration with organizations. As I said earlier, whether in the public or the private sector, we will be able to get these projects up and running faster. This transition will provide increased operational autonomy, the ability to take on risks and an appropriate governance structure that includes a board of directors and executive leadership appointed by the government. A bit of patience will be required, but we are going to wrap up the session. What I am asking my colleague specifically is that he support Bill C‑20, so we can move on to the next stage.

Mr. Speaker, our government's goal is to build a stronger and more resilient Canadian economy to protect our jobs and industries. As this plan is rolled out, we are also providing support and assistance to make life more affordable. Can the Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement provide the House with information on the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit and how it will help Canadian families?

Madam Speaker, I listened carefully to my colleague. He is asking us to consider the Conservatives' proposal. I have a question for him. Budget 2025 includes measures such as increased defence spending, a greater focus on reducing emissions through incentives for the private sector, and a cap on federal government operating expenditures, measures that Conservative politicians have long claimed to support. I would like my colleague opposite to tell me whether he will support the budget implementation bill, which will help support the defence industry and economic development here in Canada.

Madam Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Regina—Lewvan. I am pleased to rise today to speak to the spring 2026 economic update. At a time when many families are still feeling the strain of the cost of living, it is essential that our government continue to act in a responsible, practical and compassionate manner. In Rosemère, Boisbriand, Saint-Eustache and Deux-Montagnes, the people I represent are very clear about their concerns. They talk to us about grocery prices. They talk to us about housing. They tell us about their children. They also tell us about their aging parents. They tell us about their small businesses, their jobs, their retirement and their ability to make ends meet. These concerns are real, and they must guide our work here in the House of Commons. The spring economic update proposes measures designed specifically to address these realities. It proposes measures to make life more affordable, support housing construction, help workers and strengthen our economy. It also recognizes the importance of investing in communities, families, seniors, women and young people. I do not believe that an economic update should just be a series of numbers. Behind every policy, there are people. A family in Boisbriand is looking for a bigger home. A young couple in Deux-Montagnes wants to buy their first home. A senior in Rosemère wants to continue living with dignity in their community, and a business owner in Saint-Eustache wants to keep their employees and grow their business. These are the people we all need to work for. I want to begin by talking about the cost of living. Families across the country are facing tough choices. Prices have gone up, budgets are tight and people want to know that their government is there for them. Support measures for groceries and essentials are important because they provide direct support to the people who need it most. This support may appear modest to some, but for a family that has to watch every penny, for a single person, a single mother or a senior on a fixed income, it can make all the difference. Affordability must remain a top priority. Housing is a major issue. My riding is home to some beautiful communities. As I said earlier, Rosemère, Boisbriand, Saint-Eustache and Deux-Montagnes are places where people want to live, work, raise their children and age in place near their loved ones. For that to remain possible, we need more housing. We need housing that is accessible to everyone: young families, seniors and single people. We also need to work with the Government of Quebec, the municipalities, organizations and the private sector. The federal government cannot do it all on its own. It is by working with the municipalities, provinces and territories that we can build a stronger Canada. However, the federal government has an important role to play in speeding up construction, supporting partners and contributing to practical solutions. We must build more housing, but we have to be smart about it and build it close to services and public transit. Take, for example, the two stations located at either end of the Réseau express métropolitain, or REM. It is important that we build housing near this transit system. I believe it is open in Montreal's west end as well. We need to build housing while respecting the quality of life in our neighbourhoods. We need to build housing that meets current and future needs. I also want to highlight the importance of supporting workers and businesses. SMEs play a vital role in Rivière‑des‑Mille‑Îles. They create jobs, support families, contribute to our cities' vitality, sponsor our local events and bring our commercial streets to life. However, they also face challenges: Operating costs are high, labour can sometimes be hard to find and investments are expensive. Entrepreneurs need stability and predictability. As my colleague for Lévis—Lotbinière would say, predictability in financial matters is important. Entrepreneurs also need measures that allow them to keep moving forward. The economic update supports growth, productivity, training and investments. These are important priorities for Canada and for our local businesses. When a business in Boisbriand invests in new equipment, it is good for the local economy. When an SME in Saint-Eustache hires a young worker, it is good for the future. When a business in Rosemère makes it through a tough time, the entire community benefits. I also want to talk about Quebec. Quebec has a strong, diversified and innovative economy. We have dynamic SMEs and qualified workers. We have strategic sectors, including clean technology, critical minerals, energy, construction and aerospace. They are found mainly in the Lower Laurentians, but also throughout the metropolitan area. The agri-food and agri-food processing industries are strongly represented in my riding, and the same is true of the AI industry in the Montreal area. The economic update recognizes the importance of supporting major projects, training and supply chains. That represents significant opportunities for Quebec. However, economic development must always be carried out responsibly. We must respect communities and the environment. We must include indigenous people and create sustainable, high-quality jobs. That is how we will build an economy that is both strong and fair. As chair of the women's caucus, where we have achieved 41% gender parity, I would also like to point out that economic decisions have very real impacts on women. When we talk about the cost of living, we are talking about women. When we talk about housing, we are talking about women. When we talk about food security, we are talking about women. When we talk about violence, health, safe sport, community services and support for families, we are also talking about women. Women are at the heart of our economy. They are workers, entrepreneurs, caregivers, heads of households, students and volunteers. They are leaders in our communities. We must therefore ensure that our economic policies reflect their reality. A single mother looking for affordable housing, an elderly woman living alone, an entrepreneur wanting to grow her business, a young girl wanting to play sports in a safe environment, or a woman leaving a violent situation who needs a safe place: all these realities must be taken into account. It is a collective responsibility. As members know, I am proud to represent Rivière-des-Mille-Îles. I am proud to represent Rosemère, Boisbriand, Saint-Eustache and Deux-Montagnes in the House of Commons. These are strong, close-knit, and deeply compassionate communities with families that are community oriented, seniors who built our towns, young people eager to contribute, extraordinary community organizations, volunteers willing to give their time freely, and entrepreneurs creating jobs and local wealth. These people deserve a government that listens to them. They deserve a government that takes things seriously. They deserve a government that understands that the economy is not just about growth. The economy is about dignity, security, the ability to find housing, feed one's family, and have access to a good job. It is also about aging in good health and within one's community. It is the hope of building something better for our children. I would like to add a point about international trade. I also have the pleasure of serving on the Standing Committee on International Trade. Recently, we visited Brazil and Argentina. Even there, our Prime Minister's leadership resonates. People are still talking about his speech in Davos: “If you're not at the table, you're on the menu.” Just imagine, people in Latin America are still talking about it. Now I will be happy to answer my colleagues' friendly questions.

Mr. Speaker, that certainly is a friendly question. When we talk about women, we are talking about more than half of Canada's population. On this side of the House, we are particularly mindful of that. Together, we are working very hard to advance the women's agenda alongside our male allies and ensure that women are considered in all decisions. We have a plan to invest money in housing to ensure that women can escape unsafe homes where gender-based violence occurs. We are making sure that women are included everywhere. When we talk about the cost of groceries, women are generally the ones who handle the food budget. I used to be a grocer. My dad and I used to have a few grocery stores. It is mainly women who do the grocery shopping, and they are the ones who are affected first. Senior women often live longer than men, and they end up alone and facing more difficulties. The help we will be giving to pay for groceries will help these people, especially those living alone.

Mr. Speaker, getting into politics means choosing to serve and advance our democracy. Personal attacks, intimidation and hatred have no place in our institutions or our society. It is up to every one of us to foster an environment in which all people can contribute to public discourse with dignity and kindness. As we mark the National Day of Awareness for Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, we must continue to promote a society based on listening, respect and safety for all. As chair of the women's caucus, I also want to emphasize women's significant contribution to public and political life in our country and our support for Bill C‑16. A strong democracy is one in which everyone is encouraged to participate and get involved.

Mr. Speaker, over the past year, Canadians have had to adapt to a rapidly changing and increasingly fragmented world. Today's world is more complex, more unstable, and, for many, more costly and unpredictable. In this context, Canadians have done what they have always done: rolled up their sleeves, supported one another and adapted. This work is required of every one of us. Now is the time for Canada to build together. Yesterday, the citizens of Scarborough Southwest, Terrebonne and University—Rosedale renewed their confidence in this plan. Can the Minister of Finance inform the House of the next steps in our plan?

Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for St. Catharines, who will speak after me. I am very pleased to take part in today's debate on an issue affecting all Canadians. Our government is well aware of the pressures involved in Canada's rising cost of living, especially the rising cost of fuel, at a time of intense political tension worldwide. We recently saw the price of gas spike across the country, causing financial problems for a lot of Canadians. For many people, filling up at the gas station has become a nerve-racking experience. We understand the problem. That is why we have decided to introduce a practical measure to bring consumers some relief. As everyone knows, a few hours ago, the Prime Minister announced that the government will suspend the federal fuel excise tax on gasoline and diesel from Monday, April 20, until Labour Day, September 7. The federal excise tax is currently 10¢ per litre for gasoline and four cents per litre for diesel. We estimate that the temporary suspension of the excise tax on gasoline and diesel for this period will save Canadian consumers up to $5.75 on a 50-litre tank of regular gas or $2.30 on a tank of diesel. This suspension will save Canadians over $2.3 billion in 2026. Canada's new government is actively working to make life for affordable for all Canadians. For example, we introduced major tax cuts to reduce Canadians' tax burden. Since July 1, 2025, Canadians have been paying less tax because the government reduced the lowest individual income tax rate from 15% to 14%. This measure is helping some 22 million Canadians, with individuals paying up to $420 less in tax and two-income families saving up to $840 this year. Our government also eliminated the GST for first-time new homebuyers for homes valued at $1 million or less and reduced the GST for first-time new homebuyers for homes valued between $1 million and $1.5 million. In addition, we are providing support to more than 12 million low- and modest-income Canadians to help them meet their daily needs through the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. Specifically, we will provide a one-time top-up as soon as possible this spring, equivalent to a 50% increase in the annual value of the GST credit for 2025-26. This measure will provide immediate support of $3.1 billion to 12 million Canadians who currently receive the GST credit. Following this one-time payment made in the spring, eligible families and individuals in Canada will receive regular enhanced payments under the Canada groceries and essentials benefit starting in July 2026. For information purposes, and for the benefit of those currently watching the House of Commons on television, people who receive the GST credit do not need to do anything. They will receive the grocery benefit. They do not need to take any action except file a tax return. By simply filing their tax return, they will receive all the benefits without having to do anything else. The benefit will increase by 25% over five years starting in July 2026, providing an additional $8.6 billion in support over the next five years. The benefit will be paid at the start of each quarter to allow families to access the funds quickly to help cover their daily expenses. Thanks to these measures, a family of four will receive up to $1,890 this year and approximately $1,400 per year over the next four years through the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. A single person, on the other hand, will receive up to $950 this year and approximately $700 per year for the next four years. As soon as he took office, the Prime Minister abolished the federal consumer carbon pricing, effective April 1, 2025, which resulted in direct savings for Canadians at the pump. The government also eliminated the requirement for provinces and territories to impose a carbon price on consumers as of that date. These measures helped reduce the price of gasoline in most provinces and territories by approximately 18¢ per litre compared to 2024–25. This measure has helped reduce inflation and lower the cost of living for all Canadians. In addition, our government has made permanent Canada's national school food program, which provides school meals to nearly 400,000 children each year, allowing participating families with two school-aged children to save approximately $800 a year on groceries. We have also introduced automatic federal benefits for the 2026 tax year to ensure that up to 5.5 million low-income Canadians automatically receive the benefits they are entitled to by the 2028 tax year, including the Canada groceries and essentials benefit and the Canada child benefit. What is more, we have implemented ambitious pro-competition measures in the telecommunications and financial sectors to boost competition and lower prices, making it easier for Canadians to switch providers and pay lower bank and service fees. In conclusion, at a time when disruptions in global supply chains and geopolitical tensions are driving up prices, our government is taking action. Our government's goal is to build a stronger economy to create more job opportunities and boost wages. At the same time, we are cutting costs to make life more affordable across the country. This is how we will be able to offer more Canadians greater certainty, security and prosperity, now and in the future. Furthermore, with the measure announced today by the Prime Minister, we will provide additional relief to Canadian consumers of gasoline and diesel. They will be able to save some of their hard-earned money and purchase other goods their families need. Our government is building a stronger economy to make life more affordable for all Canadians. To that end, we are establishing new trade and investment partnerships abroad and enhancing our domestic strengths to create great career opportunities and higher wages for Canadians. As my colleagues surely know, I sit on the Standing Committee on International Trade. We are working very hard to secure additional trade agreements so that we are less vulnerable to the country south of the border. We are working very hard, and this will create good jobs here in Canada. In addition, we are implementing a number of concrete measures to ensure that Canadians get the support they need right now. Our government has introduced a range of new cost-cutting measures, including a tax cut for 22 million Canadians, a plan to fast-track residential construction, and the production and expansion of critical social programs.

Mr. Speaker, it is true that gasoline is not just for private individuals. It is also used throughout the supply chain. If we reduce the price of a litre of regular gasoline by 10¢ and the price of a litre of diesel by four cents, it will undoubtedly have an impact on grocery prices. This has already been mentioned. The entire logistics chain and the transportation of goods will be affected. The current conflict in the Middle East was not started by us, but it has direct repercussions here in Canada, but not just in Canada. It has repercussions all over the world. The ongoing conflict has driven up the price of oil, and whether we like it or not, this is increasing the cost of supplies.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my hon. colleague, who got an A earlier for the way he presented his question. We must give credit where credit is due. With respect to his question, which is a very serious one, we have decided to cut four cents off every litre of diesel. I am very interested in knowing what my colleagues think of our plan to temporarily suspend the excise tax on gasoline and diesel. Will they vote for it? Will they vote for our plan? Also, can Conservative MPs confidently predict what will happen in six to 12 months? Members must also consider the fact that we have set a specific period, a window, from April 20 to September 7. We will see how the global geopolitical situation evolves. We are going to have our say, but we do not control everything that happens in the world even though we try to maintain ties and promote an inclusive policy and a sound understanding of democracy around the world.

Mr. Speaker, on the subject of transportation electrification, Quebec's electric vehicle fleet is quite large. Quebec has the most electric vehicles on the road. The federal and provincial governments decided to invest in giving people a rebate when they buy an electric vehicle. I understand my colleague's concern. This is a difficult situation. Most families are watching the price of everything go up, and they are wondering how to cope. That is why we decided to reduce the cost of regular gasoline by 10¢ per litre and the cost of diesel by four cents per litre. This will start on April 20 and go until September 7. We will see how things go, but the Strait of Hormuz situation needs to end.

Mr. Speaker, when we talk about national defence, we are talking about our armed forces. However, we also need to talk about our businesses, our regions and our ability to innovate. SMEs, research centres and entrepreneurs in the Laurentians want to contribute to Canada's defence industrial strategy and the major investments that were announced. These investments are creating practical opportunities to innovate, co-operate and strengthen our national security. It is with that in mind that Connexion Laurentides will be hosting an innovation and defence event on March 31 in Mirabel, with the help of several local MPs, including the members for Thérèse-De Blainville, Les Pays-d'en-Haut, Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation and, of course, Rivière-des-Mille-Îles. I invite businesses and MPs to participate so that they can find out about all of the business opportunities that are available and take advantage of them. That is how we are building a stronger economy and strengthening our Canadian sovereignty.

Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member from Mississauga East—Cooksville. I am very pleased to rise today as a proud member of the Standing Committee on International Trade. This is my fourth year serving on that committee and it is always very interesting. We have studied a number of free trade agreements. Today, I am rising to discuss Bill C‑13, which seeks to implement the United Kingdom's accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, or CPTPP. First of all, it is important to remember that this bill does not create a new trade agreement. The CPTPP already exists. Canada has been a member of it since 2018, along with 10 other major economies in the Indo-Pacific region. What we are doing today is welcoming a new partner into the agreement, a major addition. With the United Kingdom's accession, the CPTPP will go from 11 to 12 economies and will represent close to 600 million consumers, or around 15% of global GDP. International trade is central to Canada's prosperity. Our nation is a trading nation. About one in five jobs depends on exports, and more than 60% of our gross domestic product is tied to international trade. Every year, Canadian companies export more than $780-billion worth of goods and services around the world. These exports support millions of jobs in every region of the country. In an ever-changing world, it is essential for Canada to diversify its trading partners. Just look at what is happening south of the border. That is one of the main reasons we need to diversify our markets. It is therefore strategic for our country to open up more markets elsewhere in the world. The United Kingdom's accession to the CPTPP is a step in that direction. The United Kingdom is the world's sixth-largest economy, with a GDP of over $3 trillion and a population of nearly 70 million. Bilateral trade between Canada and the United Kingdom already exceeds $40 billion annually. It is our third-largest trading partner. The United Kingdom is also one of the largest investors in Canada, with more than $90 billion in direct investment in our economy. The United Kingdom's accession to the CPTPP will therefore strengthen these economic ties and open up new opportunities for our businesses. This bill is also strategic for another reason. It positions Canada as an economic hub between Europe and the Indo-Pacific region. Canada is in a unique position given that it is a member of the CPTPP and has a trade agreement with the European Union. We are one of the few countries in the world that has preferential access to markets representing more than 1.5 billion consumers. This creates extraordinary opportunities for Canadian businesses. In my riding in the Lower Laurentians, which includes Rosemère, Boisbriand, Saint-Eustache and Deux-Montagnes, many businesses depend directly on international trade. There is a very large aerospace industry in the Lower Laurentians, as well as a sizable agri-food and food processing industry. We have innovative small and medium-sized businesses, thriving manufacturers and entrepreneurs who export their products all over the world. Trade agreements are not abstract concepts for these businesses. They represent real opportunities for growth. They mean new markets, new partners and new jobs here in Quebec and Canada. Several key sectors of our economy will benefit from this expansion of the CPTPP. As I mentioned earlier, the aerospace, agri-food, clean technologies, service and innovative industries come to mind. These sectors play a vital role in the Canadian economy. For example, the agri-food industry accounts for $140 billion in economic activity in Canada and employs more than two million Canadians. Aerospace, for its part, accounts for nearly 215,000 highly skilled jobs and contributes more than $28 billion to the Canadian economy. Access to new markets can therefore have a direct and positive impact on these industries. I want to raise another point. As chair of the Liberal women's caucus, I want to highlight an important dimension of modern trade. International trade needs to be more inclusive. Today, a growing number of women are running businesses in Canada. Women-owned businesses account for 18% of Canadian SMEs and that number continues to grow. However, many entrepreneurs still face barriers when it comes to accessing international markets. Modern trade agreements, like the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, or the CPTPP, can help create more opportunities for women entrepreneurs by making it easier to access markets and by supporting the growth of SMEs. When women succeed in business, the entire economy benefits. It is also essential that international trade reflect the values we stand for. The CPTPP includes important provisions on labour rights and environmental protection. These provisions help ensure that economic growth respects high standards and is in line with sustainable development. Trade can be a powerful driver of prosperity, but it must also be fair, responsible and sustainable. In a global context marked by economic uncertainty, geopolitical tensions and rapid changes in supply chains, it is more important than ever for Canada to strengthen its partnerships with countries that share our values. The United Kingdom's accession to the CPTPP sends a clear message. It demonstrates that Canada believes in open international trade based on rules founded on co-operation between reliable partners. This bill will open new doors for our businesses, support job creation, and strengthen Canada's position in the global economy. Trade agreements are not just legal documents. They are tools for prosperity. When they are well negotiated, as is the case with the CPTPP, they allow Canada to export not only its products, but also its values: high standards for workers, for the environment, and for fair competition. That is exactly what this bill does today.

Mr. Speaker, this is an issue that comes up often at the Standing Committee on International Trade: The pensions of British citizens who live in Canada are not indexed, unlike in the United States. I understand that this is a really important issue for them, but I do not believe this is the right forum to resolve this situation. However, that does not mean that we are not aware of what these people are experiencing. People who receive their pensions from Great Britain must continue to try to resolve this situation.

Mr. Speaker, obviously, reciprocity in health standards is always a delicate issue, and it came up when we negotiated the free trade agreement with Europe. I must say that the quality of the products we produce here, whether it be poultry, beef or pork, is higher and meets higher standards. It was surprising that there was a problem with England, when we know very well that Japan is accepting our exports, because we have some of the best standards in the world. We have not been able to really clarify this issue, but there is no doubt that products from here in Canada meet the highest standards in the world. As a former grocer, I believe in our Canadian products.

Mr. Speaker, that is an excellent question. Indeed, given that we were heavily dependent on our neighbours to the south, the Prime Minister is someone who will make Canada less vulnerable. We need to open up more markets, actually ensure that we open up other markets. Adding the United Kingdom to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, or CPTPP, is certainly a good thing. However, we need to do more. We also have the Canada-Indonesia Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement, which is a growing market, and the Canada-Mercosur Free Trade Agreement. We will be able to participate and exchange products, sell products, with Latin America. We have incredible expertise in aerospace. There are many companies in the Montreal area that are behind this, particularly in my constituency. There is no such thing as a bad opportunity to make us less vulnerable to our neighbours to the south.

Mr. Speaker, with International Women's Day celebrations still front of mind, let us take a moment to reflect on how far we have come. The advances that we celebrate today were never a foregone conclusion. They happened because one generation of women after another had the courage to challenge what seemed unchangeable. International Women's Day is more than simply a time to look back. It is an opportunity for us to look at the world as it is today, and the current context calls for clarity. In many parts of the world, conflict and crises are hitting women and children hard. Even in our societies, certain realities remind us that more work needs to be done on the road to equality. Women's rights cannot be taken for granted. They exist, advance or regress depending on the choices we make. Ultimately, equality is not built only on great strides forward. It is built every time we decide to take—

Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Beauport—Limoilou. I rise today with the utmost respect for the families and communities that were affected by the Mirabel expropriations. As many here know, I have lived in the Lower Laurentians region for a number of years. My riding of Rivière-des-Milles-Îles includes Deux-Montagnes, Saint-Eustache, Boisbriand and Rosemère. It is just south of Mirabel. I have always worked in the Lower Laurentians. I raised my family there. I have connected with people from all over the Lower Laurentians and Laval. The issue that the Bloc Québécois is talking about is not abstract to me. It brings to mind faces, stories and memories. What happened in 1969 had a profound impact on thousands of people, families that lost their homes, their lands and their communities, often without even understanding what was happening and with no way to defend themselves. At the time, we lived in Laval, and my father had a stable. That was when everyone's farms were expropriated. My father wanted to update his stable and took me, as a young girl, to buy equipment in Mirabel, in Sainte-Scholastique. I still remember how heartbreaking it was to see the deserted farmlands and the empty barns. It was so sad. That is what struck me then as a little girl. Again, I have a lot of respect for the families that went through this. That moment in history is a wound that has not yet healed. The trauma is transferred from one generation to the next. It is important to acknowledge that with humility. I ran four times in Rivière-des-Mille-Îles and I went door knocking all four times. Every time I would meet people from the Mirabel area—it was not Mirabel at the time; it was Sainte-Scholastique, Saint-Janvier, four or five towns that merged. When I knock on doors in Saint-Eustache, I still meet people whose land was expropriated. Recognizing this reality is not about making excuses; it is about recognizing that mistakes were made, saying that this should not have happened, and committing to doing better. Since then, our legislation has changed, our practices have evolved, and the way we work in our communities has been transformed. Today, we can no longer impose a bill without consultation, we can no longer act without transparency, and we can no longer ignore citizens. Frankly, that is a good thing. High-speed rail is an important project for our country. Do my colleagues know that the first segment to be built will be between Montreal and Ottawa, with 25 trains running per day? Travelling from Toronto to Montreal will take three hours by train. It will take two hours to get from Toronto to Ottawa and one hour to get from Montreal to Ottawa. Also, going from Montreal to Quebec City will take an hour and a half. The corridor will need to be 60 metres wide for the train to pass. The project will span about 1,000 kilometres once the project is completed. Evidently, this will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 100,000 tonnes, which is huge. That is what we want: to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. At the same time, 92% of Ontarians and Quebeckers support this project. Obviously, Ontario and Quebec support the project, as do the mayors of Ottawa, Toronto and Montreal, and I would add Laval as well. The first phase of consultations is currently under way. Today, in Saint-Eustache, one of the four cities in my riding, there will be consultations in the afternoon and evening. I want people to know that if they are in Saint-Eustache, they can go to the consultations today and see what is on offer. They will be able to ask questions. Now is the time. This project will create jobs, 50,000 of them. It will use our materials. It will use our steel and aluminum. It will employ people from Quebec City, Trois-Rivières, Laval, Montreal, Ottawa and Toronto. It will bring our regions closer together. It will improve our mobility. It will also support our economy. There will also be a very positive impact on the environment. This is a project that will leave its mark on an entire generation. I hope I will have the opportunity and the privilege to go from Quebec City to Windsor or Toronto. I hope I will be able to do that in my lifetime. To make that happen, we have to proceed respectfully, and that is exactly what the law provides for. The law requires consultations. It provides for serious assessments. It promotes voluntary acquisition. It limits expropriation. It guarantees fair compensation. It recognizes the rights of communities. It puts Canadians at the heart of the process. I understand the concerns that have been shared. I understand that there are fears. I also understand the mistrust that people sometimes feel. When someone has experienced an injustice, they become more vigilant. That is normal. What the people of Mirabel went through was unacceptable. I sincerely believe that we now have the tools to do things differently. We have learned from the past. We have strengthened our laws since then, and we have changed our culture. We are a long way from the 1960s and 1970s. We live in a Canada that listens better, holds more consultations and is more respectful. In my riding, people tell me two things: one, that they want their history to be respected, and two, that they want their children to have a future. They want jobs—good jobs. They want modern infrastructure and efficient services. They want responsible development. They want us to move forward without forgetting where we came from. This debate should not divide us. It should unite us all in pursuit of a common goal. We want to build a major project without repeating the mistakes of the past. We should all be united around a simple idea. It is possible to be both ambitious and humane. It is possible to build and think big while listening to people. It is possible to invest in the future without hurting communities. I sincerely believe that this bill is the key. It will allow us to bring this project to fruition, protect residents and take action respectfully. In closing, I want to tell the families in Mirabel and the families of Rivière-des-Mille-Îles that their history matters, that their voices matter and that their experience is guiding us. I want to tell young people that we are working hard to make their country modern, fair and united. We can do both, but we must all work together to make it happen.

I thank my hon. colleague for his question. In my speech, I said that the laws have changed since 1969. We are no longer in the same place at all. Respect has become very important in all of this. There was no notice before. Now, people will be invited to participate. There are consultations. The people in the 60‑metre corridor who will be affected will know it, and agreements will be made. This is a major project that will connect us. The majority of Canadians live in the 100 kilometres between Quebec City and Windsor, in the south of the country. This will help us reduce greenhouse gases in all public transit. It will also promote tourism. It will help us economically, so that everyone will be able to visit and enjoy themselves in these beautiful cities.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to draw the House's attention to a great source of pride for Canada and for my riding of Rivière-des-Mille-Îles. Deux‑Montagnes native Mikaël Kingsbury has been named a flag bearer for Team Canada at the Milano Cortina 2026 winter Olympics, which begin at the end of this week. Mikaël Kingsbury is an exceptional athlete and freestyle skiing icon who epitomizes excellence, perseverance and personal achievement. His remarkable career has inspired an entire generation of young people to believe in their dreams and strive for excellence. On behalf of the people of Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, I would like to sincerely congratulate him. I wish great success to him and all the Canadian athletes competing in the Olympics, which kick off this week.

Mr. Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for London West. First, I would like to offer my best wishes for a happy new year to all my colleagues in the House and especially to all my constituents in Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, whom I proudly represent, whether they are from Deux-Montagnes, Saint-Eustache, Boisbriand or Rosemère. I would like to wish everyone a safe and healthy 2026, and if possible, I would love for us to achieve world peace, so that everything going on around us could calm down somewhat. I rise today as a member of Parliament, but also as chair of the Liberal women's caucus, to express my strong support for Bill C-16, the protecting victims act. This bill is ambitious. It is necessary. Above all, it is deeply rooted in the lived reality of too many women, too many children and too many survivors in this country. For a long time, our criminal law has been designed to intervene after the fact, after the blows, after the attack, after the tragedy, sometimes even after death. Bill C-16 marks a fundamental change. It finally recognizes what survivors, advocates and experts have been telling us for years: Violence does not always begin with physical harm; it often begins with control, fear and isolation. Coercive control is an insidious form of violence. It does not always leave visible marks. It sets in slowly. It is exercised through hurtful words, monitoring, humiliation, financial restriction, and implicit or explicit threats, yet it is one of the strongest predictors of serious violence and femicide. Women told us that they did not recognize their own lives, that they had to ask permission to see their families. Can my colleagues imagine being forced to ask permission to see their families? These women told us that they no longer had access to their money, that they lived in constant fear without any clear criminal offence that could be invoked. Until now, the Criminal Code has not had the tools to address this reality. Bill C-16 corrects that. By creating a specific offence relating to coercive or controlling conduct in the context of an intimate relationship, our government is sending a clear message: This type of violence is real, it is serious and it deserves a serious criminal response. Let me be clear. This offence is carefully worded. It requires a pattern of behaviour and clear intent, and it takes into account the power imbalance within the relationship. It is aimed at protecting victims, not criminalizing them. It is a preventive measure, an early intervention measure, a measure that can save lives. Bill C‑16 also recognizes a painful reality. Too often, when the violence culminates in death, the justice system fails to name what actually happened. When a homicide is committed in a context of coercive control, sexual violence, exploitation or hate, it is not an isolated incident. It is the culmination of ongoing violence. Bill C‑16 now recognizes these homicides as the most serious crimes. It elevates these murders to first-degree murder. It also requires the courts to consider imposing a life sentence if manslaughter is committed those circumstances. For victims' families, this legal recognition has been a long time coming. The bill also modernizes our response to contemporary forms of violence. It includes intimate images generated by artificial intelligence. These sexual deepfakes are used to humiliate, control and extort victims. The problem disproportionately affects women and girls. As chair of the Liberal women's caucus, I also want to point out that this bill is not limited to gender-based violence. It also strengthens protections for children against sexual exploitation, online grooming and sextortion. Predators use sophisticated technology these days. Our criminal law must keep pace. The bill restores mandatory minimum penalties for the most serious sexual offences committed against children, while providing a judicial safety valve to ensure charter compliance. Bill C-16 clearly affirms the right of victims to be treated with dignity, respect and compassion. It improves access to information, expands access to testimonial aids, and recognizes the right of victims to participate fully in a process that concerns them. Finally, this bill addresses another major problem: court delays. Too many serious cases are being dropped. Too many survivors look on while their cases collapse, not because the violence was not real, but because the system did not act fast enough. Bill C-16 requires the courts to consider alternatives before ordering a stay of proceedings. It simplifies certain rules of evidence and endeavours to restore public trust in our justice system. This bill is the outcome of consultations, expertise and testimony. It is supported by women's rights organizations, child protection groups, police forces and several provinces. This bill represents a major step forward. Most importantly, it sends an essential message to victims: We believe them, we see them and we are taking action. On behalf of the Liberal women's caucus, I support Bill C-16, and I encourage all parliamentarians to do the same.

Mr. Speaker, this is a subject we have discussed many times. Intimate partner violence is one of our priorities. As I explained earlier, there are many coercive behaviours that tend to be seen before a femicide occurs. There are many measures that can be put in place regarding the intimate partner who is using psychological violence in the context of coercive control. Violence also includes preventing women from accessing their financial resources. Say a woman is trapped in a domestic violence situation. She has children and cannot just leave home. She has no resources. If she is killed, it would be first-degree murder. Several steps have already been taken by that point. When the intimate partner takes that drastic step, the least we can do is ensure that he is charged with first-degree murder.

Mr. Speaker, since January 1, there have been four femicides in Quebec, and nine in total in Canada. It is unacceptable that we live in a country where women and girls experience this violence. It has been proven and studied: There are several stages leading up to femicide. Ultimately, there is a kind of inner anger for which no solution has been found. Since my colleague asked me the question, I would like to know whether the Bloc Québécois will support making coercive control a criminal offence. This will allow for much earlier intervention in cases of intimate partner violence.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question, and I am very pleased to be back here in the House with my colleagues. Elevating femicide to first-degree murder also allows us to set an international example, particularly for democratic countries with justice systems similar to ours. I will say it again: it is unacceptable for this to be considered an ordinary murder. The victims' families must also be supported during the process. This is important if we want them to be able to find some semblance of peace in their lives. I will continue if there is time.

Mr. Speaker, strengthening economic security also means protecting seniors' dignity and financial peace of mind. That includes protecting them from fraud, which is a major political issue. Who said that? It was the member for Shefford. We agree. That is why it is disappointing to see the Bloc Québécois delaying the passage of Bill C-15. Could the Minister of Finance remind those who are intentionally delaying this bill's passage about the very real impact that their partisan games are having on seniors?