Madeleine Chenette

Mr. Speaker, this week we are celebrating Gender Equality Week. Today, 71 women sit as members of the Liberal caucus—the largest women's caucus in the history of Canada's Parliament—where they exercise strong leadership. Women also play a crucial role in our cultural sector, an area that means a great deal to me. They represent 54% of Canada's artists. That number, however, conceals a glass ceiling affecting artistic leadership: 23% of male artists hold executive and production positions, compared to only 12% of female artists. I want to take this opportunity to call attention to the strong female leadership that is alive and well in the cultural sector of my riding, Thérèse-De Blainville. Recently, Claudia Dupont took over from Chantal Lamoureux as Odyscène's executive and artistic director, backed by a predominantly female team that actively contributes to showcasing our culture on a daily basis. They are a great example to follow. This week, let us celebrate them as we continue to work toward achieving gender equality in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, one of the things that I really like about adjournment proceedings is that it does allow us the chance to publicly correct the record. Conservatives were very quick to say that Canada was in a technical recession. We now know that is not the case. In August, Statistics Canada confirmed that the Canadian economy grew at an annualized rate of 3.3% in the second quarter, and also revised its Q1 figures to show that the economy grew in those months as well. It would be nice if the Conservative Party were as quick to celebrate these achievements as they are to tell us that Canada is broken. However, sticking to the facts does not make for good social media clips or help with fundraising emails. The world is changing rapidly. The U.S. is imposing new tariffs on Canada that are designed to hurt and divide us. At the same time, conflicts in Europe and the Middle East are driving up prices the world over. Despite these challenges, however, Canada continues to show resilience. While the new U.S. tariffs are creating headwinds, the Canadian economy is holding to a position of relative strength. We certainly recognize that some workers, families and small businesses continue to be under pressure. That is why it is important to look at the facts, as well as the Canadian economy's overall performance. Canada's economic strength is recognized internationally. The International Monetary Fund predicts that Canada will be one of the fastest-growing economies in the G7 this year and next. Economic growth rebounded strongly in the second quarter, with real gross domestic product up 3.3%, as I mentioned. Canada had the strongest quarterly growth in the G7 and posted a second consecutive increase in real gross domestic product per capita. In addition, our net debt-to-GDP ratio sits at just 10.2%, far below the G7 average of 101.8%. In fact, Canada's net debt burden is far lower than any other G7 nation. These facts show that Canada's economy is built to withstand global uncertainty and to continue to grow. This resilience is a direct result of the targeted measures our government has taken to support Canadians, such as making fuel more affordable for Canadians. That is why the government introduced Bill C-38, which extends the temporary suspension of the federal excise tax on gasoline, diesel and aviation fuel until January 31, 2027, after which 50% of the usual excise tax rate will apply from February 1 to March 31, 2027. By reducing fuel and transportation costs, this measure will provide targeted relief to workers, families, farmers and businesses across the country, including in sectors that rely heavily on transportation and construction. The government is also taking broader steps to make life more affordable, including through the Canada groceries and essentials benefit, income tax cuts for 22 million Canadians, the cancellation of the consumer carbon tax, and the GST relief for first-time homebuyers of new homes. Taken together, these measures will allow Canadians to keep more of their hard-earned money. Each one reflects a consistent principle that our government upholds, specifically that federal support must be timely, targeted and fiscally sustainable.

Mr. Speaker, the bottom line is that our government is delivering timely, tangible and fiscally sustainable relief for Canadians at a time when they need it, and we are doing so from a position of economic strength, not decline. In a more uncertain world, the government is focused on what it can control, advancing nation-building projects, removing barriers to growth, unlocking private capital and making investments to build the strongest economy in the G7. That is how we will ensure that Canada not only avoids the worst-case scenarios predicted by many at the outset of the U.S. trade actions last year but also emerges stronger, with a boost today and a bridge to a better tomorrow.

Mr. Speaker, the global economy is undergoing a rupture. Geopolitical threats are mounting, and countries around the world are grappling with severe trade disruptions and significant economic risks. This includes the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which continues to disrupt global energy supplies, drive up energy prices and increase uncertainty worldwide. Canada, as we all know, is not immune to this turbulence. That is why we tabled Bill C-38 to extend the temporary suspension of the federal fuel excise tax. As members of the House will remember, last spring our government temporarily reduced federal fuel excise tax rates to zero cents per litre. While that measure was set to expire on Labour Day, Bill C-38 proposes to extend it until January 31, 2027. Fifty per cent of the regular excise tax rate would then apply from February 1 to March 31, 2027. This means that Canadians would continue to benefit from lower taxes, saving 10¢ per litre on gasoline and four cents per litre on diesel, helping households and businesses manage transportation and operating costs. For many small businesses, transportation and fuel costs remain a significant expense. Extending this relief measure will help businesses manage their costs while continuing to invest and create jobs. However, supporting Canadians through the current challenges is not just about providing immediate relief. It is also about ensuring that our economy remains strong, competitive and resilient in an uncertain world. While new U.S. tariffs add uncertainty for Canadian businesses and workers, Canada is starting from a position of strength. With a robust economy and a clear growth strategy focused on driving investment, increasing productivity, strengthening domestic industries and expanding access to global markets, Canada is well placed to respond to external pressures. Domestic activity has remained strong and our continental supply chains have been more resilient than expected, thanks to the adaptability of Canadian businesses and the fact that CUSMA protections shielded approximately 85% of Canadian merchandise exports from recent U.S. actions. The business climate in Canada has recovered, and companies are diversifying both their suppliers and their markets. The figures show that Canada has what the world is looking for. Canada leads the G7 in terms of per capita foreign direct investment inflows. Overall, real GDP grew by 1.9% in 2025, despite persistent global uncertainty. The outlook for the future remains encouraging. A Statistics Canada survey shows that businesses plan to increase their capital expenditures this year, while the International Monetary Fund forecasts that Canada will post the second-fastest growth in the G7 in 2026 and 2027. Since the start of 2025, Canada has created more than twice as many jobs per capita as the United States, with the majority of these jobs in the private sector. Things have really taken off since the start of 2025. At the same time, inflation averaged 2.1% in 2025, while wages have risen faster than prices over the last five years. Overall, these results show that the Canadian economy continues to grow, attract investment and create jobs despite a highly uncertain global environment. These results are no accident. They are truly the result of work that enables us to strengthen the economy and prioritize affordability—

Mr. Speaker, Canada's economy has demonstrated considerable resilience during one of the most challenging periods in recent history, and our SMEs know that our government is there to help them with all our programs to make a difference for them. Therefore, despite ongoing geopolitical instability, trade disruption and economic uncertainties, Canadians continue to benefit from a strong economy, rising wages, moderating inflation and a resilient labour market. We will continue to do whatever it takes to build an even stronger and more competitive economy for the future, and our SMEs in Canada know that we are there for them.

Madam Speaker, I am rather surprised by the member's comments and by the fact that he is proposing to delay the passage of this bill by failing to abide by our rules. The member gave a good description of the process in committee, where there are five‑minute speeches and then time for questions. That said, we also have the opportunity to hear from experts who present briefs, so we take all the time we need to really benefit from the informed perspectives provided by experts. There is no challenge when it comes to decision-making, and we need to act now. Can we move forward with this bill now?

Madam Speaker, unlike the Bloc Québécois, members on this side of the House have zero doubts that culture is important, and we are ready to invest in it. We did so in the budget, yet they were against it. With the $600 million that we are investing in the industry and the $95 million that we are investing in exporting our industry, giving access to 120 international markets, we are fostering its development, because our culture is extremely important. We, the 44 Liberal MPs from Quebec in this place, are constantly fighting to defend, protect and promote culture.

Madam Speaker, I have a great deal of respect for my colleague, but today he seems to be all doom and gloom. Today, thanks to the Canada groceries and essentials benefit, we are providing $543 to a single person as a GST credit and $1,086 to a family of four. These are concrete measures that people on this side of the House are working on to help families and the most vulnerable. When will the Conservatives understand this and stop criticizing us? We are building a strong Canada.

Mr. Speaker, last Sunday, I had the opportunity to attend the ceremonial parade of the 806 Sainte-Thérèse Air Cadet Squadron, which brought together more than 90 young cadets. What a great organization that teaches leadership, civic responsibility and teamwork. I would like to congratulate all the cadets for their participation and commitment, as well as Blainville's own Raphaëlle Chicoine for an exceptional honour. At just 17 years old, she received the Lord Strathcona Medal for her leadership and dedication, the highest honour awarded to a cadet. She has been flying planes and actively participating in our community for more than two years. Through her determination and passion, Raphaëlle is a true source of inspiration for her peers and a shining example of what our young people can accomplish. Attending this event served as a reminder that young people are not just the future, but also the present. It is crucial to recognize young people like Raphaëlle. With their active contributions, we are building Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, as we saw during the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, Canadian athletes show us what is possible when talent, hard work and opportunity come together. Today, we have the privilege of recognizing and thanking these extraordinary athletes here in Ottawa. Last winter, team Canada brought home 21 medals, finishing eighth in the overall standings, and at the Paralympic Winter Games, Canadian athletes proudly added 15 medals. Every athlete competed with heart, perseverance and excellence. With podium finishes and many personal bests, they demonstrated the talent, character and determination that define Canadian sport. To all our athletes, we want to say that we are proud to have seen them wear the maple leaf and represent Canada on the world stage. I would also like to thank the coaches, families, volunteers, support staff, officials, and the Canadian Olympic Committee and Canadian Paralympic Committee for their dedication to our athletes. On behalf of all Canadians, I thank them for inspiring the next generation of Canadian sporting heroes.

Mr. Speaker, as my colleague explained, Build Canada Homes is there for affordable housing. We are welcoming athletes to Ottawa today and making sport affordable through a $755-million investment to make sport accessible to all. We are developing projects and programs for our society on so many issues, including tax cuts. On this side of the House, we are taking swift action to help the people in our ridings. In my riding of Thérèse‑De Blainville, I can say that organizations are thanking us for everything we are doing for our constituents.

Mr. Speaker, it is clear that, on this side of the House, we are working hard for jobs. That is why, this week, the Prime Minister met with people from Enertec, a company that is facing difficulties because of the unjustified U.S. tariffs. The company's CEO, Julie Desrosiers, thanked the Prime Minister for promoting the buy Canadian movement in Canada and for all the innovation they will be able to carry out. They are confident that they can build and have jobs for the next year for Enertec employees.

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to 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 “Agreement between the Government of Canada and the Government of the Republic of Korea on Cooperation in Audiovisual Coproduction”, done at Gatineau on April 22.

Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague the member for Les Pays-d'en-Haut for that excellent question. An investment of $755 million is great news for sport. Why do we need to invest in sport? First, it is to support our athletes. Second, it is to keep our young people off the streets and help them benefit from and find joy in playing together. Third, it is to help our seniors break their isolation and be active for life. Fourth, it is to ensure that we are there to build Canada strong together. Let us celebrate this investment in sport.

Mr. Speaker, I am always surprised to see how the opposition focuses on the negative when there is good news. Sports are the cornerstone of our nation. Thanks to the spring economic update, we are making a generational investment of $750 million. This is the largest investment in 20 years. The people of Thérèse-De Blainville and that MP's constituents must be pleased to have this investment for their villages, towns, and communities. We are building Canada strong by working together and investing in our sports and in our youth.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my hon. colleague for her hard work and her leadership. I want to add that my constituents in Thérèse-De Blainville urgently want this bill to pass. The bill must be referred to the Standing Committee on National Security. Does my colleague have confidence that we will be able to move forward quickly?

Mr. Speaker, every job lost in the auto and trucking industries, particularly because of tariffs, is a loss for Canada. We are working hard to help auto and trucking companies pivot and adapt to new trade realities through the $5-billion strategic innovation fund. My departmental colleagues and I are in regular contact with Paccar and Unifor executives and the Government of Quebec to maintain production and protect well-paying jobs in Sainte‑Thérèse. Retooling a Canadian company's production line takes effective negotiation with all stakeholders and patience to give the company's American headquarters time to determine the required investments and agreements. At the same time, we are also working to encourage our cities and provinces to buy Canadian. To date, we have helped over 100 businesses in Quebec pivot and adapt to this new reality, and we are working hard to do the same for Paccar.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my athletic hon. colleague for his question. The year 2026 is Canada's year of sport, and we are bringing the excitement of the World Cup to communities across the country. Through the “Canada Celebrates” tour, communities from coast to coast to coast will share in this moment of national pride. Our government is also investing to support the host cities and deliver a safe and welcoming World Cup. Go, Canada, go. This summer, let us celebrate sport in every city and encourage our young people to get active.

Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to pay tribute to a man who had a profound impact on the riding of Thérèse-De Blainville: Roland Dagenais, the founder of La Popote à Roland. Mr. Dagenais was ordained as a priest in 1954, and he soon became a fixture in his community of Blainville. In 1977, he was very concerned to see that too many seniors were living in isolation, and so he and members of the parish launched a simple initiative that involved offering a warm meal and an opportunity for people to get together every week. Thus began La Popote à Roland. One Wednesday at lunchtime, I had a opportunity to drop in for a visit myself. It is easy to see why this organization is so important to local residents. Seniors gather there every week, and it obviously does them good. Roland Dagenais was also an avid traveller. He travelled around the world, from Asia to South America, but he left one of his greatest legacies at home in Thérèse-De Blainville. For nearly 50 years, hundreds of seniors have been gathering there every week to share a lot more than just a meal. Today, we simply want to say thank you to him.

Mr. Speaker, my riding of Thérèse-De Blainville was honoured to host the 60th Quebec Games from February 27 to March 7. For 10 days, our region was abuzz with excitement over sports, youth and personal achievement. Close to 3,000 athletes from across Quebec gathered together to push their limits and experience something unforgettable. Behind every competition and every medal, the solid support of an entire community was on full display. Today, I want to applaud the outstanding work of the 2,500 or so volunteers who welcomed the athletes, supported the teams and made sure that the competitions ran smoothly. I also want to give my heartfelt thanks to Mayor Liza Poulin, François Rioux and his organizing committee for overseeing the event with professionalism and dedication. Their commitment made these games much more than a sports competition. They were a time of pride and fellowship for our entire region and for our Quebec. I was there. It was a wonderful sight to behold.