Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, I rise today with deep sadness to advise the House that Constable Marc Pinizzotto of the Toronto Police Service emergency task force was killed in the line of duty. For 18 years, Constable Pinizzotto served with courage and commitment, putting himself in harm's way to make Toronto a safer place. Constable Pinizzotto was doing what police officers do every day, and these tragedies remind us of the danger that they face. As Constable Pinizzotto's family and colleagues across the service carry an unimaginable loss, we honour the memory of a hero in life, a police officer who dedicated nearly two decades in service to his community. I extend my deepest condolences to the Pinizzotto family, the Toronto Police Service and all members of the policing community. May his loved ones find strength in one another in the difficult days ahead, and may we honour him as a hero in service to others.

Mr. Speaker, it was 47 years ago that The Log Driver's Waltz was first screened and won a best animated film award at an international film festival in France. The Log Driver's Waltz is a Canadian folk song originally written by Wade Hemsworth and performed by The Mountain City Four. Most of us will instantly associate the tune with the iconic vignette of the timeless tale of a young girl, who, to please both her parents, had to give way and dance with the doctors and merchants and lawyers as the log driver “goes birling down and down white water”. Directed by John Weldon, the film celebrates the lads as they work on the river and has captured the imagination of generations of Canadians and generations to come, I am sure, because “That's where the log driver learns to step lightly”.

Mr. Speaker, the allegations against the previous vendor for the vaccine injury program were absolutely unacceptable. That is why we made the administration of the program internal, to ensure money is spent appropriately. We have directed the Public Health Agency to alter the program to ensure all our dollars are spent correctly, and we look forward to working with members across the House to make sure vulnerable Canadians are looked after.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to speak to Bill C-265. I want to first thank my good friend, the member for Thunder Bay—Rainy River, for bringing forward this important bill and legislation. As many members know, he brings a unique perspective to the House as a physician. The ideas reflected in the bill are grounded not only in his own experience caring for patients but also in conversations with clinicians across Canada. who have seen first-hand the challenges that can arise when patients require access to treatments that fall outside the usual pathways. That is why the special access program is so important. At its core, the bill is about patients. The special access program serves a critical role in Canada's health care system. It allows health care practitioners to request access to drugs that are not currently authorized for sale in Canada when they believe those therapies may benefit a patient with a serious or life-threatening condition. Every year, thousands of requests are made through the program. Those requests support patients living with cancer, rare diseases, serious infections and other complex health conditions. In many cases, the program provides access to treatments that would otherwise not be available. The program is an important success story, and it reflects a careful balance between timely access and patient safety. Unfortunately, as worthwhile as the program is, it is not without its flaws. The member for Thunder Bay—Rainy River has shared stories he has heard from doctors and clinicians across Canada who needed urgent access to medicine, only to run into unexpected administrative hurdles. While these may be rare instances, given that people turning to the special access program are doing so because they are in life-or-death situations, an administrative hurdle can have serious consequences. That is where this bill comes in. The bill would make two changes to the Food and Drugs Act that would be a lifesaver for many Canadians. The first proposed change would establish a list of therapeutic products that would be pre-approved for access through the special access program. In practice, this could help streamline access to certain therapies that are already well understood and frequently requested. For patients facing urgent medical situations, even modest reductions in wait time can be meaningful. For clinicians, it may help reduce administrative burdens and allow them to focus more of their time on patient care. The second change would expand the evidence that may be considered when requests are submitted through the program. Medicine is constantly evolving. New therapies emerge, new evidence becomes available, and clinicians are often at the forefront of identifying innovative treatment options for their patients. This proposal recognizes the value of clinical expertise and seeks to provide greater flexibility in how evidence can be assessed when special access requests are considered. Taken together, these proposed measures aim to improve efficiency, support clinical decision-making, and help ensure that patients can access promising therapies when appropriate. These objectives align closely with broader efforts under to modernize Canada's regulatory system. Last summer, our government launched a red tape review. As part of this work, we are modernizing Health Canada's regulatory approach so that it focuses on agility, enhancing international collaboration and supporting timely access to therapeutic products, while maintaining the rigorous safety standards Canadians expect. We have also launched the pharmaceutical and life sciences sector task force, bringing together leaders from across the sector to strengthen Canada's capacity to develop, manufacture and deliver the medicines Canadians rely on. The goal is straightforward: improving access to treatments while fostering innovation and long-term growth right here at home. Bill C-265 aligns with these goals, and I want to applaud the member for Thunder Bay—Rainy River for putting forward a bill that showcases the kind of innovative thinking we need during this critical time. As with any piece of legislation, there are details that warrant careful study. Committee review would provide an opportunity to hear from patients, physicians, researchers, regulators and other experts to ensure that the bill achieves its objectives while remaining aligned with Canada's broader regulatory framework. That is exactly how Parliament should approach legislation such as this: thoughtfully, collaboratively and with a shared focus on the people who stand to benefit. I again want to thank the member for Thunder Bay—Rainy River for bringing the bill forward. At a time when Canadians expect us to work together to improve health outcomes and strengthen access to care, the bill offers an opportunity to do exactly that. I look forward to its being studied at committee, and I encourage all members to support sending it there for further consideration.

Mr. Speaker, our government did the responsible thing by announcing the end of the federal funding for PrescribeIT because the plan was always for the provinces and territories to pay their own way once we got the system up and running. Since we made that decision, we have already seen the Province of Quebec come to the table and sign an agreement to pay to use PrescribeIT across pharmacies in Quebec. With Quebec on board, we are hopeful that other provinces will soon want to follow suit. For the past month, the Conservatives have been blocking the health committee from discussing issues that matter to Canadians, like the public health emergency that has been declared in that member's home province of Manitoba because of the sharp rise in HIV infections. It is disgraceful behaviour by the members opposite who have been engaged in this endless obstruction. The member for Kitchener South—Hespeler on the health committee openly stated that he did not believe we could take any actions as parliamentarians to help Manitoba. Well, I am sorry, but when a public emergency has been declared, on this side of the House we are all hands on deck, while the members opposite are busy making clips for their social media.

Mr. Speaker, once again, the Conservatives would rather obstruct the health committee and block our motion to study the public health emergency in the member's home province of Manitoba than help Canadians. The member opposite claims we are blocking the work of committee. This is quite rich, considering that a Conservative committee member was filibustering by making a speech about the Magna Carta and described the public health emergency in Manitoba as a facade. Canadians elected our new government to focus on resolving the challenges our country faces. I invite the members opposite to put down their phone, join us and get to work.

Mr. Speaker, as the minister has stated, any future funding must align with Canada Health Infoway's mandate and deliver value for Canadians. That means supporting the modernization of Canada's health care system and improving how health information is shared across the country. Our government will remain focused on making sure Canadians have access to a modern, connected health care system that works for them.

Mr. Speaker, I do want to remind folks again that the member opposite continued to obstruct our health committee on the very important study on HIV in Manitoba, the member's colleague's own province. He openly stated that he did not believe that we can take any action as parliamentarians to help Manitobans. That is, frankly, just disgraceful. It is shameful. On this side of the House, we will always work to improve the health of Canadians. We will always take a public health crisis as urgent.

Madam Speaker, as we celebrate Italian Heritage Month, I rise to recognize the remarkable contributions of the Galati family in my riding of Don Valley North. The Galati Market Fresh grocer has served our community for more than 25 years. Founded by brothers Tony and Francesco Galati in 1958, this family-run grocer, built by Italian immigrants from Calabria, has grown into a beloved local institution. Whether supporting local growers or giving back to families and schools, the Galati family reminds us that the best ingredients for success are hard work and a deep commitment to community.

Madam Speaker, my friend and colleague across the aisle works extremely hard, and I really enjoy our conversations about health in the House. Vaping, especially among youth, is a very serious public health issue, and we need to make sure that the vaping industry is not exploiting grey areas that make it easier for Canadian youth to get hooked. We will continue to work to prevent youth vaping, which is why we are enhancing public education and strengthening compliance with, and enforcement of, existing rules. We will continue to work with members in the House on this important issue.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the member, my good friend from Courtenay—Alberni, for his very important question. As the member mentioned, the Canadian dental care plan is the most transformative social program in a generation. More than seven million Canadians are now eligible for the CDCP, and more than four million Canadians have received dental services from the plan. During the most recent renewal period, more than 80% of CDCP members successfully renewed their coverage. In the member's riding of Courtenay—Alberni, more than 29,000 people are eligible for the CDCP. That means seniors are receiving care that has been delayed for years. Children and young people are getting access to preventative care earlier. Families are saving, on average, about $900 per year through the program. At a time when many Canadians are feeling pressure from the rising cost of living, the CDCP is helping people access essential dental care with greater peace of mind. As with any program of this scale, it is important that eligibility requirements are administered carefully and consistently. Health Canada regularly conducts eligibility reviews to confirm that applicant information aligns with records held by the Canada Revenue Agency. In cases where additional clarification is needed, individuals may be asked to provide supporting documentation, which the department then reviews before confirming eligibility. The member has rightfully raised cases where, through no fault of their own, some individuals were incorrectly approved for dental services. I can assure the member that the department is working closely with impacted individuals and the members of Parliament who have raised this issue to find an equitable solution. I know this issue is important to the member, and I want to emphasize that the minister and all of us are committed to ensuring the program works effectively for Canadians. That means making sure eligible Canadians can continue accessing the dental care they need while supporting a system that remains reliable and sustainable for the millions of Canadians who depend on it.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my hon. colleague and good friend from Courtenay— Alberni for raising this important issue. Our government remains committed to ensuring that the Canadian dental care plan continues to deliver for Canadians. More than four million Canadians have already received care through the CDCP, and more than seven million Canadians are currently eligible for the program. We will continue working to ensure that the program remains accessible, effective and responsive to the needs of Canadians.

Madam Speaker, I am pleased to have the opportunity to speak on this topic, and I welcome the chance to put some facts on the record, so let us look at the facts. The fact is that PrescribeIT was launched by the previous government in 2017 after extensive consultation with provinces and territories. To create the program, the previous government worked with Canada Health Infoway, an organization that has received funding and support from Conservative and Liberal governments alike since its creation in 2001. It is also a fact that any program like this needed to begin at the federal level. If we look at similar countries that transitioned to e-prescribing, whether the United Kingdom, Australia or New Zealand, these systems were launched through federal governments or national agencies. Of course, in Canada, provinces and territories are responsible for health care delivery, which is why PrescribeIT was built with the idea of it becoming self-sustaining, with the provinces and territories taking on their share. Another key fact is that PrescribeIT may have worked as a technology solution, as we have heard, but it did not have the support from provinces and territories financially, nor did it achieve the ideal uptake for the program to be self-sustaining. I am sure the member opposite will agree that it is important for both to happen. That is why our government took the step of announcing back in February that we were ending the funding for the program and working with Infoway on the next steps, and we are already seeing results on this front. Last week, Quebec came to the table with Infoway and signed an agreement to transition to PrescribeIT using provincial funding, exactly as the long-term model envisioned. We also know for a fact that other provinces and territories are watching how the deployment unfolds because they all recognize the value of modernizing our health data infrastructure and making sure that prescribers and pharmacists have the best tools available to serve their patients. What is disappointing is that instead of engaging seriously on these issues and topics, Conservatives continue to focus on rhetoric and procedural games rather than the broader issue of how we modernize health care for Canadians. We have before us the opportunity to study urgent public health crises, including the public health emergency declared for HIV in Manitoba, but it has been delayed by that member from Manitoba through partisan obstructions. At the same time, I commend my hon. colleague the member for Winnipeg West for standing up for vulnerable Canadians. There are many important issues before us: strengthening public health preparedness, responding to infectious disease threats, supporting health workers and improving digital health systems across the country. I ask the member to join us on this front.

Madam Speaker, Canadians expect us to approach issues like this with a focus on outcomes. The reality is that PrescribeIT was created to help modernize the way health information is shared and to reduce reliance on outdated systems. Like many large-scale digital health initiatives, there were challenges, lessons learned and important questions about long-term sustainability. Our government made a decision regarding future federal funding while ensuring that provinces, like Quebec, could continue moving forward with deployment models that meet their own needs. What is important now is that we focus on strengthening digital health infrastructure—

Mr. Speaker, PrescribeIT was launched by the previous government in 2017 in consultation with provinces and territories. The program was always intended to become self-funded over time. When it became clear that it was not having the expected uptake and there was no path toward financial sustainability, our new government made the responsible decision to end funding to the program and redirect resources to make sure we maximize benefits for all Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, Canada's new government was elected with a clear mandate to ensure that programs and policies are delivered smarter, faster and more effectively for all Canadians. We are refocusing our spending and Canada Health Infoway's mandate so we can support the development of national health data standards while allowing our health sector partners to deliver solutions that work for all Canadians.

Madam Speaker, PrescribeIT was launched by the previous government in 2017 following consultations with provinces and territories. The program was always intended to be self-funded over time. When it became clear that it did not have the expected uptake and there was no path toward financial sustainability, Canada's new government made the responsible decision to end federal funding for the program and refocus resources to where they will deliver the greatest benefits to patients and our health system.

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate my colleague's very important question. Of course, our hearts go out to families who are impacted by this very sad public health crisis. That is why our government believes we must use every tool possible in our tool box to protect the public health and public safety of Canadians. We have expanded treatment. We are supporting community-based prevention, and we are working with provinces and territories to make sure that we have the support that we need for each community. We will continue to stand with the communities that are impacted.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the important work of the National Association of Career Colleges and its member institutions. Career colleges are an important part of Canada's workforce strategy, delivering practical, hands-on training for jobs in high-demand sectors. Across the country, demand is growing for skilled workers in fields such as health care, skilled trades and technology. Career colleges are helping Canadians to build practical skills they will use on the job. This is where career colleges are making a real difference. They expand training capacity, respond quickly to evolving industry demands and create accessible pathways for working adults, newcomers and career changers, people who are ready to contribute and succeed. As we look to the future, supporting the institutions that are training Canadians for in-demand careers will remain essential to our plan to build Canada strong for all.

Mr. Speaker, Canadians rightly expect public programs to be fair, responsible and sustainable. They expect that when people are seeking protection in Canada but are not eligible for provincial or territorial health insurance, the government manages that transition in a way that protects public health while maintaining the integrity of our health care system. That is the role of the interim federal health program, a program that has existed in some form since the 1940s. The IFHP provides temporary limited health coverage to certain migrants in Canada who are not eligible for provincial or territorial health insurance, including those who are waiting for a final decision on their asylum claims or for their removal to be safely carried out. The program exists to ensure access to urgent and essential services. Without it, vulnerable people may delay seeking care, which can lead to more serious health issues, higher costs later on and added pressure on emergency rooms and public health. That is why the program must be understood as both a public health measure and a system management tool. Let me be clear. The IFHP does not determine who is ahead or behind on health care wait-lists. Those decisions are made by provinces and territories based on medical needs. IFHP beneficiaries face the same wait times as all other residents. The IFHP provides health coverage, not faster or better access to health care. Moreover, the health needs of those seeking protection in Canada are important principles behind the program, and those who have filed asylum claims have the right to due process, which includes the right to appeal. The IFHP is tightly managed. All claims are monitored, audited and subject to integrity controls so that the program remains available only to those who qualify. Pressures on the IFHP are largely driven by higher asylum claim volumes and the length of time people remain in the system while awaiting a decision or removal. That is why our government has also taken action to reduce pressures on the asylum system. These actions are working. Comparing January and February 2024 to the same period this year, asylum claims are down by almost two-thirds, and with Bill C-12, we introduced new eligibility and efficiency improvements, which will reduce the time individuals rely on temporary federal support. We also announced co-payments in budget 2025 to help keep supplemental health care accessible for eligible beneficiaries while responsibly managing growing demand. This will support the long-term sustainability of the program as it continues providing essential support to current and future beneficiaries. The co-pays, set to come into effect on May 1, could result in approximately $126.8 million in savings in 2026-27 and $231.9 million onwards. In short, the responsible way forward is not to create confusion about who is ahead in line. Instead, we need to keep the IFHP targeted and well managed to avoid increasing the burden on our publicly funded health system while reducing pressures through stronger system integrity and faster processing. That is exactly what our government is doing.

Mr. Speaker, the interim federal health program provides temporary limited coverage until beneficiaries are eligible for a comparable provincial or territorial health insurance. It is a bridge, not a substitute, and it does not determine placement on health care wait-lists, which are managed from provinces and territories based on medical needs. Without that bridge, vulnerable individuals may delay seeking care, which can increase the risk to public health and wait times in hospitals and emergency rooms. In this way, the IFHP actually helps reduce pressure on our health system. The program is tightly managed and only available to those who qualify. Comparing January and February 2024 to the same period this year, we also see that asylum claims are down by almost two-thirds. Recent measures and legislation such as Bill C-12 ensure the IFHP remains fair, targeted and sustainable.

Mr. Speaker, my friend the member for Courtenay—Alberni has long been a strong advocate for better health outcomes in his community and across Canada, and I am honoured and fortunate to work with him in the House for the betterment of Canadian health outcomes. Those outcomes are possible thanks to our investments in health care, just as yesterday's spring economic statement was our government's next step in our plan to build a stronger, more independent and resilient Canada. We know that we are only stronger and more resilient if we have healthy Canadians, which is something I think everybody here agrees on. That is why our government came to office with the pledge to protect existing pharmacare agreements. We know the role that they play in keeping Canadians healthy. In fact, starting last month, my colleague's constituents in British Columbia are seeing the effects of their province's pharmacare agreements first-hand, since it came into effect on March 1. Thanks to this agreement, more Canadians have free and low-cost access to a range of contraceptives; Canadians living with diabetes can get essential, life-saving drugs for their condition; and Canadians are keeping more money in their pockets while improving their health outcomes. I know the member opposite would like us to go full speed ahead, but recent years have taught us that we need to be mindful of the broader context, both within Canada and beyond our borders, as we make decisions and as we consider the changing fiscal environment, how policy decisions in other countries impact our pharmaceutical supply and what we hear from our provincial and territorial partners. All of these things matter. For our part, our government will continue to control what we can. That means working closely with our health partners, including provinces, territories and indigenous people, to see how we can help them deliver health care for all Canadians. As we have always said, we cannot build Canada strong without healthy Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, I want to make it very clear that it is never an inconvenience but always an honour to come to the House and debate important issues. I am never dragged here, because it is also my honour to debate important issues and work on behalf of all Canadians for the betterment of their health with the member opposite. Our government remains committed to building Canada strong by investing in healthy Canadians. That means protecting pharmacare agreements that provide access to contraception and vital medications while also keeping more money in the pockets of Canadians. We will continue to work with our partners on all sides, including the member opposite, to build a health care system that meets the needs of Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, my colleague and I both work on the health committee, and I respect her work on health issues and also on this topic. As the member knows, PrescribeIT was developed and introduced under the previous government at a request of the provinces and territories. Unfortunately the uptake was not high enough, so our new government has decided to end the program. At the same time, we have introduced a connected care bill, through the Senate, which would increase interoperability for digital tools and solutions. This would help improve health care and connectivity for patients in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, as I have said, PrescribeIT was introduced in the last Parliament, under the last government, at the request of provinces and territories. Unfortunately, the uptake was not high. There were a lot of lessons learned. We continue to collaborate with the provinces and territories on a path forward. At the same time, we will support provinces and territories on their digital solutions with Bill S-5.

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the opportunity to respond to the important issue raised by my friend and colleague, the hon. member for Courtenay—Alberni. Let me start by being absolutely clear about what the government has said publicly and consistently. The Prime Minister has stated repeatedly, in the House and outside it, that projects should move forward with the agreement of the impacted jurisdiction and the impacted indigenous nations. This has not changed. So far, no project has been proposed before the regulators. There is no decision to lift the oil tanker moratorium. What the member referred to is a memorandum of understanding between Canada and Alberta. The MOU does not sidestep indigenous rights or decision-making. The member suggested that the coastal first nations have been ignored or sidelined. This is not accurate. When concerns were raised, the Prime Minister publicly committed to meeting with Coastal First Nations and, in fact, met with its leadership in January. Federal ministers have consistently said that engagement must be nation to nation, meaningful and grounded in respect for indigenous rights and title. That is not a box-checking exercise. It is a legal and constitutional requirement, and it is how the government approaches all major projects. Meaningful engagement and consultation also means meaningful economic opportunity for indigenous rights holders. That means opportunities defined by indigenous nations themselves, grounded in skills training, long-term employment, ownership and real participation in economic decision-making, not only as a condition but also as part of building durable, respectful partnerships that support shared prosperity. As for looking at adjustments to the Oil Tanker Moratorium Act, we may not even need to look at the act, depending on the project ultimately proposed. If we do, I can assure members that nothing about that process would be skipped. Robust consultations would be held. Trust is built through actions, not rhetoric. That is why the government has been clear that indigenous participation is not symbolic and not optional. Indigenous nations are rights holders. Their input and decisions matter. This is also why the government has been clear that British Columbia must be meaningfully involved. The MOU clarity stipulates that robust engagement must be held with the B.C. government and that the people of British Columbia must benefit from any project that moves forward in their province. The member is right that the coast has a history, and that history matters. It is precisely because of that history that the government has rejected the idea of ramming projects through. Canada is navigating a complicated global moment, with real debates about energy security, climate responsibility and economic resilience. Those debates must be grounded in facts, law and respect for rights, not assumptions about decisions that have not been made. We will continue to engage and consult directly with indigenous nations. We will continue to respect provincial jurisdiction, and we will not move forward on any project unless those conditions are met. That is how we build a stronger Canada: by working together.

Mr. Speaker, the question before us is not whether trust matters. It does. There has been no proposal submitted before regulators so far. Any path forward must respect the rights of indigenous peoples. The Prime Minister has said this plainly, and ministers have repeated it in the House and in committee. Engagement is ongoing, not finished. Robust consultations with rights holders will be undertaken as we move forward in this space. The decisions of indigenous nations must be respected. That is not backtracking. It is how we uphold rights, responsibilities and the rule of law.

Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the question raised by the member for Saanich—Gulf Islands regarding Canada's commitment to international assistance. This is an important issue that speaks directly to Canada's values and our role within the global community. In this vein, I want to acknowledge the deep commitments of international development organizations and their frontline workers who advance peace, prosperity and stability around the world. Their work reflects Canada's values and our long-standing belief that international assistance is an essential pillar for global security and shared prosperity. Let us be clear. Our government remains firmly committed to Canada's international assistance priorities. We continue to fight poverty; advance gender equality; strengthen health, education and food systems; build climate resilience; and deliver urgent humanitarian aid. These investments are not optional. They are essential to preventing conflict, responding to crises, promoting prosperity and security, and fostering lasting stability. Canada's international assistance spending grew significantly in recent years to respond to global crises, from the COVID-19 pandemic to Russia's war of aggression in Ukraine. Budget 2025 announced a reduction of roughly $2.7 billion over four years, returning spending to the more sustainable pre-pandemic levels. In today's fiscal climate, it is more important than ever that our international assistance, including official development assistance, be strategic and impactful. Moving forward, we are prioritizing results and effectiveness to ensure every dollar supports meaningful impacts and outcomes. Providing international assistance also strengthens Canada's security, economic resilience and global influence by promoting the stability vital to our shared prosperity. It ensures that international assistance efforts not only reduce poverty abroad, but also generate mutual benefits including economic opportunities for Canadians. This is why our government takes a pragmatic and principled approach. We are focusing our multilateral and bilateral efforts where Canada can advance shared priorities, strengthen economic resilience and support stability, helping our partners grow while benefiting Canadians at home. We are using all available tools to maximize the impact of our assistance, while remaining guided by our core values of human rights, gender equality and poverty reduction. Despite the challenges, there is opportunity. Partner countries are seeking relationships that support their priorities and give them space to grow, helping them build stronger economies, improve governance and strengthen climate resilience. By positioning Canada as a trusted partner, we not only advance these outcomes abroad, but we also advance our own security, economic interest and global influence. Our international assistance is focused on creating a more stable, prosperous and resilient world. Canada's long-standing experience in international assistance underscores that leadership is measured by effectiveness, credibility and long-term engagement. This why we continue to work with trusted Canadian partners, multilateral institutions and local organizations to deliver results. As the world evolves, Canada remains committed to our international assistance objectives and unwavering in addressing poverty, inequality and instability. Canada leads with purpose, compassion and pragmatism to deliver real results at home and abroad.

Mr. Speaker, continued commitment to international assistance is important, but commitment alone is not enough. Global challenges are increasingly complex, from pandemic conflicts and climate change to shifting geopolitical dynamics. Budget 2025 reduces international assistance by $2.7 billion over four years, making it even more important that every dollar is strategic, effective and results-driven. Without a strategic, pragmatic approach, even well-intentioned aid risks being diluted and less effective. Canada must continue to focus not only on what we fund, but on how we fund it, prioritizing partnerships and tools that deliver measurable and sustainable impact. This includes supporting initiatives that reduce poverty while also creating mutual benefits, such as opportunities for Canadian businesses and promoting regional and global security and stability critical to our shared prosperity. Principles remain essential, including respect for human rights, gender equality and poverty reduction. Our pragmatism ensures our resources achieve maximum results. Leadership is measured by results and Canada's credibility depends on the differences we make on the ground.

Mr. Speaker, supporting the health of men and boys means stronger families, stronger community and a stronger Canada. That is why the Minister of Health has launched consultation for Canada's first-ever national conversation on men and boys' health. We want to hear directly from Canadians about the challenges men and boys face, and the solutions that could improve lives. I encourage colleagues across the aisle to engage their communities and help shape a strategy that truly reflects Canadians' needs.

Mr. Speaker, our government will always protect the Canada Health Act and Canada's universal health care system. That is why, with budget 2025, our government is investing in our publicly funded health care system, including a generational investment of $5 billion to build health care infrastructure. We are collaborating with our provincial and territorial partners to ensure all Canadians have equitable access to medically necessary care based on their needs, not on their ability to pay. Our government is continuing to engage with the Province of Alberta to better understand the various components and implications of its proposed changes and ensure they align with the principles of the Canada Health Act.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to express our government's support for Bill S-201, which seeks to establish a national framework to support Canadians with sickle cell disease. I want to express my sincere thanks to Senator Ince and Senator Mégie for their hard work in the Senate and for their advocacy. I want to also thank my dear friend, the hon. member for Scarborough—Woburn, for all his work in the House of Commons and his years of advocacy on this issue. This is an important bill. It passed the Senate with unanimous support, and I hope we will do the same here in the House. Bill S-201 asks us to consider how a national framework could improve consistency, coordination and outcomes for Canadians living with sickle cell disease. The bill invites us to consider not only the individuals directly affected but also the families, caregivers and communities that share the burden of managing this complex condition. I think it is important to talk about what sickle cell disease is, because it is not well-known, as the member mentioned. As with any rare disease, raising awareness is a key step in building broader understanding. Sickle cell disease is a group of inherited blood disorders where red blood cells form an abnormal sickle shape. This can lead to reduced life expectancy and acute episodes of severe pain, commonly referred to as sickle cell crises. Current treatments include blood transfusions and medications aimed at reducing the frequency of pain crises. Stem cell transplants offer a potential cure but are limited by donor availability and significant medical risk. Emerging gene therapies show promise but come with extremely high costs. Approximately 6,000 Canadians live with this condition, and there is a disproportionate impact on people of African, Caribbean, Middle Eastern and South Asian ancestry. Black Canadians in particular bear the brunt of sickle cell disease. Approximately one in 10 black Canadians carry the sickle cell gene mutation, yet because the disease is so poorly known and understood, Black patients frequently report discrimination in care, which leads to delayed diagnosis, increased reliance on emergency services and poor health outcomes. Limited clinical expertise, inconsistent guidelines and under-representation of Black health professionals further compound these challenges. There has been some progress toward national training standards. Canadian Blood Services formally endorsed the sickle cell disease education program for health care professionals, a program developed by the Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario. This represents a credible evidence-based framework already available to jurisdictions across the country. Established standards such as these could ensure greater consistency in care and strengthen our collective capacity to support Canadians living with sickle cell disease. We also know that research can play an enormous role in furthering our understanding of this disease. That is why it is so exciting to hear that the Canadian Institutes of Health Research has supported significant research efforts in this field, including an investment of $13.8 million in new sickle cell-related research over the past decade. This represents a strong foundation on which to build that will create opportunities for Canadian researchers to continue advancing knowledge, improve diagnosis and treatment, and ultimately enhance the quality of life for individuals and the families affected by sickle cell disease. Standardized care pathways are also important. We have started to see progress on this front as well. For example, the Canadian Hemoglobinopathy Association developed and published comprehensive clinical guidelines that outline best practices for both diagnosis and treatment. I am pleased to report that Ontario has already integrated these guidelines into the Ontario health quality standard related to sickle cell disease. Hopefully more provinces and territories will follow its lead. Similarly, several provinces and territories have already established standards related to newborn screening notification, diagnostic processes and ongoing care for individuals living with sickle cell disease that integrate these national standards. These efforts demonstrate the important progress that is being made at the regional level. The federal government has a role to play here as well, and we have been. Thanks to funding under the national strategy for drugs for rare diseases, Canada's Drug Agency is supporting greater consistency in newborn screening across the country, including a recommended pan-Canadian list of conditions to screen for newborns that is inclusive of sickle cell disease. Thanks to this approach at a national level, 11 provinces and territories now screen newborns for sickle cell disease, and this condition is under review or development in the remaining jurisdictions. In fighting against sickle cell disease, however, nothing is more important than education, and Bill S-201 recognizes this. We need to raise public awareness of sickle cell disease, especially the critical importance of blood donation. In 2017, the House unanimously adopted Bill S-211, which created National Sickle Cell Awareness Day on June 19. Thanks to this bill, which was sponsored by my colleague, the member for Dartmouth—Cole Harbour, there is a national spotlight on the experiences of individuals and families affected by sickle cell disease. We also have Sickle Cell Awareness Month every September, during which Canadian Blood Services, the provinces and territories collaborate, increasing the understanding of the disease and encouraging blood donation, with a particular focus on engaging donors from African, Caribbean and Black communities. These efforts are critical because donation rates among under-represented communities remain low. Less than 1% of Canada's blood donor base is from Black individuals, despite the disproportionate impact of sickle cell disease among this population. By increasing awareness of the disease and of what we can do to treat it, we can work to meet the transfusion needs of many patients living with sickle cell disease. Bill S-201 presents a framework that aims to address many of the challenges faced by Canadians living with sickle cell disease. The principles associated with each of the bill's nine elements underscore both the importance of the issue and the complexity of the solutions. I look forward to continuing the discussion and to hearing the perspective of all members of this House. I hope all of us will join together to pass this important bill.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my colleague for her question. We both sit on the Standing Committee on Health, and we work very collaboratively. I appreciate her passion and her work on this issue. We have spent a lot of time talking about this issue and trying to figure out best solutions and a path forward. I think the member will agree that there is a multitude of causes, and it requires a multitude of solutions. Our government has taken strong measures to keep toxic drugs off the street. We understand that we must use every measure at our disposal to save lives and keep communities safe. That means we cannot take a one-size-fits-all approach to respond to these challenges. In the member's speech, she also touched on this a little. Families who have lost loved ones would also say that the issue is very complex. It could be mental health, it could be injuries, it could be addictions, etc. We are keeping all options on the table. We are responding using law enforcement. Through Canada's border plan, we are giving law and border enforcement the tools they need to detect and disrupt illegal fentanyl and its precursors, keeping these drugs off the street. It is not only a law enforcement issue and problem. We also need to fight and treat addiction, and I think the member also referenced that in her speech. It means we invest in programs that prevent people from getting addicted in the first place, but that we also support treatment and recovery, so that anyone battling addictions has the support they need to break the cycle. It also means helping communities respond to urgent needs and emergencies. Through programs like the substance use and addictions program and the emergency treatment fund, we are helping communities offer support and education to vulnerable Canadians. The most important thing in all of this, however, is that we understand the federal government cannot fight this problem on its own. No single organization or level of government can. That is why we are working with our provincial and territorial partners, communities and indigenous organizations, direct care providers, researchers and people with lived experiences. Together we are putting forward solutions that will help save lives and keep communities safe. I look forward to continue working with the hon. member, my friend and colleague on tackling this issue.

Mr. Speaker, we understand and recognize this is a major challenge facing Canada, which is why we are using every option at our disposal to deal with this issue. It requires a multitude of solutions and measures, including law enforcement, prevention, as my colleague has mentioned, treatment and community supports that could support folks in recovery as well. We are already seeing that drug-related deaths and hospitalizations are decreasing nationally, which shows that our approach is working. We also see the toll this crisis has taken on individuals, families and communities across the country. We will continue to tackle this crisis and work across party lines to make sure that we can balance public health and public safety.

Mr. Speaker, the member for Courtenay—Alberni correctly notes that provinces already determine eligibility for their respective programs, including those based on disability. He is asking why the minister will not accept provincial approval to reduce barriers to obtaining the disability tax credit. It is not about red tape. The Canada disability benefit provides up to $2,400 per year to low-income persons with disabilities between the ages of 18 and 64 who are eligible for the disability tax credit, among other criteria. The amount is indexed to inflation and will be adjusted each July to reflect cost of living increases. This benefit was identified as a priority for the disability community because, although provinces and territories play a critical role in providing supports and services to Canadians with disabilities, those programs vary widely in objective, design, scope and amount. Our benefit was always intended to supplement, not replace, existing provincial and territorial income support measures. That is because our priority is to ensure equal access to support for persons with disabilities regardless of where they live in this country. We deliberately chose to base the eligibility criteria on the disability tax credit rather than provincial and territorial benefits to avoid creating disparities where a person qualified for the benefit in one province or territory and not in another. We wanted all Canadians to have equal access to federal support in addition to support they receive from provinces and territories. Basing disability eligibility on the disability tax credit ensures the Canada disability benefit is delivered in a consistent and equal way across Canada. We recognize that navigating these benefits and their requirements can be challenging, so we have made improvements. In budget 2025, we announced our intention to offset the cost of applying for the disability tax credit. New payments of $150 will be made to current, past and future Canada disability benefit recipients to help offset costs associated with applying for the disability tax credit. The payments are expected to be paid before the end of 2026-27. Additionally, the 2024 federal budget committed funding to support not-for-profit community-based organizations. This will help connect persons with disabilities in accessible and culturally appropriate ways to federal, provincial, territorial and/or local benefits that could assist them. This will also include the Canada disability benefit and the disability tax credit. Currently, 14 community-based organizations are receiving funding to help address barriers and increase take-up of benefits. These are a few ways we are supporting Canadians with disabilities by supporting their financial security.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for his advocacy on behalf of Canadians with disabilities. I respect his work on this as he works tirelessly. I look forward to working with him on this. I appreciate the opportunity to remind colleagues that we are working to support persons with disabilities struggling with a higher cost of living. The Canada disability benefit is one part of a system of supports guided by the principle that inclusion is the foundation of a strong and resilient society. This is important work. As my colleague has noted, the government will continue engaging with provinces and territories to ensure Canada disability benefit recipients are better off because of the benefit. Our program highlights the federal government's commitment to building a more affordable and inclusive Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my friend and colleague from Kitchener South—Hespeler for his question. Although he has temporarily crossed the floor, I hope it is more permanent than this. It is nice to have a friend sitting right beside us during adjournment debate. As members know, sometimes it can be a bit lonely during adjournment debate, so I appreciate the companionship. I think my colleague mentioned that, as a physician, he has seen first-hand how digitization has shaped and transformed Canadian health care over the past decades in Kitchener, and rightfully so. It is a capital, with a lot of digital transformations and innovations coming out of the city and the university. I think he is also very proud of that. The world is rapidly changing, and Canadians rightfully expect that our health care system will change with it. That is why successive governments, both Liberal and Conservative, have invested in Canada Health Infoway since 2001, with the goal of accessible information for patients and their doctors. That is also why we introduced Bill S-5, the connected care for Canadians act, in the Senate, so that Canadians can securely access their health care data anywhere and any time in Canada. Just as importantly, we need to reduce the administrative burden on doctors so they can spend less time on filling out paperwork and more time doing what they love, which is caring for their patients. This has been at the heart of the work by our government and previous governments to develop a pan-Canadian interoperability road map, one that drives the adoption and use of electronic medical records by doctors across the country and helps them share data safely and securely. Part of this work included PrescribeIT. As the member knows from his time as a doctor, many physicians are still using fax machines. It is almost impossible to find fax machines anywhere else in a world with emails and secure online messages. However, if one goes to some doctors' offices, one feels like they have been transported to a different time. That was why the previous government worked with the provinces and territories to develop PrescribeIT. The goal was to move our health system toward safe, secure and efficient e-prescribing that could deliver real benefits to Canadians and to the health care providers who serve them every single day. I think the member would agree that this was an understandably worthwhile goal, as he mentioned in his remarks. No matter the intention, the facts have been very clear. The previous government's intention for PrescribeIT was for it to become self-sustaining. However, by any measure, it was clear that the program was not achieving that goal. Rather than simply continuing to invest in a program that was not delivering the intended results, we undertook a comprehensive review and consultation process that included engaging with provinces and territories and with the people who actually use the program. Based on these findings, we decided to end PrescribeIT. However, the work to promote a more connected health care system for Canadians needs to continue and will continue. We continue to support organizations like Canada Health Infoway, as well as provinces and territories, to develop innovative new digital solutions. Not only that, we are backstopping this work with Bill S-5, the connected care for Canadians act, which would help Canadians move their health data with them anywhere they go. Canadians deserve a modern health system. I look forward to working with my friend and colleague to deliver that.

Mr. Speaker, the facts are clear. PrescribeIT was launched by the previous government with the goal of building a national e-prescribing system. While this is an important goal, the fact is that PrescribeIT did not have the pickup among doctors and pharmacies that it needed to make the system self-sustaining. At a time when we need to spend less and invest more, our government decided to end the funding for the program. There is important work to be done in creating a connected digital health care system that works for all Canadians. Through legislation like the connected care for Canadians act, we are delivering on the digital future.

Mr. Speaker, I share the hon. member's concern on this issue and welcome further discussion of the outgoing Phoenix pay system and its effects on Canada's public sector workers. Our hard-working public servants are dedicated to serving Canadians. Every day they strive to deliver a broad range of programs and services that make a positive difference in communities across the country. I want to be clear that it is totally unacceptable that for so long so many of our public servants have had to contend with inaccurate and untimely compensation. Our government recognizes the toll this has taken and Public Services and Procurement Canada has acted to address the issue in a number of ways. The department has hired and trained more compensation advisers and has expanded client support services and call centres to meet the challenge. Alongside work on reducing the existing backlog of cases, the department is focused on ensuring all current pay transactions are accurate the first time around. At the end of last year, an average of 98.4% of pay transactions were accurate. The department is also making use of improved technology and taking advantage of new ways of processing pay transactions, such as bulk processing and automation. The department is also exploring AI-enabled supports for more straightforward cases. The use of these technologies means faster results and a reduced need for manual processing, allowing compensation advisers to focus their efforts on the more complex cases. While much hard work is going into fixing the problem created by the existing pay system, we know the situation is not sustainable. We must transition from Phoenix once and for all, and that is what our government intends to do. Last May, the Government of Canada announced it is moving towards implementing a new, more reliable pay solution known as Dayforce. This will replace not only Phoenix but also more than 30 existing HR systems. This new system will be rolled out gradually over the coming years, and that pace is deliberate. We need to avoid the mistakes of the past and make sure we have a robust and reliable system that pays public servants accurately and on time. As we move forward with this transition, we are guided by the many lessons learned, including the most recent recommendation of the Auditor General, which we have accepted and are addressing. We will also point out that, in her most recent report, the AG found that we are managing the project to transform the pay system and that the project will provide value for money once implemented. While nothing can erase the financial disruptions of the past, we can certainly work to ensure they do not happen again. If we are to build trust with our public servants, we must act decisively to eliminate the backlog, improve our capacity to manage pay in the here and now, and phase in a replacement system that truly meets the needs of Canada's hard-working public servants. That is exactly what we are doing.

Mr. Speaker, we know that the problems with the Phoenix pay system have had lasting consequences for public servants and their families. Public Services and Procurement Canada has strengthened its ability to deal with compensation issues accurately and in a timely fashion. Much progress has been made, but some public servants continue to face pay issues. This is unacceptable. From hiring and training more pay advisers to using AI-enabled service supports for more straightforward cases, I can assure the member that the government is taking concrete actions to address and mitigate public service pay issues. We are also phasing in Dayforce, a more stable and reliable replacement system, that will better serve Canada's dedicated public servants and rebuild trust in the Government of Canada as an employer of choice.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this occasion to advise the House that, for the eighth consecutive year, North York General Hospital, in my riding of Don Valley North, has been Canada's top-ranked community academic hospital. It was also ranked the fourth-leading hospital in Canada. Going from strength to strength, North York General ranked in the top 3% of hospitals from around the world. This international recognition reflects the outstanding care being delivered at North York General and affirms the collective impact of its entire team. I commend the members of its team for their professionalism and dedication to their patients, a powerful reminder of the strength of our patient-centred health care system. It is a moment of pride for our community and a reminder that the people of Don Valley North and Canadians across the country strive for excellence and that we build on our past successes to reach even greater heights.

Mr. Speaker, I have a great deal of respect for my colleague across the aisle, but the Conservatives are demonstrating classic obstructionist behaviour from committee. We have seen this. They are distracting from the real work we are doing to improve health care across the country. Let us set the record straight. The Conservatives voted against health care. They voted against dental care. Most recently, they voted against expanding ERs in hospitals across the country. Canadians can see the difference.