Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, today, September 25, is Franco-Ontarian Day. As a proud Franco-Ontarian, I want to pay tribute to those who keep our language and culture alive in Ontario and beyond. As the member for Orléans, I am also very proud to represent a dynamic, bilingual community where French is at the heart of our identity. With its 20 French-language schools, including the newest one, Marie-Soleil, and strong organizations such as the Mouvement d'implication francophone d'Orléans and the Centre des métiers Minto, Orléans is a major driving force behind the vitality and future of Ontario's Francophone community. Our Francophone community is enriched by its many accents, stories, and voices. It is this diversity that makes our language so beautiful and powerful. It is also wonderful to see so many francophiles joining us in celebrating this important day. Let us celebrate our heritage and the future of Ontario's francophone community. I wish everyone a happy Franco-Ontarian Day.

Mr. Speaker, recently Canada was selected to host the Defence, Security and Resilience Bank following negotiations among allied countries. This decision reflects the confidence of our allies and will lead to the creation of a defence-funding institution, providing affordable loans and facilitating strategic investments. As Canada's national capital region, Ottawa-Gatineau is uniquely positioned to host the DSRB. Home to more than 130 missions, it is a recognized defence and security innovation hub with world-class research institutions, cutting-edge laboratories and a rare ecosystem where government, industry, academia and the security sector work together. Ottawa and Gatineau have the largest pool of specialized defence talent in the country, supported by a highly bilingual workforce. I join my NCR colleagues and the mayors of Ottawa and Gatineau in strongly supporting Ottawa-Gatineau as the ideal home for the DSRB.

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the following reports of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, or APF. The first report concerns its participation in the electoral observation mission in Chisinău, Moldova, from September 22 to 30, 2025. The second report concerns its participation in the Bureau meeting of the APF and the Working Group on Reforming the APF Constitution held in Podgorica, Montenegro, from January 27 to February 1, 2026. The third report concerns its participation in the meeting of the APF Young Parliamentarians Network held in Monaco from March 1 to 3, 2026. The fourth report concerns its participation in the meeting of the APF Parliamentary Affairs Committee held in Port Louis, Mauritius, from April 8 to 10, 2026. The fifth report concerns its participation in the meeting of the APF Network of Women Parliamentarians held in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, from April 22 to 24, 2026.

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the seventh report of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, entitled “Removing Barriers to Entrepreneurship Among Veterans”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to this report. While I am on my feet, I move: That the House do now proceed to orders of the day.

Madam Speaker, from June 17 to 25, exactly 1,871 students from eight high schools in Orléans will be celebrating their graduation, one of the most important milestones in their academic journey. This journey is marked by perseverance, growth and success. They have acquired the tools they need for the next stage of their lives. It is always quite inspiring to personally sign each of their certificates. I want to congratulate each of them. They did it. I want to congratulate all of them on their success. Additionally, I would like to recognize Orléans resident Sara Siddiqi, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Ottawa and recipient of the 2026 Learner Changemaker Award from the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada. Through her leadership, she has advanced student support, equity and inclusion and strong clinical care across Canada. I congratulate Sara and thank her for inspiring us all.

Mr. Speaker, from May 17 to May 23, we mark Paramedic Services Week, a time to honour the dedicated professionals who respond with compassion during Canadians' most difficult moments. In Orléans and across Ottawa, paramedics serve our community every day with courage, professionalism and care. To all those who answer the calls, I thank them. It was very important for me to recognize their work and fully support the project to build a national paramedic monument in Ottawa. This monument will be a lasting symbol of our gratitude and will pay tribute to paramedics' dedication and sacrifice. I also want to acknowledge the leadership of Norm Robillard, a retired paramedic from Ottawa, and the vital work that has been done by the Canadian Paramedic Memorial Foundation. Paramedics deserve recognition equal to their dedication. Their service inspires unity and gratitude in communities across Canada.

Mr. Speaker, Orléans is a community with a vibrant cultural scene. I would like to congratulate the Mouvement d'implication francophone d'Orléans, which has launched its 2026-27 artistic program, featuring shows, comedy, theatre and, new for this year, a youth component, all of which will help promote francophone culture. Orleans is also home to a vibrant local economy, where we see new small businesses choosing Orleans to thrive. I was pleased to join two owners, Kanwar Hazrah and Chris Lanthier, for the ribbon cutting of their new A&W location on Trim Road. This location is their second in Orleans and the fifth across our national capital region. What was most fun was to meet their iconic mascot, Rooty, or the Great Root Bear, as we celebrated this milestone. I send them my congratulations.

Mr. Speaker, Canada's mission in Afghanistan was the largest deployment of Canadian troops since World War II. From 2001 to 2014, more than 40,000 Canadians served with courage and sacrifice. We honour the memory of the 158 service members and seven civilians who lost their lives. We must make sure this legacy lives on. Can the Minister of Veterans Affairs explain why today's groundbreaking ceremony for the national monument to Canada's mission in Afghanistan is important, and what she hopes this day will mean to CAF members, veterans, families and Canadians?

Mr. Speaker, on March 19, I had the privilege of attending Rideau Hall, where two Orléans residents received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers. Eileen McCauhey was honoured for her remarkable work with Busy Fingers, a group of 120 women who crochet thousands of items for organizations in the region. Fourteen-year-old Hana Fatima was also recognized for her exceptional leadership, becoming the youngest person in Canada to receive the Meritorious Service Medal. Orleans is also proud of Roy Allen. He celebrated his 100th birthday on April 5, but that is not all. He will be running in the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 5K on May 23, showing that age is no barrier. Additionally, he will become the first Canadian to complete an official five-kilometre race at age 100 or more. Congratulations, Mr. Allen.

Mr. Speaker, on March 20, we celebrated the International Day of La Francophonie, a perfect opportunity to highlight the vitality and impact of the French language and the richness of our linguistic duality, which strengthens our identity and unites us. All month long, francophone communities have been actively celebrating our heritage. The theme of the 28th Rendez-vous de la Francophonie was “Activate your Francophonie”, and there were plenty of exciting things on the agenda. I had the privilege of attending several events, including the FrancoFun party at École secondaire catholique Béatrice‑Desloges, Ottawa's 2026 Gala de la francophonie plurielle and the reception on Parliament Hill. To close out the month, I will be attending the mayor's 19th annual Francophone RendezVous tomorrow morning. This month highlights the presence and contributions of members of the francophone community in the national capital region and beyond. I wish everyone an enjoyable Francophonie Month.

Mr. Speaker, Ontario is home to a vibrant francophone community. Now more than ever, I am proud to rise in the House to celebrate the wealth of the French language. The International Day of La Francophonie is an important time to strengthen the francophone presence and attract and retain francophone talent in Ontario and across Canada. Can the Minister of Immigration tell us what our government is doing to better support francophone communities across the country?

Mr. Speaker, March 8 was International Women's Day. This day gives us an opportunity to highlight the progress made in advancing women's rights, while also recognizing the work that remains to be done. On March 6, I had the honour of hosting my 12th annual International Women's Day breakfast, followed by the Orléans Leading Women and Girls Recognition Awards, celebrating outstanding women and girls. At that event, 31 inspiring women and girls were honoured for their remarkable contributions to the vitality of our community, as well as their resilience, leadership and ability to inspire others. It was especially inspiring that the youngest recipient was just 10 years old. Julianna Labelle delivered a rendition of O Canada that received a standing ovation. This reminds us that generation after generation, remarkable women and girls continue to inspire, lead and make a lasting difference.

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the following reports of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, or APF. The first report concerns its participation in the 40th session of the APF America Regional Assembly, held in Quebec City, Canada, from September 9 to 11, 2025. The second report concerns its participation in the eighth Leadership Workshop for Parliamentarians Women of the APF, held in Paris, France, from November 3 to 7, 2025.

Mr. Speaker, the new defence industrial strategy is a testament to our confidence in Canada's industrial capabilities and our strength on the international stage. We are allocating $81 billion to rebuild, rearm and reinvest in our Canadian Armed Forces. The government has taken meaningful action, including a $900-million investment in innovative dual-use technologies. Can the Minister of Industry explain how the defence industrial strategy will increase Canada's presence on the world stage and support our industries?

Mr. Speaker, last week, from February 16 to 22, we celebrated scouting week 2026 with the theme “Proud and United in Scouting”. In Canada, the francophone scouting movement brings together some 10,000 youths and 3,700 volunteers in an active community that brings adventure to life. In my riding, the 24th Orléans scout troop includes 104 outstanding youths who are known for their bravery, team spirit and exemplary commitment. I want to thank everyone who is keeping this francophone movement alive. I cannot close without applauding the Canadian athletes who proudly represented us in Milan and Cortina, Italy, from February 6 to 22. I congratulate our national capital region athletes, especially Ivanie Blondin, the pride of Orléans, who took home two speed skating medals. As our Prime Minister personally shared with Ivanie, we are so proud of her victory.

Mr. Speaker, on Friday, February 6, the 2026 Olympic Winter Games will officially open in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. I want to extend my best wishes to all Canadian athletes competing, with a special cheer for those representing the national capital region: Zachary Connelly, Mike Evelyn O’Higgins, Antoine Cyr, Paul Poirier, Kayle Osborne, Isabelle Weidemann, Katherine Stewart-Jones, Rachel Homan, Emma Miskew, Cédrick Brunet, Jared Schmidt, Hannah Schmidt and Valérie Grenier. I cannot help but express my pride by recognizing our local hero, Ivanie Blondin from Orléans, who will be defending her title as a speed skating champion. I wish the very best of luck to every Canadian athlete. Canada is behind them all the way. Go, Canada, go!

Mr. Speaker, on November 29, our community came alive as thousands of residents, including families, children and even a few pets, all gathered along St. Joseph Boulevard to witness the magical Orléans Santa's parade of lights. More than 60 beautifully designed floats made their way down our main street, each meticulously crafted and decorated, and sprinkled with that special Orléans charm. The parade is more than just a tradition; it is a testament to the Ottawa Professional Firefighters Association, the volunteers and the partners whose dedication brings our community together year after year. In closing, I want to wish the community of Orléans and everyone a happy holiday. Merry Christmas, happy holidays and happy Hanukkah. May this season bring us peace, warmth and meaningful moments with our families, friends and loved ones. I wish everyone a happy 2026.

Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to rise in the House today to speak about budget 2025, the “Canada Strong” budget. I will be sharing my time with my great colleague, the hon. member for Kanata. On Tuesday, the government presented a plan that makes a generational investment to build the foundation of a stronger, more resilient Canada. It is a plan to build more homes for Canadians, to deliver major infrastructure projects across the country and to support our industries from coast to coast to coast. Canadians understand that we are living in a rapidly changing and increasingly uncertain world. This budget is our plan of action to navigate those realities. The government is focused on what it can control: building an economy that is bigger, faster and stronger than ever before. As Canada's new government, our goal is clear: to make Canada the strongest economy in the G7. We will do that by boosting productivity, competitiveness and innovation, and by creating new opportunities that will benefit all Canadians. For my community of Orleans, this budget includes key investments that will make a real difference in the lives of its residents. As one of the fastest-growing ridings in the National Capital Region, Orleans needs strong local infrastructure and services to keep pace with its growth and improve quality of life. Through the building community strong fund, the government is committing $51 billion over 10 years, starting in 2026-27, to support infrastructure projects in communities across the country. I have to say that in our budget there was a mention of Orléans. For over over four decades, the Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex has been a pillar of our community, a place where residents of all ages come together to stay active, learn new skills and connect. As a former figure skater, I have had the pleasure of using the ice rink at that arena. I am very thrilled to share that, as highlighted in the budget, Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex is one of the 23 highlighted projects that will receive funding through the direct delivery stream to modernize and expand this vital facility. This investment is a testament to the government's commitment to building a stronger Canada. I could not be more excited to help build a stronger Orléans. As we face a more uncertain global environment, Canada must also be prepared to defend its territory, its people and its sovereignty. That is why this budget includes historic investments in defence. By committing $81.8 billion over the next five years, we are demonstrating to our allies and our men and women in uniform that Canada takes its national and collective security seriously. These investments will strengthen recruitment and retention, deliver well-deserved pay raises and expand access to health care for serving members. They will also repair and sustain existing capabilities while investing new and modern infrastructure, including advanced technologies to protect Canada's digital networks. I am especially proud that the government is investing in next-generation military capabilities from armoured vehicles and counter-drone systems to long-range precision strike capabilities and submarines. We have come a long way since 2013 when defence spending was below 1% of our GDP. The government has committed to reach 5% by 2035, a clear statement of Canada's commitment to global security and national readiness. I also want to speak directly to young Canadians, including the youth of Orleans. This budget charts a path to a more affordable and brighter future. The Canada summer jobs program has been a huge success in Orleans. It has helped young people gain valuable work experience while supporting local employers. This budget proposes additional funding for youth employment of $1.5 billion over three years through the Canada summer jobs program, the youth employment and skills strategy and the student work placement program. Together, these initiatives will create approximately 175,000 new opportunities for young Canadians and, I hope, for young people in Orleans. We are also helping young Canadians achieve the dream of home ownership by eliminating the GST for first-time homebuyers on homes valued at $1 million or less through our first-time homebuyers GST tax credit. Through building Canada homes, we will double the pace of home construction over the next decade, building the affordable homes Canadians need. I am really excited about this budget and the bold path it charts for our country. Under the Prime Minister's leadership, Canada's new government is positioning the country as a global leader by making smart investments, by launching ambitious construction projects and by planning responsibly for the future. This budget delivers for Canadians today and builds a stronger, more prosperous Canada for tomorrow. I invite all members of the House to take a close look at what this budget offers, because it is, without a doubt, the right plan for Canada today. Finally, as we mark Veterans' Week, I want to take a moment to thank the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Veterans Affairs Canada for hosting a beautiful candlelight tribute at the Canadian War Museum to reflect on the service of all the men and women who have served in the defence of Canada. Furthermore, I want to congratulate the Royal Canadian Mint for the beautiful coin it unveiled at the event, which pays tribute to the Unknown Soldier, a beautiful dedication of remembrance. It was truly touching. As Remembrance Day draws near, we pause to honour the brave Canadians who answered the call to service to defend our freedom, our democracy and our way of life. We remember those who gave their lives so that we could live in peace. We thank them for their service and sacrifice. Lest we forget.

Mr. Speaker, of all the questions my colleague could have asked, I am glad he chose that one. With all due respect to him, what I will say to Canadians and to the people of Orleans that I represent is that our government is there for them. Our government will protect the necessary investments that are important to them while allowing for responsible budgetary expenditures. We are in an era of modernization, with artificial intelligence and everything that goes with it. Again, I say to our young people that we are there for them.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question, because I think 343 members have been able to take advantage of this program over the past few years. I know it has been useful to me in Orléans. I have always been well aware of the significant benefits of this program, which is making a difference. We have been asking for this program to be enhanced for several years now, and that is what this government is going to do. Not only will more young people be able to take advantage of it, but more non-profit organizations and small and medium-sized businesses in my community will benefit from having young people there to help them next summer.

Mr. Speaker, I know how much of an advocate this member has been on the subject of mental health, and I want to commend him for his advocacy. As a former social worker who has first-hand experience on the impacts on mental health, I have to say it is most important that we continue. I was actually quite pleased to see, in the past few years, our federal government, while doing its accord on health care, increase the capacity of transfers specifically on mental health services to local communities.

Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the following reports of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, or APF. The first report concerns the Bureau meeting of the APF and the Parliamentary Conference on Francophone Cooperation in the Areas of Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Change. This meeting was held in Can Tho, Vietnam, from January 21 to 24, 2025. The second report concerns the meeting of the APF Political Committee. This meeting was held in Dakar, Senegal, from April 28 to 30, 2025. The third report concerns the meetings of the APF Network of Women Parliamentarians and the Network of Young Parliamentarians. These meetings were held in the city of Québec, in the beautiful province of Quebec, from May 20 to 21, 2025. The fourth report concerns the Bureau meeting and the 50th annual session of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie. This meeting was held in Paris, France, from July 9 to 13, 2025. The fifth report concerns the parliamentary diplomacy mission to Costa Rica, which took place in San José, Costa Rica, from October 1 to 3, 2025.

Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise today to pay tribute to Juliette Trudeau, who is retiring after 39 years of devoted service to Parliament. Originally from Charlo, New Brunswick, Juliette began her career as a legal secretary before moving to Ottawa in 1986. That same year, she came to work for the House of Commons, where she served as a parliamentary assistant and then a ministerial assistant. Since 2006, she has worked in the office of the Sergeant-at-Arms, holding various positions, including that of liaison officer at the time of her retirement. Throughout her career, Juliette demonstrated discretion, impartiality and exceptional judgment. Her superior, the Sergeant-at-Arms, often says she has a “Ph.D. in service to MPs”. Juliette supported generations of parliamentarians with professionalism, kindness and rigour. As she begins a new chapter with her family and her grandson, Beau, we sincerely thank her for being so dedicated and such an inspiration. We congratulate Juliette. She will be missed.

Mr. Speaker, in my role as chair of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, I had the privilege of presenting the insignia of the Ordre de la Pléiade to five extraordinary Canadians at a ceremony held on September 23. These leaders of the French fact were recognized for their ongoing commitment and dedication to promoting the French language in the arts, business, community and politics. Édith Butler was promoted to the rank of Commander of the Ordre de la Pléiade, while René Arseneault, Karl Blackburn, André Gagnon and Agnès Mbome Moume received the knight's medal. I want to thank all my parliamentary colleagues who joined me at this ceremony. I would also like to congratulate the recipients and thank them for all that they have done and continue to do for the French language in Canada.

moved for leave to introduce Bill C-248, An Act respecting the holding of a pan-Canadian conference on time change. Mr. Speaker, as the Government of Canada focuses on building one economy that works for everyone, by removing federal barriers, expediting nation-building projects and making things more affordable, we must look at all avenues that can supplement this effort. That is why today I am presenting the private member's bill entitled an act respecting the holding of a Canadian conference on time change, to start the conversation and hopefully end the outdated practice of changing our clocks twice a year. This unnecessary barrier impacts the lives of Canadians in many ways and in many different sectors, particularly our health and mental health, public safety and the agriculture sector, as well as shift workers and the lives of children, parents and seniors. That is why, in the bill, I am asking the federal government to lead the charge by holding a pan-Canadian conference alongside our provincial and territorial partners and indigenous leaders, to listen to the experts, find a consensus to end the practice of time change and establish one fixed time in Canada. (Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)

Mr. Speaker, 50 years ago today, our magnificent green and white flag, a symbol of Franco-Ontarians, was raised for the first time in Sudbury. This morning, together with the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and colleagues from across Canada, we proudly raised the flag on Parliament Hill. Ontario is home to the largest francophone population outside Quebec. As the proud member for Orléans, a vibrant francophone community enriched by its linguistic diversity and home to the Mouvement d'implication francophone d'Orléans, I see every day how proud people are to live, work, learn and thrive in French. On this historic day, I join Franco-Ontarians from across the province in celebrating our beautiful language. May our flag continue to fly proudly for another 50 years.

Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable man and a dear friend our Orléans community has lost, Vaughan Patrick Martin. A proud Canadian and a devoted public servant, Vaughan served as director of protocol at Global Affairs Canada, a role he called the best job in government. He played a key role in organizing major international events, including G7, NATO and Commonwealth summits, trade missions and state visits. Vaughan was also an active member of the Orleans Lions Club, always bringing his warmth and good humour to community events. All who knew Vaughan could count on him to share an incredible story. Having known him personally for over 10 years, I can say that he had a different story for every occasion, and he never ceased to amaze. Although Vaughan's journey has ended, his stories and adventures live on. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his wife, Audrey; his son, Patrick; his beloved grandchildren; and all his family and friends.

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the following two reports of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs. The first report is entitled “The Persian Gulf War Was a War”. The second report is entitled “Reforming Transition from Military to Civilian Life”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to each of those two reports.

Mr. Speaker, the world is becoming an increasingly dangerous and uncertain place, from rising geopolitical tension and economic instability to the impacts of climate change and conflict, yet Canadians can be confident that their government is putting their safety, security and prosperity first by working closely with our allies and defending the values that matter to us. Can the Minister of Foreign Affairs update the House on Canada's engagement at the G7 and how we are working with partners to build a more secure and stable world?

Mr. Speaker, since this is National Public Service Week, I would like to begin by thanking all public servants in Orléans and across Canada for their essential work. The next two weeks mark the beginning of graduation season for grade 12 students. I want to congratulate the 1,514 graduates from the eight high schools in Orléans. I congratulate the class of 2025. They did it. I look forward to seeing what they will achieve in their next chapter. As summer arrives, I wish everyone in Orléans a wonderful summer. Let us all take time to relax, recharge and spend time with friends and family. I also would like to invite everyone to join me at Petrie Island to celebrate Canada Day on July 1, and my annual family barbecue on August 28.

Mr. Speaker, yesterday, we marked a historic moment: the 50th anniversary of the Festival franco-ontarien. For half a century, this festival has been proudly celebrating the culture, language and identity of francophones in Ontario through music. It is an opportunity to bring together different generations, showcase local and foreign artists and celebrate the wealth of our francophone heritage. I thank the organizers of the Festival franco-ontarien for their leadership and the many organizations in Ontario, like the Mouvement d'implication francophone d'Orléans, or MIFO, in my beautiful community of Orléans, that work tirelessly on promoting the francophonie in all its forms. For this special year, we applaud the festival's exceptional journey and wish it many more years of success. Happy 50th anniversary to the Festival franco-ontarien. See you all at Major's Hill park until June 14.

Pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the following reports of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, or APF. The first concerns its participation in the commemoration of the the 30th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide in Kigali, Rwanda, on April 6 and 7, 2024. The second concerns its participation in meetings of the APF presidency in Paris, France, and Luxembourg from April 22 to 26, 2024. The third concerns its participation in meetings of the APF Political Committee and Working Group on Reforming the APF Constitution in Luxembourg from April 27 to 30, 2024. The fourth concerns its participation in the 30th Assembly of the Africa Region of the APF in Yaoundé, Cameroon, on May 28 and 29, 2024. The fifth concerns its participation in the 36th Regional Assembly of Europe in Pristina, Kosovo, from November 11 to 13, 2024. The sixth concerns its participation in the meeting of the APF Economic, Social and Environmental Affairs Committee and the Economic Parliamentary Symposium in Budapest, Hungary, from April 2 to 4, 2025.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to thank the residents of Orléans for giving me the opportunity to represent them in the House of Commons. I consider it a tremendous honour and privilege, and I am grateful for their trust. I also want to thank my campaign team and the hundreds of volunteers who took the time, day after day, to come out and help us spread our message. The people of Orléans shared their concerns with me during the election campaign. They gave me a clear mandate. Already, we are addressing their concerns by lowering taxes, eliminating the GST for first-time homebuyers and reducing federal barriers to internal trade. As far as our country's sovereignty goes, like our national anthem says and like King Charles III reiterated in the Speech from the Throne, Canada's true north is indeed strong and free, and I expect it to stay that way forever.

Mr. Speaker, as 2024 comes to an end, I want to extend my warmest wishes to everyone in the House and to the people of Orléans. As the representative of the most beautiful riding in Canada, I want to take this opportunity to express my heartfelt gratitude to each and every one of the residents of Orléans. Their unwavering support, leadership and dedication to our community has made a profound impact. Together, we have built a strong and vibrant community that I am proud to represent. I hope this time of year brings peace and joy to all and that everyone will enjoy spending time together with their loved ones. I also wish everyone a fantastic start to 2025, a year of new opportunities, dreams realized and continued success. I wish a merry Christmas, happy holidays, happy Hanukkah, happy Kwanza and happy new year to Orléans.

Mr. Speaker, it is with gratitude and admiration that I thank Robert Rainboth of the Ottawa Professional Fire Fighters Association for organizing the Orléans Parade of Lights for the past 27 years. Thanks to his vision and leadership, this event has come to symbolize real joy and magic in Orléans. Every year, he made the eyes of young and old alike sparkle and gave the community a unique opportunity to gather in record numbers—150,000 strong—along St. Joseph Boulevard. Organizing a parade of 75 floats for nearly three decades is no mean feat, but he has always been dedicated to doing a brilliant job. November 30 was Robert's final parade, but what he created is more than just an event. It is a tradition that, year after year, is one of the things that makes Orléans shine so brightly. I am incredibly grateful to Robert for these past 27 years.

Mr. Speaker, first, I would like to acknowledge the excellent work done by Royal Canadian Legion Branch 632 to support our veterans. I want to take this opportunity to thank the organizers, Serge Lavoie and Jim Grant, and all the volunteers for their efforts throughout the poppy campaign, which raised just over $150,000. I want to thank the Orléans community for its continued generosity. I also want to note that Jean‑Pierre Saab, a teacher at the Garneau Catholic high school, received the Brian-Kilrea award at the 2024 Order of Ottawa award ceremony, which I attended. This award recognizes excellence in an amateur coach who embodies the best qualities of leadership and dedication. Congratulations to Mr. Saab on this tribute. He is an inspiration to our community and to all the young people in Orléans.

Madam Speaker, first, I want to take this opportunity to thank our members and our veterans for their service and their sacrifice. However, let us be absolutely clear: The chaplain general issued this directive independently, and it does not ban prayer. Actually, the directive simply seeks to help our CAF chaplains make their public addresses more inclusive, reflecting the spiritual diversity of Canadians and our CAF members.

Madam Speaker, our government has been clear. Our CAF members and veterans deserve better than Conservative cuts and office closures. This week, I was pleased to join the Minister of Veterans Affairs and my colleagues from the national capital region in announcing more than $11 million to support the veteran well-being fund. We will always stand up for our serving members and veterans. Today and every day, we thank them for their service and we will remember them.

Mr. Speaker, as outlined in “Our North, Strong and Free”, Canada has always believed that a multilateral approach is critical to the effective delivery of the defence mandate. That is why National Defence has many partnerships on the continent and around the globe, including through the Five Eyes alliance with the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand. In relation to the question above, a meeting of the Five Eyes unidentified aerial phenomena caucus working group was organized and hosted by the United States on May 24, 2023. Meeting details, including the agenda, remain under the purview of the United States. Two officials from the Royal Canadian Airforce and the Canadian Forces Intelligence Command attended the working group meeting. National Defence applies the principles of the Access to Information Act and protects information on the grounds that disclosing certain information could be injurious to national security and defence. Therefore, further details cannot be disclosed. Finally, in terms of any other meetings of the working group, National Defence carried out a manual search of its records within the allotted time and found no instances of further participation by members of the defence team.

Mr. Speaker, this is a very serious issue. Certainly, when I think about the seriousness, I want to make sure I respond accordingly. The Government of Canada recognizes that safe recycling processes are vital to ensuring the careful and secure handling of environmentally hazardous substances such as asbestos, heavy metals, hydrocarbons and ozone-depleting substances. Canada aims to ensure that ships are recycled safely at the end of their operational lives without causing unnecessary risk to human health and the environment. Ship recycling in Canada is recognized as the most environmentally sound method to dispose of ships that have reached their end of life. Many provisions affecting ship-recycling facilities are governed by the provinces and territories, such as environmental and waste management and workplace occupational health and safety. Overall, Canada has some of the strongest laws and regulations across federal, provincial, territorial and municipal jurisdictions, and we remain committed to working with all levels of government to make sure Canada's ship-recycling facilities remain among the safest in the world. The Canadian Coast Guard has received numerous inquiries about vessels that are intended for deconstruction at the Deep Water Recovery recycling site in Union Bay. The Coast Guard has undertaken several assessments of the area where the vessels are awaiting deconstruction at Deep Water Recovery. If pollution enters the marine environment from a land-based spill, the Coast Guard will report the pollution to the emergency management ministry in British Columbia and provide assistance as required. The Coast Guard has reminded the deconstruction company of its responsibility under the Canada Shipping Act, 2001, to prevent any release of oil or other pollutants from reaching the marine environment. The Government of Canada is taking actions to reduce the number of vessels of concern in Canadian waters and minimize their impact on coastal communities, the environment and the public. Under the oceans protection plan, as of January 2024, the Government of Canada has removed 584 wrecked, abandoned or hazardous vessels across Canada. The Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act was adopted in 2018 and came into force in 2019. The objectives of the act are to strengthen owner accountability and to enable more proactive government action to address the risks posed by problem vessels. Under the Wrecked, Abandoned or Hazardous Vessels Act, an owner is prohibited from allowing their vessel to become a wreck due to failing to maintain it. Under Canadian law, vessel owners are responsible for their vessels at all times. They must take all actions necessary, including repair, salvage and prevention or cleanup of leaking fuel and oil. Vessel owners must contact the Coast Guard if their vessel is sinking, has sunk or is a threat to discharge marine pollution. When it comes to this, we will continue to be good stewards for protection of the environment and our marine life.

Mr. Speaker, we certainly do not take this as a joke. I am sorry to hear the member feels this way, and I want to thank him for his advocacy. Ship recycling is a complex multinational industry. It has also been a growing area of focus for the International Maritime Organization, which has been working over the course of the last two decades to support safe, environmentally sound ship recycling worldwide. Canada maintains some of the strongest rules globally for ship recycling, and as a member state of the International Maritime Organization, Canada has contributed to the important work to improve ship-recycling practices worldwide. As the government has stated before, many of the legislative provisions that govern safe and environmentally responsible ship recycling fall under provincial jurisdiction. We are committed to working with provinces and territories to ensure that we have the safest recycling facilities in the world.