Mark Gerretsen

Mr. Speaker, I listened to the member's intervention, and the member spoke about children needing food, but I will reflect on the fact that she voted against the national school food program. I know that in Kingston, the national school food program funds the Food Sharing Project, which gives food to children in school. In Oshawa, it is Durham's Child Nutrition Project that does the same work. Why did she vote against that? Before she goes to the default Conservative argument that if we had not created the situation, they would not need it, she should be reminded of the fact that Canada was the last of the G7 countries to adopt a national school food program. Even the United States of America has a national school food program. I am wondering if she can explain why she voted against it when this project was before the House, given her great concern for children getting access to food.

Mr. Speaker, I find it interesting that the member was talking about the government questioning what it can do and how it can support Canadians. In her own riding, over $11 million was sent out to 22,901 recipients for the groceries and essentials benefit. We can talk about a two-line motion that produces nothing, really, other than perhaps some social media opportunities for the Conservatives, or we can talk about something we could vote on that would actually improve the lives of her constituents. When she had the opportunity to support the 22,901 recipients in her riding, she voted against it. Could she explain why?

Mr. Speaker, I would sincerely like to apologize to the member for interrupting him. I do know that from time to time many members of the House get excited when listening to others discuss stuff, and certainly I am not the first person to ever heckle, but it does not mean it was right. Therefore, I apologize to the member and certainly withdraw my statement.

Mr. Speaker, the member talked about the automotive sector in Canada being built on the concept of integration between Canada and the United States. I do not think there is anybody in the House who would disagree with that, but what I want to hear from the member is what his proposed solution is to this. Integration depends on both countries being interested in trade. What we have seen since the new administration has come along is that the United States is moving away from that. It is no longer interested in the integration the member talks about. He can stand here and say until he is blue in the face that the Prime Minister needs to get back to work, but the reality of the situation is that if one side is no longer interested in that integration, there is really not much one can do other than to provide supports for workers and look for new opportunities. Can the member explain what he means by “get back to work”, when the objective is clear?

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize a Kingston icon and one of the most celebrated town criers in the world: our very own Chris Whyman. This year marks more than four decades since Chris first donned the regalia and stepped into the role of Kingston's official town crier in 1984. What began as a one-year appointment has become a remarkable career, representing our city with pride, humour and a voice that can carry across Market Square. Over the years, Chris has earned provincial, national and international acclaim, including multiple world championships, all while serving as an ambassador for Kingston's history, culture and community spirit. Whether he is welcoming visitors, opening festivals or representing Canada abroad, he brings an unmistakable energy that reflects the very best of our city. On behalf of the residents of Kingston, I congratulate Chris Whyman on his extraordinary service and thank him for more than 40 years of dedication to our community. Hear ye, hear ye. Well done, Chris.