Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the outstanding work of the University Health Network and the Walnut Foundation, which are bringing their important PSA Detect and Protect program to Ottawa. They are making free PSA testing more accessible in the community and helping raise awareness about prostate cancer, particularly among Black men over the age of 40. Too often, men put off getting tested. This community-based approach is helping overcome barriers to screening, encouraging men to take an active role in their health. I want to recognize Dr. Neil Fleshner and the entire UHN team, and Anthony Henry, president of the Walnut Foundation, along with the volunteers and community partners who make these clinics possible. Their message is one we should all remember. Early detection can save lives. I thank the Walnut Foundation and UHN for bringing this life-saving work directly into our communities.

Madam Speaker, just listening to the member, I think vividly of my riding. As people go to the gas pump, for the average resident and consumer in Mississauga East—Cooksville, that means a reduction in the price of gas they are paying. They need gas to get to work. They need it to take their kids to sports. They need it for everything they do. It is so important to have these affordability measures. The member has mentioned many other measures. He has talked about the school nutrition program, about how we are also helping with senior supports and about the dental program. When it comes to gas, this is something that affects everybody every single day. Can the member elaborate on that?

Mr. Speaker, this June, we proudly mark Portuguese Heritage Month. It an important time to recognize and celebrate the meaningful contributions of Canadians of Portuguese descent. Today, June 10, is Portugal Day, celebrated in Portugal and by Portuguese communities around the world. As a Portuguese Canadian, this day holds deep significance, offering a moment of pride and reflection on shared history, culture and the many achievements of Portugal and its people. For over seven decades, Portuguese Canadians have helped shape the Canada we know today. As our people-to-people ties continue to thrive, so too does the Canada-Portugal relationship, which is strengthened by shared values, growing economic partnerships and a common—

Mr. Speaker, this June, we proudly mark Portuguese Heritage Month, an important time to recognize and celebrate the meaningful contributions of Canadians of Portuguese descent. Today, June 10, is Portugal Day, celebrated in Portugal and by Portuguese communities around the world. For me as a Portuguese Canadian, this day holds deep significance, offering a moment of pride and reflection on shared history, culture and the many achievements of Portugal and its people. For over seven decades, Portuguese Canadians have helped shape the Canada we know today. As our people-to-people ties continue to thrive, so too does the Canada-Portugal relationship, strengthened by shared values, growing economic partnerships and a common passion for the beautiful game that unites us and the world forever. As we celebrate this month, we honour the enduring legacy, resilience and achievements of the Portuguese Canadian community. Feliz Dia de Portugal. Viva Canada. Viva Portugal.

Mr. Speaker, when we speak to constituents in my riding and right across Canada, public safety is paramount, and lawful access is something that we keep hearing is necessary to keep Canadians safe. As such, this is not an abstract notion. This is not theoretical. It reflects the reality of Canadians, like our families, seniors, newcomers and young people, while they are going about their daily lives with growing concern about what is happening in their community. In my riding of Mississauga East—Cooksville, I hear this directly. People want to feel safe. At the same time, they want to know that their rights are protected. They expect both of these things, and they are right to expect both. Over the past year, our government has advanced a clear and comprehensive framework to address public safety in Canada, one that rests on three key pillars. First is stronger laws. This includes reforms to bail and sentencing, measures to combat hate, and stronger protections against gender-based violence and exploitation of children, especially online. Second is supporting the front line. This includes investments in law enforcement, with 1,000 new RCMP officers and 1,000 new border officers, but also ensuring police have the tools they need to do their jobs effectively. Third is upstream investments, because safer communities are built not only through enforcement, but through prevention and investments in housing, mental health, addiction supports and programs for at-risk youth. It is important to emphasize that these pillars are not isolated; they reinforce one another. Strong laws mean little without enforcement. Enforcement alone is insufficient without prevention, and prevention must be paired with accountability. Today's legislation, Bill C-22, sits squarely within that second pillar. Let me be clear that supporting the front line is not just about adding more officers, but it is about equipping them with tools that reflect the world that we live in today, because that world has changed. We all know that. Technology has transformed how we live and, unfortunately, how crime is committed. We all carry powerful devices in our pockets. We communicate instantly across borders. While these tools serve very positive purposes, we cannot ignore that criminal organizations are using them as well. In conversations I have had with law enforcement, one message comes through clearly: Crime today is increasingly digital, organized and transnational. We are seeing sophisticated extortion schemes coordinated online, auto theft rings operating across jurisdictions, home invasions tied to organized networks and, most disturbingly, the online exploitation of children. These are not isolated incidents. They are coordinated operations, often directed in real time through encrypted communications. In Mississauga East—Cooksville, we are not immune to these trends. We are seeing online fraud targeting seniors and newcomers, exploitation facilitated through digital platforms and organized crime leveraging technology to evade detection. What is particularly troubling is the speed at which these crimes unfold. A scam can empty a bank account in minutes. An online interaction can put a young person at risk almost instantly. Our local police, especially Peel Regional Police, are doing exceptional work, but they have been very clear that the tools available to them must keep pace with the threats that they face. One of the greatest challenges in modern policing is anonymity. Police cannot arrest an IP address. They cannot prosecute a phone number. Behind every digital identifier is a human being. Too often, that individual is shielded by outdated laws, creating a troubling imbalance. Criminals can act quickly, anonymously and across borders. Law enforcement, meanwhile, is slowed by processes that were designed for a different era. If we are serious about public safety, we must ensure our legal framework reflects modern realities. This is where Bill C-22 comes in. At its core, this legislation is about lawful access, or giving the police the ability to access critical information in a targeted, lawful and timely way. Let me be clear about what this bill would do and what it would not do. It would not provide unrestricted access to personal data. It would not allow surveillance without oversight. Instead, it would introduce a carefully structured, step-by-step process. First, where there is an active investigation, police could request confirmation of whether a phone number or IP address is linked to a particular service provider. This would not be content. It would not be private communications. It would simply be identifying the network. Today, the process can take months to determine where to even begin. During those months, evidence can disappear, victims can be further harmed and criminal networks can continue to operate without interruption. This is unacceptable. Once a link is confirmed, police would then need to seek judicial authorization to access subscriber information such as name and address. This would ensure every step is grounded in legal oversight. This is information that was publicly available in the past. I remember in the 1980s, and I am one of the older guys here, we could open up a phone book and get all this information. Today, that is not accessible to law enforcement, so this needs to get done. In today's digital world, this is not accessible without legal authority. Only in urgent, time-sensitive situations, such as active child exploitation, can access occur without prior authorization. Even then, strict safeguards apply, including accountability measures after the fact. I want to take a moment to emphasize something that is fundamental to this legislation, and that is trust. Canadians must have confidence that their rights are protected. That is why this bill includes clear legal thresholds before any information could be accessed, judicial oversight for sensitive information, defined limits on what could and could not be requested, and accountability mechanisms to ensure proper use. This is not about expanding state power without limits. It is about ensuring that when power is used, it would be used responsibly, proportionately and transparently. In fact, this legislation reflects the guidance of our courts and incorporates lessons from past debates. This bill is about balance. It would ensure judicial oversight, clear legal thresholds and independent accountability. In fact, it would establish one of the strongest privacy-protected lawful access regimes in the G7. I would argue this balance is precisely what Canadians expect. They do not want a false choice between safety and privacy. They want both, and this bill would deliver both. Let us be honest: Canada is behind. Every other G7 country has a lawful access framework. All our Five Eyes partners do as well. Without it, our investigations are slower, more cumbersome and less effective. When crime happens in real time, delays have consequences. This legislation did not emerge overnight. It builds on years of consultation with law enforcement, privacy experts, legal scholars and parliamentarians from all parties. The result is a bill that is more targeted, more accountable and more transparent. This is what responsible law-making looks like. When we talk about public safety, we must remember the people on the front lines, the officers, the investigators and the professionals, working every day to keep Canadians safe. They are not asking for unlimited powers. They are asking for modern tools to match modern crime. When we give them those tools with proper safeguards, we are not only supporting law enforcement, we are supporting victims. This issue has been discussed for decades. Law enforcement leaders have warned that we are at risk of “going dark” and losing access to critical digital evidence. We now have an opportunity to act, and with that opportunity comes responsibility. Before I conclude, I want to share a quick story that underscores why this matters. A constituent in Mississauga East—Cooksville reached out to my office not long ago and said he was defrauded because of a cryptocurrency scam online. For that individual and many across our country, we need to pass this bill, move quickly—

Mr. Speaker, Bill C-22 balances the ability of law enforcement to have a tool they require. We see this with our G7 partners and the Five Eyes. They have been able to do it with their service providers. We need to move on this. I know the service providers in Canada will be able to bolster their systems to provide the information that is required. In the end, this is about protecting Canadians, which is paramount, and we need to move on this.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for the opportunity to speak to this in a very personal way. As I was finishing up my remarks, I said I have had constituents come to my office, and one, in particular, was a victim of a cryptocurrency scam online. He thought he did everything right. This has exhausted his life savings, which have been taken from him. He said he did everything right. He was looking for help. He went to the police, and the police told him they did not have the resources, the ability or the tools to address this. With this legislation, the police would be able to help this individual. That is what we are working for here, as parliamentarians, together: to make sure we can safeguard our citizens.

Mr. Speaker, I will take this opportunity to also wish Gurwinder Ruprai a happy birthday. Listening to many of the witnesses and others, we have heard about transnational crimes that are happening. Many times, our G7 partners and our Five Eyes partners come to Canada and we do not have the tools to actually support them in addressing crimes that are taking place. We need to be able to do that so we can have the sharing of information that is necessary.

Madam Speaker, Canadians expect their government to take a firm and unambiguous stance against violent crime. Today, I rise to speak to Bill C-236, the addressing the continuing victimization of homicide victims' families act. I acknowledge the intentions of the hon. member for Parkland, as well as his advocacy for victims of crime. In this spirit, we support sending Bill C-236 to committee for further study. Despite this, in its current form, the bill falls short of delivering the decisive, concrete measures needed to confront violent offenders and to protect victims and their families. We look forward to working collaboratively to improve the bill to better the safety of all Canadians. I want to assure the member and Canadians that our government takes the rights of victims and the parole process seriously. Bill C-236 would make an offender's failure to disclose the location of victims' remains a consideration in sentencing and parole decisions. The bill would also require courts to order the parole ineligibility period to be one-half of the sentence or 10 years, whichever is less, unless the court is satisfied that the default period outlined in the Corrections and Conditional Release Act, the CCRA, is sufficient. Victims and their families deserve strong, reliable protections. The intent of Bill C-236 is understandable: to support victims' families and hold offenders accountable for withholding the location of victims' remains. However, we do not believe that the bill in its current form, without changes, will meaningfully improve our criminal justice system or make our communities safer. I will explain. What I mean is that this bill does not enhance public safety outcomes, because the mechanism it is seeking to target, sentencing and parole, is already in place and allows for consideration in sentencing and parole decisions of non-disclosure. Judges are already able to consider any factor surrounding the offence as aggravated when determining sentences and parole eligibility, including the failure to disclose the location of victims' remains. Similarly, in certain circumstances, judges can already delay parole eligibility for the length of time proposed in the bill, which is the lesser of 10 years or half the sentence. Furthermore, there is nothing in Bill C-236 that would preclude consideration of relevant factors by correctional decision-makers, such as the Parole Board of Canada and Correctional Service Canada. Of additional concern is the fact that the proposed amendments to the parole regime would create confusion and contradiction regarding when an offender may be eligible for parole. This is likely unintended, but the bill would not have the effect of making these parole ineligibility periods longer, nor would it achieve the objective of addressing the continued victimization of homicide victims' families. Specifically, the bill would create contradictory and shorter periods of parole ineligibility for first- and second-degree murder, resulting in judges' having the choice to pick a shorter parole ineligibility period for these offences. This would mean that if an offender is being reintegrated into communities, they would spend less time under supervised release by Correctional Service Canada, which helps bridge the gap between offenders' being in an institution and reintegrating into society. With this, I want to take a moment to talk about parole and, specifically, the decision-making process, the rights and supports available for victims, and how parole contributes to the protection of society. The majority of offenders are serving fixed-length sentences. This means they will eventually be released back into the community once their sentence ends. Evidence shows that parole contributes to public safety by helping offenders reintegrate into society through a gradual, structured and supported release. Parole decisions are made by the Parole Board of Canada, which is an independent administrative tribunal that operates at arm's length from the government and free from outside influence. The decisions of the Parole Board, for which public safety is the primary consideration, are based on a thorough risk assessment, which considers all relevant and available information. To be clear, this includes information from victims of crime, the police, courts, Crown attorneys, mental health professionals, correctional authorities and private agencies. Importantly, the nature and gravity of the offence and the degree of responsibility of the offender are also factors considered in parole decisions. While parole is meant to be a bridge between incarceration and safe integration into the community, I must stress that just because an offender is eligible for parole does not mean the parole is granted. If the Parole Board of Canada deems an offender poses a risk to public safety, parole is denied. Even when an offender is granted parole, they are not released into our communities without oversight. They remain under the legal custody of Correctional Service Canada and are subject to strict supervision, mandatory conditions and continuous monitoring by community parole officers. Parole is structured, and it is an enforceable tool that ensures offenders are held accountable throughout their reintegration. There are immediate consequences if they fail to comply. If, at any time, offenders breach their conditions, their release may be revoked by the Parole Board of Canada and they can be returned to an institution. Importantly, the parole process also establishes a role for victims, where their input and concerns are factors that are considered in conditional release decision-making. To be clear, under the law, the definition of a victim includes not only those harmed directly, but also the family of deceased victims. Any victim may register to receive information from the Parole Board of Canada and Correctional Service Canada. They may also provide information to the Parole Board of Canada at any time related to safety concerns, the offender's risk to reoffend and/or the effect the crime has had on them, their family or the community. Victims can also choose to provide a statement detailing the impact the offence has had on them, and they may attend parole hearings as observers. Victims may present a written statement to the board members that outlines the continuing impact of the offence, as well as any risk or safety concerns the offender may pose. They can request that special conditions be considered for an offender's release. While victims have a role in the criminal justice system, the Government of Canada is committed to ensuring that their voices continue to be heard and its policies are responsive to their concerns while seeking to not overburden or retraumatize. In 2015, the Government of Canada created the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights. This provides victims of crime with the right to information, protection, participation and seeking restitution. The government will always take the protection of these rights seriously and will look for opportunities to enhance and build upon them. As I mentioned at the beginning of my speech, while the government supports this bill being sent to committee, we are always prepared to support other measures that would meaningfully and concretely support victims of crime and deliver public safety results for all Canadians. An example of this is when our government introduced Bill C-16, the protecting victims act, which proposes measures to enhance victim safety, participation and access to information by addressing gaps in how and when victims are informed about an offender's status and parole decisions. Proximity to a victim would be included as a factor in institution selection, and victims would have access to information about why parole hearings were postponed. The government has also tabled Bill C-14, the bail and sentencing reform act. This legislation would target crimes committed by violent and repeat offenders, and would include amendments to the Criminal Code that would establish reverse onus bail for major crimes; allow consecutive sentencing for multiple crimes, meaning longer times behind bars; impose harsher penalties for organized retail theft; and restrict conditional sentences for a number of sexual offences. In parallel to these legislative pieces, the government is continuing its work with provinces, territories and local enforcement to address the root causes of crime. We are acting decisively to keep our communities safe by investing in violence prevention programs and cracking down on cross-border smuggling of guns, fentanyl and other drugs. This is an opportunity for all of us to stand against crime and support victims of crime.

Mr. Speaker, I am so proud to rise today to speak in support of Bill C-13, legislation that would implement the United Kingdom's accession to the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, or the CPTPP. At its core, this debate is about more than a trade agreement. It is about Canada's place in the world. It is about the kind of economy we are building and the opportunities we create for the people we are here to serve. Canada is, and has always been, a trading nation. From the very earliest days of our history, Canadians have looked outward, building relationships, forging partnerships and connecting our ideas, our talent and our resources with the world. Trade is not simply a policy choice for Canada. It is woven into the fabric of who we are and how we grow. In the modern era, Canada has shown extraordinary leadership in building a global network of high-standard trade agreements that open doors for our workers, our farmers, our entrepreneurs and our innovators. The CPTPP is one of the clearest examples of that leadership. When the future of this agreement was uncertain, Canada stepped forward. We worked with partners across the Pacific to preserve the ambition of the agreement and ensure that it remained a modern, high-standard framework for trade in the Indo-Pacific region. Because of that leadership, the CPTPP entered into force in 2018. Alongside Canada, the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership brings together a diverse group of economies across the Pacific and beyond. This agreement includes Australia and New Zealand, two advanced agricultural exporters with strong demand for Canadian resources and technology. It includes Singapore, a global financial and logistics hub that connects Canadian companies to Southeast Asian markets. It includes fast-growing Southeast Asian economies such as Vietnam, Malaysia and Brunei, with their expanding manufacturing and energy sectors, representing rising markets for Canadian exports. In the Americas, our partners include Mexico, Chile and Peru, which are countries with strong mining, agriculture and industrial ties to Canada and growing two-way trade and investment relationships. It also includes Japan, one of Canada's most important trading partners in Asia and a major market for Canadians. Japan has about 250 large companies here in Canada, and I can tell members that Mississauga, from the leadership of our former mayor Hazel McCallion, attracted over 100 of those companies. We have such a strong relationship with Japan, and through CPTPP, we continue to grow that. It means a world of difference to so many Mississaugans and so many in my community of Mississauga East—Cooksville. Together, these partners, along with the first new member of CPTPP, the U.K., create a broad network of markets that supports Canadian exporters, strengthens supply chains and expands trade opportunities across multiple regions of the global economy. Put simply, in 2026, this agreement represents one of the most dynamic and forward-looking economic partnerships in the world, and the impact has been real. Since its adoption, trade between Canada and our CPTPP partners has grown significantly. Canadian exporters, from seafood harvesters to grain farmers, manufacturers and technology companies, are reaching new markets and building new relationships across the Indo-Pacific. That growth represents opportunity for a family-owned manufacturer in a small town that is exporting its products for the first time, opportunity for farmers who are finding new customers halfway around the world, opportunity for Canadian innovators who are competing and winning on the global stage. That is what trade diversification looks like in practice, and it is why our government is pursuing the most ambitious trade diversification agenda in a generation. Canada will always have a deep and enduring relationship with the United States. It is our closest ally and our largest trading partner. However, in a rapidly changing global economy, Canada must continue to expand its reach and strengthen its ties with partners around the world. That is why we have set an ambitious goal to double Canada's non-U.S. exports over the next decade. Let us think about what that means. It means more Canadian companies entering global markets. It means more investment in Canadian communities. It means more good-paying jobs for workers across our country. Reaching that goal does not just happen by accident. It will take determination, leadership and a true team Canada effort. That is where Bill C-13 comes in. Welcoming the United Kingdom into the CPTPP would be a powerful step forward for the partnership and for Canada's trade diversification strategy. The United Kingdom is one of the world's largest economies and one of Canada's closest friends and allies. Our countries share deep historical ties, vibrant people-to-people connections and a common belief in democracy, transparency and the rule of law. By joining the CPTPP, the United Kingdom would become part of a dynamic economic partnership that stretches across the Indo-Pacific and connects markets representing hundreds of millions of customers. For Canada, this would strengthen a partnership built on high standards, open markets and fair rules. It would create new opportunities for Canadian exporters in advanced manufacturing, financial services and the digital economy. It would strengthen a resilient supply chain among trusted partners and reinforce our trading relationship with a trusted and true Commonwealth partner at a time when those bonds are more important than ever. Opening doors is just the beginning. The crucial work and next step is to ensure that Canadians walk through those doors. Achieving our goal of doubling non-U.S. exports will require every region in this country to be engaged, every province, territory, riding and community, because the potential to trade with the world does not belong to just one part of Canada. It belongs to all of Canada. As members of Parliament, we each have a role to play. Yes, we pass the legislation that brings agreements like this into force, and many members on the trade committee have spoken about the legislation. We focus on reviewing the trade bills and completing studies centred on how we can improve Canada's trade ties. However, we can do a lot more than that. We can make sure businesses in our communities know that Canada has one of the most extensive networks of free trade agreements anywhere in the world. We can work hand in hand with our chambers of commerce and boards of trade to promote opportunities. I do this whenever we have a trade agreement. I bring in all stakeholders to the Mississauga Board of Trade to ensure they understand the agreement and are able to capitalize on it and the opportunities it represents. We can engage with our universities and colleges, which are nurturing the next generation of entrepreneurs, innovators and global business leaders. We can help connect Canadian businesses, especially small and mid-sized enterprises, with the tools and knowledge they need to succeed in these international markets. When they get that first order, organizations like Export Development Canada, our regional development agencies and more have programs and supports available to make that growth happen, so they can scale up to new heights. That is the team Canada approach. Canada helped lead the creation of the CPTPP. We helped bring it to life. Today, we have the opportunity to make it that much stronger. By supporting Bill C-13, and welcoming the U.K. into the partnership, we would expand opportunity for Canadians, strengthen our economy and reinforce Canada's leadership in building a more open and prosperous global trading system. Together, with a team Canada approach, we can grow our exports, expand our horizons and build a future of shared prosperity for Canadians in my community, Mississauga and every part of our country. That is a future worth standing up for.

Mr. Speaker, as the member knows, we have an ambitious goal to double our non-U.S. trade around the world over the next decade, and this deal is so important to that. Let me give the member a clear example. I have spoken with the meat stakeholders. They have increased their trade through the CPTPP, from the beginning of the trade deal in 2018 to where we are today, by 122%. That means it was $338 million in 2018 and is now $751 million, just for that particular sector. We need to continue to do that. We need to double and triple that. We need to really double down on our efforts to make sure these agreements lead to diversification. The member is right. As I said in my speech, it is not just about the agreement but about bringing the agreement to life and being able to get our exporters to open up those new markets.

Mr. Speaker, we are leaders in trade negotiations. Other countries look to Canada to see how we provide expertise in our negotiations to get deals that are good for Canada and for Canadians. That is what we do. How we do that is by reaching out to stakeholders right across our country. We also do it here in Parliament and at committee. I sit on the international trade committee. We have stakeholders who come to committee to provide testimony. We take that feedback and are able to incorporate it into making our bills even that much better. I can tell members that the world looks to Canada when it comes to trade deals. We have done it with CETA, we are doing it with the CPTPP, and we continue to do it with countries right around the world.

Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for the opportunity to highlight what a great country we have. We touch every sector right across this country, whether it be the softwood lumber in British Columbia, our natural resources, our agriculture industry, the aerospace sector in the prairie provinces or our seafood, and I could go on. In Mississauga, of course, there is a lot of manufacturing that happens in my community. The breadth of the countries involved with the CPTPP allows for complementary trade, which is a win-win, as we are able to help one another continue to grow our economies, provide good-paying jobs for our communities—

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise today in support of Bill C-18 and the Canada-Indonesia trade agreement, an agreement that reflects who we are as a country and where we are headed as an economy. One in five jobs in Canada depends on exports and trade. We are talking agri-food, forestry, aerospace, energy and manufacturing, and we have a lofty goal. We want to double our exports beyond the U.S. market, double those exports around the world, and that is what we are doing. We are a government focused on building: building infrastructure, building opportunity and building Canada strong. Across this country, from coast to coast to coast, Canadians can see and feel that momentum. Through our Major Projects Office, we are working to ensure that nation-building projects move forward efficiently, responsibly and in partnership with communities and indigenous peoples. We are aligning approvals, cutting duplication and ensuring that major investments turn into real jobs for real people. We are modernizing and expanding our ports so Canadian goods can reach global markets faster and more competitively. We are advancing responsible resource development so that Canada remains a world leader in critical minerals and sustainable mining. We are moving forward with projects like the refurbishment and expansion of the Darlington nuclear generating station in Ontario, which is an investment that will provide clean, reliable energy for decades to come, powering our growing economy and supporting thousands of skilled workers. As a member from Mississauga, Ontario, I can say that nuclear energy produces 60% of our energy here in this province. This is a great project. These projects mean hard hats on heads. They mean shovels in the ground. They mean apprentices getting their first paycheques and experienced tradespeople passing on their knowledge to the next generation. Behind every one of these projects stands incredible, world-class Canadian companies, engineering firms, construction leaders and technology innovators ready to deliver excellence here at home and around the world. However, building Canada strong does not stop at our borders. When Canadian companies grow, they do not just build here; they build everywhere. When they succeed internationally, that success flows home in the form of jobs, investment, research and prosperity, which brings me to Indonesia. Indonesia is one of the fastest-growing economies in the Indo-Pacific. With a population approaching 300 million people and projected to surpass that in the coming years, Indonesia is urbanizing rapidly, expanding its middle class and undertaking ambitious infrastructure transformation. This is a country investing heavily in ports, transit systems, power generation, water systems, mining development and sustainable infrastructure. It is building new industrial hubs. It is even advancing the development of a new capital city to support long-term national growth. The new capital, known as Nusantara, is one of the most ambitious urban development projects in the world today. Planned for East Kalimantan on the island of Borneo, it is designed to ease pressure on Jakarta, which faces congestion, pollution and land subsidence challenges. Nusantara is envisioned as a smart, sustainable forest city, powered by renewable energy, with modern transit systems, resilient water infrastructure, digital connectivity and green building standards at its core, which are all opportunities for Canada and our trade. The scale of this undertaking, including government complexes, housing, transportation corridors, utilities and social infrastructure, represents hundreds of billions of dollars in long-term investment and extraordinary opportunities for global infrastructure partners. Taken together, this kind of growth requires world-class expertise. It requires engineering excellence. It requires project management to the highest global standards, and Canada has exactly that. Canadian firms are recognized worldwide for their expertise in mining, energy systems, nuclear technology, clean infrastructure, environmental services and large-scale project delivery. Our companies know how to operate responsibly, transparently and sustainably. They know how to partner with local communities. They know how to deliver complex projects on time and on budget. Trade agreements are not abstract documents; they are practical tools. They reduce barriers. They create certainty. They protect investment. They improve transparency. They make it easier for Canadian firms to compete fairly and win contracts abroad. When we lower barriers to trade in services, when we protect intellectual property and when we ensure clear procurement rules, we are not just signing paperwork. We are opening doors for Canadian workers and businesses. We are creating the conditions for Canadian companies to contribute to infrastructure delivery both here at home and in dynamic markets like Indonesia. To bring this all together, I want to highlight a local example. Hatch is a global engineering and professional services firm headquartered in Mississauga, in Peel Region. Hatch employs more than 10,000 people globally, including a significant concentration of highly skilled engineers, project managers, technologists and support staff here in the GTA. Founded in 1955, this company began as a small Canadian engineering firm and has steadily grown over seven decades into a truly global enterprise with offices on six continents and projects in more than 150 countries. This is a Canadian success story. It is what we want to see duplicated over and over here in our country. With decades of expertise in mining, energy, infrastructure and metals, Hatch has built a reputation as one of the most respected engineering firms in the world. Hatch already has a presence in Jakarta, supporting projects across Indonesia and southeast Asia. It is there because Indonesia is growing, and growing big time. An agreement like this would reduce barriers even further. It would provide clearer rules. It would improve market access. It would strengthen investment protections. It would help ensure that when Canadian companies bid on major infrastructure projects in Indonesia, they do so on a level playing field. Here is why that matters to families in my community: When Hatch grows in Jakarta, Mississauga feels it, Peel Region feels it and Canada feels it. It means more engineers hired here at home in Mississauga, more co-op students trained, more research partners with Canadian universities, more procurement from Canadian suppliers and more tax revenue to support our schools, hospitals and public services. International growth builds our economy and strengthens it for future generations. If we want Canadian workers to benefit from global growth, we must be present, competitive and have the right agreements in place. Bill C-18 would do exactly that. It would support services trade. It would enhance investment certainty. It would reduce red tape. It would create opportunity. It would say to Canadian companies to go out there, compete, win, succeed, come home to the true north, strong and free, and deliver. It would say to our workers that their skills are world class, their expertise is in demand and their new Liberal government is backing them. For all these reasons and so many more, I urge all of my hon. colleagues in the House to join me in supporting Bill C-18. Let us keep building. Let us keep trading. Let us keep competing. Let us keep growing. Let us keep building Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is focused on Canadians and on building Canada strong. It is about diversifying our economy and making us more resilient. Right around the world, he is well respected to do that, and that is why people in Europe, Asia and around the world are reaching out to Canada. It is because the Prime Minister is out there working as hard as he can to deliver for Canadians. I could not be prouder of the Prime Minister and the work that he is doing in diversifying our economy. We have some big goals and we are going to achieve them.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the hon. member for the opportunity to talk about this agreement. As members can see, it is a comprehensive economic partnership agreement. Within that partnership, there are labour provisions. There are environmental provisions that are part of this agreement. It is an agreement that is looking to raise standards and provide the stability and the predictability that we are all looking for. We believe in a rules-based order, and that is what an agreement like this agreement between Canada and Indonesia brings to the table. This is the type of agreement that I would hope the member would support. I would think that she is going to be voting in favour because she understands that this agreement would actually raise the standard and bring us to a better level.

Mr. Speaker, there are many sectors, but I will speak to one in particular for the member and his many constituents, which is the aerospace sector. Indonesia is spending about $1 billion in aerospace as it grows, buying planes for commercial use, for defence, etc., and Canada has only a bit of that investment. We get about $3 million or $4 million of $1 billion. We could double, triple or quadruple and more the amount of trade that we are doing in the aerospace sector. However, every sector is touched. Be it forestry, agri-food, manufacturing or energy, it is every sector right across our country. This is a very complementary agreement that would work between Canada and Indonesia in terms of what our needs are. I foresee great growth in terms of our trade with Indonesia through this agreement.

Mr. Speaker, I have so much respect for the member. These are the types of agreements, as I said in my previous answer to a question, that raise our standards to be able to make everybody better. Within the forestry sector, or any other sector, this is what we can do within the agreement. What countries, companies and investors are looking for is stability and predictability in a modern agreement. I have so much faith in our negotiators. We have the best negotiators in the world. We have tremendous trade negotiators. When they go to the table, they are always looking to make things better, so that is what this agreement does. It is looking at always improving, and that is why I am so bullish on this agreement for what it will do, not only for Canada but also for Indonesia, as we continue in our goals for diversification.

Mr. Speaker, the auto sector is facing the biggest challenge in a generation. Unjustified and unjustifiable tariffs from the United States on our auto sector are leaving our auto workers under a cloud of uncertainty. Our government stands behind our auto sector, our communities and the workers who are facing these new realities head-on. Can the Minister of Jobs and Families please tell the House how the newly announced auto strategy will transform Canada's auto industry, protecting our workers today and building the vehicles of tomorrow?

Mr. Speaker, while the Conservatives stand in the way of progress, our government is relentless in delivering for Canadians, including by bringing forward two pieces of trade diversification legislation in the current parliamentary session. Trade diversification benefits the entire country, which is why we are moving swiftly to advance the trade deal with Indonesia, a market of 275 million people. Can the minister share how the Canadian-Indonesian trade agreement will create real opportunities for Canadian businesses and workers?

Mr. Speaker, it is quite an honour to rise in the House today to speak to Bill S-210, concerning Ukrainian heritage month, and to recognize the extraordinary contributions of Ukrainian Canadians across our country, particularly the vibrant, compassionate and deeply rooted Ukrainian community of Mississauga. Canada is home to over 1.3 million people of Ukrainian descent, a community whose presence here dates back more than 125 years. That is why I want to thank the member for Etobicoke Centre for bringing forward this bill to designate the month of September as Ukrainian heritage month and to give all Canadians the opportunity to learn, to remember and to celebrate. I want to begin with something personal. I am not of Ukrainian descent; I was born in Portugal. Like so many families, my parents came to Canada seeking opportunity and a better life, but through marriage, family and community, I have gained a deep appreciation and respect for the Ukrainian community and spirit. My wife, Christina Yaremczuk, is proudly of Ukrainian heritage. Her family comes from the beautiful and historic Lviv region, a region known for its culture, its faith and its fierce commitment to freedom. Through Christina, her parents and our extended Ukrainian family, I have come to understand what Ukrainian identity means: perseverance, dignity, cultural pride and love of community. Christina is also dedicated to the Ukrainian Catholic Women's League, an organization that has done so much, especially in recent years, to mobilize humanitarian aid and support for newcomers, to preserve traditions and to strengthen community life. Our two boys, Alexander and Sebastien, grew up dancing with Barvinok, one of Canada's most-celebrated Ukrainian dance ensembles. My wife and I wanted them to learn culture and to feel those stories in the steps, in the music and in the colours. I remember watching them backstage at performances and seeing the pride in their faces as they put on their embroidered vyshyvanka shirts and their boots. Those are memories that I hold deeply. In Mississauga we are proud to be home to one of the most active and influential Ukrainian communities in our nation. Walking through our neighbourhoods, whether in Cooksville or Applewood, or across our broader region, we can see the legacy of a people who came here seeking opportunity, safety and dignity, and who helped build the Canada we know today. St. Mary's Canadian Ukrainian Catholic Church in the heart of Mississauga has long been more than a place of worship; it is a spiritual anchor and a gathering space for thousands. Just a couple of weeks ago I was there with my family, meeting Father Jerry and the community for their annual Christmas bazaar, where hundreds gathered for folklore and festivities. St. Mary's is where families celebrate baptisms, weddings and Christmas Eve liturgies filled with candlelight, incense and the unmistakable beauty of Ukrainian hymnody. It is where newcomers have found support groups, charitable assistance and a community that welcomes them with open arms. Nearby, the Barvinok Ukrainian Dance School, under the leadership of Fedir Danylak, continues a tradition that stretches back generations. The dancers, children, teenagers and adults, carry forward the colours, the steps and the stories of Ukraine. Every time Barvinok performs in Mississauga, across Canada or, for that matter, throughout the world, it reminds us that culture is not only preserved but is lived, danced, and sung, and is passed from one generation to the next. We cannot speak of the Ukrainian presence in Mississauga without honouring the role of St. Sofia Byzantine Catholic School. For decades, St. Sofia has taught thousands of young people the Ukrainian language, Ukrainian history and enduring values of faith, community and cultural pride. The impact of that school is profound; many of its graduates become leaders, educators, entrepreneurs or artists who carry their heritage proudly while contributing to the fabric of our country. Not long ago I spoke with a Mississauga parent who told me she enrolled her daughter at St. Sofia because she wanted her to know who she is and where she comes from. That young girl is now in high school, fluent in Ukrainian, still volunteering at community events and still dancing with Barvinok. This is how culture endures. This is how Canada grows stronger. One cannot spend time with Ukrainian Canadians in Mississauga without hearing stories of sacrifice and resilience. I met a newcomer, a mother, who arrived with her two children after fleeing the war in Ukraine. She spoke about landing at Pearson airport with one suitcase, no job and no certainty about the future, but she also spoke about how St. Mary's parishioners rallied around her, finding her temporary housing, helping her access settlement services, bringing her clothing and food and ensuring that her children were enrolled in school within days. Canada was the first western nation to recognize Ukraine's independence in 1991, and we remain steadfast in supporting Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity today. Canada and Ukraine are a partnership of values, courage and friendship. We stand for sovereignty, democracy, human rights and peace. Beyond recognizing Ukraine's independence in 1991, Canada was one of the first countries to condemn Russia's illegal annexation of Crimea in 2014, impose sanctions against those attacking Ukrainian sovereignty, provide military training through Operation Unifier, supply humanitarian aid, welcome displaced Ukrainian families and support Ukraine on the international stage in every forum, NATO, the G7 and the United Nations. Canada has helped rebuild power grids, supply medical equipment, support demining and strengthen Ukraine's democratic institutions. Ukraine is not only fighting for its territory but for the principles that we hold together, and Canada stands proudly beside it. This is why I want to take a moment to thank my colleague, the member for Etobicoke Centre, who has been a true champion for Ukraine in this Parliament, advocating tirelessly for humanitarian aid, military support and the protection of Ukrainian culture and identity. His leadership has been felt not only here but in Ukraine and in communities across the GTA and Canada. As we celebrate culture and heritage, we must also remember the history, especially its darkest chapters. The Holodomor was a man-made famine imposed by Stalin's regime in 1932 and 1933, killing millions of innocent Ukrainian men, women and children. It was a genocide, an attempt to erase the people, their language, their identity and their existence. In Mississauga, people gather yearly at a memorial organized with the leadership of St. Mary's, and the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, the UCC, has helped to make sure that Canadians are aware of the Holodomor through school programs, public exhibits, the Holodomor bus that arrives at Parliament Hill, survivor testimonials and community vigils. The UCC, both nationally and through its Ontario and local chapters, is the backbone of Ukrainian community life in Canada. It advocates, educates, organizes cultural events, supports newcomers and mobilizes volunteers. Its work in Mississauga, together with my wife, Councillor Christina Yaremczuk-Fonseca, and chairwoman Liliya Gulych, held the first Ukrainian flag-raising and art exhibition in the city of Mississauga this year. The UCC ensures that the Ukrainian identity remains strong and future generations understand their heritage. Ukrainian heritage month is a moment to celebrate the music and art of Barvinok, the faith and community of St. Mary's church, the education and cultural grounding of St. Sofia school, the leadership of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress, the resilience of families that came here seeking hope and the generations that helped build Mississauga into the thriving multicultural city it is today and Canada into a true symbol of hope. In the House, during Ukrainian heritage month and throughout the year, we reaffirm our commitment to supporting Ukraine, defending democracy, promoting peace and celebrating the heritage of all who call Canada home. May Canada always stand with Ukraine, may our communities continue to grow in friendship, and may the spirit of the Ukrainian people be resilient, hopeful and unbreakable and continue to shine brightly across Mississauga and across our great country. Slava Ukraini.

Mr. Speaker, I am so proud to rise today on behalf of the people of Mississauga East—Cooksville to speak strongly in support of Bill C-15, the budget implementation act. This is a bill that reflects exactly what Canadians have been asking for: a government focused on building, protecting and empowering our country and our people. When I walk through the neighbourhoods in my riding, whether on Kirwin Avenue or Dundas Street, or near the Burnhamthorpe Community Centre or Mississauga Valley Community Centre, I hear from all of my constituents, and members will hear those people's voices in this speech. I will share their stories and those of the thousands and millions of stakeholders who have brought their input into this budget. People want the chance to have an affordable home, to find meaningful work, to raise their children in safety and to see their community grow with confidence. Budget 2025 would do just that. It is our government's plan to build Canada strong. The Prime Minister said it best when he said that the world has changed, and Canada must build the future we want for ourselves. We cannot sit back and wait for it. We must build. We must build it boldly and now. This is not a small vision, it is a generational project. We are building homes, infrastructure and an economy by Canadians for Canadians. This budget shifts Canada from a posture of uncertainty to one of ambition. It makes generational investments to build the major infrastructure that underpins our prosperity, builds homes at a speed and scale our country has not seen in generations, builds industries that create good-paying careers and builds a stronger, more resilient, more independent Canadian economy. In Mississauga East—Cooksville, housing is top of mind: homes, condos, apartments, co-ops and affordable housing. I recently met Maria, a single mom working two jobs to keep up with her rent. She told me, “Peter, I love this community, and I want to continue to find a way to stay here and grow my family here.” Well, I want Maria to stay and grow her family in our community, and this budget is designed for Maria and families like hers. Through Build Canada Homes, the government is doubling the pace of homebuilding over the next decade, using partnerships with Mississauga, municipalities, Ontario, provinces and the private sector to move faster and be stronger. Homes will be built with Canadian materials, Canadian labour and innovative construction that reduces delays and lowers costs. The Prime Minister put it clearly: “We will build Canadian and buy Canadian...creating new orders”. We will also create new jobs and new opportunities for workers and businesses across our great country. In Mississauga East—Cooksville, our community knows the value of good infrastructure. Transit, roads, schools, hospitals and water systems are the foundation of our daily life. Budget 2025 provides $51 billion over 10 years through the build communities strong fund to strengthen the local infrastructure Canadians rely on most. It is a fund that is nation building and that empowers Canadians with faster commutes, better connections and stronger communities. The Federation of Canadian Municipalities welcomes this budget. It says that budget 2025 “recognizes a core reality: municipal infrastructure is essential to economic infrastructure...critical to...housing delivery [and] economic strength”. For Mississauga, what does this mean? It means safer streets, modern community centres, improved transit and the infrastructure needed to build more homes and support more families. We are attracting more investment and building Canada's economic strength. However, the world is more uncertain than at any time in recent history. Trade patterns are shifting. Old assumptions are eroding. The Prime Minister said that, in the face of global uncertainty, Canada must focus on what we can control. We must build the strongest, most independent, most competitive economy in the G7. Budget 2025 does exactly that by unlocking $1 trillion in investment. Just today, we heard the Prime Minister talk about a $70-billion investment pledged by the UAE to Canada. This ambitious plan unleashes this $1 trillion in public and private investments over five years by accelerating nation-building projects; fast-tracking approvals through the Major Projects Office; building the roads, bridges, rail and trade corridors that we need; supporting critical minerals and advanced manufacturing; and modernizing ports and transportation networks. The first wave of our major projects will drive more than $60 billion into the economy and create thousands of well-paying jobs. The Mining Association of Canada said that budget 2025 enhances the competitiveness of Canadian mining and accelerates critical mineral investments. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce said budget 2025 helps set the conditions for productivity and investment. Canada needs bold action, and this budget recognizes the urgency. This is about taking back control of our economic destiny. This is about building an economy by Canadians for Canadians. Budget 2025 is designed to give Canadians real opportunities, meaningful opportunities and a more affordable life. It is about building better careers and a stronger workforce by investing in our people's skills. That is why the government is launching a nationwide re-skilling initiative for up to 50,000 workers, extending and modernizing employment insurance, creating digital jobs and training platforms with private sector partners. The workforce alliance would unite our labour unions, employers and industries to modernize that skills development. The Canadian Labour Congress has praised this approach by saying Canadian unions welcome the billions invested in homebuilding infrastructure, skills training and the new $1,100 tax credit for our PSWs. I think of Keisha in Mississauga East—Cooksville, who is a dedicated personal support worker, caring for seniors in our community. She told me, “I don't need much, but I just need a little bit of help.” The new PSW tax credit, that $1,100, is designed for people like Keisha, who give so much of themselves to our community. Bill C-15 would deliver major steps forward toward fairness and affordability. It would exempt the Canada disability benefit from income calculations, expand the disability support deduction, strengthen the consumer protections in the financial sector and modernize access to banking, credit unions and digital payments. This is all lowering costs for people and giving people more control over their financial future. We live in an era of rising threats such as fraud, organized crime, illegal smuggling and global instability. The Prime Minister said we must protect our communities, our borders and our way of life. In this budget, safer communities and stronger borders are presented in hiring 1,000 new CBSA officers, expanding border intelligence and detection systems, launching a national fraud strategy, and creating a dedicated financial crimes agency. The National Police Federation has said that these measures demonstrate a commitment to its members and to safer communities. CARP, the Canadian Association of Retired Persons, affirms that stronger fraud protections, quicker access to funds and supports for caregivers will significantly improve the financial security of Canadian seniors. In Cooksville, Applewood and across Mississauga, families want to know that their streets are safe and their children are protected. These measures would help ensure exactly that. The budget would strengthen the systems Canadians rely on for community well-being, health care, research and community supports. In Mississauga, we are building the biggest, most innovative hospital in Canada right now. That hospital will take care of all the families in my riding and all the families in the ridings across Mississauga. Beyond that, it will take care of the greater Toronto area. That is how large this hospital will be. Within this budget, there are a number of investments for health care that will help with that hospital's development. When it comes to helping our most needy, the food bank welcome targeted, affordable measures that will help ease the pressures on families. This is a transformational moment. The world is changing and Canada must choose whether to wait or to build. I say we need to build. That is what we are doing. We are building the homes Canadians deserve, building the industries of the future and building safer communities. It is building opportunities and fairness for workers, and it builds confidence in our country and ourselves. This is Canada strong, built by Canadians for Canadians. To my colleagues on all sides of the aisle who are here, let us build a Canada that is more prosperous, more secure, more united and more confident than ever before. Let us pass this bill. Let us build this future. Let us build Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, I am glad that my hon. colleague has some interest in housing. The Conservatives had gotten out of the housing business. It is the Liberal government that has brought housing back to the wonderful House of Commons. Within our budget, we are helping, in terms of those who are buying new homes, the new homebuyers, by taking the GST off. I am glad to see that the Province of Ontario has followed suit. This will save new homebuyers a great deal of money. We are investing in all housing. That includes co-ops, affordable housing and purpose-built rentals. It is right across the spectrum of housing. This is an ambitious plan to build the most housing we have ever built here in Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I patently disagree. That is a false statement that the member has made. The government is investing in innovation. I have spoken to people from many industries. They talk about the SR&ED program, how we are enhancing that program and what it means, and about the investment tax credits we are providing to businesses to accelerate them. That is all done through research and development, through innovation. This is the type of investments that we are seeing—

Mr. Speaker, Canada is a trading nation. Diversification is our tool to be able to weather any storm and to make us more resilient. The member is quite right; we have agreements with Europe, with Asia and with countries around the world. We have the most trade agreements of any G7 country, but we have to continue to open up even more opportunities. The member mentioned many countries. Indonesia is another one that we just signed a free trade agreement with. We brought a free trade agreement to the House, the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement. The Conservatives voted against it. It is unbelievable that they would be against trade, because we are a trading nation, and trade is so important for us.

Madam Speaker, today I rise to support this legislation, which would welcome the United Kingdom into the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership, or, as we know it, the CPTPP. This debate gives us a chance to reflect on what trade really means to communities across Canada. Today, I want to focus on my community of Mississauga, a city that I am proud to represent in this chamber and in government. It is a shining example of Canada's diversity, innovation and economic vitality. Mississauga is home to a tremendous business community, from manufacturers and tech start-ups to food processors and service providers. Many of these businesses have built their success on serving local and regional markets, but increasingly, they are looking beyond our borders, recognizing that to be able to grow, they need to reach customers around the world. Some businesses have already taken that leap. They are exporting goods and services across continents, tapping into new markets and growing their footprint. These success stories are so inspiring, and I have met many of these business owners. They show what is possible with the right products, the right team and the right opportunities. However, I know there are many businesses in Mississauga that have not exported yet. They may have thought about and considered it but perhaps are hesitant. I can understand that exporting can be a very big step for a business. I failed to mention that I will be sharing my time with the member for Cape Spear, whose comments we will welcome on this legislation. With regard to exporting, what businesses have to think about involves the risk of exporting, uncertainty, questions about tariffs, regulations, language barriers, cultural differences, shipping logistics, payment terms and more. For small and medium-sized businesses, especially those operated primarily in local markets, the idea of exporting can feel overwhelming, but it does not have to be this way. Our government is here to help and to be in their corner. This is where Canada's trade diversification strategy truly shines, not only through agreements like the CPTPP, but through the strong network of trade commissioners across the country and around the world who work tirelessly to support Canadian businesses. Trade commissioners are on the ground in these key markets around the world. They provide personalized advice, market intelligence and connections. They help businesses understand how to use trade agreements to their advantage, to identify potential customers and to navigate through regulatory requirements. They open doors that previously seemed shut. For example, a manufacturing firm in Mississauga that produces packaging solutions has probably never thought about selling to Japan or Vietnam, which may need their products and services, but a trade commissioner could introduce it to these potential partners, explain how tariff reductions under the CPTPP would improve their competitiveness and assist with market-entry strategies. That personalized boots-on-the-ground support reduces risk and gives entrepreneurs the confidence they need to take the leap into exporting. Trade agreements like the CPTPP play a vital role. By reducing or eliminating tariffs on a wide range of goods and services across the 11 countries that are part of the CPTPP, covering nearly 500 million consumers with a combined GDP of more than $13 trillion, the CPTPP creates a more level playing field for Canadian businesses and gives them more certainty. This means products manufactured in Mississauga, whether in advanced machinery, food production or software services, become more affordable and attractive to buyers in these countries. It also means Canadian companies benefit from common standards on labour, the environment and intellectual property protection, which help ensure fair competition. Trade diversification is essential for businesses in Mississauga and across our great country of Canada. The global economy is complex; it is ever-changing. Relying too heavily on a single market can leave companies and entire communities vulnerable to shocks, which we have seen in recent times. We have seen this during recent disruptions, whether from the COVID-19 pandemic, trade disputes or geopolitical tensions. By diversifying their markets, companies can spread the risk, tap into new demand and increase their resilience. That is why the national goal of doubling Canada's non-U.S. exports over the next decade matters so much to Mississauga and Canada. It is not just a number; it is a target that represents real opportunities for our businesses, workers and local economies. For my city and our country, it means more manufacturers exporting advanced products, more tech start-ups breaking into global markets and more service providers creating high-quality jobs that benefit families right here at home. This is especially important for small and medium-sized businesses, which make up the backbone of Mississauga's economy. I was delighted to have the Mississauga Board of Trade appear as a witness at the trade committee here in Ottawa, and it explained how important diversification is for small and medium-sized enterprises in Mississauga. These companies often do not have the resources to absorb big shocks or to easily pivot without support. Trade agreements combined with government services can help level the playing field to ensure these businesses can fully participate and chart their paths to growth. It is not just the exporters that benefit. The jobs created by increased exports ripple through the economy, from manufacturing floors to supply chains to marketing teams, with all of them working together. When these businesses grow, they hire more people, invest in innovation and contribute to a more vibrant local economy. This also helps with something we have been challenged with for a long time, which is our productivity. These companies become much more productive when they invest themselves in looking at new markets and staying as competitive as they possibly can be. Mississauga's diversity is a major strength. Our city is home to people from all over the world, many with deep knowledge of languages, cultures and business practices in the countries where the CPTPP operates. This gives our businesses a unique advantage, one that can be leveraged with the right tools and supports. I will now go to the United Kingdom. Welcoming the U.K. into the CPTPP adds an important new dimension to Canada's trade diversification strategy. The U.K. is a major economy with long-standing ties to Canada. Its accession expands the agreement's reach and opens new opportunities for Canadian businesses, including those in Mississauga. U.K. inclusion also sends a strong message to the world that the CPTPP is a high-standard, inclusive trade pact that continues to grow. This stability and scale give exporters greater confidence and make it easier for them to engage in international markets. Supporting this legislation means supporting businesses in Mississauga that are ready to grow, want to take the next step and need the right tools to make it happen. It means backing the government's efforts to build a trade ecosystem, agreements, services and infrastructure that help Canadian entrepreneurs reduce risk and seize these opportunities. It means investing in communities and workers by creating the conditions for sustainable economic growth. Mississauga's story is Canada's story. It is a story of innovation, diversity, resilience and ambition. The CPTPP and U.K. accession are critical parts of that story. Let us give our businesses the tools they need to write their next chapter, from the main street to the global stage. We have set the goal of increasing our international trade beyond the United States by over 50% over the next decade. That would be from $300 billion, where we are today with exports, to $600 billion for Canada. What does that mean? It means jobs in our communities. It means a stronger Canada, a Canada strong.

Madam Speaker, I will speak to this trade agreement with the U.K.'s accession into the CPTPP. We have other agreements, be it with CETA or agreements with other countries around the world. Canada is a trading nation. Those agreements allow for open dialogue. I understand the concerns of the beef producers, but having open dialogue with the U.K. allows us to put our story forward, to make ground, to be able to open up markets. It is very important that we continue to keep those communication channels open. By having an agreement like this, those communication channels continue to stay open so that we can continue to make our case for our great beef producers here in Canada.

Madam Speaker, it is imperative that government, when it is doing a trade deal, reach out to a vast array of stakeholders. That is all levels of government and stakeholders in every sector. That is what has happened with the CPTPP, as well as with the accession of the U.K. into the CPTPP: reaching out to those stakeholders. That has happened. The vast majority of those stakeholders are in favour of our moving forward. I sit on the international trade committee. It is a privilege here in this House. At that trade committee, there is an opportunity to debate, to go through the bill, to look at parts of the bill and to really dissect any issues within the bill in which we think there could be improvements. We have a robust model here in Canada to be able to bring these trade agreements to our country and to help with our trade. We are a trading nation. While 2.5% of the world's trade is done by Canada, we make up only 0.5% of the world's population.

Madam Speaker, the hon. member is quite right. As soon as that election was over and we won it, the Prime Minister made sure to visit our greatest trading partners, one being the U.K. It is our number three trading partner. We have increased trade with the U.K. From 2016, it has gone up almost 53%. We want to continue on that track and to continue to increase that trade. The way to do that is for our Prime Minister and our government to reach out to other like-minded countries to be able to open those doors and open trade because it is good for our—

Mr. Speaker, champions lift up their communities and, over the last few weeks, we have seen the Toronto Blue Jays lift up the spirits of Canadians from coast to coast to coast with their ALDS championship win over the New York Yankees. However, the Blue Jays organization is not just about winning ball games. Can the Secretary of State for Sport update the House of Commons on his work with the Jays Care Foundation to bring sports opportunities to more youth across Canada?

Mr. Speaker, every time we purchase something made, grown or produced here at home, we are supporting our neighbours, strengthening our communities and investing in Canada's future. Here in Mississauga, we have so much to be proud of, from the chicken we serve our families and the chocolate bars we love to the planes that connect us to the world. Companies like Maple Lodge Farms, Magna and our aerospace innovators keep thousands of local people working. Some sectors are being hit hard by tariffs and trade disruptions. That is why the Liberal government is stepping up to help, making sure that Canadian industries get the backing they need to stay competitive. Canada's government will be Canada's number one customer, with a clear commitment to supporting Canadian businesses. Next time we shop for groceries, furniture or a vehicle, we can look for the maple leaf and choose Canadian. Together, we can protect jobs, grow our economy and keep Mississauga and Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, what a privilege it is to rise in this House today on behalf of the people of Mississauga East—Cooksville. It is a pivotal time for our country and for Canadian families alike. I would like to congratulate all the dads out there for a belated happy Father's Day. They do a great job. Canadians sent us here with a clear message to make life more affordable, to make our economy work for everyone and to bring this country together stronger, fairer and more united than ever before. That is exactly what our government is doing. When I speak with a young couple in Mississauga trying to buy their first home, a small grocer who wants to expand their business across provincial lines or a retired couple feeling the pressure at the checkout line, one thing is clear: Canadians are looking for action and not slogans. They are getting that action through bold, focused leadership under our Prime Minister and our new government. This is not just about responding to challenges; it is about seizing the opportunity. Today, all eyes are on Kananaskis, Alberta, as Canada hosts the G7 summit. This is a moment to showcase what makes Canada strong: our resilient middle class, our clean and conventional energy leadership, and our commitment to building a modern, unified economy where no one is left behind. We will stand on the global stage and show the world that Canada is not just keeping up; we are leading. Here at home, we are moving quickly to deliver real relief for Canadians. Bill C-4, now before this House, delivers on the 2025 campaign promise to cut taxes for the middle class, reducing the lowest tax bracket. That would mean more money in the pockets of 22 million Canadians, up to $840 a year for a two-income family. This relief would start on July 1, so the time to act is now. Families cannot afford delay; they need this support and they need it now. We are not stopping there. We are tackling the housing crisis with a targeted GST exemption for first-time homebuyers on homes up to $1 million. This would be especially impactful for families in cities like mine of Mississauga. We are helping young Canadians enter the housing market while investing in housing supply to make sure the next generation has the same shot at success. This past weekend, I had the honour to attend a Luso charities event, which raises vital funds for individuals living with cognitive disabilities. What stood out to me was not just the generosity in that room, which was tremendous, but that there were developers, union leaders and construction workers. People from every corner of the building sector came together for a common purpose. Do members know what they told me? They said they are optimistic. They believe in the direction our country is going, the way we are headed. They know that by working together with government, community, industry and labour, we can build the homes Canadians need while creating good jobs and delivering inclusive, progressive growth. This is what nation building looks like, and it starts with partnership. This is what it means to build fairness. Now let me speak about trade, infrastructure and opportunity, because these issues are deeply connected. It was a busy weekend this weekend. I also had the pleasure of attending North America's biggest halal food festival, right in the heart of Mississauga. Fifty thousand people came out, including families, entrepreneurs and business leaders from across our country. Amir Shamsi, the founder, took me around to speak with many of the businesses. Built from the ground up, many of them are newcomer-run, women-led or youth-run. They told me they were ready to grow. They want to move their products across provincial borders and access new markets abroad, but right now they are hitting red tape, different standards, fragmented rules and unnecessary costs. We need to fix that. That is why Bill C-5, the one Canadian economy act, is so important. It is vital that we do this. The bill tears down those barriers, creating one unified marketplace across Canada. It helps small and medium-sized businesses, like those at the halal food festival, expand faster, hire more workers and compete globally. Trade policy is not enough. Nation-building infrastructure is the backbone that supports our economic growth. That is why Bill C-5, the one Canadian economy act, would help unleash strategic trade and energy corridors, projects that connect our natural resources to markets, our businesses to ports, and our goods to global demand. We need to modernize Canada's ports, from Halifax to Vancouver, to handle large volumes and higher efficiency. We need to expand rail and highway infrastructure to reduce congestion and speed up delivery. We need to build clean energy corridors that will move electricity across provinces, so that Canadian power can fuel our homes, our factories and our vehicles from coast to coast to coast. This is how we unlock the full potential of the Canadian economy, by investing in the hard infrastructure that makes trade real. This is inclusive, bottom-up trade, where the benefits start with the people on the ground, in places like the great place of Mississauga, and ripple outward across our country. At our borders, where economic and national security meet, we are acting with Bill C-2. The bill would modernize trade routes, strengthen enforcement and stop the illegal flow of guns and drugs, while speeding up the legal flow of goods. That is good for safety and good for business, and it is essential for a modern economy. These are just bills, but they are all part of a unified vision, a 2025 Liberal vision, a Liberal plan that Canadians voted for: tax relief for working families; housing access for the next generation; strategic infrastructure to support trade, innovation and energy; a clean economy that grows with people-powered innovation; and a strong Canada united from coast to coast to coast. It is a plan to build on economic expertise, empowered by the values that Canadians hold dear. We have a Prime Minister with real-world experience in global finance and public service, who held a job as the Governor of the Bank of Canada, as well as the Governor of the Bank of England. This person comes with this experience and brings us all together to a new government, a cabinet team that reflects Canada and delivers for Canadians. Members have probably heard the announcement that Michael Sabia will be the incoming Clerk of the Privy Council. We have someone, again, who understands both business and public policy and brings those together. He has done it in Quebec. He has done it across our country. That will help. It will help as we build our team Canada. This Canadian team, working together with all of us, and I say all of us because I speak to all members in the House, our provinces, our territories, our indigenous partners, the private sector, labour and 41 million Canadians, will unlock Canada's full economic potential. That is what real partnership and real leadership look like. What unites all of this is simple. We are focused on people: not partisanship, not posturing, but people. This is how we restore faith in government, by showing that it can work and that it can deliver for our people. As we show the world in Kananaskis today, Canada is leading, not just with words, but with action. Let us build one economy. Let us support every family. Let us continue building a Canada that works for everyone. Let us build Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, we have great wines right across our country, from B.C. to Ontario, where I am from, the Atlantic provinces and Quebec. I am not naming all the provinces, but we have great wine. I want to commend the provinces for taking a leadership stance to be able to break down those interprovincial barriers. What I can also say to the member is that, federally, we will eliminate those barriers. The federal government is eliminating those barriers—

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for the question and for the opportunity to share this with the member and all members in this House. We were home in our constituencies over the weekend, and I had an opportunity, in my remarks, to talk about many of the people I met on the street, at festivals and at different events. They all said we are in a crisis moment right now. We need urgency. We need to get things done. That is what our government is doing. It is ensuring that we are doing that with efficiency so we can deliver for Canadians. I would think it would be the same in the member's riding, that her constituents are looking for those deliveries and those results to be able to help families in her riding, as this will help families in all of our ridings.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the hon. member for the opportunity to talk about these interprovincial barriers. Since our Confederation, since 1867, I think we have had this discussion about interprovincial barriers and how they are stopping our entrepreneurs, stopping our economy and really putting the brakes on our economy from being able to develop. This is the moment in Canadian history when there is an opportunity for us to take down those barriers and work together with our provinces, territories and indigenous peoples to be able to show Canadians that government can work. I will seize this opportunity. I know we will do it as a House here together, and this will strengthen our democracy.

Madam Speaker, it is with deep humility, great hope and unwavering dedication that I rise today as the voice of the residents of Mississauga East—Cooksville. I wish to begin by offering my sincere congratulations to you, Madam Speaker; it is great to see you in the chair again. I congratulate all members in the House on their election and re-election. Each of us brings a distinct voice and unique experiences here. While we may sit on different sides of the aisle, we are united by a shared commitment to serve the people who entrusted us to be here and to do all we can to make their lives that much better. Above all, I want to express my heartfelt thanks to the people of Mississauga East—Cooksville for placing their trust in me to be their representative here in the House. I thank them for opening their doors, sharing their stories and touching me deeply. It is their ideas, their concerns, their dreams for a better future that shape everything I do in this chamber. I thank my family, my loving wife Christina and our twin boys Sebastien and Alexander, for their unconditional support and love. I thank the volunteers who gave their time, energy and hearts to our campaign. They made this possible, and this moment belongs to them as much as it does to me. I am thankful to my office team for providing the constituents of Mississauga East—Cooksville with great care, respect and service that is second to none. The world we live in today feels more uncertain than ever. It is fast-moving, more fragile and at times deeply unsettling. Families are feeling the weight of rising prices, struggling to keep up with the cost of living, while at the same time worrying about the safety of their neighbourhoods and the stability of our country. From unpredictable global conflicts and inflationary pressures to U.S. tariffs and threats on our national security, these challenges are not abstract. They are real. They touch the lives of everyday Canadians. In moments like this, people need to know their leaders are listening, that we understand their fears, that we are working every day to protect their future. With every challenge comes an opportunity, an opportunity to lead with clarity, to act with compassion, to build a future where no one is left behind. Mississauga East—Cooksville, like many communities across Canada, is feeling the weight of these challenges. A safe Canada is a strong Canada, and that strength starts with ensuring that those who would do harm are stopped in their tracks. From cracking down on organized crime and money laundering to protecting our borders and modernizing our law enforcement tools, we are defending the integrity of our communities and our economy alike, because national security and economic security go hand in hand. When Canadians feel safe, businesses thrive, investments grow and opportunity flourishes. That is why our plan to build a more prosperous Canada begins with a clear-eyed commitment to the safety and security of our communities. Earlier this week we had the opportunity to witness a moment that reminded me why I believe so deeply in our great country. This week in Saskatchewan, the Prime Minister and premiers from across Canada came together to focus on building and protecting our nation together. They gathered not just to talk but to act, to move forward on nation-building projects that will use the best of what Canada has to offer. From the steel forged in Hamilton to clean energy solutions from Alberta and advanced manufacturing right in my community of Mississauga East—Cooksville, Ontario, this is a plan that harnesses our full potential as a country. It is about connecting regions, strengthening our economy and creating good jobs in every province and territory. It is about making sure that when Canada builds, we build together. Even as this important work took place, Saskatchewan was battling devastating wildfires. Families were displaced, communities were under threat, and what we saw was solidarity among our country. We saw our first responders there to help, putting themselves on the line, protecting the lives and livelihoods of so many. What I saw in Saskatchewan was the very best of our federation: leaders setting aside differences to serve Canadians, a commitment to co-operation that transcends partisanship and a belief that a stronger Canada is not built in isolation but by bringing people and provinces together. When we look out for one another, when we invest in each other, when we build not just for today but for generations to come, Canada is at its strongest. We will eliminate internal trade barriers that stifle innovation and cost our economy billions each year. In doing so, we will create one strong Canadian economy from 13, driving prosperity in every corner of this great nation. For this economic prosperity to take root, people must not only feel safe in their local communities, but also feel confident that their country is secure from external threats. Local safety encourages investment, job creation and community development, while national security protects our borders, critical infrastructure and trade routes. When both internal and external threats are effectively addressed, it creates a stable environment where businesses can thrive and families can plan for the future. In this way, safety and security at home and across our borders are essential pillars of a strong and resilient economy. Security begins at home, and today, Canadians are feeling a growing unease. In our neighbourhoods, families are increasingly concerned about rising crime, particularly auto thefts, home invasions, drug trafficking and repeat violent offences. In Mississauga East—Cooksville and across the country, we have heard these concerns loud and clear. This is not just about numbers in a report; it is about really investing in our communities and making sure we can provide peace of mind to our citizens. That is why our new government is taking bold, concrete action to strengthen community safety from every angle. We will hire 1,000 additional RCMP officers and 1,000 additional Canada Border Services Agency officers. We are going to reform the Criminal Code to make it more difficult for repeat violent offenders to be released on bail, ensuring that dangerous individuals are not returned to our streets prematurely. At our ports and borders, we are expanding the tools available to the Canada Border Services Agency to intercept illegal goods before they reach our communities, especially the deadly flow of fentanyl precursors and the increasing number of stolen vehicles linked to crime and smuggling rings. We are going further. Through the strong borders act, we are targeting transnational crime and money laundering, modernizing our immigration system to prevent fraud, and empowering our Coast Guard to protect Canadian sovereignty and disrupt criminal activity at sea. Before I speak about the importance of safety and security, I must first speak from the heart about something that shook me and those around me to the core: the arson attack on my constituency office. This was not just an attack on a building; it was an attack on the very spirit of democracy, on the belief that we settle our differences through dialogue, not violence and destruction. I want to sincerely thank our first responders for their quick and courageous actions. I am also deeply grateful to the people of Mississauga East—Cooksville, who reached out with compassion, stood in solidarity and reminded me of the strength and kindness that define our community. I want to thank my staff, who experienced this trauma first-hand, for their unwavering commitment to public service, their grace and their strength, even in the face of this senseless and malicious act. Safety and security in our communities and for our country are paramount. Let us be clear: Safety is not a partisan issue. Safety is about ensuring that all of us are able to live safe and secure at home, in the workplace, on the streets and in our democratic institutions. We are all stronger for it. We are Canada strong.

Madam Speaker, I want to thank my hon. colleague and all those in the House, because just earlier today, we saw every member united in the vote on the ways and means motion. I cannot recall the last time that happened, but the Liberals, the Conservatives, the Bloc, the NDP and the Greens, everybody, got up, and that is how we have to approach this. This transcends all political stripes. It is about keeping our communities safe. The member brings up different points, but I hope the member will be supporting this legislation. He should know, and I believe does know and understand, how important it is to law enforcement and how important it is to his citizens and my citizens to make sure they feel safe in their communities and homes and that we have a safer country.

Madam Speaker, I want to thank my hon. colleague for the opportunity to thank our Canada Border Services Agency and all of the officers. They do a commendable job. That is why our government has committed to 1,000 more Canada Border Services Agency agents, even though we already added 1,000 to our border prior to this. This is a historic investment of $1.3 billion, which has never been done before in Canada. We already have a strong border, but this will strengthen and reinforce it. It is the right thing to do. I hope the member will vote in favour of this legislation, because it will do exactly what he is asking for.

Madam Speaker, I have a great deal of respect for the hon. colleague across the aisle, but he would know that when his party was in government, it was cutting services at our borders. It was looking at trimming everywhere, taking away those opportunities. The precursors change regularly. That is why we need to stay on top of them. I know my colleague will look for what is in the best interest of his residents and his constituents. What is in their best interest is to vote in favour of this legislation to make sure that it passes through this House so we can bring in more measures to keep our communities safe and secure.

Mr. Speaker, with heartfelt gratitude and deep humility, I rise today in this 45th Parliament. I am truly honoured that the people of Mississauga East—Cooksville have entrusted me with the responsibility of serving them once again. Representing this vibrant and diverse community since 2003 has been one of the greatest honours of my life. I want to sincerely thank the dedicated volunteers and supporters of our campaign for their commitment to our community and country. I thank my loving wife, Christina, and our twin sons, Sebastien and Alexander. Their unwavering support and many sacrifices are at the heart of everything I do, and I am forever grateful. As an immigrant of Portuguese descent whose family's journey reflects the dreams of many, I join all Canadians in celebrating June as Portuguese Heritage Month, honouring the hard work, resilience and contributions of the community. Though challenges lie ahead, our path is clear: We must protect our sovereignty, ease the cost of living, keep our community safe and grow a strong, inclusive economy. Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 21st report of the Standing Committee on Finance entitled “Pre-Budget Consultations in Advance of the 2025 Budget”. I would like to thank our outstanding clerk, Alexandre Roger; analysts Michaël Lambert-Racine, Brett Capwell, Joëlle Malo and Mehrab Kiarsi; committee administrative assistant Lynda Gaudreault; Mélanie Therrien from the publications directorate; the whole team of interpreters, technology and staff of the committee; and, of course, all the members of the fabulous finance committee for their dedicated work on this study and report.

Madam Speaker, today, December 3, we celebrate Giving Tuesday, a global generosity movement for giving and volunteering. It is a day when charities, companies, community leaders and residents join together to support their favourite cause by fundraising, donating, volunteering and spreading the word. This Giving Tuesday across Canada, including in my hometown of Mississauga, volunteers and donors are helping organizations like Food Banks Mississauga make sure there is food on every table and the Luso Canadian Charitable Society make a difference in the lives of individuals living with disabilities, amongst many other great causes. I encourage everyone to join millions of Canadians this Giving Tuesday as we unite to make a difference. Today and every day, let us celebrate Canadian organizations in communities across Canada, including CanadaHelps, which founded Giving Tuesday in 2013 in Canada along with several other founding partners.

Madam Speaker, I am glad to speak to this important motion. This tax break for Canadians during the holiday season through Christmas will make a world of a difference. I sympathize with the Conservatives, who are being shackled and told they cannot vote for this measure for their constituents. They should stand up and support their constituents. They should support this important tax measure, this important bill. How will this measure positively affect the residents of Mississauga East—Cooksville?

Mr. Speaker, while the Leader of the Opposition silences and strong-arms his caucus into being his mouthpiece in their communities, our government is listening to Canadians. What are our neighbours telling me? They have told me that, while inflation is easing, life can still be challenging. They have also told me that our government has been there to support them through difficult times, but they are worried about the added costs of the upcoming holiday season. Could the Minister of Justice and Attorney General please tell us what our government is doing to put more money in the pockets of Canadians?

Mr. Speaker, members were elected to the chamber to represent all Canadian communities and to uphold our nation's sovereignty. Democracy belongs to everyone. However, the Conservative leader seems to fight only for Conservatives rather than for all Canadians, despite aspiring to become the prime minister. Obtaining a security clearance, staying informed and making decisions based on evidence rather than ideology is the responsible approach. However, the Conservative leader is still the only party leader who refuses to get his security clearance and to act on foreign interference in his own party. I ask the leader of the Conservative Party why he will not get his security clearance. Whom is he trying to protect? What does he have to hide?