Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, my colleague is once again asking me about the concrete measures we have put in place. We have a plan to double housing construction here in Canada, and we are starting to see concrete results. We are creating jobs nearly three times faster than the United States. Just last week, investors from around the world came to Toronto, and that is $500 billion of investment that we are going to bring back into this country.

Yes, Mr. Speaker, we are going to work on tax avoidance. That is a very important issue that the Prime Minister cares a lot about. My colleague is asking for real results. Canada has the strongest economic growth in the G7. We have created jobs three times faster than the United States, and we are leading the G7 when it comes to foreign investment. Thanks to our summit, we have $500 billion on the table from investors.

Mr. Speaker, since this summer, we have created more than 165,000 jobs here in Canada. In May alone, 88,000 jobs were created. If we look at the United States, for example, we see that Canada is creating jobs. The number of jobs created per capita in Canada is almost double that of the United States. It is great to see that so many Canadians are optimistic and have a positive outlook on the future.

Mr. Speaker, summer has arrived in Outremont, Mile End and the Plateau. I would like to say thanks to all our shopkeepers, restaurant owners, cafés and everyone who brings our shopping areas to life. Bernard Avenue is once again a pedestrian zone this year. Children are playing in the street, parents are enjoying the patios and everyone gets ice cream. Last week, I took part in a Mile End celebration, alongside thousands of people, thanks to the incredible work of the Laurier West BIA, the Mile End Business Association and, of course, Gabriel Dallaire and his entire team. This year, I was able to count on the invaluable help of my daughter Ellie to hand out lemonade and popcorn to residents. She rose to the challenge brilliantly. In the Plateau, the Rue Saint-Denis BIA and Pauline Béchu helped make the Montreal Comic Arts Festival a resounding success. On Mont-Royal Avenue, which is once again pedestrian only, the trade fair is in full swing until Sunday. This summer, support local businesses.

Mr. Speaker, we have many programs that are helping Canadians deal with the rising cost of living. In fact, next week Canadians will start to receive Canada's new groceries and essentials benefit. For a family of four, that is $1,900 this year. That is real money that is going to help Canadians face the rising cost of living. A few days ago, there was a poll released that shows that Canadians' optimism, their sense that Canada is moving in the right direction, is at its highest level in over a decade.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to share my time with my friend and colleague, the member for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas. I am very pleased to rise today to speak to Bill C-30, which implements certain measures from the 2026 spring economic update. As members are well aware, we are debating this bill at a pivotal moment for our country. Around the world, economic and geopolitical uncertainty has reached unprecedented levels. Global markets remain extremely volatile. Conflicts in the Middle East and Europe continue to disrupt supply chains. Global energy disruptions and trade tensions are on the rise. Protectionism is making a comeback. Around the world, economies continue to face significant instability. The world uncertainty index recently surged to its highest level ever recorded in its more than 60 years of history. Global growth remains very uneven. Trade tensions are on the rise. Geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East and in Europe continue to disrupt our supply chains and to create uncertainty in international markets. Many advanced economies are struggling with sluggish productivity growth, persistent inflationary pressures and rising debt burdens, and Canadians understand these global realities. However, as I spoke with many constituents over the course of the last few weeks, and many Canadians indeed across the country, the feeling that keeps coming across is one of optimism. People see the chaos unfolding around the world, and more than ever, they are proud to be Canadian. In fact, a recent poll released just a few days ago shows that the number of Canadians who believe that Canada, this country, is headed in the right direction is at its highest level in a decade. What Canadians expect from their federal government is seriousness, discipline and a clear economic path forward, and that is exactly what this government is delivering. The best way to ensure that Canada can weather this global wave of instability is by focusing on what we can control and building a strong economy here at home. The numbers speak for themselves. Wage growth has now outpaced inflation for more than three consecutive years, meaning Canadians are seeing sustained income growth. Inflation here in Canada has remained within the Bank of Canada's target range for two years now. In fact, inflation in Canada is now 26% lower than in the United States. Canada has the second-fastest growth rate in the G7 despite the trade war waged by the U.S. and continued global uncertainty, and according to the IMF, Canada is projected to remain the second-fastest growing economy in the G7 this year and next year. Since last summer, Canada has created over 77,000 jobs. Per capita, that is approximately two and a half times the pace of job creation in the United States. While the war in Iran and the resulting disruptions in global energy flows have significantly increased prices at the pump, our government has taken decisive action to mitigate those impacts for Canadians by suspending the federal excise taxes on fuel from now until Labour Day. Next Friday, 12 million Canadians will receive a one-time payment as part of the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. This means a payment of up to $267 for individuals and up to $533 for a family of four. This benefit represents nearly $1,900 this year. That is real money and a real boost for Canadians who need it most. Next Friday, 12 million Canadians will receive a top-up payment as part of our new groceries and essentials benefit. That means $267 for a single person and up to $533 for a family of four. We are talking about approximately $1,900 for the year. That is very tangible support that will make a real difference. Over the past year, we have announced 15 major projects of national interest and six transformative economic strategies that will generate over $125 billion in investments and support more than 60,000 jobs across the country. That includes the expansion of the Port of Montreal back home in Contrecoeur. It also includes Nouveau Monde Graphite's Matawinie mine in the Lanaudière region and the transformative high-speed rail project between Quebec City and Toronto. To meet this moment, we also need to ensure that Canada has the reliable and affordable electricity needed to power the economy of the future. Through our new national electricity strategy, we will double our electricity supply here in Canada while building a stronger, more interconnected electricity grid right across the country. This means accelerating investments in transmission infrastructure, clean power generation, energy storage and grid modernization, all so that Canadian businesses and workers have access to the affordable energy they need in order to compete and to grow. This is good for our environment, and it is good for our economy. Canada's electricity is some of the cleanest in the entire world, and it is key to attracting more investments in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and critical minerals and, of course, to ensuring the competitiveness of our economy overall. In the economic update, we are providing more than $13 billion in international climate finance. Although this investment received relatively little media attention, it was very important to me. It was also important to the Prime Minister. At a time when many countries, such as the United Kingdom and France, are cutting back on aid for climate protection, it is essential for all of us that Canada continue to show leadership, because climate change knows no borders, and helping the most vulnerable countries adapt and build their resilience is not only a moral responsibility for Canada, but also in our strategic interest. As we make these investments, we are fulfilling our commitment to reduce the government's operating spending. Since last fall, we have reduced the deficit by $11.5 billion. In fact, Canada continues to have the lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio in the G7. Canada has by far the strongest fiscal position of any G7 economy, as well as an AAA credit rating, the highest in the world. I am not saying this just to boast about the Canadian economy, but because this fiscal strength is essential. In a world marked by instability, countries with sound and solid public finances like Canada have the ability to act, invest, and protect their citizens. Canada is positioning itself to lead, and the world is taking notice. Foreign direct investment in Canada has reached its highest level in nearly two decades. Investors are choosing to invest here in Canada because of our skilled workforce, our stable institutions, our abundant natural resources and our responsible fiscal framework. That investment translates directly into jobs for Canadians, and it means new factories, new supply chains, new export opportunities and stronger economic sovereignty. We are also redoubling our efforts to diversify Canada's economy. In a world where supply chains are being reshaped and global trade is becoming more fragmented, Canada must expand its economic partnerships and open new markets for Canadian businesses. Our objective is as clear as it is ambitious: to double Canada's non-U.S. trade over the next decade. I have only a little time left but a lot to say. We simply cannot rely too heavily on any single market. That is why we have concluded over 20 new trade and security agreements on four different continents. Our non-U.S. exports are now up nearly 40%. That diversification makes Canada stronger and much more resilient. As the Prime Minister said very clearly at Davos, we know that “The old order is not coming back. We should not mourn it.”

Mr. Speaker, a few weeks ago, the Prime Minister announced our new electricity strategy and the beginning of consultations with stakeholders but also, importantly, with provinces and territories. We know electricity generation is done very differently from coast to coast to coast in this country. In Quebec, for example, we have incredible hydroelectricity, but that is not the case right across the country. What we have set forward is an ambitious objective. Certainly, with all of the natural resources we have in Canada, we can be the provider of clean electricity to countries around the world.

Mr. Speaker, it is true that in my speech I did not have the time to go into detail about the many housing measures in the economic update. Of course, first-time homebuyers will be able to benefit from the purchase of their first home being tax free. There are significant investments in order to create affordable housing, including rental units, right across the country. There is social housing as well. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the incredible leadership of the member for West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country when it comes to the $13 billion that we are investing in international climate financing, an issue I know he cares about very deeply.

Mr. Speaker, I would first like to thank the Bloc Québécois for introducing this motion on U.S. tariffs. I would especially like to thank my colleague from Joliette—Manawan, who is the sponsor of this motion. I have had the opportunity to work closely with him for many years and have always been impressed by his professionalism, pragmatism and kindness, even when we were in deep disagreement. It is clear that the unjustified tariffs imposed by the United States on Canadian metals directly affect workers, businesses and communities in Quebec and across the country. This is a very serious situation, and our government takes these measures very seriously. The imposition of tariffs on steel, aluminum and copper is not an abstract decision. These tariffs have very real consequences for business owners and workers in Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean and the north shore, as well as in Hamilton or Sault Ste. Marie, and for manufacturers and small and medium-sized businesses across the country. From the very beginning, from day one of these unjustified tariffs, our government has been working hand in hand with the Aluminum Association of Canada and the Canadian Steel Producers Association, with business leaders, yes, but also with workers and the entire aluminum and steel sector. That is why we are providing $1.5 billion in targeted support for affected businesses. This includes a new $1-billion program from the Business Development Bank of Canada to support liquidity and investment, as well as an additional $500 million to support businesses directly on the ground. We are providing $1.5 billion in targeted support for businesses affected by these tariffs. This support will help companies maintain operations, protect jobs and adapt in the face of disruptions. While we cannot control the decisions of the White House, we can control how we respond to them and how we prepare for our own future. Our approach is not only one of mitigation. It is also one of transformation. We are taking concrete steps to support those sectors most impacted, as we diversify our trade and increase our exports to reliable trading partners around the world. This work has been a major focus of our government over the last year, and we are already seeing concrete results. Canada's non‑U.S. exports are up nearly 40%. Our aluminum exports, in particular to Europe, have surged as producers pivot to new markets. Canadian businesses are demonstrating incredible resilience, adaptability and ambition, and our government is backing them every step of the way. We are accelerating investments in strategic sectors and strengthening Canada's economic sovereignty. As part of this work, Canada has now concluded 56 different critical mineral agreements with over 10 different countries, positioning Canada as a global leader in the economy of the future. Canada has also signed over 20 different trade and security agreements across our four continents over the last year, strengthening our ties with trusted allies and opening new markets for Canadian businesses. As we work to diversify, we continue to engage constructively with our American partners to seek a fair and sustainable agreement that benefits both our economies. I believe that my colleague, the member for Burlington, will be sharing time with me, as she would also like to contribute to this debate. Let us be very clear that, as the Prime Minister has said, “We need a good deal...what we don't need is chasing a small deal that disadvantages us.” The risks of such an approach are very plain to see. Just last week, the United States announced significant new tariffs on European goods, despite the EU's having signed a tariff deal with the U.S. on July 27, 2025. That is a clear warning. A deal must be worth the paper it is written on. Canadians expect their government to stand firm and to protect their interests, and that is exactly what we are doing. As we respond to this trade war, we are also building a stronger and more resilient economy at home. We are already seeing a rise of nearly 40% in non‑U.S. exports. We are investing in the economy of tomorrow while supporting Canadians during this very difficult transition period. We have also strengthened our social safety net. Employment insurance is more flexible, with temporary measures to support workers impacted by these tariffs, including extended benefits and faster access. We have also enhanced the work-sharing programs to help employers retain their workforce and avoid layoffs. We are also advancing a game-changing defence industrial strategy, one that will boost economic growth, create high-quality jobs and reinforce Canada's sovereignty in an increasingly uncertain world. Our leadership is being recognized internationally, and I am proud to state that Canada has just been chosen, through a unanimous vote, to host the new defence, security and resilience bank, reflecting the confidence of our allies in Canada's stability, credibility and economic strength. If we are fighting so hard to protect our sovereignty and to build our economy stronger, it is because we believe in Canada and in the values that define us as a country and as Canadians. That is why we introduced a climate competitiveness strategy, ensuring that Canadian industries remain leaders in low-carbon production. Canadian aluminum, for example, is among the cleanest in the world. That is a competitive advantage, and we intend to build on it. Our country's greatest riches are in its people and in its land. We are investing in training and in the talent that thrives in every single Canadian. We are also investing in the beauty and in the biodiversity of our land. We are providing $4 billion for a historic nature strategy to protect and strengthen Canada's natural infrastructure. This strategy supports new protected areas while also mobilizing and protecting more money for national parks and urban green spaces, and supporting indigenous leadership in conservation. This is how we build a more resilient, competitive and sustainable economy for Canada and for our children. We are putting nearly $4 billion on the table for a historic strategy to protect nature because Canada's wealth depends as much on its lands as it does on its talent. This investment will support conservation projects across the country and help build a more resilient, competitive and sustainable economy. Protecting nature also means building a sustainable and resilient economy. To conclude, in the face of this trade war, Canada is taking decisive action. We are supporting our workers, we are standing up for our industries, we are diversifying our trade, we are strengthening our alliances and, most importantly, we are standing united against this threat. As a proud Quebecker and proud Montrealer, I would be remiss if I did not mention the Montreal Canadiens' victory in game 7 against the Tampa Bay Lightning last Sunday. In this long-standing rivalry with our neighbour and largest trading partner, this time the result was conclusive and certainly satisfying. The Montreal Canadiens reminded us that when Canada plays with determination, discipline and trust, we can do great things. We know how to win.

Mr. Speaker, the member raised affordability concerns in his riding. He should let his constituents know that they will be receiving a cheque for the Canadian groceries and essentials benefit in a few weeks' time. It is an important measure by our government that will support the most vulnerable Canadians across the country. With respect to tariffs, just yesterday we announced $1.5 billion in order to support the sectors that have been hit particularly hard by these tariffs. This will ensure that companies can retain their employees to see them through this difficult time in order to continue to grow as they export to new partners.

Mr. Speaker, respect for areas of jurisdiction is obviously very important. The Premier of Quebec met with our Prime Minister within hours of his taking office. It was very important for our Prime Minister to ensure that he was responsive to Quebec's requests. We have put forward several measures in our budget. We made it quite clear, both to the Quebec government and to the Bloc Québécois, that we would work hand in hand with Quebec on the programs it wishes to advance itself. It will receive the negotiated funds as usual. Our deputy is working with his counterpart in Quebec to that end.

Mr. Speaker, that is a very large question to respond to in a very short period of time. What we need to get is a good deal, and we are working with our American partners in order to get to that deal. We are in constant communication and are confident that at the end of the day Canada will get a great deal. It is important for us also, in parallel, as we are doing, to advance the major projects that will help build this country. I am very proud of the projects we are working on, including our high-speed train, including expanding the port of Montreal and including the port of Churchill. I could go on and on about this topic.

Mr. Speaker, it is true. As of today, we are suspending the federal excise tax on gasoline, which will give struggling Canadians a little more breathing room. We also just announced that, on June 5, Canadians will receive a one-time Canada groceries and essentials benefit payment. That is a cheque of up to $530 per family. We are there for Canadians. We know that Canadians need us, and our government is there for them.

Mr. Speaker, our government has a plan to double housing construction across the country. That plan is stuck at the finance committee because Conservatives like to complain about young people not having a home to buy. However, when the solution is right in front of them, they obstruct and they block the progress of our bills. We are going to double housing construction in this country, and we will do it with or without the Conservatives.

Mr. Speaker, when the Prime Minister and our entire caucus was in Alberta, we heard about the need to move quicker on the construction of homebuilding, and that is what we are delivering. Our plan will double construction for homes right across this country, for rental and for purchase, and it is going to respond to the needs of the youth of Canada. Our plan is stuck because the Conservatives refuse to move it out of the finance committee. When will the Conservatives stop talking and start acting in order to help us build this country?

Mr. Speaker, a family of four may receive over $1,800 through our new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. That will help families and households make ends meet at the end of the month. It is true. We have seen the statistics that show that one in five households has trouble paying their rent, so I am wondering why the Conservatives are blocking the work of Build Canada Homes. Why do the Conservatives want to block our new benefit for Canadians?

Mr. Speaker, let us be clear. The Conservatives are crying crocodile tears. They complain that Canadians are struggling to make ends meet. However, they vote against Canadians' interests. We have the Canada child benefit, which is indexed to inflation, but the Conservatives do not like this program. They voted against it. We have the dental care program for children and for seniors who are struggling, but the Conservatives voted against that too. They want nothing to do with that program because it helps Canadians. Let us be frank. The Conservatives do not have Canadians' best interests at heart.

Mr. Speaker, the minister has answered that question a number of times already today. What is clear to me is that the Conservative Party members do not see the need to be investing in our economy. We put forward a plan in the form of a budget, and that budget would see over $50 billion going straight into the community of each and every member of Parliament in this room. It would create community centres and recreational centres. It would create local infrastructure that would benefit Canadian families from coast to coast to coast, and the Conservatives seem to be against everything that is good for Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, that Conservative member talks about food prices, yet he voted against making the national school food program permanent. That is a program that helps young people, that helps school-aged children eat food in order to learn better. This morning I made an announcement at a women's shelter in Montreal that our government has funded in order to help women find a secure and safe place to call home. The Conservatives are against supporting our frontline workers, whether it is in the food industry or whether it is our shelters—

Mr. Speaker, I think we have said a number of times that the Conservatives are talking about imaginary taxes. Inflation is actually dropping here in Canada. We are here to meet the needs of Canadians, yet the Conservative Party has voted against all the measures in the budget that are going to help people make ends meet, including our school food program, which is going to help kids. It seems unbelievable.

Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise today to speak about Bill C‑15. I want to begin by acknowledging that today is November 25. Like every year, today marks the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women. I must stress the importance of our efforts to address violence against women, including domestic violence. In an increasingly uncertain world, it is up to us to adapt our economy, strengthen our supply chains and adapt to the new geopolitical reality of uncertainty. Budget 2025 provides a plan for building a stronger, safer, more resilient Canada. The budget implementation act would make strategic investments in our country to build out our economy to build out our infrastructure, protect Canadian jobs, protect our Arctic, protect our national sovereignty and empower Canadians to think bigger, to grow bigger and to realize their full potential. The legislation would, for example, double the pace of affordable homebuilding over the next decade through the new Build Canada Homes. This unprecedented investment in housing construction in budget 2025 constitutes the most ambitious plan for housing in a generation. When I think of our plan to build strategic national infrastructure and when I envision the Canada of tomorrow, I think of our high-speed rail project linking Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City. It involves building Canada's first real high-speed train, capable of reaching speeds of 300 kilometres an hour or more, on nearly 1,000 kilometres of new dedicated, fully electrified tracks in the country's most densely populated corridor, home to roughly 18 million Canadians. With the bill before the House, we are taking a decisive step toward building this modern, clean and fast network; it is future-oriented infrastructure that will forever transform how we travel. About 10 days ago, I stood alongside the Prime Minister to inaugurate the main segment of another train, our magnificent REM, which now connects the south shore to the north shore, passing through downtown Montreal and the middle of my riding of Outremont at Édouard Montpetit station. With a top speed of 100 kilometres an hour, it is not quite the 300 kilometres an hour of the future high-speed train, but it is truly a transformative project that has been supported from day one by the federal government and represents the biggest expansion of public transit in Quebec in over half a century. Our national strategy to modernize our modes of transportation, from the REM to the future high-speed rail, is closely tied to our climate competitiveness strategy. The fight against climate change is not just a moral obligation, but it is also an economic imperative. Investments in clean energy are already outpacing investments in fossil fuels. The clean-tech market is set to triple within 10 years. Our government remains fully committed to meeting our greenhouse gas reduction targets. Our bill strengthens this commitment by improving and expanding the suite of investment tax credits that support clean technologies and clean manufacturing, providing Canadian businesses with the certainty they need to invest and innovate. Our budget strengthens Canada's climate competitiveness by enhancing industrial carbon pricing with a long-term price trajectory; strengthening methane regulations for the oil, gas and landfill sectors; updating clean electricity and clean fuel standards; and incentivizing clean-tech investments. The legislation before the House would ensure that it is Canadian workers who will build the clean industries the world is demanding from us. Building out a clean economy means investing in the next generation of workers who are going to power it. I was proud to join the Minister of Environment last Saturday in Mile End in my riding to confirm and to celebrate the launch of Canada's first-ever youth climate corps, an initiative championed by so many people across the country, so many young people in particular. I want to stop to thank Climate Action Network for its passionate and professional advocacy. A year ago, just outside this chamber, outside those doors, I met with a young constituent of mine named Shir, who had travelled all the way to Ottawa from my riding to push for this very idea. Back then, it was just that, an idea. Many conversations later with Malaika, Bushra, Caroline Brouillette, their executive director, and so many more, it is here in black and white, in the federal budget. It is a new program for youth job placement, for skills training, for concrete and real action on climate created by young Canadians, for young Canadians. To all the young people in our country who have an idea, who care about an issue, the youth climate corps was the dream of a few and then the dream of many; now it is a national program in this country. We should never underestimate the power of one. We should never underestimate what can be accomplished here in Canada. I will now very quickly address research innovation and entrepreneurship. The business community has rightly hailed the scope and potential of our new productivity superdeduction, designed to make it more attractive for businesses to invest in machinery and equipment, in technology and productivity-enhancing assets. I also want to highlight two other measures that did not get as much airtime. First, the legislation before us would deliver a major expansion to the SR&ED tax credit, the scientific research and experimental development tax incentive. This tax credit encourages Canadian innovators to develop and commercialize cutting-edge ideas here at home. Our small and medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs have asked us to expand this fabulous program, which they rely on, and the federal government has listened. Another piece that is critical to our economic growth in the new economy is to build Canadian intellectual property. Strong IP is essential to building Canadian innovation that competes and wins on the global stage. That is why our federal government is extending support for Canada's entrepreneurs to secure patents, helping small businesses leverage and commercialize their intangible assets and ensuring that our businesses can protect their IP in global markets. We are also launching a comprehensive review of Canada's IP performance to strengthen our capacity to turn Canadian ideas into Canadian wealth. In short, we are making sure that when Canadians invent the future, Canadians own it and Canadians reap the benefit from it. The budget also cracks down on financial fraud and scams, and it implements open banking to give consumers more control over their financial data. It is a little-known fact, but one measure that will have an impact on many vulnerable Canadians in this country is that the legislation before us would increase the amount immediately available after depositing a cheque from $100 to $150. The bill before the House also reaffirms the key role that culture plays as a vital driving force behind our collective identity. Our government is there to support our artists, our creators, our authors, our musicians and all of our cultural industries so that they can keep telling our stories and be the voice of Canadians at home and abroad. What immediately comes to my mind is the power of music to bring people together, to connect regions and generations, and to remind us of everything that unites us. The Canada Music Fund plays a particularly important role in this regard. It is administered in part by Musicaction, an outstanding organization based in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, in my riding, which supports homegrown talent and propels them to reach new heights. I look forward to celebrating the tens of millions of dollars in federal government funding that Musicaction is going to receive. Our message is clear: To invest in culture is to invest in what Canada is all about. I will end by saying that this is more than a budget or a piece of implementing legislation. It is a decision to throw down the gloves and build this country; to build the housing, the high-speed rail and the infrastructure; to protect the vulnerable, our innovation through IP, our borders and our sovereignty through a new defence industrial strategy; and to empower consumers through greater choice, empower entrepreneurs to grow and innovate, empower the business community to invest here and, yes, empower young people to dream in a Canada where absolutely anything is possible.

Mr. Speaker, I think this is the first time I have heard the Bloc Québécois talk about the significant investment we have made in culture in this budget. This is very important, and it should be noted that the Quebec caucus, which now has 44 members, worked hard to secure these investments in culture. My colleague referred to local media. That is certainly something to be considered. However, let us talk about the investments in CBC/Radio-Canada, as well as those in Musicaction, which I discussed in my speech, not to mention the many theatres and live art shows that will benefit from the investments in this budget. I think we have been clear. The government has listened to Quebeckers when it comes to investments in culture.

Mr. Speaker, Waterloo, in many ways, resembles a piece of my riding in the Mile End, which has enormous potential for economic growth because it contains so many small start-ups and so much new innovation. The budget really answers the call for those entrepreneurs and those individuals who want to be part of the economy of the future. The productivity superdeduction is there, of course, but there are also a lot of smaller measures that are going to help small businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the country in order to develop their ideas and in order to protect their ideas. As I mentioned and the member mentioned, Canadian intellectual property is extremely important, and we are going to build that out in order to ensure that Canadians own the ideas of the future.

Mr. Speaker, with regard to (a), the Clerk of the Privy Council Office was the highest-ranking official who approved the campaign. With regard to (b), the Clerk of the Privy council approved the campaign on March 17, 2025. With regard to (c)(i), digital Advertising purchased programmatically including static, audio, video and connected television advertisements were scheduled to begin on March 21, 2025. Social Media Advertising on Meta, TikTok, Snapchat and Reddit were scheduled to begin on March 24, 2025. With regard to (c)(ii), programmatic advertisements went live on March 21, 2025, and social media advertising went live on March 24, 2025, apart from Meta advertisements, which went live on March 26, 2025, due to a technical issue. With regard to (d), the Policy on Communications and Federal Identity allows deputy heads of departments to approve specific types of advertising to proceed during general federal elections. The Clerk of the Privy Council is the Deputy Head of PCO. He approved the continuation of the Choose Canada campaign during the 2025 federal election on March 17, 2025. With regard to (e), no steps were taken to suspend the campaign, as the Clerk of the Privy Council had previously provided approval for the campaign to continue during a federal election. With regard to (f), the first phase of the campaign ended March 31, 2025. Lastly, with regard to (g), the total net expenditure of this campaign is $2,517,000. This figure includes production costs, media costs and fees. Following the completion of the media agency’s billing reconciliation, additional credits may be received which could impact this figure.

Mr. Speaker, in response to part (a) of the question about who in the Office of the Prime Minister or the Privy Council Office is responsible for ensuring that the Prime Minister abides by the terms of the screen, the Prime Minister’s conflict of interest screen is administered by the Prime Minister’s Chief of Staff and by the Clerk of the Privy Council. The administrators ensure that the Prime Minister is not made aware of, and does not participate in, a decision or matter for which the screen applies. In response to part (b) regarding the date on which the screen was implemented, the Prime Minister placed all of his financial assets, other than personal real estate, into a blind trust, which was submitted to the Commissioner on March 9. His team delivered a full and robust conflict-of-interest management plan on that same timeline. It has been implemented since that time. The Prime Minister’s finalized screen was dated July 10 and publicly disseminated on July 11, 2025. In response to part (c) of the question on what day the Prime Minister notified the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner that the screen was in force, in collaboration with the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner, a preliminary screen was put in place shortly following the Prime Minister being initially sworn into office in March, and then further refined. The Prime Minister’s finalized screen was dated July 10, 2025, and publicly disseminated on Friday, July 11, 2025. Point (d) of the question asks what specific measures are in place to ensure that any actions taken by the Prime Minister do not directly benefit Brookfield Corporation, Brookfield Asset Management, or any other Brookfield entity. To support the Clerk in his role as one of the administrators, the Privy Council Office, in consultation with the office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner, has developed a process for identifying matters that could be subject to the screen. Where appropriate, the screen administrators may directly consult the Commissioner, and if the screen administrators and the Commissioner agree, the screen must be applied. All products subject to the screen will be marked as such and not provided to the Prime Minister.Where the screen applies, the matter will be referred to another minister. Where the screen is applied to a matter for discussion/decision by Cabinet or Cabinet committees chaired by the Prime Minister, the Vice-Chair will assume the role of Chair for any matters covered by the screen. Recusal under the Conflict of Interest Act requires the Prime Minister to remove himself physically or virtually from the meeting or discussion where the matter is being decided. If the Prime Minister recuses himself from a discussion, he must make a public declaration of the recusal to the office of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner within 60 days after the day on which the recusal took place. Part (e) of the question asks which other corporate entities, other than Brookfield, are covered by measures contained in the screen. The finalized screen applies to a list of companies detailed in Annex A of the screen.

Mr. Speaker, I think it is rather clear that the Bloc Québécois is against tax cuts. If my colleagues had read the economic update, they would have seen that we created over 330,000 well-paid jobs across Canada. Canada has seen the highest wage growth in the G7. Canadians are cashing paycheques that are 5% bigger, even taking into account inflation. We are making sure that Canadians' paycheques are getting bigger.

Mr. Speaker, the fall economic statement that we tabled yesterday is about growth. It is about investing in our business community and in our economy. The accelerated capital cost allowance will ensure that Canadian businesses stay on this side of the border, that they stay in Canada and that our creation of jobs will continue to increase. Last year alone, 330,000 jobs were created, and these are good-paying jobs. Even when accounting for inflation, salaries have risen by 5%, which is the highest in the G7. We are ensuring that Canadians bring home stronger paycheques and better jobs.

Mr. Speaker, while the Conservatives are focused on this soap-opera Parliament Hill grapevine gossip, our Liberal government has been focused on the pocketbooks of Canadians. Inflation is way down, at 2%. The Governor of the Bank of Canada confirmed yesterday that it is going to stay at about 2% for the next few years. Interest rates are way down. We saw another jumbo rate cut yesterday, which means more money in the pockets of Canadians because they are going to be able to renegotiate their mortgage at a lower rate. We are going to be able to help all Canadians who have loans, and our small businesses and entrepreneurs are going to see costs going down.

Mr. Speaker, it seems we have lost decorum in the House in part because the Conservatives have been attacking female elected representatives, women in the House who represent women and men across the country proudly. If the Conservatives are really interested in asking questions of the economy, I do have answers for them. Yesterday, the Bank of Canada lowered interest rates yet again, making it easier on Canadians to buy a new home, making it easier on families that need to renew their mortgage, making it easier on Canadians who have loans. We are keeping our eye on the ball. We are keeping our eye on the interests of Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, listening to the Conservatives today, we would think that the Conservative Party of Canada wanted interest rates to be higher. We would think the Conservatives want inflation to be higher, listening to their talking points today in the House of Commons. We have invested in Canadians and we have invested wisely. We have ensured that 110,000 more Canadian women have entered the workforce thanks to our early learning and child care program. This has saved families nearly 30% in child care. It has also created $32 billion of greater wealth in our economy. We are growing the economy and we are doing it wisely.

Mr. Speaker, the Conservatives appear to be asking questions about the state of the economy, but they are desperate to deny the fact that, just yesterday, the Bank of Canada lowered interest rates to help all Canadians. That is good news. It will make life more affordable for families who need to renew their mortgages. It will mean lower costs for our SMEs and our entrepreneurs. It will help young people who are purchasing their first home.

Mr. Speaker, it is interesting that the Conservative member chose to talk about bullying in his question after today's question period has been fraught with bullying from Conservative members. To get back to what is important to Canadians, I would like to talk about the economy. When looking at the numbers, we can see that consumer confidence is up. We see consumer spending is up. Folks are looking forward to the tax holiday that is also coming up. On Saturday, we will be removing federal taxes, removing the GST from everyday goods, in order to help Canadians with a tax cut I know they need.

Mr. Speaker, it has been 35 years since the massacre at École Polytechnique. As I do every year, I will be joining my community on Mount Royal to commemorate and honour the 14 women whose lives were stolen simply because they were women. The advocacy of survivors like Nathalie Provost and the members of PolyRemembers continues to inspire and encourage us to strengthen gun control across the country. Especially on a day like today, and today in particular, I rise in the House of Commons to thank PolyRemembers for their determination. Our government is committed to fighting gun violence. We have taken historic steps to ban assault weapons like the one used in the femicide at Polytechnique, and we are working tirelessly to curb the scourge of gender-based violence. Fourteen young women were taken from us 35 years ago. We will never forget them. We owe it to them and to all victims of gun violence to continue this fight.

Mr. Speaker, this feigned sympathy and these crocodile tears on behalf of the Conservatives are fooling no Canadian. When the Conservatives had the opportunity to support measures that would help Canadians, measures like cutting their taxes, they opposed them. When we proposed a school food program that is going to help feed thousands of children across the country in their schools, they opposed it. Every time we try to help Canadians, Conservatives stand up and oppose that help. Let us be clear. The Conservative leader does not have the interests of Canadians at heart.

Mr. Speaker, we have the lowest deficit of all our G7 peers. We also have the lowest debt-to-GDP ratio. It will be our pleasure to present a fall economic statement, so all Canadians can see what the books look like, including the Conservative Party. However, we also need to support Canadians. We also need to have affordability measures. That is why we are cutting taxes for Canadians. We are giving Canadians a tax break, and the Conservatives have no explanation for why they want to deny Canadians a tax holiday.

Mr. Speaker, I am quite disappointed in the Conservative member opposite. He should know what the definition of a recession is. We have not even had a single quarter of negative growth. In fact, Statistics Canada just revised our growth numbers upward for the last three years. The Conservatives would like to quote former governors of the Bank of Canada. I have got one. David Dodge said, “because [the Conservative Party] was obsessively focused on reducing the federal deficit [between 2011 and 2015], the Harper government unnecessarily contributed to a slower, rather more muted recovery”. This Liberal government has ensured a very strong recovery, the strongest in the G7.

The Canada emergency business account, or CEBA, helped countless SMEs in Quebec and across Canada avoid bankruptcy. It is thanks to CEBA that workers were able to get their paycheques. I am not surprised that the Bloc Québécois is rising in the House four years later. Perhaps they want to change the channel because, last week, they voted against a tax holiday. I am not making this up. The Bloc Québécois decided to vote against measures that would make life easier for Canadians, especially during the holiday season.

Mr. Speaker, giving a tax break to Canadians is real. When parents pay for their kids' Christmas presents at the cash register, they are not going to pay GST. People at the cash register at the grocery store are not going to pay GST on everyday items. When they go to restaurants, they will not pay it either. This is real money back in the pockets of Canadians. The Conservatives talk about vulnerable Canadians having a rough time but vote against support for Canadians on every single occasion. They stand up in the House to oppose a tax break. They are opposing a tax cut. The Conservative Party of Canada has lost all sense.

Mr. Speaker, I think the member is misreading the numbers. Statistics Canada just revealed that it needed to revise the GDP numbers upward for the last three years. Canada is expected to have the highest GDP growth in all of the G7 next year. I think the Conservatives are trying to change the channel. Just a few days ago, they opposed a tax break. They opposed cutting the GST from everyday goods for Canadians, and they do not know how to explain it.

Mr. Speaker, my colleague opposite knows very well that our government has done the most in order to ensure tax fairness throughout the country. We have acted in order to ensure that the very wealthy pay their fair share. We are helping vulnerable Canadians who need our support, as well as working Canadians. Working Canadians are going to receive a cheque in the spring, and I certainly hope that the NDP will support it.