Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, as the leaves turn and children head back to school, fall has officially arrived. This summer, I had the privilege of connecting with families across my riding at our community barbecue and ice cream socials and on their doorsteps. As we return to Ottawa, their priorities are my driving force. Our constituents are watching our relationship with the United States very closely. Under the leadership of the Prime Minister, our government stood firm and walked away from a deal that surrendered too much. We remain ready to negotiate, but never at the expense of Canadian jobs or Canadian sovereignty. Instead, we are actively diversifying our trade to grow a resilient economy and seeking deeper partnerships with our allies. Closer to home, we are tackling affordability head-on, building more homes people can afford, eliminating the excise tax on gas and lowering grocery prices. Together, we will build Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to present petition e-7435, signed by 3,308 Canadians, concerning the lengthy processing delays for African refugees. The petitioners note that reports from the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration, the Auditor General and the Canadian Council for Refugees have documented inappropriately long processing times and significant backlogs affecting African refugee applicants. They express concern that these delays place vulnerable individuals at continued risk and undermine Canada's refugee protection commitments. The petitioners call on the government to take action by addressing the existing African refugee backlog, including prioritizing those people displaced by the conflict in Sudan, and by establishing clear service standards, equitable resourcing and emergency measures for refugees facing immediate danger.

Mr. Speaker, June is Filipino Heritage Month in Canada, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture and contributions of Filipino Canadians to communities across the country. Since the arrival of the first Filipino immigrants, generations have helped shape Canada's social, economic, cultural and political landscape through their hard work, resilience and commitment to service. Filipino Heritage Month provides an opportunity to honour the vibrant traditions, languages, arts and values that form an important part of Canada's multicultural identity. It is also a chance to reflect on the achievements of Filipino Canadians in every field, while acknowledging the challenges many have overcome in building new lives and stronger communities here in Canada. As we celebrate this month, let us recognize the enduring contributions of Filipino Canadians and reaffirm our commitment to inclusion, diversity and mutual understanding. Mabuhay, Canada. Mabuhay, Philippines.

Mr. Speaker, on the weekend, the Pakistani community in Canada lost a giant with the passing of Khalid Usman, and for me, he was Khalid Bhai. A friend and mentor to so many, he always had a smile on his face and never lost his sense of humour. A Markham city councillor for 14 years, he lived a life of public service and gave back to the community in so many ways. As a dedicated philanthropist, he raised millions for charity, including Markham Stouffville Hospital and Shaukat Khanum, a cancer hospital in Pakistan. For Canadians of Pakistani origin, he was a trailblazer, showing us what a career and a life dedicated to building a better Canada could be. I appreciated his encouragement and support from the earliest days of my career. My prayers are with his wife, Dr. Abida Khalid, his three daughters, Hina, Rabia and Maria, his grandchildren and all the extended family members, and all those whose lives he touched. May Allah grant him the highest place in Jannah. Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji'un.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to invite everyone to join us tonight as the Canada-Palestine Parliamentary Friendship Group and the Association of Palestinian Arab Canadians celebrate the 10th annual Palestine Day on the Hill. This year's theme, “Root to Justice”, highlights the deep connection Palestinians have to their homeland and the importance of dignity, rights and belonging. It also reflects on the challenges of dispossession and hardship, emphasizing that the pursuit of justice must be shared by communities, allies and policy-makers working toward a meaningful and constructive engagement. This is the first Palestine Day on the Hill since Canada recognized the state of Palestine. It is an opportunity for reflection on the progress made and the work that remains to support peace, justice and mutual understanding. Whatever our background or our faith, we can all work together to build a world where everyone lives in peace, security and harmony.

Mr. Speaker, I recently had the opportunity to meet Superintendent Locke and Sergeant Peterson of the Toronto Police Service 33 Division, join a ride-along and see first-hand the important work our officers do every day to keep our community safe. Given heightened tensions, local police are increasing patrols around places of worship. We visited Temple Emanu-El synagogue, which faced multiple gunshots last month. Whether at a mosque, synagogue, church or gurdwara, everyone should be able to practice their faith in peace and safety. I am grateful for the dedication of officers in protecting residents and responding to incidents with care and diligence. I ask my colleagues to join me in thanking our frontline police officers, firefighters and other first responders for their hard work to keep our communities safe.

Mr. Speaker, at a time when girls and women in Afghanistan are being denied the basic right to education, Canadians are stepping up to help. The Ottawa-Kabul Global Education Centre, a Canadian registered not-for-profit founded in 2024, is working to restore educational opportunities for Afghan girls and women forced out of classrooms. Through a fully online academic ecosystem, the organization now supports more than 18,000 students, including over 7,000 former female medical students continuing their studies with volunteer professors from around the world. With over 900 educators and professionals, many Canadians are helping ensure these young women can continue their education and pursue their careers in fields such as medicine, nursing and public health. This initiative reflects the best of Canadian compassion, leadership and commitment to gender equality. I would like to recognize the volunteers and leaders behind this important work, many of whom are from Scarborough, and thank them for standing with Afghan girls and women.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present petition e-7167, signed by nearly 5,000 Canadians from coast to coast to coast. They draw our attention to the fact that Israel has suspended 37 international humanitarian organizations operating in Palestine, including Canadian-based organizations such as Oxfam-Québec. They note that this severely impacts aid and medical services for Gaza. They call on the Government of Canada to respond to this expulsion of humanitarian aid groups from Palestine by publicly condemning, as unlawful, Israeli and U.S. sanctions against Palestinian human rights organizations; to ensure the safe and uninterrupted passage of humanitarian aid to Gaza; to provide all necessary support to UNRWA; to revoke the status of Canadian charities and other entities supporting illegal settlements on Palestinian territory and Israeli military infrastructure; and to co-operate in forcing International Criminal Court arrest warrants.

Madam Speaker, I rise today in support of Bill C-233, the no more loopholes act. Introduced by my colleague the hon. member for Vancouver East, the bill seeks to amend the Export and Import Permits Act to close dangerous loopholes in Canada's arms export regime, loopholes that leave us complicit in human rights abuses abroad. At its core, the bill is about consistency, accountability and conscience. It is about ensuring that Canada lives up to its international obligations and that our industries act responsibly within the global defence trade. The bill is not anti-industry, and it is not anti Canada's defence sector, but it is anti complicity in violence against civilians. It is pro human rights, pro social justice and pro principled global leadership. Let us be clear that Canada already has strong export controls intended to prevent military exports from contributing to human rights abuses or violations of international humanitarian law. Under the Export and Import Permits Act, exporters are generally required to obtain a permit after a risk assessment. If a substantial risk exists that an export could contribute to human rights violations, the export must be refused, but there is a loophole and a large one, which is that Canada's current system exempts most exports destined for the United States from meaningful permit requirements. Because of this, hundreds of Canadian-made military components, ammunition, aircraft parts and explosive materials cross the border with no individual risk assessment, no transparency and no public reporting. Once in the U.S., these Canadian components can be, and have been, incorporated into weapons systems used in conflicts where civilians have been killed or injured. Independent reports have traced Canadian-origin components into U.S. facilities and then onward to militaries engaged in hostilities with documented civilian harm, notably in the Middle East. The so-called U.S. loophole thus enables a pipeline by which Canadian arms can travel into contexts that we as Canadians would never knowingly support. This is not political theatre; it is a documented reality. Canada is a signatory to the Arms Trade Treaty, which prohibits exports of conventional arms if there is a substantial risk that they will be used to commit serious violations of international human rights or humanitarian law, yet our regulatory framework, with its blanket exemption for U.S.-bound shipments, is out of step not only with Canada's international obligations but also with global standards. We have legal obligations under international law, not just of intent, but of due diligence, risk assessment, end-use monitoring and transparency. Without these safeguards, the very values we espouse, such as human dignity, the protection of civilians and international justice, are hollow. Let us be honest. We should not profit from war, repression or attacks on civilians anywhere in the world. Whether the suffering is in Gaza, Yemen or elsewhere, it matters. Human rights are not situational, and they should least of all be overridden by an arbitrary geographic exemption. Opponents of Bill C-233 have claimed that closing the loopholes would decimate Canada's defence industry or jeopardize our economic relationships. I reject that framing. Bill C-233 would not impede production, innovation or legitimate defence trade. It would simply ensure that Canadian goods destined for the United States receive the same due diligence of permit requirements, risk assessments and reporting as goods going to other destinations. Industry thrives on predictability, trust and a reputation of integrity. Strengthening our export controls and aligning them with international partners would enhance confidence in Canadian products. Many of our allies already apply similar controls to U.S.-bound exports. Canada's current practices are the outer, not the global, norm. Jobs are not at risk here. What is at stake is our moral authority and Canada's global brand as a principled exporter. There is room in this Parliament to simultaneously support both Canadian industry and human rights, and this bill strikes that balance. Let me bring this principle closer to home. Recently, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement awarded a contract to a Canadian firm to buy 20 armoured tactical vehicles built to withstand bullets and blast effects, and there was no robust Canadian oversight of their end use. This is more than an abstract trade detail. ICE is not a combat military force. It is a law enforcement agency with a documented history of enforcement practices that harm civilians, including migrants and vulnerable communities. These armoured vehicle have been deployed in ways that raise serious human rights questions, yet under our current framework, these sales can proceed with minimum transparency or human rights scrutiny. This example illustrates the broader point that Canadian products should not be exported in ways that contribute to violence, repression or human rights abuses, whether abroad or within communities in North America. We are a country that has historically championed refugee protections, human dignity and equitable justice. That legacy is undermined when our goods are put to harm in contexts that we ourselves would reject. I want to underscore an important point about context. The political, economic and security environment in which Canada's arms export regime was first structured has shifted dramatically. As the Prime Minister has noted, “The old relationship we had with the U.S. based on deepening integration of our economies and tight security and military co-operation is over.” In other words, the assumption that we can treat U.S.-bound military exports differently from all other reflects a bygone era, an era that predates the protectionist trade actions and broader geopolitical shifts under the current U.S. administration. This raises a vital question: Is the America of today the same America that justified this exemption? If it is not, then surely Canada should not anchor its export control policy on absolute premises. Closing this loophole would strengthen Canadian sovereignty and align our foreign policy instruments with contemporary realities. Bill C-233 would help ensure that Canadian exports, including those that could find their way into law enforcement operations abroad, are subject to meaningful human rights, due diligence and end-use monitoring. Another core strength of this bill is its commitment to transparency. Right now, data on U.S.-bound military exports are not publicly reported and are tracked only when permits are required, leaving large swaths of the Canadian arms trade opaque. There is no public record of end-users or risk assessments for most of the U.S.-bound exports. Bill C-233 would require elimination of country-based exemptions and ensure meaningful risk assessments on all exports, end-use certificates to prevent diversion to human rights abuses and increased parliamentary reporting on Canada's compliance with the Arms Trade Treaty. These are not radical reforms; they are responsible governance. They are reforms that would enhance public trust and ensure that Parliament has oversight over how Canadian goods are used around the world. In supporting this bill, we are affirming that Canada will not consign its moral compass to convenient legal loopholes. We are saying that human rights matter more than trade loopholes, that social justice matters more than export exemptions and that Canadian industry can and should flourish without being implicated in violence against innocent civilians. We are also strengthening Canada's credibility on the global stage, particularly among other nations that have already implemented similar safeguards and view human rights compliance as integral to defence trade. This is not about isolationism. It is about principled engagement. It is about making sure that when Canada says never again, we mean it, not just in rhetoric, but in law.

Mr. Speaker, as we observe the blessed month of Ramadan, I rise to reflect on its enduring values of compassion, self-discipline and service to others. Ramadan is a time when Muslims recommit to justice, generosity and care for the vulnerable, principles that speak to the best of our shared humanity. This month also arrives as millions around the world endure profound hardship. We cannot ignore the suffering of the Palestinian people who continue to face violence, displacement and persecution in the West Bank and Gaza. As families there struggle for safety, dignity and hope, Ramadan reminds us that indifference is not an option. At its heart, Ramadan calls us to reflection, empathy and moral responsibility. It urges us to listen to the oppressed, stand with those in pain and renew our commitment to human dignity. May this holy month inspire compassion in our words and conscience in our actions.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Black History Month and the vital contributions of Black Canadians to our nation. The 2026 theme of honouring 30 years of Black brilliance across generations celebrates both our history and the promise of the future. This past Sunday, I had the honour of hosting a community Black History Month celebration in Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East. The event was inspiring, full of performances, reflections and recognition of the richness of Black culture, heritage and leadership. It reminded us that Black history is Canadian history. Black History Month also calls on us to continue addressing systemic barriers and creating a more inclusive society. I thank all the participants for sharing their stories and their talents. Let us carry the lessons of this month forward, celebrating achievements, fostering understanding and building a stronger, more equitable Canada for all.

Mr. Speaker, on November 29, the United Nations International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, we reflect on the urgent need for justice, dignity and lasting peace. The people of Gaza are enduring what many international legal experts have identified as a genocide, with unimaginable loss of life and suffering. In the West Bank, escalating settler violence continues to displace families and deepen fear and instability. Canada and the international community must demand that the ceasefire be fully respected and that humanitarian aid reach those in need without any delay. Every person, Palestinian or Israeli, deserves to live in peace, security and freedom. Solidarity means action, upholding international law, protecting civilians and supporting a just political solution. We must not look away. Today and every day, we stand for human rights and a future where all can live in safety and hope.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak in support of Bill C-15, the budget implementation act. The legislation is more than a collection of policies and tax changes; it is a blueprint for building a stronger, more resilient Canada at a time when we face major global and economic challenges. For decades, our prosperity has relied on stable international trade rules and open markets. However, today, the rules-based system and long-time trade relationships, including with our closest partner, the United States, are being disrupted. Canadian firms are facing new barriers. Supply chains are under pressure. Jobs and livelihoods depend on our ability to adapt. This means that Canada must build a bigger, more innovative economy here at home, faster than ever before. We must diversify our markets, mobilize investment and unleash the full potential of Canadian workers and businesses. Bill C-15 moves us decisively in that direction. It would grow our economy, build homes people can afford, make life more affordable and protect the environment while opening the door to a new generation of clean economic growth. Budget 2025 is unapologetically an investment budget. We are making generational investments in infrastructure, clean technology, housing and the skills Canadians need to thrive. We must do so while maintaining higher environmental standards. The legislation helps unlock the goal of catalyzing $1 trillion of investment over five years from provinces, municipalities, indigenous partners and the private sector. We are attracting capital by creating certainty, providing incentives and fast-tracking the infrastructure that will power our economy for decades to come. We are doing it responsibly. Canada enters this moment with the strongest credit rating in the world, the lowest long-term interest rates in the G7 and the lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio of any major economy. International experts, including from the IMF, have said that Canada is pursuing strategic progrowth investment, and they project that we will have the second-strongest economic growth in the G7 in 2026. In a changing world, we cannot rely on any single market. That is why the government is launching a trade diversification strategy that will double Canadian exports beyond the U.S. within a decade. Bill C-15 supports that goal by aligning our tax system with global competitiveness, boosting innovation and giving businesses the tools they need to grow and survive. The bill would support small- and medium-sized businesses, the backbone of our economy. This is an economy built by Canadians for Canadians. Budget 2025 delivers the support our communities have been asking for through the new build communities strong fund, a $51 billion investment in local infrastructure over the next decade. This fund will help municipalities build the roads, water systems, community centres and, importantly, the health care facilities that growing communities desperately need. Within this fund is a dedicated health infrastructure fund, providing $5 billion over three years to upgrade and expand hospitals and urgent care services. In Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East, residents rely on nearby hospital systems, such as the Scarborough Health Network and the Toronto East Health Network. These systems often depend on extensive community fundraising just to modernize the emergency departments or to replace aging equipment. That model is not sustainable on its own. This fund will help ensure frontline care is not dependent on charity but backed by strong federal partnership. We cannot build a strong economy without building homes people can afford. Housing is not just a social need; it is an economic necessity. Businesses will not invest if workers cannot live near where their jobs are. I have spoken to many families in my riding of Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East for whom home ownership seems to be a dream that is increasingly out of reach and for whom finding sustainable and affordable rental housing is difficult, if not impossible. Bill C-15 would tackle this head-on. It would provide an accelerated capital cost allowance for purpose-built rentals, would make new investments through Build Canada Homes and would extend the enhanced GST rental rebate to co-operative housing and student residences. These measures would help get shovels in the ground faster. Through budget 2025 and this legislation, we would create pathways for major housing investments and unlock municipal partnerships. We would support agricultural co-operatives, indigenous communities, students and working families. We know Canadians are feeling squeezed. Bill C-15 would bring relief. It would extend eligibility for charitable donations, would expand the disability supports deduction and would exempt the Canada disability benefit from taxable income. Many of my constituents have asked for this and have told me how important it is that we strengthen and safeguard the Canada disability benefit from provincial clawbacks. Bill C-15 would also introduce a temporary tax credit for individuals whose non-refundable tax credits exceed the first income bracket, putting more money back in the pockets of lower- and middle-income Canadians. Affordability is not just about taxes; it is also about care. That is why I will push to ensure that our work does not stop with respect to child care. We must continue to expand access, improve wages and workplace standards in this sector, and ensure that families in every region benefit from $10-a-day child care. We must also protect and expand pharmacare. Canadians should never have to choose between groceries and prescriptions. Bill C-15 would lay the groundwork to ensure pharmaceutical manufacturing here at home in Canada and ensure better access to essential medicines. I will fight to make sure this momentum continues because health care must include pharmacare. Climate action is not just a moral duty; it is an economic strategy. Countries that lead the clean economy will lead the 21st century. Canada already has an 85% clean electricity grid and some of the world's richest critical mineral deposits. The clean economy should be Canada's economic advantage, and this bill would help to make that vision a reality. We would extend investment tax credits for clean technology until 2035, support clean electricity generation from waste biomass and create incentives for polymetallic manufacturing. This would power a clean economy while cutting emissions and protecting our environment. We must do this responsibly. We must build, but build right. That is why I will continue to insist that every major project meets the highest environmental standards. We can and must have economic growth and environmental protection together. We would accelerate nation-building infrastructure. The high-speed rail network act would move forward faster rail transportation between Quebec and Ontario under full Impact Assessment Act oversight, ensuring transparency, consultation and strong environmental protection. This legislation is the foundation for a new era of nation building. It supports child care and pharmacare. It would build clean-energy projects. It would fast-track critical infrastructure, and it would protect Canadians from consumer fraud, environmental risk and financial instability. Bill C-15 would also establish the consumer-driven banking act, giving Canadians secure control over their own financial data and making our banks more competitive and responsive to consumer needs. Across this bill, the message is clear: Canada will depend less on others and build more at home. We will build projects faster, train workers better, attract investment earlier and open more markets for Canadian goods and services. We are not seeking to simply weather the uncertainty that surrounds us; we are choosing to meet it with confidence, resilience and ambition. This is our moment to build. We cannot wait for the world to settle. We must build Canada's strength now by investing in our people, our infrastructure, our innovation and our environment. Bill C-15 would build housing Canadians can afford. It would make life more affordable. It would protect health care and move us toward stronger pharmacare and child care. It would put workers first, and it would turn climate action into a competitive advantage for Canadians. In the face of global uncertainty, this government is focused on what we can control. What we can control is our ability to build an economy that is more independent, more innovative, more inclusive and more resilient than ever before.

Mr. Speaker, of course, on this side of the House, we are committed to making sure that crime levels go down, because it is very important that every Canadian live safely. Every mother should have the satisfaction of knowing that if their young children go out, they will return home safely. That is why we want to get guns off our streets. I hope hon. members will join me in supporting the bail and sentencing reform act, which would make Canadians safer. I hear from my constituents about it every day, and we will do the work necessary to make sure we put an end to crime.

Mr. Speaker, I want to reaffirm that this is an investment budget. We were elected in April on the promise of investing in Canadians and reducing our operating expenses. The build communities strong fund is a great example of how we are investing directly in our communities. It is the first time in the history of Canada that there is money dedicated directly to investment in the health care sector. It will put investments in the health care system and in local hospitals, which my constituents rely on. We will see investments in our community centres, in better infrastructure and in better roads. These are investments that our community members rely on. It is important that right now, in these circumstances, we invest in Canadians and make sure that we build a bolder, stronger Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present petition e-6662, which was signed by nearly 11,000 Canadians. The petitioners wish to call the attention of the Government of Canada to the actions of the Government of Israel in the West Bank and Gaza, dating back to 1967; its repeated violations of international law; and the continued suffering experienced by the Palestinians to this day. Until Israel withdraws from the occupied Palestinian territories, petitioners call on Canada to end the sale of military equipment, cancel its free trade agreement and ensure that all who have violated Canadian or international law face justice.

Mr. Speaker, today is a day to celebrate science. The Office of the Chief Science Advisor and the Canadian Science Policy Centre have brought 45 researchers from across Canada to Ottawa today for Science Meets Parliament. These researchers are among our brightest emerging leaders, representing the full spectrum of disciplines, from natural sciences and engineering to health sciences and social sciences. They are on the Hill to share their insights, connect with parliamentarians and strengthen the vital link between science and policy in tackling Canada's most pressing challenges. Trusting relationships between those who generate evidence and those who apply it is essential. Opportunities like today allow both communities to meet, exchange ideas and build mutual understanding. As chair of the Standing Committee on Science and Research, I am proud to be a champion for science. Please join me in welcoming the participants of Science Meets Parliament.

Madam Speaker, I rise today to present a petition signed by concerned Canadians who wish to draw the attention of the House to what they characterize as inconsistencies in the treatment of former members of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, or BNP, by the IRCC. They are asking the government for a review of the process for determinations of inadmissibility, a clear and transparent process, and affirmation of procedural fairness for individuals' applications based on the merits of each case.

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to represent a riding with a vibrant Filipino-Canadian community that has contributed so much to Canada. Across the board, Canadians overwhelmingly support our government's work to help businesses grow and reach new customers around the world. That is why the Prime Minister and his government's efforts to be out there expanding trade ties are so important for building a strong, secure economy for the future. Could the Minister of International Trade please share how our government is strengthening Canada's foothold in the Indo-Pacific and what is at stake ahead of tomorrow's budget?

Mr. Speaker, I rise to present a petition signed by 238 Canadians, including many members of the Bangladeshi community in Toronto and Montreal. They wish to draw our attention to the fact that some members of the Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami, a recognized political party in Bangladesh, have been found inadmissible to Canada under IRPA. The petitioners say that this party and its supporters are law-abiding citizens who participated in the democratic process and are committed to democratic values. They ask the government to review its policy regarding the members of this party and to ensure individual applicants receive fair and just treatment under Canadian law.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honour the Toronto International Celebration Church for its remarkable 25th anniversary celebration service. Founded in 2000 by Pastor Peter Youngren, alongside current lead pastor, Nathan Thurber, it has grown into a beacon of faith, love and community in North York. As a non-denominational, evangelical church, it embodies the motto “We love because God first loved us”, welcoming over 1,000 worshippers from more than 70 nations each Sunday. This milestone reflects a quarter-century of transformative impact: prayer services, outreach to shelters, youth programs, evangelism training and specialized ministries like the Champions Club for special-needs families. Its global vision through World Impact Ministries has touched over 100 nations, fostering cultural harmony and purpose-driven lives right here in Toronto. I offer congratulations on its 25th anniversary and on its devotion. May—

Mr. Speaker, yesterday Canada took an important and historic step, formally recognizing the sovereign state of Palestine. I would like to thank the Prime Minister, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the millions of Canadians who told their government how important this is to them. All people have the right to self-determination, and Palestine deserves to take its place among the nations of the world. This is an important advancement of Canada's long-standing support for a two-state solution, where a free and democratic Palestine lives alongside a free and democratic Israel in peace and security. We must not lose sight of the genocide happening in Gaza and the illegal occupation of the West Bank. There must be a ceasefire. Humanitarian aid must reach those in need. Hostages and prisoners must be freed. There must be a two-way arms embargo. All those responsible for war crimes, including genocide, must face justice.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to present petition e-6555, signed by over 1,000 Canadians. The petitioners draw members' attention to the prolonged delays in immigration processing for Sudanese refugee claimants and how these delays have humanitarian implications, hindering family reunification and leaving families in limbo, unable to move on with their lives. The petitioners ask the government to prioritize security checks for Sudanese applicants, facilitate timely reunification of families affected by the Sudanese war, consider a policy solution to the age limit for dependents in these cases and create a special humanitarian pathway for the reunification of extended family members prior to receiving permanent residence.

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present in both official languages the following two reports of the Standing Committee on Science and Research. The first report is entitled “Distribution of Federal Funding Among Canada's Post-Secondary Institutions” and the second report entitled “Science and Research in Canada's Arctic in Relation to Climate Change”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to each of these reports.

Mr. Speaker, I recently had the opportunity to attend the community yard sale and annual bake sale held by the Church of Our Saviour, Don Mills, in my riding of Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East. I thank Liz Liness and Reverend Pierre Niyongere for inviting me, and everyone who helped to organise this fantastic event. I appreciated the warm welcome. It was wonderful to meet members of the community in this relaxed setting and to also see the talents of Don Valley East on display with the amazing art, homemade soups, donuts and other baked goods. Whatever our faith, we all want the best for our family, our community and our country. Events like this help to build strong communities, and I look forward to getting to know this part of my riding this summer. I hope everyone has a productive and fulfilling summer.

Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the hon. member for Kingston and the Islands. As I rise for the first time as the member for the new riding of Scarborough Centre—Don Valley East, I would like to thank the residents of my riding for electing me to be their strong voice here in Ottawa. My pledge when I first ran in 2015 was that I would be my community's voice in Ottawa and not Ottawa's voice in my community. That is how I have governed myself for the last 10 years, and this will continue to guide me in all I do here. I would like to thank all of the many volunteers who helped me knock on doors, make phone calls and put up signs. I thank them for their dedication and support. I thank my amazing campaign team and my staff, specifically Jeff Jedras, my campaign manager, and Nusrat Malim. Both have been working with me for the last 10 years and have worked hard to serve and fight for the community every day. I thank them for that. I also thank my family, my husband Salman and both my boys, Umaid and Usman. Nothing is possible without their love and support. As we return to Parliament as a new government with a renewed mandate, let us pledge ourselves to not just work for those who voted for us. Let us pledge to work for all Canadians. This was my fourth election, and in many ways it was the most difficult. A record number of signs were destroyed, and volunteers were targeted and verbally abused. There was a level of anger and hostility that I have not seen before. While I will never condone harassment and abuse, we must recognize that many Canadians are hurting. They are finding it harder to make ends meet. They feel like, no matter how hard they work, they cannot get any further ahead. They worry about what they will leave to their children. We may have different ideas about how we solve these issues, but it is important to acknowledge that we see them too. We share these same worries. Their concerns are valid, and they are our concerns too. I hope, as we return for the 45th Parliament, we can listen more than we speak, try to understand where each other is coming from and work together on the things that unite us, such as wanting to build a better community and a better country, and do better for our next generations. I am here today to speak to a Conservative motion that purports to be concerned with affordability, a concern my constituents and I share. Indeed, affordability was a major focus of our government's throne speech, which was recently delivered by His Majesty King Charles III. I had the brief opportunity to speak with His Majesty in the other place following the speech. I mentioned to him that I was born in England in Coventry. I was born there, as my father studied at the university there. I was born in England, raised in Pakistan and immigrated to Canada, all Commonwealth countries. The Commonwealth, the sovereign and the values they represent have always been very dear and important to me, and I was gratified to see those values reflected in the Speech from the Throne. On the campaign trail this spring, I heard three key messages: stand up for Canada; build more homes people can afford; and make life more affordable for everyone. The government's agenda, as outlined in the King's speech, tackles all three issues. The Prime Minister and his government have been clear that we will resolutely defend Canada's sovereignty. It is time for a reimagined, balanced relationship with the U.S. that prioritizes our economic strength and independence, and we need to broaden our relationships. That means building stronger relationships with global trading partners and working to tear down internal trade barriers. It should not be harder for an Ontario business to sell to British Columbia than it is to sell to Colombia. Our plan for a more affordable Canada starts with a middle-class tax cut that would save the average two-income family up to $840 a year, effective Canada Day. That is more money in the pockets of my constituents to help pay for groceries and other expenses. That is just one example of how we are helping Canadians cope with everyday expenses. Enrolment in the Canadian dental care plan is now open to all eligible Canadians. With one in four Canadians saying they could not visit an oral health provider because it was too expensive, our plan is helping over eight million eligible Canadians without insurance get access to the dental care they need. We are also helping with affordability by taking the GST off homes at or under $1 million for first-time homebuyers. That is up to $50,000 to help Canadians entering the housing market for the first time, meaning lower mortgage payments and more money to help cover other expenses. Our government will also continue to build on programs such as the Canada child care program, which is saving Canadians thousands of dollars and allowing parents to return to the workforce sooner. Let us talk about housing. In recent years, this has been the number one issue my constituents have raised with me. Whether it is apartments, townhouses, duplexes or detached homes, in my area and in many areas across the country there is a real lack of housing that people can afford. Simply put, Canada needs to build more homes that people can afford. How do we do that? It is time to think big, with the most ambitious housing program in Canada since World War II. We will double the rate of homebuilding while creating an entirely new housing industry. We will do it with Canadian lumber, Canadian technology and most important of all, Canadian skilled labour. The housing crisis demands bold action. “Build Canada homes” is our plan to construct 500,000 affordable homes annually, doubling the current rate. By investing dollars in prefabricated housing and in low-cost financing, we will cut costs and build faster. We are eliminating red tape, halving development charges and using federal lands for affordable housing. Inspired by our postwar success, we will create jobs, train workers and ensure that every Canadian can afford a home in a community they love. We cannot solve the housing crisis alone; “build Canada homes” needs provinces and cities to join us. By aligning zoning laws, streamlining permits and sharing costs, we can build 500,000 affordable homes every year. Provinces can reduce the bureaucratic hurdles, and cities can prioritize high-density projects. Together, we will ensure that every Canadian has a home. Together, we can build a stronger, fairer Canada for all generations. We must be clear-eyed about the challenges Canada is facing. Our economy is under attack. The world is an increasingly dangerous place, and Canada is not an island. However, with challenges comes opportunity. The true test of Canada will be in how we choose to meet this challenge, so let us seize this moment to think big and dream bigger, to not just build new alliances but to lead them, and to model not just Canadian values but Canadian ingenuity. Together, there are no challenges we cannot meet. Let us bet on team Canada, because together we are the true north strong and free.

Mr. Speaker, I have represented my constituents for the last 10 years and have always been their voice here in Ottawa, not Ottawa's voice in my community. I am proud that we have programs like the Canada child benefit, which has lifted hundreds and thousands of kids out of poverty. We introduced a $10-a-day child care program, which is saving constituents in my area thousands of dollars every year. I am proud that we introduced a national school food program, which aims to improve children's learning and health by addressing food insecurity. I am proud of our Canadian dental care plan, which is open to all eligible Canadians and is really making a difference in the lives of families.

Mr. Speaker, as we have all seen, the estimates have been presented to Parliament, outlining the proposed government spending across different departments and for different programs. These estimates are a vital part of our fiscal process, and they deserve careful scrutiny. As we prepare for the fall budget, our focus remains on clearly building an economy that works for everybody, responding to the threats facing our country, and making life affordable for all Canadians. We are engaging in extensive consultations with Canadian provinces, indigenous communities and stakeholders to craft policies that will deliver real results for all Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, yes, while we were knocking on doors, I heard very clearly about this, and I have worked with my constituents on making sure that we have the ability to build more housing. Now we have the most ambitious housing plan since after World War II, and constituents are really excited that we will double the construction of houses. We will make sure that we construct 500,000 houses every year in our communities, and at the same time make sure that we give incentives to first-time homebuyers and are giving tax breaks to 22 million Canadians. We are working for all Canadians—

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for the work she has done for all Canadians in the last decade. We all knocked on doors and heard the concerns of our constituents, so I would like to ask my colleague a question. Canadians are finding it difficult to make ends meet in these difficult times. Can the member shed light on how our tax breaks will help Canadians get through these difficult times?

Madam Speaker, I would like to congratulate the hon. member on his election. During the debate on the throne speech, we have heard from our friends on the other side that our middle-class tax cut is not big enough, but as I am sure the member knows, the Conservatives ran on a tax cut that would not have helped anyone for three years. Would the hon. member agree that money in the pocket of Canadians next month is better than a tax cut that would not help them for the next three years?

Mr. Speaker, on Thursday we will solemnly mark the fourth anniversary of the horrific terrorist attack in London, Ontario, where a hateful act claimed the lives of four members of the Afzaal family and left a young boy forever changed. As a Canadian and as a mother, I stand with our community in grief and resolve, honouring the memory of Salman, Madiha, Yumna and Talat Afzaal. The tragedy, rooted in Islamophobia, reminds us of the urgent need to confront hate in all its forms. Let us renew our commitment to building a Canada where every individual, regardless of faith or background, feels safe and valued. In Canada, no one should be made to feel unsafe walking down the street. Let us renew our pledge to foster inclusion, reject division and ensure that such a tragedy never happens again. Together, we will build a stronger, more united Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to table a petition signed by members of the Bangladeshi community. The petitioners draw the attention of the government to the fact that former members and supporters of the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, BNP, are unfairly facing immigration challenges due to false narratives being spread by political opponents. They ask the government to review how IRPA is being applied in these cases, base admissibility decisions on individual circumstances and not on broad political affiliation, and grant public policy consideration on a humanitarian basis under relevant legislation.

Mr. Speaker, food insecurity is an issue for many families, and I would like to recognize an organization making a difference in our community: Feed Scarborough. More than just simply a food bank, Feed Scarborough has embraced the UN sustainable development goals as a guiding framework. This means that its commitment goes beyond hunger to creating pathways toward economic stability, educational growth, health and environmental sustainability. Its food bank is complemented with services and programs to reduce poverty, promote quality education, promote gender equality and support economic growth. Its healthy meal program provides over 2,000 nutritious, balanced meals weekly, and its school hamper program partners with local schools to provide nutritious food hampers to families in need, ensuring children have the energy and focus for academic success. I would like to thank the team and volunteers at Feed Scarborough for their commitment to addressing food insecurity in Scarborough, and I encourage all who can to support their local food banks.

Mr. Speaker, I present a petition today signed primarily by Lebanese Canadian constituents in my riding of Scarborough Centre. They draw our attention to the conflict in the Middle East, which has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced many more in Palestine and in Lebanon. Petitioners note that Israeli air strikes have hit UNESCO world heritage sites and health care facilities, and they point to the death of over 170 health care workers. Petitioners call on the Government of Canada to implement sanctions on the Netanyahu government, to ensure a clear and unambiguous two-way arms embargo, to support a United Nations resolution calling for our peacekeepers in Gaza as part of the development of mechanisms and to ensure civilian protection. They are calling for peace and for recognition of the state of Palestine.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a petition from members of the Lebanese Canadian community in my riding of Scarborough Centre. They draw the attention of the House to the expansion of the conflict in the Middle East, which has killed tens of thousands of innocent Palestinians, into Lebanon, where Israeli military action has killed hundreds of people and injured and displaced thousands since September 23 alone. Petitioners note what they consider endless visa restrictions for people trying to flee the war zone. They call on the government to implement a special visa program similar to what Canada provided for Ukrainians fleeing their war zone; temporary resident visas for the extended family of Canadian citizens and permanent residents who want to reach Canada; the safe evacuation of Canadian citizens and their extended families from Lebanon; and a transparent and fair process that gives priority to evacuating women, children and the elderly.

Mr. Speaker, I represent a strong and vibrant Lebanese community in Scarborough Centre. They are business owners, professionals and families who are an integral part of Scarborough's social and economic fabric. The Lebanese Canadian community nationwide numbers between 200,000 and 400,000 people. They are deeply concerned for their loved ones overseas, anxiously following every news report and waiting on each call or text to confirm their loved ones' safety. This ongoing crisis has a deep impact on their mental health and daily lives. This is no way to live. While the community and I appreciate the government's recent measures to support those already here in Canada, we believe more is necessary. We call on the government to enact special measures allowing the extended family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to seek temporary refuge here in Canada. No Canadian should be forced to leave their parents, spouse, children, grandparents or siblings behind in danger. We urge the government to heed this call for compassion and assistance.

Mr. Speaker, today is a big day. The Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship just tabled the immigration levels plan for 2025-27. This is a comprehensive plan that will align the number of newcomers to the supports available in the country. As immigration is essential to Canada from an economic, social and cultural perspective, a well-managed, robust immigration system is vital. Could the Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship provide an update on our government's efforts toward ensuring a sustainable immigration system where everyone has a fair chance to succeed?

Madam Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Halifax West. Just over 11 months ago, we had an emergency debate on Gaza, and now here we are again in another emergency debate as this conflict continues to escalate, from Gaza to the West Bank and now to Syria and Lebanon. I said it then and I say it again now: There must be a ceasefire. The violence must end. This is a very dangerous moment in world history that threatens to pull in more countries and put more innocent civilians at risk. I am very worried about this continuing pattern of escalation. From the start, my heart and my worry has been with the innocent civilians. The innocent civilians in Gaza, in the West Bank, in Lebanon and in Israel want no part of this war. They just want to be able to live their lives, to make a living and to raise their children without the fear of bombing, rockets, missiles or ground invasions. This should be the right of every person, no matter where they live or call home. I visited the West Bank in January, and I met small children who go to bed every night fearful of sniper bullets. I saw the bullet holes near their bedroom windows. No one should have to grow up like this. Scarborough Centre is home to a vibrant Lebanese population, and I have been on the phone and at in-person meetings with them nearly constantly over the past week. They are beside themselves with worry for their loved ones back in Lebanon. Communication with them has been spotty and unreliable. As these members of my community watch the news of days of Israeli bombing that has killed hundreds, they hold their breath, waiting for a message from their loved ones to know if they are alive or not. No one should be forced to live with this fear. No people, in any country, deserve this. Community members told me of one family in Lebanon who drove from the south to Beirut with their baby and small children, looking for safety. Israeli bombs hit the road ahead of and behind them. They say the children will forever be scared by this experience. They tell me schools are being used as shelters, with people gathering mattresses, food and water. With the news of today's missile attack by Iran, the pattern of escalation continues and the danger for the innocent people of the region increases. I condemn all attacks that target innocent civilians. This conflict did not begin 11 months ago. These are not the first bombings of Gaza or Lebanon. These are not the first rocket or missile attacks against Israel. The roots of this conflict are deep, and they must be addressed substantively. However, what must be abundantly clear is that Israel's actions are not making anyone safer: not the people of Palestine, not the people of Lebanon and not the people of Israel. Instead, this widening conflict is only making everyone more unsafe. The pattern must end. In December, Canada called for a ceasefire in Gaza. Last week, Canada joined the United States, the European Union and nine other allied countries in calling for a ceasefire in Lebanon. Unfortunately, last week's call for a ceasefire has been ignored, as was the one in December. Repeating the same thing that has failed again and again, and expecting different results, is a strategy proven to fail. It is time to move beyond statements; it is time for action. Canada must implement a clear and unambiguous two-way arms embargo. No Canadian-manufactured weapons should be used to kill any innocent civilians, and there must be no loopholes, such as shipping weapons via the United States. I welcome the recent comments by the global affairs minister regarding an arms embargo, but I am asking the government for a clear statement that brokers no confusion: a clear and unambiguous two-way arms embargo with no qualifications, exceptions or asterisks for existing contracts. We must go further still. Calling for a ceasefire and an arms embargo is the least Canadians expect. Let us look at the on-the-record, public comments of Netanyahu and his cabinet, who have a habit of saying out loud what would ordinarily be kept quiet. On Israeli TV, education minister Yoav Kisch said Lebanon and Hezbollah are indistinguishable, “Lebanon will be annihilated” and the people of Lebanon will pay the price. That was the latest in a pattern of disgusting and dangerous comments by ministers in the Netanyahu cabinet. Deputy Speaker Nissim Vaturi made a call to “wipe Gaza off the face of the earth” and added that “Gaza must be burned.” He went on to say, “There are no innocents there [in Gaza]”, and, referring to the Palestinian people, he said, “I have no mercy for those who are still there. We need to eliminate them”. These are just a few of many examples. These are not the words of a government that Canada can call a friend or ally. Canada cannot accept pro-genocide comments by any government. Officials advocating for genocide must be banned from entering Canada and there must be sanctions against a Netanyahu government that refuses to even consider peace. Last week at the United Nations, Jordanian foreign minister Ayman Safadi said Arab and Muslim countries would guarantee Israel's security if Israel agreed to the establishment of a Palestinian state. The proposal was dismissed outright by Netanyahu. He has shown no willingness to achieve a just peace that will bring safety and security for Palestinians, Israelis and Lebanese. It is past time for Canada to recognize the Palestinian state. It does not need to be studied at committee. The government can stand up today, in this House or outside it, and declare that Canada recognizes the Palestinian state. This would show that Canada believes in the right of self-determination for all people, and it would send a clear message to Netanyahu's ministers who want to “wipe Gaza off the face of the earth”: Canada will not stay silent in the face of genocide. I also worry deeply about the impact this conflict is having on people here in Canada. It is tearing communities apart. I see the rising incidents of anti-Palestinian racism, Islamophobia and anti-Semitism and I worry about the walls being built between Canadians. This cannot continue. It is very important that we make sure this conflict does not further increase anti-Palestinian racism, anti-Semitism or Islamophobia here in Canada. This summer, I heard from Canadians, from Scarborough to Vancouver, on anti-Palestinian racism, and I heard very clearly that this needs to end. I want peace for the people of Lebanon, Palestine and Israel. I urge Canada to use all of its diplomatic tools, including sanctions, to exert pressure for an end to this conflict. Too many innocent civilians have already paid with their lives. If this is allowed to continue, many more will die as well. It needs to end. We need to make sure innocent civilian lives are protected. We have seen enough.

Madam Speaker, we have seen some sanctions on illegal settlers, but I agree that more needs to be done. I will continue to push for sanctions on those people who posted some of the comments I read in my speech about eliminating Gaza and eliminating the people of Palestine from the earth. It is very important to have more sanctions. Action needs to be taken. Canadians are sick and tired of words. They need to see action and I will continue to push for that.

Madam Speaker, I agree. We have lost so many innocent lives. The people of Palestine are not Hamas, just as the people of Lebanon are not Hezbollah. They are like any one of us. They want to live their life. They want a place to call home, where they have safety and protection. They are our fathers and mothers, our brothers and sisters, our sons and daughters. It is very important that we stand up. Canada should play the role of peacebuilder, for which it is known; make sure we ask for a ceasefire; and show through action that this violence needs to end, that this escalation needs to end. We have seen so many people lost. I was in the West Bank in January; I was shocked to hear that there are no schools for the kids and that their books are being used to light fires to cook food.

Madam Speaker, I am concerned about the loss of innocent lives and for everyone. This needs to end. Canadian arms should not be used to kill innocent civilians, period. There should be a complete arms embargo, with no loopholes, to make sure that those arms are not used to kill innocent civilians. It is really important that we stand up to save the lives of innocent civilians. We have never seen the number of casualties or killing of children that we have seen in the last 11 months. It is incumbent on us, as elected representatives, to stand and make sure that we fight for the rights of innocent civilians.

Mr. Speaker, over 600 civilians have been killed by Israeli air strikes in Lebanon in recent days. Among them are two Canadians. I send my condolences to the loved ones of all those lost. I represent a large Lebanese Canadian community, and its members are deeply worried for their families and loved ones. Israeli officials say they are ready for a ground invasion that will kill even more innocent civilians. Civilians are dying in Gaza, in the West Bank and in Lebanon. The violence must end. The Netanyahu government must stop its escalations. Canada's words are not enough. There must be a ceasefire and consequences for Israeli government officials who have expressed support for genocide and violence. We need a clear and unequivocal two-way arms embargo with no loopholes. As part of a two-state solution, Canada must recognize the Palestinian state now. We must stand for peace.

Madam Speaker, this summer, millions of Canadians tuned into CBC and Radio-Canada to cheer on team Canada at the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games in Paris. Canadian athletes set new records and made us all proud. Scarborough is home to many athletes who train at the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre, but it is also an important community hub for activities and events. We are proud of our local heroes, such as Scarborough's Josh Liendo, who became the first Black Canadian swimmer to win an Olympic medal. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Sport and Physical Activity let the House know how we are supporting athletes so they can keep representing Canada with pride and excellence?