Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, it is good to be back in the House with colleagues from across the country. We are here to build Canada strong. This summer, I visited organizations across my riding that were supported through Canada summer jobs. Our government invested $1.4 million in Pierrefonds—Dollard. That helped create 271 youth jobs in 72 community organizations. Many organizations, including community pools, youth centres like À-Ma-Baie, food banks like On Rock, the Cloverdale family centre and Éco-quartier, all gave young people the chance to develop their skills. When young people succeed, Canada does too. Congratulations to all the young people who worked hard at their jobs. I wish them a great school year.

Mr. Speaker, today is Red Shirt Day, which we also mark during national disability week. This week, we are highlighting the contributions of people with disabilities and the need to promote a barrier-free Canada. This year's theme is “Building a Strong, Accessible Canada.” The Canada disability benefit and the disability inclusion action plan are building a more accessible and inclusive society for all. Can the Minister of Jobs and Families highlight how the spring economic update is helping to build a barrier-free Canada?

Mr. Chair, I rise today to speak about Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada's 2026-27 main estimates as a member of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration. Canadians have asked us to bring balance to the immigration system while upholding the values of compassion and respect. To that effect, our committee has examined several important themes this parliamentary session. We have heard from government officials on the concrete progress they have made to bring balance and transparency to our immigration system and from frontline workers across our beautiful country about the unique regional challenges they are facing. We have heard from academics about ways to improve our immigration system and from deeply vulnerable communities that have come to Canada seeking safety and protection. We are living through a period of significant global change and, dare I say, turmoil. Presently, 120 million people are displaced from their homes because of climate change, conflict and persecution. Canada has a strong and proud humanitarian tradition. This reflects our values and our international obligations. We believe that everyone in need of protection deserves to be treated with dignity and respect. They deserve a chance to rebuild their lives. They deserve a chance to work, to study and to contribute to the Canadian family while here. In line with our latest humanitarian commitments regarding protected persons, we have announced a new initiative aimed at facilitating the transition to permanent residence. This initiative affects approximately 115,000 protected persons in Canada. These are particularly vulnerable individuals who have been recognized as needing protection. They have met very strict legal criteria. They cannot return to their countries of origin. If they were to return, it would mean persecution and a potential threat to their lives. These people are already contributing to communities across Canada. They are becoming neighbours, workers, students, volunteers, business leaders and members of the community—our community. They are helping to build the country we share. This initiative involving protected persons is also a matter of compassion. Many constituents in my riding, Pierrefonds—Dollard, have told me of the pain caused by family separation and the difficulty of reuniting with their loved ones. This measure will help to remedy these difficult situations. It is a good example of the necessary balance between compassion and the system's capacity. We are restoring order to the system while continuing to protect those who need it most. We have seen in the last years how quickly humanitarian situations can evolve or devolve. We have been responding to a range of international crises and displacement situations; however, behind every crisis are countless human stories. Take the case of Sudan. The humanitarian crisis in Sudan is the largest crisis in the world, with an estimated 13.6 million people uprooted by fighting and extreme violence. Community advocates have testified at the immigration committee about the Sudan family reunification program. Sudanese Canadians have sought to bring their family members to safety. They have also worked closely with IRCC and the international crisis response team to help restart biometric collection in Sudan, in partnership with the International Organization for Migration, the IOM. This is an example of what collaboration between government and advocates can achieve. Take the crisis in Gaza. It continues to be a nightmare, with staggering humanitarian needs. Palestinian Canadians who have loved ones in Gaza continue to endure heartache while trying to bring their family members to safety. Those who have found safety in Canada are deeply grateful. They have started to rebuild their lives but are still worrying about loved ones they have left behind. Canada's humanitarian tradition is built on partnerships. We do not go at it alone; we rely on international partners, such as UNHCR and others, to help identify people in need of protection. One such example is the partnership in the special immigration program of motion M-62. It was created to resettle vulnerable Uyghur refugees here in Canada. The Uyghur people are facing mass arbitrary detention, forced separation of children from their parents, forced sterilization and forced labour. At the immigration committee, we have heard from officials about the progress made through the resettlement program. Advocates have also testified about the value of the program and the need for it to continue at an increased scale. I have met with vulnerable people who are Uyghur, Palestinian, Rohingya or Ukrainian, and many others, people who have been welcomed here to Canada with open hearts and compassion. They are deeply grateful to all Canadians for providing them with refuge and safety. Their stories are human stories that remind us about our best selves, of our duty to protect people in need and of what it means to be Canadian and to be a humanitarian. In our immigration system, we work in partnership with the provinces and territories, municipalities and local communities. This collaboration is essential to welcoming newcomers. We rely on settlement organizations that provide essential integration services, including language training, employment assistance and housing supports. We also rely on civil society organizations and volunteers. They help make Canada's humanitarian tradition a daily reality for everyone. This collective effort is one of our strengths as Canadians. It is also important to remember the positive contributions made by newcomers to our communities. Immigrants contribute to our economy and help address labour shortages. They set up businesses. They build homes. They care for our sick and elderly. They also enrich our communities through their diverse backgrounds. Every generation of Canadians has been shaped by people from other places. These are people who arrived here with little to their names, people who worked hard to build a better life for their families. This story continues today. It continues in Pierrefonds—Dollard and across the country. Our government is committed to continuing to build an immigration system that is fair, sustainable and true to Canadian values. I thank the minister for being here today; for responding to the questions of all members, from both the governing party and the opposition parties, with respect to our immigration system; and for taking the time to provide thorough and accurate answers. With that, I will ask my own question. Can the Minister of Immigration share with us how these main estimates will continue to support our refugee and humanitarian immigration system while making sure that it reflects our values as Canadians, respects our international obligations and inspires confidence among Canadians for years to come?

Mr. Speaker, the dental care plan is having a real impact on the lives of Canadians. Across our beautiful country, 4.3 million people have received dental care since the program's launch, and over 21,000 residents in Pierrefonds—Dollard are benefiting from the plan. This week at my constituency office, we are hosting our fourth open house to help residents renew and enrol in their dental coverage. Oral health is a fundamental right. That is why our team is there to provide individual support. Programs like the dental care plan show what we can achieve when we put Canadians first. Canadians no longer have to compromise on dental care. Our government will continue to work to improve everyone's quality of life. This week, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., residents of Pierrefonds—Dollard are welcome to drop by my office without an appointment to renew their dental plan.

Mr. Speaker, the war in Sudan is still the world's worst humanitarian crisis, and 34 million people, nearly two-thirds of the country's population, are currently in need of humanitarian assistance. The war has had a devastating impact on the civilian population in Sudan. Our government is leading on the international stage. We are helping with humanitarian and development assistance to help the people of Sudan. Can the Secretary of State for International Development tell us how Canada is supporting the most vulnerable, the most affected by this devastating conflict?

Mr. Speaker, three years ago today, a wave of extreme violence broke out across Sudan. What began as a power struggle has become the world's largest humanitarian crisis, with 13 million being forced from their homes, half the population facing food insecurity, and women and girls being deliberately targeted with sexual violence. Today our government announced new funding for life-saving aid in response to this crisis, more than $120 million to support the most vulnerable. At the Subcommittee on International Human Rights, we heard from members of the Sudanese community. Their message was clear: The violence has to stop. The Sudanese community is working with the government to save lives by providing refuge in Canada. This immigration program is critical and must continue. This devastating war must come to an end.

Mr. Speaker, I rise on behalf of a wife and a mother, Kamila. Her husband, Huseyin Celil, a Canadian citizen of Uyghur origin, was detained 20 years ago. He was on a family trip overseas and was forcibly transferred to China. He has been imprisoned ever since, without a fair trial or access to consular officials. It has been two decades since Huseyin's wife and children have heard the sound of his voice. His youngest son, who is currently 19, has never even met his father. Imagine that. Today, we ask for clemency for Mr. Celil on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. His family deserves a phone call. Huseyin's children deserve to have their father back. Twenty years of incarceration is enough. Let humanity speak.

Mr. Speaker, four years ago, Russia launched its unjustified and illegal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. This war remains a serious humanitarian crisis. On Saturday, in Montreal, I attended the Global Rally for Ukraine in frigid temperatures. We gathered in solidarity with the Ukrainian people. We stood against aggression and annexation, to protect children and to keep families together. My thoughts, along with those of the Ukrainian families, are with the wives and children whose husbands and fathers stayed to fight on the front lines. They are there defending Ukraine. This is a just cause. I say to Ukrainians in Canada and across the world, their resilience and bravery inspire. Canada will stand with them. We stand for accountability and for a lasting peace grounded in justice, fairness and international law. Dyakuyu.

Mr. Speaker, this February marks 30 years of Black History Month in Canada. We reflect on the historic barriers Black communities have faced in North America. We recognize the sacrifices made during the civil rights movement. It is because of these men and women that we now have our fundamental rights and freedoms. Today on Parliament Hill, we have many representatives from my riding: WIBCA, Youth Stars Foundation, Overture with the Arts, Playmas and many others. I want to thank them for their contributions to our community. The leaders of these groups, like many others, are mentors for future generations. They empower the next generation of Black leaders, and they pass on the legacy of the giants who came before them. This work cannot be done alone. I encourage everyone to participate. Support and lift others up, and help youth dream big and reach their full potential.

Mr. Speaker, today marks the national day of remembrance of the Quebec City mosque attack. Nine years ago, six people were killed because they were Muslim. These men were fathers, sons and neighbours. We honour their memories. We stand with the families who continue to carry this loss. This day not only reminds us of those we lost. It also reminds us of the ongoing need to confront Islamophobia. Since this tragedy, more people have fallen victim to hate-motivated crimes. While police-reported hate crime incidents have increased, many ethnic and religious communities remain hesitant to report hate, leaving too many crimes unaddressed. Today, I encourage Canadians to take action. Reporting hate to police makes the problem visible. It ensures that support reaches the communities that need it most. Together, we need to build safer, more inclusive communities for everyone.

Mr. Speaker, in the great north Arctic, families face some of the highest costs of living for housing and basic necessities. In just a few months, the new government has announced several affordability measures for Canadians, as well as for those in the north. Can the Minister of Northern and Arctic Affairs share how our government is working, including through Bill C-4's affordability measures, to deliver financial relief to the northern communities that need it most?

On November 18 a fire destroyed an apartment building in Pierrefonds on the corner of Gouin and des Sources boulevards, injuring one person and displacing 92 of our neighbours. My thoughts go out to all of the residents and families affected. I want to recognize the courageous response of our firefighters. A number of local restaurants offered free meals. My team and I have been conducting a food and clothing drive with local groups. Sun Youth has contacted the people impacted and put them in touch with On Rock Community Services. Thanks to our residents' generosity, donations have already started coming in. More than 50 large bags of essential goods have already been collected. I give a big thanks to everyone who stepped up and donated. It is beautiful how our community has come together in this moment of crisis.

Mr. Speaker, in February 2023, this House voted unanimously to welcome and resettle 10,000 deeply vulnerable Uyghurs. That vote was a historic moment for this Parliament and for the Uyghur people. According to the United Nations, the Uyghur people are still subject to grave and serious crimes against humanity. We must say this. We must acknowledge it. We must recognize it. Thankfully, a few deeply vulnerable Uyghur people have arrived in Canada. The refugees I have met are deeply grateful to Canada and Canadians. They have told me that for the first time, they know what safety and security are. Some of those Uyghur refugees are here on the Hill today. We will be holding a reception, and I ask all parliamentarians to attend. I ask the Uyghur people listening to remain steadfast and resilient, and to continue speaking up and sharing what is happening to their people. I thank the MPs who have supported this just cause.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight women's history month. Women shape our communities across Canada every day. In my own family, I have seen women of different generations contribute in so many different ways. Each one chooses a different path. It is challenging for men to fully understand the lived experiences of women. However, we must show them respect, not only this month, but every moment of every day. As a father of two daughters, I want Canada to remain a country that supports and uplifts women and girls. It is a country that promotes respect for women everywhere.

Mr. Speaker, this Sunday was the International Day of Peace. It was also the day the government, under the Prime Minister's leadership, recognized the state of Palestine. We did this with our allies, the U.K., France and Australia. This was a historic moment. The recognition of Palestine is in full keeping with Canada's long-standing support of the two-state solution. Since 1947, Canadian governments of all stripes have stood by this. Our foreign policy seeks to ensure that all in the region, regardless of ethnicity, faith or the borders one happens to be born within, can live in peace and security. What is happening in Gaza is gut-wrenching. Children are being killed in the tens of thousands. Families are being repeatedly displaced. Starvation is settling in. The nightmare in Palestine has to stop. We need an end to this war and the release of all hostages and prisoners. We need peace for Palestinians, Israelis and all in the region.

Mr. Speaker, tomorrow is National Indigenous Peoples Day. Every June 21, Canadians take the time to reflect on our past. We also celebrate the significant contributions of first nations, Inuit and Métis people from coast to coast to coast. After generations of pain and suffering, our country has chosen to deliberately walk the path of reconciliation. We must do this together. Can the Minister of Indigenous Services reflect on the importance of National Indigenous Peoples Day here in Canada and across Turtle Island?

Mr. Speaker, this Friday is World Refugee Day. The day highlights the plight and dreams of those seeking refuge because of threats to their lives. The fate of refugees concerns us all. Two years ago, this House unanimously adopted M-62, my motion to welcome 10,000 vulnerable Uyghurs to Canada. This was a historic vote. It was a vote of parliamentary solidarity. Since then, I have been working to ensure our government honours the will of this House on that day. Refugees, once settled in Canada, make countless economic and social contributions to our country, making Canada better off. Our government has historically been and must continue to be a leader in refugee resettlement. It is our duty toward the most vulnerable. World Refugee Day is an opportunity to recognize the challenges facing refugees and to appreciate the richness that these individuals bring to Canada.

Mr. Speaker, over the last several months, Canadians have felt the impacts of the groundbreaking dental care plan introduced by the previous Liberal government. The program is now open to Canadians of all ages. For the first time, a wide cross-section of households do not have to choose between fixing their teeth and putting food on the table. To help Pierrefonds—Dollard residents get coverage, Justin Myers, a PIP intern in my office, called hundreds of households to help them enrol. Already, nearly 10,000 people in my riding are registered and eligible to receive dental care. The dental program is helping people, and that is because of collaboration within Parliament. If someone living in Pierrefonds—Dollard wants info on the plan, they can call my office or visit canada.ca/dental.

Mr. Speaker, this week is National Accessibility Week. It is a time to recognize the achievements of persons with disabilities across our beautiful country. Over eight million Canadians currently live with a disability. Accessibility is vital to financial stability and to our future. Our government is focused on improving accessibility in key areas like infrastructure, employment and financial security. Also, payments to the Canada disability benefit are beginning this July. In 2019, our government introduced the Accessible Canada Act. We have come a long way. However, our work is far from done. This year's theme for National Accessibility Week is “Breaking barriers together: Paving the way for an inclusive future”. Together, we can achieve our goal of a barrier-free Canada by 2040.

Mr. Speaker, the Conservative leader is very good at coming up with slogans on cutting taxes. Unfortunately, he is not very good at acting on what he says. We would think that the Conservative caucus would be the first to support a GST tax credit, a tax credit that puts real money back into the pockets of Canadians, but it did not. The Conservative leader whipped them into voting against a tax credit for Canadians. Canadians deserve a leader that backs words with actions, not empty rhetoric and performative outrage. The Liberal government is delivering real affordability measures for families, while the Conservatives are busy voting against solutions for Canadians. Liberals have cut taxes where it matters, whether for the middle class or small business, while the Conservatives continue cutting their credibility.

Mr. Speaker, on Sunday, I was speaking with Myles, a resident in my beautiful riding of Pierrefonds—Dollard. Myles is a young man of 33. He works in transport; he is also super-fit and in training for the Highland Games. Myles and I were talking about how our Liberal government is making life more affordable and how people have been lifted out of poverty. Myles says he actually sees it. He sees it in his neighbourhood. He sees how our Liberal policies are making an impact and putting a dent in poverty. This is proved by the numbers. When the Conservatives left office in 2015, 13.5% of Quebeckers were living in poverty, whereas, today, the poverty rate is only 6.6%. We have dental care, pharmacare and the child benefit. We kept the age of retirement at 65. These are Liberal policies. We are working for Myles and all Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, today is the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. This year's UN theme is “Amplifying the leadership of persons with disabilities for an inclusive and sustainable future”. Our commitment to achieving the UN sustainable development goals remains strong. Persons with disabilities play key roles in creating accessible and inclusive communities and workplaces. We need to make sure that their leadership and contributions are recognized. Rooted in the principle “Nothing without us”, we are taking concrete action to implement the Canada disability benefit. We are ensuring that Canadians with disabilities have the support and opportunities they deserve. I want to thank all the advocates working within the disability community for making the disability benefit a reality. Happy International Day of Persons with Disabilities.

Madam Speaker, I am here to share an update from the West Island of Montreal. There was an exciting announcement made earlier this week in CLSC de Pierrefonds. Along with the Canadian Space Agency, CIUSSS de l'Ouest-de-l'Île-de-Montréal and David Saint-Jacques, the astronaut, we talked about and unveiled a pilot project that deals with telemedicine. Telemedicine is a really innovative thing. It allows for health care to be delivered remotely and for physicians and health care professionals to make assessments of individuals, people, even though they are not face to face. It has real-world applications, but it was developed in outer space. This technology was made for astronauts, but it has now been applied here at home, within Pierrefonds, at the CLSC. I want to thank Lisa Campbell, president of the Canadian Space Agency, and the entire team—

Madam Speaker, I would like to ask the member for Winnipeg North his opinion as to why the Conservative Party is stopping this chamber from doing its work over the last several weeks, if not two months now. I really find this very challenging and it is, frankly, appalling. It is halting our democracy from doing the work it needs to do. That is deeply concerning, as we talk about democracy, foreign interference and the protection of these touchstone values. First, why is the Conservative Party stopping our democracy by halting this chamber? Second, why is the Leader of the Opposition not getting a security clearance? Is he running away from something? Is there some question mark, some shadow in the closet, foreign interference, something like that? Why is—

Madam Speaker, I would like to ask the member opposite, and I would like her not to evade the question, why her leader will not get security cleared. Canadians want to know this. I want to know this. Maybe she has the answer to why her leader is not getting security cleared. It baffles me. Anybody who serves in this Parliament should be ready and willing to personally be security cleared, especially party leaders. I would like to know, without any evasion, why her leader has not been security cleared.

Madam Speaker, I have immense respect for the member opposite. He has the capacity to disagree without being disagreeable, unlike many of his Conservative colleagues, who continuously go to the bottom of the gutter and to ad hominems. I am really here to ask the question I just asked his colleague, who could not answer it and evaded the question. I want no evasion in the answer the member opposite will be providing. Why will his leader not become security cleared? The member opposite has stood in Parliament on the issue of foreign interference. Each and every Canadian, each and every representative in the House, should be ready to be security cleared. Why is the member of the party opposite not willing to do so, especially if he is looking to protect the privileges of the House? I do not get it.

Madam Speaker, I want to thank the member opposite for his speech just now. It is ironic, and interesting, that the member highlighted Nixon and Watergate, as well as how democracy must be protected. Certainly, Nixon is a shame on democracy. He also highlighted how we must protect our public institutions and have faith in our democracy. However, how can Canadians trust this when the leader of the official opposition refuses to get his security clearance? It is ironic that the member mentioned Nixon, and at the same time, the Leader of the Opposition is refusing to be security cleared. It boggles the mind. I do not get it. Thus far, I have not heard a satisfactory answer today in this chamber from the Conservative Party on why its leader refuses to be security cleared. Could the hon. member answer that question?

Madam Speaker, I want to note first off that, in the member from Regina—Wascana's response to the Conservative member for Kelowna—Lake Country, he said that Parliament is paralyzed, but it is paralyzed because of the actions of the Conservative Party. With respect to the member's answer to me, though, he said he has not yet had a conversation with his leader about why he is not getting a security clearance. Will he commit to speaking with his leader to make sure he gets a security clearance and tell us why he is not doing so? Will you have that conversation with your leader?

Mr. Speaker, 8,365 is the number of people in my beautiful riding of Pierrefonds—Dollard who have benefited from the dental care program. Seniors aged 65 and above, young people aged 18 and under and persons with disabilities are all eligible for the dental plan right now. It will be available to everyone as of 2025. Canadians, including me, all have family and friends who have had to make tough financial choices to fix a toothache or not. This is a real issue. As a Liberal, I am proud of this plan. It is a key component of our government's recent action. The Conservative Party voted against the dental care plan. Conservatives are not here for Canadians. We Liberals, though, are committed to helping the people who need it most. I will continue to fight for the dental care program and for the benefit of all Canadians.

Madam Speaker, this is a really important conversation and debate. Our government is committed to addressing the cost of living, helping out small and medium-sized businesses and also protecting consumers. This is something about which the Liberals, residents of my riding, Pierrefonds—Dollard, and, I am sure, all parliamentarians care deeply. I would like tell the story of a small business owner I visited just two weeks ago in my riding of Pierrefonds—Dollard. Her name is Paola and she works really hard each and every week, six days a week. She owns a small business called Tazza di Mattina, which has coffee, coffee machines and repairs coffee machines. I had an important conversation with her about a government program that is related to leaning on the credit card industry to ensure the costs that owners of small and medium business have to bear in consumer transactions are reduced. I let her know that Visa and Mastercard fees for small businesses would be reduced as of October 19. We know that a reduction of credit card fees will mean better prices for consumers and that fee increases are not passed on to them. The government's policy to protect and defend small businesses is really impactful. I grew up in a household that lived, survived and had everything we needed because of a small-business owner, my dad. My dad and mom brought a family of six into this world. Our family lived off a small business, so I personally know the realities of what it means for a family to have everything its needs when things might be tight. That is the reality of many Canadians. I appreciate and empathize with Canadians. In general, they feel squeezed. That is why our government is meeting the moment at each and every step. With respect to the credit cards and small and medium-sized businesses, that is one key thing we are doing. A second key thing is a code of conduct related to the credit card industry to protect one million businesses. That will also help to meet the moment. We are also leaning on the banking industry so that we ensure individuals have tailored mortgage relief available to them. I am sharing my time, Madam Speaker, with the member for Winnipeg North. Another key aspect of meeting the moment is expanding low-cost accounts and also no-cost options when Canadians are opening bank accounts. The government is also lowering NSF fees, which is critical. Once in a while, some of us have had a bounced cheque. It used to happen to me as a student. Those fees of $25, or however much they cost today, hit hard, especially if someone has a lean income. Those things matter. Today, being in the Commons with the governing party, I oftentimes think about my life as a student, a young person, and in my career. I think about what those fees meant and how the measures we are implementing today matter for Canadians and small businesses. We are doing a lot within our government to meet the moment and address the cost of living. Yes, costs did rise during the pandemic. We all went to the grocery stores. We saw the increase in price of fruits and vegetables, and that hit us, without question. Thankfully, since then, inflation has come under control and the Bank of Canada has reduced interest rates. Things are easier for people who are renewing mortgages and for those who are entering the housing market. Our government has also had some key accomplishments, such as child care, which is a key win of our government. It allows mothers who choose to work to enter the workforce and to know that their children will receive quality care. I will just share about my own family background again. I was raised by my mother at home, as were my five younger siblings. There was a choice to do that as a household. I know that not all Canadian households can make that choice. Some families need child care in order to survive. That is why our initiative, to make child care affordable and to expand that across the country, is so important. Dental care is a recent initiative of our government. That is also really important. In our entourage, our families and our friendship circles, we all know seniors, persons with disabilities or young people who have benefited. Soon, all Canadians will be benefiting from this. If we just think about these programs for a moment, they are meeting the moment. They are helping to address the cost of living and the needs of Canadians. To that, I will add pharmacare. I had a conversation with a gentleman about three months ago, while driving between Montreal and Ottawa. He told me how important diabetes medication at no cost is to him, how much he relies on that medication, how it had put a big hole his wallet, and how he is really grateful for us, as a government and as a country, for doing that. As the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities, I see the disability benefit as novel and super impactful. It will help alleviate the situation in which persons with disabilities of working age with modest income find themselves today. It will not solve everything, but it is a clear and firm step in the right direction. This benefit is being introduced and will be in effect this summer. It is being done in addition to existing provincial benefits that people receive. It is a proud moment for our country. As a member of the governing party, I am really happy that we are doing this. I go back to the idea of meeting Paola in her small business, and the initiatives that our government has done and continues to do. At some point in the future, Canadians will be making a choice about who they want to see governing our country. It is really important for Canadians to reflect upon the policies and programs that we as a Liberal government have implemented from child care, dental care, pharmacare and the disability benefit, which will be implemented this summer, with money in people's pockets, to the measures I mentioned with respect to small businesses, where 27% of credit card fees will be reduced for small and medium-sized businesses. Those things are critical. What I would say is that those programs and initiatives, and that sort of perspective of meeting the moment, will be taken away if it is not our Liberal government here in this House. That is something I would like to leave with viewers who are watching. I would like Canadians to just hold that idea, and ask whether we want these programs to continue into the future. I am sure we do. Do we want everyone to be uplifted? I am sure that we all agree to that. Let us continue.

Madam Speaker, it is really important when we take the names of eminent Canadians, lift their reputations in the House and recognize the contributions that people make to this country and the international community, that we do so with respect. As a parliamentarian, I wish that the way all parliamentarians connect individually would be reflected in our comments and how we deal with each other during question period and debate. So often I reflect on that and that is why I mention it now.

Madam Speaker, just as the member opposite did, I definitely want to recognize the importance of Lebanese Heritage Month. I went to the flag-raising ceremony here on Parliament Hill today. There were many Canadians of Lebanese background who came to the raising of the flag, along with parliamentarians of all stripes, which is so important. With respect to the question from the member opposite, it is really important for these questions to be put to the committee itself. It is a commentary on this whole debate that the appropriate place for this debate is at committee. That is where it belongs. This debate should be focused at the expert committee.

Madam Speaker, I will differ a little with my friend from my own party. We do get work done in this House. It is just that in the chamber right now, there is a stonewall because of the Conservative Party refusing to allow us to move ahead. Where I differ is that we do get work done in this Commons in committees, and each and every parliamentarian is working hard. I can say that I am working hard. We are being stonewalled because the Conservative Party is not allowing us to get the work done that we need to get done. I plead with the Conservative Party to please let us do our work.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the hon. member for Kitchener Centre for his advocacy and also thank the disability community for its advocacy over the last several years. Everyone in Canada should be able to live in dignity. Our government is dedicated to this principle. We are prioritizing the needs of persons with disabilities and the disability community, and we are working toward meaningful solutions, solutions that matter and are impactful. It was our Liberal government that enacted the Accessible Canada Act. This was the first national Canadian legislation that impacted all government departments and federally regulated agencies. We are committed to making Canada more accessible and inclusive. We launched the disability inclusion action plan, our blueprint for change. A key component of the plan is a robust employment strategy. The strategy is integral to supporting persons with disabilities and helping them to enter the workforce. In fact, Statistics Canada estimates that over one million working-age Canadians with disabilities could participate in the labour market if they had a fully inclusive environment. We are committed to providing that fully inclusive environment for the one million Canadians of working age with disabilities. Our government is committed to removing barriers through programs like the enabling accessibility fund, which supports essential improvements such as ramps, accessible doors, accessible washrooms and accessible offices. Additionally, the opportunities fund assists individuals with disabilities in preparing for, finding and maintaining employment. It also helps to advance careers. Together these initiatives help foster accessible communities and workplaces and enable us to tap into this important and valuable talent pool. Our government has invested more than any other federal government to support Canadians with disabilities, but there is still a lot of work to do. With the Canada disability benefit, our government is taking another historic step forward. As a cornerstone of the disability inclusion action plan, the Canada disability benefit aims to enhance the financial security of low-income working-age persons with disabilities. Importantly, the disability benefit is designed to supplement existing disability support programs, not replace them. The provinces and territories play an essential role in the payment of benefits. We aim to see the combined federal, provincial and territorial benefits improve supports for persons with disabilities to match the levels of old age security and the guaranteed income supplement. This significant adjustment is essential in order to effectively address the rate of poverty facing persons with disabilities. The Canada disability benefit allows our government to work with provinces and territories to see that there are no more clawbacks of existing benefits. Together we can explore the best ways to improve our collective assistance to persons with disabilities. We understand that the disabilities community is eager for the payments to be made. We are too. We are moving swiftly towards establishing essential components of the disability benefit and delivering on it. It will be in people's pockets as of July, and we are committed to that.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to again thank the member for Kitchener Centre for his advocacy. Our government is committed to supporting persons with disabilities. The first cheques for the disability benefit will be in people's pockets as of July. This is an important and historic benefit for all working-age persons with disabilities in our country living in challenging times. It will help reduce poverty and support the financial security of so many people. The Canada disability benefit is a major milestone in our government's commitment to diversity and inclusion. Our government is moving as quickly as possible to get the money to people who need it most. The Conservative Party has said it supports persons with disabilities. However, there is a question mark in regard to which programs the Conservative Party would cut first. We have heard this from the Conservative leader in the past. We would like to know if this benefit would be cut by Conservatives in the future.

Mr. Speaker, each and every MP is a representative of Canada in the House. Each and every MP has a responsibility to protect against foreign interference in our democracy. For the few who lead political parties, that responsibility to defend and protect our democracy is much heavier, yet the Conservative leader refuses to get his security clearance so that he can see top secret documents. Why is the Conservative Party leader continuously refusing to get his clearance? Out of all five party leaders, all but one, the Conservative leader, has refused to get security clearance. What is he hiding? What is he running away from? The Conservative leader in no way, shape or form is qualified to be critiquing our government on matters of national security. He must not and should not have a single day in government. This is nothing but common sense.

Madam Speaker, like so many Canadians, from all walks of life, I am deeply distressed and saddened by the situation in Lebanon. Within just two weeks, 1,000 civilians and 6,000 others have been injured because of air strikes by the Government of Israel. This includes two Canadians who have lost their lives. My thoughts are with everyone impacted in the region, regardless of which borders one is living within and regardless of one's ethnicity. Yesterday, I met with a young physician in my office. She told me the tragic story of two of her family members who were killed last weekend. She also talked about how a member of her family needs urgent medical care and cannot access that care because of civilian pathways, roadwork and infrastructure being reduced and bombarded. We need to see a ceasefire. We need all parties to stop the violence. We need peace in the Middle East.

Madam Speaker, the Conservative Party will do nothing at all for persons with disabilities. We are the party that has stood by persons with disabilities. In our budget, we have $6.1 billion to help lift people with disabilities. It is the biggest line item. We are proud of the Canada disability benefit. We are standing with the disability community, working together to uplift people. We are the government that is doing this.

Mr. Speaker, this summer, I visited dozens of organizations that received Canada summer jobs funding. There were 223 youth in our community who gained meaningful jobs through this federal program. There were 64 organizations that received over $1 million in investments in our beautiful riding of Pierrefonds—Dollard. Young Canadians have gained valuable experience and skills through these jobs with the Canada summer jobs program, which are experiences they will utilize in their careers. I had the pleasure of visiting some key organizations. I visited day camps, such as Youth Stars and Camp Chaos. I visited community pools like Briarwood, Fairview and Elm Park. I visited the West Island Association for the Intellectually Handicapped, which supports adults with disabilities. I visited food banks like On Rock and the West Island Assistance Fund, which help families in need. I also visited places of worship and cultural centres, such as the Hindu Mandir. These groups are dedicated to supporting youth and developing our community. I thank them so much for all that they do.

Mr. Speaker, in response to part (a) of the question, the disruptions assessed in the report were derived from a literature review, expert interviews with individuals, conversations with policy makers within the Government of Canada, workshops with foresight practitioners, as well as Policy Horizons Canada’s ongoing foresight work aimed at analyzing what is changing in our society, what is driving that change, and what new realities could emerge. To assess the disruptions, Policy Horizons gathered and analyzed input from around 500 stakeholders, colleagues, and foresight experts across the Government of Canada and beyond who responded to the survey. Participants did not represent an organization; they voluntarily responded to a survey as individuals. The individuals were selected by Policy Horizons Canada for their expertise in one or several domains covered by the disruptions. Policy Horizons Canada composed the survey participant list to include a variety of background and perspectives. All participants are part of Policy Horizons Canada’s larger expert network. About 53% of the survey respondents, or 258 people, were from the Government of Canada, and 47%, or 233 people,) were from outside of the Government of Canada. The names of participants were not collected as part of the survey. In response to part (b) of the question, no one was paid to participate in any part of the research or survey. Individuals responded on a volunteer basis. As for part (c) of the question,the disruptions assessed in the report were derived from a literature review, expert interviews with individuals, conversations with policy makers within the Government of Canada, workshops with foresight practitioners, as well as Policy Horizons Canada’s (Policy Horizons) ongoing foresight work aimed at analyzing what is changing in our society, what is driving that change, and what new realities could emerge. As for part (d) of the question, the following questions were asked in the survey: “Assess each of the following disruptions (35 in total) based on likelihood and impact—how likely it is to occur and how much impact it could have, if it were to occur. Select what you think the likelihood and impact of the disruption would be on a scale of 1-5 (1 being low, 5 being high).” “Think of each disruption as a future where a circumstance reaches a critical point and becomes the new normal, or a significant event happens. Select the option that indicates when you think each disruption could occur, in years. Select 10 if you think the disruption could occur in 10 or more years.” “Assess each of the following seven disruptions based on interconnections—if one disruption were to occur, which related disruptions would be more likely to occur. Select two related disruptions for each disruption.” As for part (e) of the question, Policy Horizons Canada sent the survey to approximately 2000 people within their expert network. Nearly 500, namely, 491, people responded. As participation was voluntary, reasons why individuals chose not to participate was not provided. Part (f) of the question touched on the total cost to research, prepare, and publish the report. Internal resources provided: the salary for the project team, namely, two EC-06, one EC-04, for approximately 11 months. This includes the development of the report as well as the initial dissemination across the Government of Canada, including workshops, presentations and Futures Week sessions; the salary for communications work, namely, one IS-05, one IS-04, for approximately one week. In addition, executives and staff of Policy Horizons provided input and review. External resources included the software license to undertake the survey, a cost of $2,192.00; and graphic design work and report layout, a cost of $8,463.70. With regard to part (g) of the question, as the report was published on May 7, 2024, a lessons-learned exercise has not been conducted at this time. Lastly, with regard to part (h) of the question, Policy Horizons Canada, as the Government of Canada’s centre of excellence in foresight, intends to continue its Disruptions on the horizon work. The content and details regarding future reports have not been determined at this time.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for her question. We are the government that has brought in the disability benefit. We are the government that has funded this benefit within this budget, to the highest tune of $6 billion. There will be 600,000 Canadians who will be supported through this benefit. This is a critical moment for Canadians, for our government and for all of us working together. I want to thank all who have been advocating and working for this. We are building a fairer and more inclusive Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for bringing up these important issues. Standing up against hate is a fundamental Canadian principle that every member of the House stands firmly behind. We as a government also have this principle firmly embedded in our mission and mandate. It includes standing up against the recent rise of anti-Semitism. Everyone in this country has a right to live free of discrimination, no matter who they are. Our government is taking meaningful measures to protect the Jewish communities from hate and discrimination. We have invested more than $200 million in Canadian anti-racism strategies. Budget 2024 proposes $173 million for Canada's very first action plan on combatting hate. These programs provide crucial funding to support community projects that fight racism and hate. More than that, we must support work that is led by and shepherded by communities. It is through the work of intercultural and interfaith discussion that we find compassion and understanding for each other. It is by learning about one another that each of us is able to find common ground. Through this, we can also melt barriers. By promoting multiculturalism, we strengthen our society. That is what Canada is, and each and every member of the House stands firmly behind respect for diversity and addressing discrimination. Canada's action plan on combatting hate is an important step toward a safer and more inclusive Canada. Canada's action plan on combatting hate will support community outreach and law enforcement. It will tackle the rise in hate crimes. It will enhance community security. It will counter radicalization. It will increase support for victims. To enhance our effort in combatting anti-Semitism, our government appointed Deborah Lyons as Canada's new special envoy on preserving Holocaust remembrance and combatting anti-Semitism. Engaging with communities on current issues and creating community-informed solutions are core aspects of the special envoy's mandate. To further support the special envoy in her work at home and abroad, we have increased her resources by an additional $7.3 million. This money will help her in her work. Canada is a multicultural society built on the principles of inclusion and respect for diversity. We have learned that our differences do not have to divide us. Our government remains steadfast in combatting all forms of hate, racism, discrimination, intolerance and, in particular, anti-Semitism. All of us in the House are united in that.

Mr. Speaker, these are important matters. We must be discussing in the House the issues of discrimination, making sure that each and every Canadian is safe, secure and welcomed in each and every place in society. Our government is committed to combatting hate in all its forms. We are committed to ensuring that everybody is safe at home, on the streets, in places of worship and in our communities. Budget 2024 proposes $273.6 million to combat hate. This includes $20.2 million for the hate crimes task force. It also includes $25 million for anti-hate programming and promoting intercultural ties and community-based activities. We have many initiatives that address discrimination and anti-Semitism. We are committed to supporting Canadians and the betterment of society.

Mr. Speaker, our government is firm in supporting persons with disabilities, be they travelling from point A to point B by air, by land, by sea and by all means of transport. That is why we held a disability summit, gathering together the airline industry and persons with disabilities to sharpen our pencils to make sure that persons with disabilities can travel with dignity. We are doing this work. We are making sure that Canadians can travel in a dignified fashion.

Mr. Speaker, this week is National AccessAbility Week. I would like to recognize the incredible contributions made by people living with disabilities and the organizations that represent them. Persons with disabilities, advocates and organizations work tirelessly to remove barriers. They ensure the full participation of more than eight million Canadians with disabilities. It is by working together with the disability community that we have made progress. This year's theme is “Forward Together: Accessibility and Inclusion for All”. Collective efforts are needed from all sectors of society. We need this in order to reach a barrier-free Canada by 2040. I invite my colleagues and all Canadians to celebrate the exceptional work being done by so many. Let us continue working toward a more accessible and inclusive society, a more accessible and inclusive Canada.

Mr. Speaker, May 18, last Saturday, was Tamil Genocide Remembrance Day. Fifteen years ago, on that same day, a large-scale massacre took place in Mullivaikkal. Tens of thousands were tragically killed, despite the fact that the Sri Lankan government declared no-fire zones. Even today, many Tamils remain missing and displaced. In a day and age when 120 armed conflicts are currently ongoing in 35 countries, recognizing the Tamil genocide is absolutely essential. To bring peace and stability, we need justice. It is for this reason that we recognize the Tamil genocide. It is for this reason that Canada last year applied strict sanctions against Sri Lankan officials. We all hope for a day when we have peace and security, when all live free of war.