Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, we do not need to choose between strong environmental protections and building major projects efficiently. We can and must do both. That is why we are working with provinces and territories to cut duplication and make assessments more efficient, while upholding Canada's world-leading environmental standards and respecting indigenous rights. On top of this, we introduced environmental mapping in our nature strategy to integrate conservation and project planning, to keep nature protected and to build Canada right. Our focus remains on building well, streamlining processes and cutting duplication, not corners.

Mr. Speaker, this is about how we are developing sovereign capabilities that contribute to Canada's defence and security, our economy and our future. One example is sovereign space launch capability, which is clearly set out in Canada's very first defence industrial strategy. Canada is the only G7 country without sovereign space launch capability. For a country with such a long and successful history in the space sector, this is a strategic shortcoming. Space-based systems now underpin essential military, government and civilian services. Having our own launch capability gives Canada greater control over how and when we put critical infrastructure into orbit. Last year, the Department of National Defence looked at available domestic options and considered a range of factors, including regulatory readiness, geographic suitability, operational requirements and the overall ability to support Canada's long-term space objectives. Maritime Launch Services met the necessary environmental and aeronautical safety requirements. The company also demonstrated a level of readiness that aligned with broader defence and economic objectives in the defence industrial strategy. As with any decision related to government procurement, the Department of National Defence entered into this agreement in accordance with the established rules regarding ethics, conflicts of interest and accountability. The hon. member also questioned the value of this investment. However, this is about much more than just access to a piece of land. This investment seeks to give Canada the infrastructure necessary to conduct launches from our own soil. It also seeks to reduce our dependence on foreign suppliers and to strengthen our capacity to manage our space capabilities independently. After weighing the options, we deemed the use of provincial Crown land as an appropriate and low-risk way to provide secure access to a launch site while at the same time avoiding the additional costs, delays and challenges associated with any federal land acquisition process. The site near Canso, Nova Scotia, offers some important advantages, such as access to open ocean, which is desirable for space launches. It also offers a full range of launch trajectories for earth observation, communications satellites and future defence activities. The investment also creates economic opportunities. Our agreement with MLS requires that 90% of the project funding be spent in Canada or with Canadian-owned businesses. This will ensure that the vast majority of this $200-million investment will support Canadian workers and communities. Canada is seeing record investments in space sector research and development from these companies, and projects like this signal that Canada is laying the foundation to support those investments and ensure future opportunities. This project also provides Canada with the opportunity to offer space launch services both commercially and to our allies. We can be proud of Canada's legacy in space. From the Canadarm to advanced satellite technologies, generations of Canadians have consistently been at the forefront of innovation and exploration. Building Canada strong means investing in the technologies that will shape the future. Canada's growing space sector is creating good jobs, strengthening sovereignty and ensuring that Canadians remain leaders in innovation for decades to come.

Let us be clear, Mr. Speaker. Sovereign space launch capabilities are a strategic imperative for Canada. Canada is currently the only G7 country without sovereign space launch capabilities. We are in the process of addressing that strategic gap. Our approach will enable Canada to exercise more control over essential space infrastructure. This is about building Canada strong. It is about investing in Canadian industry, unlocking the full potential of our innovation economy and creating high-quality jobs here at home. It is about developing the critical infrastructure and capabilities that strengthen our sovereignty, enhance our security and support a more resilient Canadian economy. We will build in Canada, we will invest in Canadian workers and Canadian innovation, and we will ensure Canada remains a strong, sovereign and trusted leader in the space domain.

Mr. Speaker, we are strengthening the Royal Canadian Navy from coast to coast to coast, with billions of dollars in investments in the context of one of the largest shipbuilding programs. This is the largest investment in the Royal Canadian Navy since the Second World War. It includes six Arctic and offshore patrol ships, 15 Canadian combat ships, two joint support ships and up to 12 submarines. The Government of Canada is proud to make generational investments in the Canadian Armed Forces.

Mr. Speaker, I know we are talking about Building Canada Homes and creating this stand-alone agency, and the previous speaker mentioned that no homes have actually been built. I was at the inauguration of a building in my riding in March with 30 units for transitional housing, so I have seen in my own riding that we are building. We are building to make sure that we provide the supply to allow more Canadians to find a place to live and to buy their first home. As such, I am not quite sure why the members opposite are saying no homes are being built, when I know for a fact that in my riding there have been. In fact, Longueuil was actually identified as one of the six projects initially announced.

Mr. Speaker, I have not had a chance to work with the member opposite yet here in this Parliament. I would like to ask for her thoughts with respect to the supports that we have been providing for young people, including in the spring economic statement in terms of providing training opportunities for young people. I think that she mentioned some young people in her speech and the importance of supporting young people. I would like to know if she would support those initiatives, in terms of helping train young people for apprenticeships.

Mr. Speaker, I do not know if my colleague has been hearing the same thing I have been hearing in my riding. I hear people saying they understand that Canada is facing a lot of challenges with respect to geopolitics, with respect to trade and so forth. They want Canadians to stick together and to work together for the benefit of all Canadians. The member alluded to how this debate today has been about almost celebrating Canada's difficulties in terms of the economy. Can the member let us know if he is hearing the same thing from constituents that I am with respect to working together for the benefit of Canadians?

Mr. Speaker, I had a chance to visit the hon. member's riding a couple of years ago. It is a beautiful riding with phenomenal people. I was listening to her speech quite intently. She mentioned something that I think we can all agree with. No one wants young people to have to leave their home to find work. I think that all of us want to make sure that young people who want to stay in their home province, find a good job and be able to settle and have a family have that opportunity. With that, I know that we recently brought forward the team Canada strong plan in the spring economic statement, which will allow for apprenticeship training and some opportunities to allow young people to get the skill set they need to help build the homes that the member is referring to. Would she agree that this could be a good initiative in terms of helping young people stay in their home province?

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for her support for members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families. The member spoke a lot about the defence industrial strategy, and a previous question suggested that there was no defence strategy. In fact, in the defence industrial strategy, it clearly indicates the 10 sovereign capabilities that Canada has indicated very clearly with respect to what they are looking for in terms of procurement and our own sovereignty. I would ask the member to elaborate a bit about what she is hearing on the ground in her riding with respect to those 10 sovereign capabilities.

Madam Speaker, the ACVA committee report that we are discussing this morning calls for the creation of an independent review board. As the member knows, we announced on Friday that we will be doing that. I will be meeting with the organizers behind Valour in the Presence of the Enemy this afternoon to talk about next steps and move forward. I would ask my colleague if he is willing to work with us to make sure we have the feedback he would like us to have in terms of what the advisory board should look like.

Madam Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for championing the issue and bringing the parties together. This is a non-partisan issue. In fact, when I ran in 2015, I ran because I am the mother of two serving members. At that time, I remember giving an interview, and someone asked me why I was running. I said it was because I want to make sure that, should something happen to my kids, they will be taken care of. I reread that statement recently about my commitment and why I ran for office. As I said last Friday, I am committed to working with all members of the House to get the advisory board put forward. I would like to ask the member if she has heard some additional feedback in terms of what we should be looking at. I know that the member from the opposition mentioned a previous motion that was brought forward with some guidelines and some recommendations. I would like to hear if she also has some additional recommendations she would like to share.

Mr. Speaker, establishing sovereign space launch capabilities in Canada will generate billions of dollars in investment, create well-paying jobs, strengthen Canada's sovereignty, reduce our dependence on the United States, and support a commercial space launch and re-entry sector. This could represent as much as $40 billion. That is what we are investing in. These are essential capabilities that protect Canada and generate significant economic benefits for Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, honouring bravery and sacrifice in service to Canada is among our government's most solemn responsibilities. We are profoundly grateful to all those who have served and who continue to serve our country. Military honours, including Canada's Victoria Cross, are subject to a thorough and rigorous review process by the Canadian Armed Forces. I can confirm that the government agrees to the establishment of an independent military honours review board to review Afghanistan veteran cases where new evidence may suggest that the criteria for the Victoria Cross may have been met. I look forward to providing further updates to this House in due course.

Mr. Speaker, establishing Canadian sovereignty of space launch capabilities is essential for us, not only in terms of our defence capabilities, but also in terms of our ability to detect wildfires and atmospheric issues. This is incredibly important for Canada. The premier of Nova Scotia is in support. The industry is in support. This is going to generate billions of dollars in economic returns and create jobs. I do not understand why the Conservatives are against innovation.

Mr. Speaker, as someone who has the Canadian Space Agency in Longueuil, I do not understand why the member opposite is not supporting space domain awareness. This is incredibly important. Our job is to make sure that our forces are ready and resilient when operating in the space domain. We are standing up 3 Canadian Space Division, which will ensure space domain awareness, defend and protect our satellites, and deliver space power in support of military operations. This will allow Canada to have sovereignty in terms of our ability to launch satellites into space. Our allies are asking for this. I do not understand what the problem is.

Mr. Speaker, establishing Canadian sovereign space launch capabilities will drive billions in investments, create good-paying jobs, increase Canada's sovereignty, reduce our reliance on the United States and support a commercial space launch and re-entry industry that could be worth up to $40 billion. That is what we are investing in, and these are essential capabilities that protect Canada and create massive economic benefits for Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, establishing sovereign space launch capabilities in Canada will drive billions of dollars in investment, create good-paying jobs, increase Canada's sovereignty, reduce our reliance on the United States and support a commercial space launch and re-entry sector that could be worth up to $40 billion dollars. That is what we are investing in. These are essential capabilities that protect Canada and create massive economic benefits for Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, Canada has long been a global leader in the aerospace sector. Establishing Canadian sovereign space launch capabilities will drive billions in investments, create good-paying jobs, increase Canada's sovereignty, and support a commercial space launch and re-entry industry that could be worth up to $40 billion. This is what we are investing in. These are essential capabilities that protect Canada and create massive economic benefits for Canadians. In fact, it is estimated that the sector sustains 225,000 jobs across Canada. Through Canada's first-ever defence industrial strategy, along with our recent investments in aerospace capabilities, we are working hard to grow this sector even further. This strategy provides the signal to industry, allies, partners, the Canadian Armed Forces and Canadians that we are moving forward quickly and with purpose. The defence industrial strategy identifies space as one of 10 sovereign capabilities for Canada. These are the capabilities we need to invest in and foster so that our military can remain agile, effective and ready to meet the requirements of a more complex security environment, and so that we can support Canadian workers and Canadian industry by building on what we already do very well. By prioritizing space capabilities and other sovereign capabilities, and by making a host of other changes to how we are rebuilding and re-equipping our forces while reinvesting in them, we anticipate that the defence industrial strategy will deliver impressive results, including 125,000 high-quality jobs across the Canadian economy, an increase in total revenue for the Canadian defence industry of more than 240%, and a 50% increase in Canada's defence exports. This will all occur over the next decade. Our new build-partner-buy strategy means that we are investing in Canadian workers, in Canadian industry and in the Canadian economy. Our investments in Canada's space capabilities will translate into new jobs, stronger supply chains, greater industrial capacity and a more resilient Canadian economy. I will turn to one such investment in particular, the spaceport near Canso, Nova Scotia. As the Minister of National Defence announced back in March, Canada has signed a 10-year, $200-million agreement with Maritime Launch Services to build out Canada's sovereign launch infrastructure. As part of this agreement, Maritime Launch Services must spend 90% of that funding here in Canada. This means that $180 million will go back into Canadian businesses. Moreover, we expect that, once complete, it will help bring direct and indirect benefits to Canada's space, industrial, hospitality and tourism sectors, including those in the local community. Canada and Canso, in particular, are a natural choice for this launch capability. We have the space expertise, the industrial capacity and a site near Canso that is suitable for safe and effective launch operations, because of its proximity to the ocean. That is why many of our allies and partners have already expressed interest in collaborating with us to support their own launches, which will create even more opportunities in the region. The Canadian Space Agency is in Longueuil, and I have visited it many times. This capability is incredibly important to our national defence and our sovereignty. In short, this investment is good news for Nova Scotia, for Canada and for everyone who works in the space domain.

Mr. Speaker, only a Conservative would say that spending 2% of GDP on defence is a waste. Being from a military family, I find that, quite frankly, incredibly offensive. The capabilities that this investment will allow us to have are incredibly important to not only our military response, but also our domestic response, whether that be wildfires, flooding or so on and so forth. To assume otherwise is absolutely incorrect. By the way, seeing that it is Monday evening, I just want to say, go, Habs, go!

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to open third reading debate on Bill C‑11, the military justice system modernization act. As Canada's new government makes a generational investment in the Canadian Armed Forces, we know that any work to support our forces starts with our people. This legislation is about the women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces, and it is about ensuring their safety here in Canada and around the world. The people of the Canadian Armed Forces are at the heart of everything we do, whether they are defending our sovereignty at home, supporting our allies abroad or serving at bases and wings across Canada. As a military parent and as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, I have had the immense privilege of meeting many members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families across the country and abroad. I have an incredible amount of respect for military members and their families as they serve Canada, and I am deeply grateful for their steadfast dedication to Canadians. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces keep us safe every day. In turn, it is our responsibility to ensure that they have a work environment where they feel protected, respected and empowered to serve. Our forces deserve a workplace free from all behaviours that harm our people, threaten morale and undermine team cohesion, including the reprehensible act of sexual misconduct. We know that a strong, diverse, united and capable armed forces is what we need to defend Canada. It is essential that we eradicate any behaviours that run counter to a healthy workplace. Our operational effectiveness, recruitment and retention depend on our ability to create an environment where our forces can grow their careers for decades to come. Bill C-11 proposes a range of important changes to the National Defence Act designed to support this essential work of keeping our forces safe and helping them thrive in a healthy workplace. Canada's military justice system must not only reflect the values of fairness, accountability and respect, but also uphold the trust that Canadians place in the institutions that serve them. Through Bill C-11, we would fulfill the recommendations of former Supreme Court justices Arbour and Fish, and we are taking decisive steps to rebuild and reinforce trust within the Canadian Armed Forces. First, this bill would remove CAF jurisdiction over Criminal Code sexual offences committed in Canada. With this bill, civilian authorities would have the exclusive responsibility to investigate and prosecute these offences. Second, Bill C‑11 would act on eight key recommendations outlined by former Supreme Court justice Fish in his third independent review. This includes establishing stronger, more transparent appointment processes for senior CAF members who play crucial roles in the military justice system. We are also modifying the appointment process for the director of military prosecutions and the director of defence counsel services by making them Governor in Council appointees, and we are changing the term of those positions to a fixed non-renewable term of up to seven years. We are also modifying the process and authority for the appointment of the Canadian Forces provost marshal, appointed by the Governor in Council, and, finally, changing the title from Canadian Forces provost marshal to provost marshal general to align with the title of other senior designations in the CAF, such as the surgeon general, the chaplain general and the judge advocate general. Third, Bill C‑11 builds on supports provided under the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights by expanding access to victim liaison officers for individuals acting on behalf of a victim. Fourth, the bill aligns the military justice system's provisions regarding sex offender information and publication bans with the amendments already made to the Criminal Code in 2023. These comprehensive recommendations aimed at reforming our military justice system are just one part of a broader transformation of the Canadian Armed Forces. We would make important changes to how we screen new recruits, how we manage Canada's two military colleges, in Kingston and in Saint-Jean, and how we collect, store and use data on workplace harassment, among other things. These are real, tangible and meaningful changes that would help to get more people in the door more effectively. For example, we would also be instituting a new probationary period for new recruits. This would allow applicants to enrol and to begin their training while the administrative work related to their application file is completed. This is something that multiple external examiners suggested the Canadian Armed Forces implement. There would be added benefits to the implementation of this recommendation too. For example, during the probationary period, applicants would have to pass the required security clearance check, meet medical standards and show that they live by the Canadian Armed Forces' ethos and values. We need to ensure that our military better reflects the country it serves by drawing from the very best people Canada has to offer, but let me be clear: We will not tolerate bad behaviour. We are already starting to see positive impacts of the implementation of these recommendations. In fact, our recruitment efforts are already paying off. Last fiscal year, we surpassed our recruitment goals, bringing in over 6,700 new regular force members. That is a 55% increase from the year before. This year, we had the highest enrolment for the Canadian Armed Forces in the past 30 years. Applications more than doubled, to over 45,000. The Canadian Armed Forces enrolled 7,310 regular force members, and 70 of the 97 critical roles are now filled. This is good news for Canada, for Canadians and for the Canadian Armed Forces, but we still have work to do to foster a culture within the Canadian Armed Forces that is rooted in dignity, inclusion and respect for everyone who serves. We know we need to keep our foot on the gas to create a modern 21st-century workplace that can foster the next generation of the Canadian Armed Forces. As I have mentioned in previous debate on this legislation, Bill C-11 would fulfill several recommendations put forward in the reviews conducted by former Supreme Court Justices Arbour and Fish. In addition, the House of Commons Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs submitted its 15th report, entitled “Invisible No More. The Experiences of Canadian Women Veterans”, in June 2024. This study was the largest study that the committee had ever undertaken. Almost 100 individuals appeared over the course of 23 meetings, and in that report, passed in the House, the committee's recommendation 40 reads: That the Department of National Defence, in accordance with the many recommendations made in the wake of the Deschamps, Fish and Arbour reports, establish a reporting mechanism outside of the military chain of command, provide victims of military sexual trauma with safe and confidential legal resources, and transfer the jurisdiction to investigate sexual misconduct and prosecute its perpetrators to civilian authorities. I would like to note that we are also making important progress on many of the other recommendations as part of our broader cultural evolution efforts. For example, in the independent external comprehensive review, Justice Arbour detailed 48 recommendations on everything from recruitment to training and oversight. I am very proud to share that, to date, we have implemented 47 of those 48 recommendations. We made progress on Madam Arbour's first and second recommendations, strengthening our approach to addressing sexual misconduct by clarifying the full spectrum of terms and definitions into three categories: conduct deficiencies of a sexual nature, sexual harassment and sexual assault. This would ensure that we are better able to address each form of inappropriate conduct through the proper legal, administrative and disciplinary means. The Canadian Armed Forces has also adopted the Canada Labour Code definitions of harassment and violence. This change now allows the defence team to take a unified approach to addressing cases of workplace harassment and violence, applicable to both public servants and members of the armed forces. All incidents of harassment and violence within the defence team will be managed through the workplace harassment and violence prevention program. This measure came in response to Ms. Arbour's third recommendation. We also acted on recommendations seven and nine of Justice Arbour's report by allowing Canadian Armed Forces members who experience sexual misconduct, sexual harassment, sexual crimes or any other form of discrimination based on sex or gender in the course of their duties to contact the Canadian Human Rights Commission directly. As many members know, the former external monitor, Madam Jocelyne Therrien, provided regular public evaluations of our progress in implementing these recommendations, including releasing six biannual status reports over the course of her term. Madam Therrien's thorough and objective assessment of our progress has been critical in informing how we are implementing these recommendations, and we thank her for her commitment, guidance and dedication. In April 2021, the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces launched a comprehensive initiative aimed at aligning the culture of the Department of National Defence and the professional conduct of its personnel with the fundamental values and ethical principles we aspire to uphold as a national institution. Since then, we have taken significant steps to evolve our culture and implement concrete changes, including taking measures to eliminate systemic racism and discrimination. This work encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, such as developing policies and programs that address systemic misconduct, improving mechanisms for monitoring and reporting misconduct, and overseeing the development of a framework for professional conduct and organizational culture that combats discrimination, harmful behaviour, bias and systemic barriers. To support these efforts, and as we reaffirmed in budget 2024, we are investing nearly $1 billion over 20 years to facilitate these changes within the Canadian Armed Forces, and we are proposing amendments to the National Defence Act to implement key recommendations aimed at transforming the organizational culture. We have also launched a comprehensive plan designed to guide our efforts to implement the various recommendations. We recognize that cultural change is a gradual process that unfolds step by step and takes time. It requires sustained and ongoing effort. It is essential to the well-being and operational readiness of the Canadian Armed Forces. I would also like to emphasize that changing the culture and improving the Canadian Armed Forces should be a goal that unites us as parliamentarians, not one that divides us. Improving and strengthening the Canadian Armed Forces is not, and should never be, a partisan issue. We continue to listen and learn from members of the defence team, external stakeholders, communities and partners as we work to create a safer and more inclusive work environment. We are making real, tangible progress, but we recognize that there is still much more work to be done. This is why we also need to ensure that victims and survivors of sexual misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces get the support, the care and the resources they need. In line with Justice Arbour's recommendation 14 of the independent external comprehensive review, we have worked hard to provide a suite of supports for victims and survivors. Much of that support comes from the sexual misconduct support and resource centre. This centre, which operates independently of the chain of command, provides specialized advice, guidance and recommendations to personnel in the Canadian Armed Forces and National Defence on all matters related to sexual misconduct. It includes a 24‑7 hotline that offers personnel confidential support, information on available options, advice on how to help others and referrals to care and services. I would also like to point out that the independent legal assistance program is another valuable mechanism for supporting victims. It offers free and confidential legal assistance, including legal information and advice regarding incidents of sexual misconduct that occurred in a context related to DND and the CAF. It also offers legal representation in certain proceedings related to sexual criminal offences or military offences, the victim's safety or their participation in the judicial process. By offering timely, independent and trauma-informed support, the program plays a critical role in expanding access to justice and choice for affected persons. It is important to note that there have been important progress and tangible changes since 2021. This is precisely because of the interim directive that put Justice Arbour's recommendation number five into place in a temporary manner, until such time as legislation could be passed through Parliament. As Justice Arbour herself acknowledged in her report, removing concurrent jurisdiction by amending the National Defence Act will “take several years to implement.” Since 2021, work on cultural evolution inside the Canadian Armed Forces has continued, and we have now implemented 47 of Justice Arbour's 48 recommendations. To block Arbour's recommendation number five would be to undo the progress of the past five years. I want to conclude by reminding members that delivering a culture change is not only the right thing to do, but it is critical for our operational needs. This is not a partisan issue. Our national security is only as strong as our people. Our forces deserve to work in a modern, transparent and trustworthy 21st-century workplace where they can thrive. That is precisely why we introduced Bill C‑11: to codify in law key recommendations from justices Arbour and Fish. Justice Arbour's fifth recommendation calls for the removal of CAF jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute Criminal Code sexual offences. This is also in line with recommendation 40 of the ACVA committee. After hearing from almost 100 witnesses, parliamentarians on that committee agreed that this is the right thing to do. In 2021, upon receipt of Justice Arbour's report, we promised Canadians and members of the Canadian Armed Forces that we would implement this critical recommendation. With Bill C-11, a promise made is a promise kept.

Mr. Speaker, with respect to the question of choice, victims and survivors deserve legal clarity, transparency and trust in the process. Justice Arbour herself called the victim's choice between military and civilian courts a false choice. This is because we would be placing a burden on the victim in a time of stress and trauma to choose between two unequal options. Asking victims and survivors to choose between two unequal options, one of which has the potential for chain of command interference in a Criminal Code case, does not provide victims with clarity, transparency or certainty.

Mr. Speaker, as I said, the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs submitted a report in 2024 after hearing from more than 100 witnesses. The committee drafted a recommendation to the House to do exactly what we are doing now through Bill C-11. We listened to the victims and to the recommendations of a number of Supreme Court justices. The chief of the defence staff also spoke with over 14,000 CAF members. I spoke with current CAF members myself and asked them to send me their recommendations. They are concerned that bad habits could resurface if the days when CAF performed the analyses and led the legal proceedings were to return. We told them unequivocally that we were going to implement recommendation five, which is precisely what we are doing.

Mr. Speaker, actually, I agree with keeping the sunset clause in the bill, and I support the idea of having that put back in. I agreed in committee to put that in, including a four‑year sunset clause with a review of both houses of Parliament. I agree that we hope the Senate, when it does the review of this bill and is going through that process, includes that recommendation and any other recommendations that will strengthen the bill.

Mr. Speaker, it is true that back in 2021, when we launched the inquiry into what had happened within the Canadian Armed Forces, very few people wanted to enlist. There was a lack of trust. Families did not want their children to join the Canadian Armed Forces. I myself have two children and a daughter-in-law who are currently serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. How could I ask another family to let their children enlist in the CAF knowing that they might become victims? We have made efforts to change the culture within the Canadian Armed Forces. We have implemented 47 of Justice Arbour's 48 recommendations. Today, we are seeing a significant increase in enrolment. Our plan is working.

Mr. Speaker, I have always listened to the members of the Canadian Armed Forces and their families, and I always will. I have been listening to them for years now, and I have heard their accounts. We introduced Bill C-66 in the last Parliament. It was the same as Bill C-11. We introduced this bill in response to the recommendations of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, as well as those of Justice Arbour, who made it very clear that those powers should be removed from the Canadian Armed Forces. No employer in Canada conducts its own investigations and prosecutions involving its own employees.

Mr. Speaker, young Canadians are feeling the pressure right now, and that is why we are making ambitious investments in the Canadians economy and young workers, so they can be part of building Canada strong. In our spring economic update, we announced our team Canada strong plan that invests in training and apprenticeship supports in the skilled trades. This will help train 100,000 skilled trade workers by 2030. We are going to ensure they have the tools they need to learn, grow and help us build Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, on May 19, the minister will be in Moose Jaw to provide updates on the future of the Canadian Forces' Snowbirds. The Royal Canadian Air Force is incredibly proud of the women and men who, for decades, have represented the Canadian Armed Forces with pride at air shows across North America and around the world. Canadians can rest assured that they will be able to enjoy the iconic Snowbird formations for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to share some news that is great for Canada and for the Canadian Armed Forces. We confirmed this week that Canadian Armed Forces recruitment has reached its highest level in 30 years. The number of applications has more than doubled over the past year, reaching over 45,000. On top of that, we have recruited 7,310 regular force members, surpassing our target. Our soldiers, sailors and aviators do important and incredible work. We need more of them. The Canadian Armed Forces' continued recruiting success signals much more than progress. It reflects a renewed strength at the core of our military. Our government is proud to reinvest in our forces to rearm them and rebuild them.

Mr. Speaker, I did, in fact, work with my colleague on the electoral reform committee. I enjoyed working with him on that. I would like to get his opinion on whether we should also be looking at the following, in terms of eliminating the longest ballot. I know that every candidate who wants to present in a federal election has to fill out a nomination paper as a candidate with Elections Canada and make solemn declarations on that form. Could the member provide an opinion on whether one of those declarations should be something along the lines of “I fully intend to represent the citizens in this riding”? The reason why they are using the same auditor is that they are not actually incurring or submitting any expenses, as they have no intention to run. Perhaps a solemn declaration with the actual intent of running is something we could add.

Mr. Speaker, I am very grateful to be here today for the debate at report stage of Bill C‑11, the military justice system modernization act. As Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, I have the privilege and responsibility of supporting the women and men who serve Canada in uniform. I believe that responsibility is shared by all members of the House. As the mother and mother-in-law of three serving members of the Canadian Armed Forces, I know first-hand that members of the Canadian Armed Forces are among the very best of our country: skilled, dedicated, professional and deeply committed to something greater than themselves. I have had the privilege of meeting many of them, and each time, I am reminded of a simple truth: We ask a great deal of them. We ask them to serve in uncertainty, to operate in high-risk environments and to put service before self every single day. In return, we have a responsibility, a collective responsibility, to ensure they have everything they need to succeed. That includes the right equipment, the right training and, critically, the right environment. It must be a safe, respectful and dignified environment. It must be a healthy work environment, where everyone feels protected and able to serve, because serving one's country should never come at the expense of one's dignity. Eliminating unacceptable behaviours, including sexual misconduct, is central to that responsibility. These behaviours cause real harm. They erode trust. They damage morale. They impact recruitment and retention. Ultimately, they weaken operational effectiveness. There is no place for this in our military. There is no place for this in Canada. That is why today's debate is so important. Cultural change and growth within the Canadian Armed Forces is simply too important to be exploited for political or partisan gain. Our military members deserve better, their families deserve better and Canadians deserve better. Through Bill C-11, we are proposing important amendments to the National Defence Act to modernize the military justice system. The legislation is about ensuring that the system remains fair, effective and worthy of the trust Canadians place in it. At its core, it would strengthen accountability, reinforce independence and ensure alignment with the values Canadians expect. As introduced, Bill C-11 would remove CAF jurisdiction over Criminal Code sexual offences committed in Canada. These offences would instead fall under civilian authorities for investigation and prosecution. This reflects the practice already in place since 2021, following the interim recommendation of former Supreme Court justice Louise Arbour, and this legislation would formalize that approach. I would like to note that the interim directive has been an effective measure while we await the passage of Bill C-11. The interim directive to implement recommendation five has been in place since December 2021, and since then, all new charges of sexual offences under the Criminal Code have been brought in the civilian justice system. Bill C-11 proposes to solidify this interim directive and make it permanent, as Justice Arbour recommended. Any attempt to undermine or undercut the progress made in the past five years under the interim directive is a disservice to victims and survivors. I note that Bill C-11 also advances key recommendations from former Supreme Court justice Morris Fish to strengthen the system's effectiveness and credibility. These include strengthening and modernizing appointment processes for senior military justice roles, broadening eligibility for military judges, reinforcing the independence of military justice authorities and expanding mechanisms for interference complaints. These are not technical adjustments. They are foundational reforms. They go directly to the integrity of the system. The bill also strengthens support for victims by expanding access to liaison officers, including those acting on behalf of victims. It also aligns military justice legislation with recent amendments to the Criminal Code regarding offenders and publication bans. The military justice system is about maintaining discipline, efficiency and morale within the Canadian Armed Forces. Modernizing it is essential for lasting institutional reform. Our objective is clear. It is to strengthen trust and confidence among defence team members and all Canadians. Trust must be at the heart of any justice system. Trust must be earned through action. The changes proposed in Bill C-11 are part of a much broader transformation. We are undertaking meaningful reforms across recruitment, training, leadership and oversight. In fact, this week the Canadian Armed Forces reached its highest recruitment in 30 years. This is excellent news for Canada, but we must not lose sight of the important work we are doing to ensure that the next generation of the Canadian Armed Forces has a safe and supportive work environment. I can assure members that we are fully committed to implementing the recommendations of Justices Fish and Arbour. These recommendations provide a road map for concrete and measurable change. We have strengthened our recruitment and assessment processes. A probationary period now ensures that recruits comply with security requirements, meet medical standards and, above all, possess the values expected of those who serve their country: respect, dignity and integrity. We have clarified how sexual misconduct is defined and addressed, breaking it into clearer categories so that each form can be dealt with appropriately. We have aligned our approach to harassment and violence with the Canada Labour Code, creating a single, consistent framework across the defence team. We have enabled direct access to the Canadian Human Rights Commission in certain cases because transparency and accountability are essential to cultural change. We continue to track progress publicly through our comprehensive implementation plan, a detailed road map that Canadians can see and follow. As noted by the external monitor, Jocelyne Therrien, there has been significant effort and meaningful progress, but she also reminded us of something important. This work is never finished. Creating a respectful and inclusive workplace is an ongoing commitment. It is one that requires sustained leadership, accountability and commitment. The measures in Bill C-11 represent an important step forward. More than that, they represent progress: progress toward a military justice system that reflects our values, progress toward a workplace where every member can serve with dignity and progress toward rebuilding and reinforcing trust. It is a step to better protect those who serve and to build a safer, more respectful environment. It is also a step towards building confidence in our military justice system. We owe this to the women and men of the Canadian Armed Forces. We owe this to all Canadians. Let us continue this work together. Let us get this done for them.

Mr. Speaker, the member mentioned the veteran affairs committee. In fact, the veteran affairs committee submitted a report to the House in June 2024 entitled “Invisible No More. The Experiences of Canadian Women Veterans”. In that report was recommendation 40, which I will quote: That the Department of National Defence, in accordance with the many recommendations made in the wake of the Deschamps, Fish and Arbour reports, establish a reporting mechanism outside of the military chain of command, provide victims of military sexual trauma with safe and confidential legal resources, and transfer the jurisdiction to investigate sexual misconduct and prosecute its perpetrators to civilian authorities. That was passed unanimously with the support of the Conservatives.

Mr. Speaker, it is actually very appropriate to read the preface to Justice Arbour's report into the record, because it still rings true. It says: Thousands of Canadians have served, and continue to serve, with honour in one of the country’s most prestigious organizations: the Canadian Armed Forces.... Many, however, were denied that chance. Members of the LGBTQ2+ community were purged. Members of Indigenous and black communities, and other visible minorities and equity-seeking groups, have been largely absent, clearly not welcome. For years, women were simply shut out. When finally allowed to serve, women were made to feel they did not belong. They were denied opportunities to compete fairly and to thrive. They were harassed, humiliated, abused and assaulted, and, appallingly, many continue to be targeted today. Things have changed in the Canadian Armed Forces for the better. We cannot go back. For the victims who never came forward, out of fear of retribution, out of fear for their lives, today is for them. We heard them. We listened. We are there.

Mr. Speaker, I did listen intently to the intervention of my colleague across the way. He referenced a report that was tabled by the ACVA committee in June 2024. I actually participated in that study as well. That report made a unanimous recommendation, recommendation 40, which states: That the Department of National Defence, in accordance with the many recommendations made in the wake of the Deschamps, Fish and Arbour reports, establish a reporting mechanism outside of the military chain of command, provide victims of military sexual trauma with safe and confidential legal resources, and transfer the jurisdiction to investigate sexual misconduct and prosecute its perpetrators to civilian authorities. This is exactly what Justice Arbour recommended in her recommendation 5, which is exactly what is in Bill C-11. I am not sure why there is a change of heart. We listened to veterans, and this is what they asked for.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his work on the Standing Committee on National Defence. He talked about all the other sexual assault victims. Recommendation 5 in Justice Arbour's report stems from the work she has done. She listened to witnesses and victims and made this recommendation, the same one that was in the report of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs. Can my colleague talk about the other victims who were not able to appear before the committee? We are listening.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for her incredible support for members of the Canadian Armed Forces. She mentioned that she is a lawyer and has worked in this kind of field. I would like to ask her if she knows of any other workplace where an employee who is a victim of sexual assault would have to report that sexual assault to their employer and have it investigated by their own employer.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague across the way for her work on the national defence committee. In 2024, the ACVA committee undertook an extensive study regarding women in the military. More than 100 witnesses came forward over 23 meetings, testifying before the ACVA committee. From that committee came a report that was tabled in Parliament and included recommendation 40, and this was unanimous. All parties agreed: That the Department of National Defence, in accordance with the many recommendations made in the wake of the Deschamps, Fish and Arbour reports, establish a reporting mechanism outside of the military chain of command, provide victims of military sexual trauma with safe and confidential legal resources, and transfer the jurisdiction to investigate sexual misconduct and prosecute its perpetrators to civilian authorities. That is exactly what Bill C‑11 would do.

Mr. Speaker, the member and I worked together very closely on the procedure and House affairs committee in a previous Parliament and extensively studied the issue of foreign interference. There are many ridings in this country that we would call a “safe seat”, one that has always been blue, red or a certain colour. Essentially, anyone who obtained the nomination in a nomination contest would be guaranteed to be sent to the House of Commons. Could the member elaborate a little on some of those issues with respect to nominations and the prevention of foreign interference in nomination contests that would essentially make sure that a preferred candidate gets elected in the House of Commons?

Mr. Speaker, if the government's responses to Questions Nos. 846, 847, 848, 849, 850, 851, 852, 853, 854, 855, 856, 857, 858, 859, 860, 861, 862, 863, 864, 865, 866, 867, 868, 869, 870, 871, 872, 873, 874, 875, 876, 877, 878, 879, 880, 881, 882, 883, 884, 885, 886, 887, 888, 889, 890, 891, 892, 893, 894, 895, 896, 897, 898, 899, 900, 901, 902, 903, 904, 905, 906, 907, 908, 909, 910, 911, 912, 913 and 914 could be made orders for return, these returns would be tabled in electronic format immediately.