Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, this summer I joined residents across Brampton South at Carabram, Flavours of Nigeria, the Nepal Festival, Vibrant Brampton, Ahmadiyya Jama'at Jalsa Salana, and the Malayalee boat race to celebrate Brampton's diversity through the unveiling of the monument at Azores Park. There was a $5.2-million investment in BHive Technologies, and the launch of Canada's first strategic exports office at MDA Space is helping drive innovation. I also want to highlight Celiac Canada's day of smiles at the Davis Family Farm, and Hockey Night in Brampton with the Honey Badgers and NHL players Morgan Rielly and Mark Messier to support the Brampton Civic Hospital. Representing Canada at international forums in Manila and South Africa made me realize the respect Canadians have earned on the world stage through democratic leadership. The seventh HKL global movement conference was a powerful reminder that kindness, humility and service remain the foundation of stronger communities and a strong Canada.

Mr. Speaker, I would first like to thank my colleague from Scarborough—Woburn for sponsoring this important bill, alongside the work of former senator Marie-Françoise Mégie and Senator Tony Ince in the Senate. Their leadership has helped bring national attention to an issue that matters deeply to many Canadians: how we better support people living with sickle cell disease, their families and their caregivers. It is important for me to rise in the House today to speak in support of Bill S-201, an act respecting a national framework on sickle cell disease. Sickle cell disease is one of the most common genetic conditions in the world. In Canada, it affects an estimated 5,000 people. For those living with the disease, the impact can be serious and lifelong. It can mean repeated hospital visits, chronic pain, blood transfusions, complex treatments and ongoing challenges for families and caregivers. That is why the legislation is so important. Bill S-201 would develop a national framework to support Canadians living with sickle cell disease. It would also require Health Canada to consult broadly, including with provinces and territories, health care professionals, researchers, indigenous people, patient groups, community organizations, families and caregivers. This is the right approach. Health care is delivered across jurisdictions, and improving support for people living with sickle cell disease requires coordination, evidence, awareness and collaboration. I know the Canadian Peace and Unity Organization is also doing sessions to raise awareness. Many other organizations are working so hard. The bill would help advance that work. The national framework proposed in Bill S-201 would look at several important areas. It would support better health professional training, help establish national research networks and patient registries, encourage more consistent diagnostic and treatment pathways and support expanded newborn screening. These are practical measures that can make a real difference. A national registry, for example, could help us better understand how many Canadians are living with sickle cell disease, what their needs are and where support could be improved. Research networks could help strengthen evidence, support innovation and connect experts across the country. Standardized diagnostic and treatment pathways could help ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care no matter where they live. Expanded newborn screening could support earlier diagnosis, earlier intervention and better long-term outcomes. Bill S-201 would also build on important work that is already under way. Our government launched the national strategy for drugs for rare diseases to improve access to effective drugs for rare diseases and make them more affordable for patients across Canada. The strategy focuses on supporting patient outcomes, investing in innovation, seeking national consistency and collecting and using evidence. As part of this work, the federal government has signed bilateral funding agreements with all 13 provinces and territories. These agreements are helping improve coverage and access to selected new drugs for rare diseases, other new and existing drugs, screening and diagnostic services and better data collection. This is an important step for Canadians living with rare diseases, including those living with sickle cell disease. The strategy is also supporting work with important research partners, including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Canada's drug agency and the Canadian Institute for Health Information. Through this work, Canada is strengthening research on gene therapies, diagnostic tools, administrative data, monitoring, pediatric clinic trials and treatment networks. These investments matter because rare diseases often affect smaller patient populations, which can make evidence harder to collect and treatment harder to access. By improving how we collect data, support research and make decisions, we are helping build a more consistent and informed system for patients across the country. Bill S-201 would complement this work by focusing specifically on sickle cell disease. It would help ensure that the condition receives national attention through a coordinated framework, clear reporting requirements and continuing collaborations with the people and organizations who understand the disease best. The legislation would also build on previous federal action. In 2017, Parliament recognized June 19 as National Sickle Cell Awareness Day, helping bring greater national attention to this condition and the experiences of those affected by it. Bill S-201 would take that work further by moving from awareness toward a coordinated national framework for research, screening, treatment and support. Another important area is blood donation. Many people living with sickle cell disease require blood transfusions as part of their care. These transfusions are often most effective when the blood is closely matched. That is why efforts to increase the diversity of Canada's blood donor base are so important. Canadian Blood Services has worked to increase awareness and encourage more donors from communities where matched blood is most needed. This work helps strengthen the blood supply and supports patients who depend on safe and closely matched blood. Bill S-201 would help keep these needs on the national agenda as part of a broader conversation about care, treatment, research and support. The bill would also recognize the real and ongoing costs that families can face. Living with sickle cell disease can affect work, school, family life and financial stability. Caregivers also carry significant responsibilities, including attending appointments, supporting treatments and helping loved ones manage the daily realities of the condition. That is why this legislation would call for an examination of possible supports, including a tax credit for people living with sickle cell disease and their caregivers. This is an important recognition that not only do health conditions affect medical care, but they also affect the everyday lives of patients and families. The bill would also ask the government to examine eligibility for disability benefits and the inclusion of essential sickle cell treatments in public drug plans. These are important conversations, and they deserve thoughtful study. I want to recognize the advocates, researchers, health care professionals and community organizations that have carried this work forward for many years. In particular, I want to acknowledge the Sickle Cell Awareness Group of Ontario and commend its advocacy. Its advocacy and community leadership have helped to support families, raise awareness and push this issue onto the national agenda. Bill S-201 would reflect many of the priorities that advocates have called for, including stronger research, better data, improved screening, health professional training and more consistent care for patients. It would also build on the work already under way through the national strategy for drugs for rare diseases, National Sickle Cell Awareness Day, investments in research and efforts to strengthen blood donor diversity. For families in Peel region and across the country who have long advocated for better awareness for caregivers who carry daily responsibilities and for Canadians living with sickle cell disease, this legislation represents meaningful progress. That is why I am proud to support it.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Bill C-265, introduced by my colleague, the member for Thunder Bay—Rainy River. I want to thank him for bringing forward this important legislation and for his advocacy on behalf of patients and families across Canada. In my riding of Brampton South, I regularly hear from residents navigating serious and complex health challenges. I often hear the same message, which is that patients want timely access to safe and effective treatments. Rare diseases are often perceived as uncommon, but collectively, they are not rare at all. Today, approximately one in 12 Canadians, or nearly three million people, live with rare diseases, and roughly two-thirds of those affected are children, yet treatments exist for only a small percentage of these conditions. Throughout my time in Parliament, I have heard closely from patients, caregivers, health care professionals, researchers and advocacy organizations. As the chair of the all-party diabetes caucus, I have witnessed how medical innovation has transformed diabetes care over the years. New medication, new technologies, continuous glucose monitoring systems and advancement in treatment have dramatically improved the lives of Canadians living with diabetes. Innovation saves lives, reduces complications and improves quality of life. My riding of Brampton South is one of Canada's fastest-growing and most diverse communities. It is home to families who closely follow medical advancement taking place around the world. Increasingly, residents are aware of therapies that are available in other jurisdictions and often wonder why we cannot have that timely access and why access in Canada can take longer. They want to know what options exist when conventional treatments have failed, and whether promising innovations may be available to them or to their loved ones. For families facing serious illness, every day matters. That is why Bill C-265 deserves careful consideration. At its core, this bill is about patients. It is about Canadians living with serious, life-threatening, chronic or rare conditions who have exhausted available treatment options and are searching for hope. Canada's special access program plays an important role in our health care system. It allows health care professionals to request access to drugs that have not been approved for sale in Canada when conventional therapies have failed, are unsuitable or are unavailable. The program exists because we recognize there are circumstances where patients require access to treatments that fall outside the traditional approvals pathway. However, we know the current process can be complex and time-consuming. Physicians are often required to submit individual requests for each patient, even when the same therapeutical products have already been reviewed numerous times. While these safeguards are important, the administrative burden and red tape can create delays for patients whose conditions continue to progress. Bill C-265 seeks to address this challenge by establishing a list of products that have been pre-approved for special access. Under this proposal, therapies that meet established criteria could be placed on the national list, allowing health care providers to access them more efficiently through the special access program while maintaining appropriate oversight. Importantly, this bill would not remove safeguards. Products would continue to undergo scientific review, Health Canada would retain oversight authority and an expert advisory committee would provide recommendations regarding additions and removals. Products could be removed from the list if new evidence raised concerns regarding safety or effectiveness. In other words, this bill would seek to reduce administrative barriers without compromising patient protection. Canada would not be stepping into uncharted territory by considering a more efficient pathway for special access. Many of our international partners have already established mechanisms that allow patients with serious illness to access promising therapies before they receive full market authorization. In the United States, the Food and Drug Administration operates an expanded access program often referred to as compassionate use, which enables patients with serious or life-threatening conditions to access investigational therapies when no satisfactory alternatives exist. The European Union has implemented compassionate use programs to support patients suffering from chronic, life-threatening disease who have exhausted available treatment options. Similarly, the United Kingdom's early access to medicine scheme was designed to provide patients with earlier access to promising innovative medicine while maintaining rigorous oversight and monitoring. These programs demonstrate that improving access and maintaining safety are not mutually exclusive. We can continue to uphold Canada's high standards, while also finding ways to respond more quickly to the needs of patients facing urgent circumstances. I have heard similar concerns from patients living with chronic illness who closely follow emerging therapies and innovations that have the potential to improve outcomes and quality of life. While therapies ultimately require rigorous evaluation and regulatory oversight, we should also be examining whether they are opportunities to make promising treatments available more efficiently for patients facing serious health challenges. Bill C-265 encourages us to have that conversation. I also appreciate that the legislation includes mechanisms to promote transparency and accountability. The establishment of an expert advisory committee would ensure that decisions are informed by clinical expertise and scientific evidence. The proposed timelines for reviewing submissions would help create greater predictability for patients and health care providers. The ability to remove products from the list if safety concerns emerge reinforces the principle that patient safety must remain at the centre of every decision. This is why I believe this bill deserves to move forward. Committee members will have the opportunity to hear from patients, physicians, researchers, regulatory and advocacy organizations, and health care professionals. They will be able to access international best practices, evaluate potential risks and benefits. Bill C-265 seeks to improve access while maintaining the strong safeguards Canadians expect. By reducing unnecessary delays and strengthening the special access program, it keeps patients at the centre of care. For these reasons, I support this bill in its second reading and look forward to its study at committee.

Mr. Speaker, I rise to highlight Canada's leadership in strengthening global health systems. As UNITE chapter chair for North America, I had the honour of welcoming Dr. Ricardo Baptista Leite to Ottawa, who is president of UNITE. Alongside colleagues and leading health experts, we discussed how legislators can work together to advance innovation, preparedness and stronger outcomes internationally. UNITE is a global parliamentary network with more than 552 members across over 120 countries working with partners, such as the WHO and the United Nations, to promote fair and sustainable health systems and digital innovation. Canada has the expertise, the institutions and the credibility to help shape global solutions, from prevention and preparedness to supports for women, children and vulnerable communities. By working together with partners through UNITE, we can drive meaningful progress that reaches communities in every corner of the world.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ken Mayhew, the late president and CEO of the William Osler Health System Foundation. Ken was a respected leader in our community and a kind, thoughtful and genuine person who united people in support of causes that strengthen our community. Since joining the Osler foundation in 2012, Ken spent over a decade advancing charitable giving and strengthening health care in Brampton and surrounding areas. Before Osler, Ken devoted more than 20 years to the MS Society of Canada advancing research and support for people living with multiple sclerosis, reflecting his lifelong commitment to improving lives. I also want to recognize Dr. Frank Martino and the Osler team who continue to carry forward that mission. My thoughts are with Ken's wife Suzanne, his daughters Kate and Lia, all his family, friends, colleagues and the Osler community. Ken's legacy of care and service will live on.

Mr. Speaker, May is Celiac Awareness Month. Today, we wear the ribbon in recognition of the more than 400,000 Canadians living with celiac disease. As the chair of the all-party celiac caucus, I hosted Celiac Canada's annual gluten-free breakfast on the Hill. I thank Melissa Secord and her team, and colleagues from all parties who came together in support. I have heard first-hand from the celiac community, including from families who spoke with me at the Davis Family Farm's sunflower festival, about how managing celiac disease requires a strict, lifelong, gluten-free diet. Let us continue to listen, raise awareness and stand with Canadians living with celiac disease, recognizing their strength and resilience.

Mr. Speaker, I really want to say that I commend the member's approach. I know how passionate he is. I worked through it the last time with a previous Liberal member who was working very hard on this bill. It has come a long way and I am happy to see this. I want to ask the member a question. This is also an awareness point of view, that all Canadians can now contribute to saving lives. Can you elaborate on that a bit?

Mr. Speaker, in April, we wear daffodils as a symbol of hope for all those affected by cancer. Many families have been touched by cancer. Daffodil Month brings Canadians together in that shared hope. Across the country, Canadian researchers are advancing new immune therapies and treatments. Let us recognize the nurses and doctors across Canada who are working hard to support patients every day. In Sunnybrook, Dr. Arjun Sahgal and his team are treating cancer patients with advanced radiation technologies. Dr. Helena MacKay and her team are also improving cancer care with the new drug therapies. I want to recognize local organizations such as Cancer Warriors, the Walnut Foundation, the Terry Fox Foundation and Canadian Cancer Society, along with the volunteers who are working hard on the ground. Let us continue the fight so that, one day, we can live in a world free of cancer.

Mr. Speaker, Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh. As we celebrate Vaisakhi and Sikh Heritage Month in April, we commemorate the founding of the Khalsa Panth in 1699 by Guru Gobind Singh Ji. This moment formalized the Sikh commitment to equality, social justice, courage and service to others. These teachings continue to guide generations. Sikh Canadians strengthen our communities through seva, selfless service, uplifting those in need and bringing people together. These are not only Sikh values; these are Canadian values. Today, we are celebrating Vaisakhi on the Hill. I want to thank everyone who has joined from across Canada. On behalf of the residents of Brampton South, I wish everyone who is celebrating around the world a very happy Vaisakhi and Sikh Heritage Month. Vaisakhi athe Khalsa sirjana divas diyaan seriya nu lakh vadhaiyan hoven.

Mr. Speaker, today on World Tuberculosis Day, we reflect on our progress and the work still ahead. TB is preventable, treatable and curable, yet it continues to affect thousands of people, including here in Canada. In recent years, over 2,500 people in Canada have been diagnosed. Yesterday, Health Canada approved a new drug that will expand access to shorter, safer preventive TB treatment. Canada is also advancing vaccine research and clinical trials and is working with global partners like Gavi to expand immunization worldwide. Organizations like Stop TB Canada and Results Canada are part of a broader network doing vital work on the ground and making a real difference. Today we recognize all those contributing to this effort, and we renew our shared responsibility, because together we can end tuberculosis.

Mr. Speaker, today on Pink Shirt Day, we stand together to send a clear message: Bullying in any form has no place in our communities. Bullying has lasting impacts on mental health, academic success and overall well-being, affecting people of all ages. Our government will continue to invest in mental health supports such as Kids Help Phone, which provides immediate confidential support 24 hours a day. While these supports are essential, each of us can help foster a culture where seeking help is encouraged, stigma is reduced and kindness leads the way. Simple acts of compassion help build safer, more inclusive communities across Canada. Everyone deserves to feel valued and supported and to know they have a safe space in our communities, because compassion and kindness are always stronger than hate.

Mr. Speaker, I am presenting a petition on behalf of over 28,000 Canadians calling for meaningful tax relief for people living with celiac disease. Celiac disease affects about one in 100 Canadians and requires a strict gluten-free diet that comes with a significant cost. The petitioners are therefore calling for a simple refundable tax credit, $1,000 per adult and $600 per child living with celiac disease, to provide accessible relief. I commend Celiac Canada for its leadership. As a founding member of the all-parties celiac caucus, I am happy to present this petition.

Madam Speaker, I was listening to the member's speech when he was talking about extortion. He says that we need to fix this. This government has a big legislative agenda with six bills to fix this. If the member is serious about extortion, why is he stopping Bill C-14, which would create reverse-onus bail for violent extortion, require consecutive sentences and strengthen the bail system? Why is there obstruction? Will that member join us to pass the bill?

Mr. Speaker, families in Brampton work hard and deserve support that works for them. That is why the government is increasing the GST credit by 25% for five years. This means a family of four in Brampton could receive up to $1,900. It will help more than 12 million Canadians across the country. These measures are paired with $500 million to protect supply chains, support farmers and help keep prices down at the checkout. They build on the progress already made, including a middle-class tax cut for 22 million Canadians, $10-a-day child care, dental coverage for six million Canadians, expanded student loan forgiveness, and school meals for 400,000 children each year. These measures are about making everyday life more affordable and supporting families in Brampton and across Canada.

Mr. Speaker, today I am speaking to Bill C-223, the keeping children safe act, aimed to strengthen protections for children and survivors in family law proceedings where family violence or coercive control may be present. I want to begin by thanking my friend and colleague the hon. member for Hamilton Mountain for bringing this important legislation forward and for her continued work to ensure that the safety and well-being of children remains at the centre of Canada's family justice system. This bill addresses issues Parliament has examined carefully over many years: family violence, coercive control and the misuse of parental alienation claims and the profound impact these harms can have on children. At its core, Bill C-223 is guided by a simple and essential principle: When families are in crisis, children must come first. Children are not legal strategies. They are not leverage in disputes. They are individuals with rights, needs and voices who deserve protection. However, Parliament has heard through committee studies and testimony that too often children have been separated from the parent who provides their primary care and safety, not because it was in their best interest but because allegations were raised without a full and informed understanding of family violence or coercive control. This bill seeks to correct this by ensuring that child safety, not litigation tactics, is the guiding principle in family law decisions. For too long, violence within families has been understood primarily in physical terms, but through research, lived experience and extensive testimony before the Standing Committee on the Status of Women, the committee learned that harm can also be emotional, psychological, financial and controlling. Coercive control is not a single incident; it is a pattern of behaviour. Witnesses from women's shelters and victim services organizations described how coercive control can include isolating a partner from family or community, monitoring movements, restricting access to finances and using intimidation to instill fear and compliance. One organization representative told the committee that in their experience supporting survivors, physical violence is almost always preceded by coercive behaviour, and that coercive control often continues even when physical abuse stops. A witness from another victim services organization emphasized that coercive control is a critical warning sign that must not be ignored, particularly when children are involved. Critically, the committee heard that these behaviours often persist after separation and can continue through family law proceedings themselves, impacting family law with respect to children. One of the most troubling findings of the status of women committee study was how parental alienation claims can be misused in cases involving coercive control. Witnesses explained that when courts do not fully recognize coercive dynamics, protective parents, most often women, may be portrayed as obstructive, while a child's fear or resistance to contact is misunderstood or minimized. In such cases, children may be placed in unsafe situations or separated from the parent who is actually protecting them. The committee also heard the testimony of witnesses from organizations who described the devastating consequences of failing to recognize coercive control early. They pointed to national inquiries and identified coercive control as a central factor in tragic outcomes, noting that missed opportunities to intervene by institutions and systems can have irreversible consequences for victims and their children. The committee was clear. When coercive control is misunderstood or dismissed, children pay the price. That is why Bill C-223 matters. The bill would amend the Divorce Act to strengthen protections for children and survivors in family law proceedings where family violence or coercive control may be present. It would do this in several important ways. First, it would limit the misuse of parental alienation claims, ensuring that courts do not rely on such claims in ways that undermine child safety or silence survivors. This is critical, because survivors should not be blamed for failing to facilitate the child's relationship with an abuser, particularly where violence or coercive control is present. Second, the bill would prohibit courts from ordering harmful reunification practices that force children into contact intended to repair a relationship with the parent when safety is not assured. Third, it would expand the responsibilities of legal advisers to ensure that risks of family violence are assessed and that appropriate safety planning is considered during divorce proceedings. Fourth, it would reinforce that there is no automatic presumption of equal parenting time. This decision must be grounded in the child's best interest, including their safety and well-being. Finally, the bill would strengthen how courts consider the child's voice while protecting their safety and privacy, and direct courts to avoid relying on harmful myths or stereotypes about family violence, such as the assumption that to be credible, abuse must be reported immediately or leave visible injuries. Together, these measures would help ensure that children are protected, survivors are not penalized, and clear guidance is given. In 2019, Parliament modernized the Divorce Act to require courts to give primary consideration to a child's safety, security and well-being, and to consider family violence as part of that analysis. Those reforms were significant. However, the status of women committee's work demonstrated that further clarity and reinforcement are needed, particularly when coercive behaviour continues after separation and manifests within the family law proceedings. Bill C-223 would strengthen that foundation by responding directly to what Parliament has learned since. On November 25, the committee released its report containing some recommendations informed directly by testimonies. These testimonies were from survivors, advocates, shelters and victim services organizations from across Canada. Their voices made it clear that coercive control can take many forms, emotional, psychological, financial and controlling, and that children's safety is at risk when these behaviours are not properly recognized. The report emphasized that the system must stop penalizing survivors for protecting their children and must instead focus on safety, context and evidence. Bill C-223 responds to those findings. It reinforces that assumptions have no place in family law decisions, and that child safety, not litigation tactics, must guide outcomes. Violence does not always leave visible marks. Fear can silence families, and children must never be separated from safety. Bill C-223 respects the complexity of family law in Canada while keeping children where they belong, at the centre of every decision. I call on colleagues on all sides of the House to join me in supporting this important legislation. Together we can continue to build a family justice system that is compassionate, evidence-based and firmly centred on keeping children safe.

Mr. Speaker, as we wrap up the fall session, I rise to reflect on the work we are advancing together. This fall, the government has been working on strengthening health care, including simplifying the residency pathway, so Canadians in every community can access a family doctor, and introducing the PSW tax credit to support personal support workers. Budget 2025 also invests in communities like Brampton, including $25 million in TMU's new medical school, the first built in the GTA in more than a century. We are also supporting state-of-the-art AI infrastructure at the University of Toronto. Investments like these have the potential to strengthen and streamline health care. As we enter the holiday season, I wish everyone in Brampton South and across Canada happy holidays and a happy new year.

Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise today on behalf of the residents of Brampton South to speak in support of Bill C-15. Budget 2025 sets out a clear path forward, one of fiscal responsibility, of investing in Canadians, of safeguarding national security and of building safer communities. Budget 2025 is a plan for growth, inclusion and opportunity. It is a responsible, forward-looking plan that provides stability in uncertain times and delivers real, practical results for communities like in my constituency in Brampton South. In Brampton we are growing fast in population, diversity and innovation. Bramptonians expect results: more homes, stronger transit, better health care, safer streets and good jobs with good wages. Budget 2025 delivers on those priorities. It balances fiscal responsibility with the long-term investments that support growth, fairness and opportunity. Bill C-15 would strengthen essential programs and expand federal support in ways that would directly improve the lives of the residents of Brampton South. Budget 2025 reflects a government that listens, responds and takes action. It is not a budget of abstract promises; it is a budget of action. Housing supply and affordability are urgent challenges in Brampton communities. Bill C-15 would speed up housing construction, strengthen incentives for rental development and expand tools that support cities in building more homes faster. For Brampton this would mean more funding for purpose-built rentals and measures supporting the city's long-term plan to build tens of thousands of homes near major transit hubs at Bramalea, City Centre, Mount Pleasant and Hurontario Street. Transit infrastructure is equally important for Brampton. Bill C-15 would enhance federal support for zero-emission buses, fleet expansion, route enhancements and transit-priority infrastructure, which would directly assist Brampton Transit in meeting record ridership demand. Just to let members know, Brampton Transit carried more than 43 million passengers in 2024, an increase of almost 125% from 2021. That is why these investments are so important. The investments would reduce traffic congestion, help workers commute more efficiently, and support Brampton's climate goals. When we give people a home near accessible transit, jobs and services, we reduce commute times, lower emissions and improve the quality of life of the residents of Brampton. Health care is a growing need in Brampton. Budget 2025 responds with a dedicated $5-billion health infrastructure fund to update hospitals, emergency rooms and urgent care centres. It invests in expanding primary care teams, reducing wait times and increasing training spots for doctors and nurses. I am particularly proud to highlight that budget 2025 provides $25 million in funding to Toronto Metropolitan University's school of medicine in Brampton, Canada's newest and Brampton's first medical school. It is the first new medical school in the GTA in 100 years. This funding of $25 million will help train the next generation of physicians right here in Brampton. We need more health care professionals in this country. That is what we are addressing in the budget. We are investing $97 million in faster foreign credential recognition so skilled professionals can contribute faster, especially in the health care and construction fields. To support people on the front lines, budget 2025 introduces a temporary personal support workers tax credit, allowing eligible PSWs to claim a refundable tax credit of up to $1,100 per year. Innovation and productivity are the engines of a strong economy. Budget 2025 makes bold investment to keep Canada competitive, diversify our trade and support businesses impacted by tariffs. It is very important that we increase productivity in our country. The budget incentivizes private sector investment in research and development, strengthens tax credits for innovation and supports cutting-edge technologies that drive growth. Notably, budget 2025 commits more than $900 million to support a large-scale, sovereign, public AI infrastructure, ensuring that Canada has the computing power to lead in artificial intelligence. More of every public dollar should go to the Canadian economy and benefit the Canadian community. The budget not only invests in fully implementing a buy Canadian policy across the federal government but also helps Canadian small and medium-sized businesses break into the federal market. Affordability is top of mind for families in Brampton South. Our government remains committed to accessible, affordable child care. This is a proven record. Since 2021, more women with young children are working. The participation rate is now at 79%. The Canadian dental care plan continues to expand. Now, six million Canadians of all ages are covered under the plan. Seniors in Brampton South have given me very positive feedback. I have seen first-hand many seniors who had never had dental work and now have. The plan will now benefit Canadians of all ages. Bill C-15 would make the national school food program permanent, providing healthy meals for up to 400,000 children every year. No child can go to school hungry. Investment in Build Canada Homes will help double the pace of affordable homebuilding over the next 10 years. Public safety is fundamental to any vibrant community. Budget 2025 delivers by providing new funding for law enforcement agencies to combat organized crime and auto theft, enhanced border security tools to intercept stolen vehicles and illegal guns, support for community safety and youth prevention programs, resources for community-driven safety initiatives and support for a national public alerting system. Budget 2025 also introduces Canada's first-ever national anti-fraud strategy aimed to establish a new financial crime agency and a code of conduct for the prevention of economic abuse. These measures will protect Canadians, especially seniors, from financial fraud and abuse. Budget 2025 also supports the new horizons for seniors program, showing that we value the contribution of senior Canadians in communities like mine of Brampton South. The budget commits $1.5 billion to creating jobs and opportunities for young people. It invests in re-skilling workers and training the next generation of Canadian builders. Budget 2025 reflects a government that believes in vibrant communities and inclusive growth. It reflects the priorities of Canadians and the aspirations of the people of Brampton South. Our goal is to create good jobs, local growth and a resilient one Canada economy. Budget 2025 is a transformative budget that builds homes and infrastructure, expands health care, strengthens public safety, supports seniors and grows our economy. It is a budget that moves Canada forward and ensures that communities like Brampton are not left behind but are leading the progress. I am proud to support Budget 2025. I look forward to seeing the positive impact the budget will deliver for all Bramptonians and Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, I want to give the example of a project in Montreal that is strengthening our supply chain, diversifying our trade and creating thousands of jobs in Quebec. The project will generate approximately $140 million annually in local and economic benefits in Quebec and across Canada. This budget is a very good budget. Not only will it make my community strong, but it will also make our country strong.

Mr. Speaker, public safety is the top priority in my community. As I said in my speech, safety is the top priority for families. Budget 2025 delivers real action to crack down on auto theft, home invasion and organized crime. This budget invests $1.7 billion over four years in the RCMP, including 1,000 new personnel and recruitment incentives to strengthen investigation and support local police across the country. This is built on our government's recent bail and sentencing reform act, which would tighten bail for repeat violent offenders and strengthen sentencing. Together, these measures would give law enforcement stronger tools and would ensure that communities like Brampton have the support they need to stay safe.

Mr. Speaker, November is Diabetes Awareness Month. It is a time to reflect on the millions of Canadians who are living with diabetes. Last week, I hosted my fifth annual diabetes flag-raising at Brampton City Hall. I also represented Canada at the PDGN Global Parliamentary Advocacy Forum on diabetes, showcasing Canada's leadership in diabetes in global health. Universal access to diabetes care is very important. Progress was made after the passing of my private member's bill to establish the national framework for diabetes in 2021. However, there is more to do. We need to ensure that all provinces and territories join the national pharmacare plan to make essential diabetes medication free. Together, let us continue working hard to extinguish the flame burning outside Sir Frederick Banting's Banting House and achieve a world free of diabetes.

Mr. Speaker, today Canadians from coast to coast join Sikh communities in commemorating the 556th anniversary of the birth of Guru Nanak Dev Ji, the first guru and founder of Sikhism. Today we reflect on Guru Nanak Dev Ji’s timeless teachings: naam japna, meditation; kirat karni, honest living; and vand ke chakna, sharing with others. These principles are not only central to Sikhism, but they also resonate strongly with Canadian values. Guru Nanak Dev Ji defended equality and justice, advocating for the rights of women, a message that continues to reflect the values we uphold in Canada today. These teachings are lived every day by Sikh Canadians, whose contributions continue to enrich our country. May the teachings of Guru Nanak Dev Ji continue to inspire us all. Happy Gurpurab to everyone who celebrates it.

Mr. Speaker, this Friday marks World Mental Health Day. Mental health is health. One in five Canadians experiences a mental illness each year in their daily life. From youth to seniors, mental health impacts every generation. In Brampton South, community organizations such as the South Asian Canadians Health and Social Services, Roots Community Services, CMHA Peel Dufferin, KMH and many others are providing vital care and support. Our government has partnered with these organizations to strengthen supports for mental health and substance use. Canadians can get access to the care they need through our youth mental health fund and expanded Wellness Together Canada portal. I want to thank all the dedicated mental health workers across Canada for their compassion and their commitment to helping others. I say to anyone struggling that they are not alone. I ask them to please reach out and seek the supports—

Mr. Speaker, September marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until the late stages. Our government takes women's health seriously. In the last election, we committed to stronger data collection and advanced research, including the use of artificial intelligence to close the long-standing gap in women's and seniors' health care. Better data means better outcomes. In Brampton, many are leading by example, from the Canadian Cancer Society's Run for the Cure to the lavender fire truck campaign in Brampton. I also recognize local organizations like Cancer Warrior, the Walnut Foundation and others for their dedication to raising awareness for cancer. I urge all Canadians to prioritize early screening. Early detection can save lives, and it gives families the best chance for successful treatment.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to reflect on a wonderful summer in Brampton South. I would like to use this opportunity to share my sincere thanks to all residents who joined me at my annual summer barbecue. This summer, I attended many community events and heard one message clearly: Public safety remains a top priority. As the Prime Minister said, we will strengthen bail reform and impose tougher sentences on home invasion, extortion and repeat violent offenders. We will invest directly in our law enforcement. Keeping our communities safe requires every level of government to do its part. Provinces must provide resources to courts and law enforcement to keep dangerous offenders behind bars. Together, we will build safer streets for Brampton and for all Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, building safe communities and neighbourhoods takes a collective effort, and our Liberal government is making positive progress by working together with all levels of governments and partners. Through our investment and collaborative approach, in the Peel region, there was a 60% drop in auto thefts in 2024 and an additional 45% decrease in the first quarter of 2025. Just this week, Peel Regional Police and CBSA seized over 50 million dollars' worth of cocaine in one of the largest drug busts in their history, a clear message that crime will not be tolerated in our communities. However, more work needs to be done. Our government is taking community safety very seriously. That is why our government is strengthening laws, cracking down on repeat violent offenders and taking action on auto theft, home invasions, human smuggling and drug trafficking. We will continue to show leadership by working with our communities to build safer neighbourhoods for all Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to share my heartfelt congratulations to all the graduates of 2025 from Brampton South and across Canada. Graduation marks the completion of years of hard work and perseverance. Through their academic journey, each graduate has shown incredible growth as a young scholar and Canadian. I thank all parents, teachers and mentors for all their hard work to support our graduates on the path to their dreams. As the 2025 graduating class embarks on a new chapter filled with possibilities, I would like to wish every graduate all the best in their future endeavours. I look forward to celebrating their continued successes. Congratulations to the class of 2025 and best wishes.

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to respond to the Speech from the Throne delivered by His Majesty King Charles III. Before I begin, I would like to extend my appreciation to the residents of Brampton South for once again placing their trust in me to represent them in the 45th Parliament. This continued trust gives me the honour of being their voice in the chamber, standing up for their priorities and working to make our community stronger, safer and more inclusive for everyone. I also want to extend heartfelt thanks to my family, staff, volunteers and residents for their continued support. As we begin this new parliamentary session, we are setting a course for a bold and forward-looking Canada, one that reflects the hopes and aspirations of Canadians across the country. At the doors in Brampton South, I heard directly from our community members on priorities that matter to them the most. More than that, people told me they want to see real solutions, not slogans, action that meets the moment and sets us on the best path forward. That is exactly what the throne speech delivers: a clear, ambitious agenda to tackle the challenges head-on and build a more secure, more affordable and more prosperous future for generations to come, where Canadians can afford a home, find a good-paying job and feel safe in their neighbourhood. First, our Liberal government is delivering a middle-class tax cut. Residents in Brampton South work hard every day to support their family, and they deserve to keep more of their hard-earned money. That is why one of the first actions of the current government is to deliver meaningful tax relief for the middle class. Starting July 1, we plan to reduce the lowest personal income tax rate from 15% to 14%. This tax cut will benefit nearly 22 million Canadians and save two-income families up to $840 a year by 2026. For families in Brampton South, that is money that can go toward groceries, kids' activities or saving for the future. Over the next five years, this tax cut will return more than $27 billion to Canadians, dollars that remain in our communities and support local economies like ours in Brampton South. Our message is clear: We are cutting taxes and delivering changes so all Canadians can get ahead. Second, our government will continue to invest in health care and affordability measures. The government is building on progress that is already making life more affordable for families in Brampton South, like $10-a-day child care, the national school food program and the Canadian dental care plan. Thanks to our $10-a-day child care program, parents in Ontario are saving over $10,000 per year per child. In Brampton, we are seeing new child care spaces opening. For example, there is the SimplySmart Child Care Centre and Montessori school. I have spoken with parents first-hand, especially mothers, who are now able to return to work or take on more hours, knowing their children are in safe, affordable care. This is more than good social policy; it is also smart economic policy. It gives our children the best possible start and supports parents as they build their career. We are also making progress with the national school food program, an ambitious step in strengthening our social safety net. With over $1 million in federal funding over five years, the program will provide nutritious meals to more than 400,000 students in Ontario alone, helping our students focus, learn and thrive. Through the Canadian dental care plan, we are delivering real savings, up to $750 a year on essential dental care. This historic program has already helped over 3.6 million Canadians, including 1.8 million who have received care to date. Now all uninsured eligible Canadians can apply, with the goal of reaching up to nine million Canadians. These are not just numbers; they are life-changing supports. I have spoken with single mothers in Brampton South who are now able to work full-time thanks to access to affordable child care. I have heard from seniors who can finally get the dental care they need without the burden of high costs. These are the people we are fighting for, and we will keep working every day to deliver for them. Third, our Liberal government remains committed to building more homes for Canadians. In Brampton, housing demand has increased. That is why I welcome our government's ambitious plan to double the rate of homebuilding in Canada and support a new wave of affordable housing construction. We are launching the new “build Canada homes” initiative to unlock new projects for prefabricated housing and to make it easier for builders to get shovels in the ground. By cutting development charges and offering significant financing to non-profit and affordable housing providers, we are addressing the root causes of unaffordability. This work is already happening in Brampton. Through the housing accelerator fund, the federal government is investing $114 million to fast-track the construction of more than 3,150 new homes in the city of Brampton. This funding is helping Brampton officials cut red tape, speed up zoning changes and support higher-density development near transit and essential services. We are also taking action to make home ownership more affordable for first-time buyers by eliminating the GST on new homes valued up to $1 million, saving them up to $50,000, and reducing the GST on homes priced between $1 million and $1.5 million. These are concrete steps that are making a difference right now so more families in Brampton South can find an affordable place to call home. Fourth, our Liberal government will continue to make our communities safer and more inclusive for everyone. Safety is a top priority for our communities, and when it comes to keeping our streets and neighbourhoods safe, all levels of government must work together. That is why the Liberal government is taking concrete action with respect to supporting local municipalities, law enforcement and the Province of Ontario to combat and prevent organized crime and auto theft, and to keep assault-style weapons off the street. In the Region of Peel, theft of motor vehicles has declined significantly, with a 16% drop in 2024 and a further 45% decline in the first quarter of 2025 compared to the same period last year. These are not just statistics; the numbers represent real change that our partners can bring with the support of the federal government. That is why we are investing in stronger bail enforcement and tougher laws to keep repeat violent offenders off our streets, 1,000 new RCMP officers to strengthen law enforcement capacity across Canada, federal funding and intelligence coordination to disrupt organized auto theft rings, and technologies like drones, scanners and K-9 units to intercept stolen vehicles and illicit goods. Our message is clear: We are committed to ensuring that our communities are safe, and our investments are working. Together, with local, provincial and federal collaboration, we are making our streets safer for everyone. Fifth, our Liberal government will build one Canadian economy and safeguard Canadian values and sovereignty. We are living in a time of deep uncertainty around the world. In recent months, we have heard alarming rhetoric from south of the border, but let us be clear: Canada is not for sale, and the true north is indeed strong and free. As outlined in the Speech from the Throne, our government is responding with confidence, conviction and vision. Our Liberal government will continue to diversify our trading partners. Canada has 15 free trade agreements cover 61% of the world's GDP and open markets to 1.5 billion consumers worldwide. Most important, we are building one Canadian economy, removing internal trade barriers, strengthening supply chains and empowering our industries with the local tools required to lead and compete in a rapidly changing world. We will create one Canadian economy, not 13 Canadian economies. This will lower prices up to 50%, increase productivity up to 7% and add $2 billion to the economy. Together, we are building a Canada that is united, resilient and ready to lead, not just today but for generations to come.

Mr. Speaker, as I said in my speech, together we are building a Canada that is united, resilient and ready to lead, not just today but for generations to come. Yes, unjustified tariffs are here from south of the border, but our Liberal government will continue to deliver. That is why the Prime Minister had a meeting with the premiers yesterday. It was so that we can build a resilient economy, one economy, to make Canada strong. Our Liberal government will continue to diversify our trading partners. Canada is the only G7 economy with comprehensive free trade access to the entire G7 and European Union, totalling 50 countries. Canada is the only country that has 15 free trade agreements, covering 61% of the world's GDP—

Mr. Speaker, I shared sitting on the status of women committee with the member from 2019 until the last Parliament. We did a lot of work in the status of women committee together on betterment for women. Our Liberal government is committed to working for betterment for women. As members know, child care is also there, even $10 day care. When I was door knocking, I heard very positive feedback from women, single mothers, and it is a big help. In this 45th Parliament, let us work together to do more on betterment for women.

Mr. Speaker, as members know, we got a clear mandate, and we have an ambitious plan with the tax cut. I was just talking about the 15% to 14%. We have an ambitious plan, and I want to talk about three more things. We are helping Canadians with dental care. As members know, in Scarborough, in that member's riding, seniors and everyone got a good benefit. There is child care and the school food program. We have a lot of good plans—

Mr. Speaker, it is with deep gratitude that I rise today to thank the residents of Brampton South for once again placing their trust in me. I am also deeply grateful to my family, volunteers and supporters for working day in and day out during the campaign. At the doors in Brampton South, the message was loud and clear: Canadians are feeling the strain. While affordability remains our top priority, public safety is also a leading issue in my community. Public safety builds confidence in our institutions, which is why we must continue to take this issue seriously at all levels of government. I remain committed to working with all partners to ensure safety and prosperity for all Canadians. As we begin this new Parliament, I promise to continue working hard for Brampton South, alongside our Prime Minister, to tackle affordability, keep our communities safe and build the strongest economy in the G7.

Mr. Speaker, today is the last parliamentary sitting day of the year. Federal investments are laying the foundation for a healthy and sustainable community in Brampton South. That includes over $26.2 million for energy-efficient retrofits and the creation of a youth hub at the Susan Fennell Sportsplex. Millions of dollars have been committed to develop and enhance public transit, parks and fitness centres across the riding. We recently marked one year of the Canada dental care plan. Already more than three million Canadians have been approved for coverage, including nearly 5,000 from Brampton South. Pharmacare is going to help 3.7 million Canadians living with diabetes get free medication, and the upcoming device fund will help them get access to the equipment they need. I am truly proud of the work we did in 2024 for Canadians. With that, I would like to wish everyone in Brampton and across Canada happy holidays and a happy new year in 2025.

Mr. Speaker, this week we have learned more about the reports of alleged foreign interference in the Conservative leadership race. Party leaders for the Bloc, the NDP and the Green Party have taken the government up on its offer to get a security clearance. However, the leader of the Conservative Party still refuses to get the security clearance and to access classified documents that would help him protect the party and Canadians from foreign interference. This is not real leadership. Canadians are wondering what the Conservative Party leader has to hide. If he had nothing to hide, he would get the clearance, take the briefing and protect the country.

Madam Speaker, I am tabling a petition on behalf of over 27,000 Canadians who are calling for tax relief for those living with celiac disease. Celiac disease affects one in every 100 Canadians, forcing them to live on a gluten-free diet that can be very expensive. The present medical exemption tax credit requires applicants to provide receipts, making it overly burdensome. Only one in five Canadians living with celiac have claimed the tax credit. The petitioners therefore call for the creation of an annual $1,000 refundable tax credit for Canadians with celiac disease. I want to thank Celiac Canada and everyone who signed this petition. As a founding member of the all-party celiac caucus, I am proud to present it to the House.

Mr. Speaker, cancer is a reality that will affect two in five Canadians, including my mother. Early detection is the key in the fight against this disease. Many organizations are working hard to support all cancer patients, but organizations such as Cancer Warrior Canada Foundation are at the forefront of supporting and empowering cancer patients. Last Friday, I was grateful to attend the seventh annual awareness and fundraising gala organized by Cancer Warrior's founder Navneet Sharma, along with board members Sita-Mohan, Nisang, Indu and Akshay. The event featured a survivor walk in which 15 brave survivors showcased outfits designed by Dinesh K. Ramsay. This walk aimed to break the stigma associated with a cancer diagnosis. By raising awareness, offering hope and empowering those affected, we can all contribute to saving lives. The work of the Cancer Warrior Canada Foundation exemplifies how collective efforts can have a major impact. Let us all be inspired and support this vital cause.

Mr. Speaker, as we approach the holiday season, our government is making it easier for Canadians to celebrate by removing the GST and HST on a wide range of essential goods. Starting December 14, Canadians can enjoy prepared food like vegetable trays, pre-made meals and sandwiches without worrying about added tax. Whether it is dining in or ordering takeout, restaurant meals are also exempt. Snacks like granola bars are also included because we know how important it is to have those treats during the holidays. For those raising young families, children's clothing, car seats, diapers and even toys like board games, as well as books, print newspapers and puzzles are also tax-free. These are just a few of the many items that will make the holidays a little more affordable for Canadians. This is our government's way of ensuring the holidays are a time of joy and celebration for all.

Mr. Speaker, November is Diabetes Awareness Month. Every three minutes, one person in this country is diagnosed with diabetes. I want to recognize organizations like Diabetes Canada, Breakthrough T1D, Diabetes Action Canada, CDA, NIDA, CINA, Diabetes Québec and all the researchers, advocates and volunteers who are doing great work for diabetes in Canada. This month is a time to raise awareness for diabetes. I encourage all parliamentarians to attend the Kids for a Cure reception happening tonight on Parliament Hill. The kids are here today from across Canada to raise awareness on diabetes. Also this week, on November 8, I will be hosting the fourth annual World Diabetes Day flag-raising ceremony in my city of Brampton. I encourage everyone to join with me there. I am so proud of the work our government has done to pass the Pharmacare Act so Canadians living with diabetes will have access to diabetes medication. Just as the House stood united behind my Bill C-237 to create a national framework for diabetes, by working together we can defeat diabetes.

Mr. Speaker, Canadians from different ethnic backgrounds are now scared that they could be the target of violent crimes by foreign nations. The RCMP believes agents from India have been targeting the Sikh community with bullying, blackmail and even plots to kill some of them. Foreign interference is a serious issue, and all of us need to work together to protect Canadians. Could the Minister of Emergency Preparedness guide the House on the best way to protect Canadians?

Mr. Speaker, the events of the past year and the announcement last week have shaken many Canadians, particularly those in Indo-Canadian and Sikh communities. Canada is a country rooted in the rule of law. The safety and security of our citizens is the top priority of our government. Can the Minister of Foreign Affairs update the House on the additional steps our government has taken to protect Canadians?

Mr. Speaker, it is World Mental Health Day. This year's theme is “It is time to Prioritize Mental Health in the Workplace”. It reminds us that we need to prioritize mental health in all workplaces and communities right across the country. Everyone deserves to have access to the mental health services they need. Can the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions tell the House what our government is doing to extend access to mental health services across Canada?