Parliamentary Speeches

Mr. Speaker, in the face of unprecedented volatility, Canadians want both a long-term plan for economic growth and immediate action to help them with the rising cost of living. Our new government offers both. Last week, more than 12 million Canadians began receiving the enhanced Canada groceries and essentials benefit. This one‑time payment, combined with future payments, will allow a family of four to receive up to $1,890 per year. This is just one of the ways in which we are improving affordability for Canadians. Could the Minister of Finance tell us about the other measures that we have taken to improve affordability?

Mr. Speaker, I would like to share my speaking time with the member for Guelph. I am very pleased to have the opportunity to talk about the Government of Canada's Build Canada Homes act. Specifically, I will talk about why Build Canada Homes is important for supporting the Canadian economy and the federal government's buy Canadian policy. Launched in 2025, Build Canada Homes is a special operating agency within Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada. Working swiftly and efficiently, this new federal agency has already made significant progress in providing more affordable housing for Canadians, including families, women, single mothers and especially families in need. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes will have the flexibility and operational autonomy to deliver on its mandate, all while maintaining a clear accountability framework to the government. That is why the Build Canada Homes act is landmark legislation. The Government of Canada needs to strengthen its capacity to address the housing crisis, improve housing supply and accelerate innovation in homebuilding. Too many Canadians are struggling to find a home they can afford. Housing costs are rising, supply is not keeping up with demand, and productivity in the construction sector is low. Traditional construction and funding approaches alone are not delivering the scale or speed Canadians need. Build Canada Homes will centralize functions that were previously spread across multiple departments, agencies and programs that limited the government's ability to have maximum impact. It will act as a developer, a financier, a convenor and a catalyst for an even more productive homebuilding sector. Canadians need more homes, and the Build Canada Homes act will help make it possible to build more quickly, more efficiently and at the scale that is required. In practical terms, since the Build Canada Homes initiative was launched, my office back home in Argenteuil—La Petite‑Nation has made it a priority to inform local stakeholders and get them involved. We believe that, to address the housing crisis, we need to not only put in place ambitious programs, but also ensure that businesses, developers and municipalities are aware of the tools at their disposal. That is the mandate of all members from all parties. Our mandate is to promote Build Canada Homes in our workplaces, in our ridings. By working together, we can accomplish more in each one of our ridings. In Argenteuil—La Petite‑Nation, for example, we have undertaken a major outreach effort targeting the construction industry. We compiled a list of businesses in our area so that we can send them the information about Build Canada Homes. We even made a list of businesses that are located outside of our riding but that do work in our riding and we invited them to participate in the information webinar put on by the federal government. The goal of these efforts is to encourage local businesses to participate and take advantage of the opportunities that this new initiative has to offer. Sometimes the first step is meeting with municipal representatives. There are 41 municipalities in my riding, Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, so it is important to raise awareness among RCM reeves, mayors and municipal councillors. When they get wind of a construction opportunity, we pass on the information. At the same time, we keep all of the municipalities informed about the program's overall priorities. We see municipal governments as our indispensable partners in developing new residential projects. Keeping them informed in a timely manner about the opportunities that Build Canada Homes has to offer is imperative. Our message has always been clear. We want to ensure that projects carried out in our regions benefit our workers, businesses and communities. That is why we are also focused on using Canadian-sourced materials and modern, innovative construction methods, such as modular or prefabricated construction, to speed up housing starts while supporting our economy. Build Canada Homes investments are aimed at increasing the supply of affordable, community and non-market housing, while promoting shovel-ready projects that can make a lasting impact. Our role as MPs is to promote those opportunities, connect the right people and support local stakeholders in their efforts. We are fully committed to promoting the program. I encourage all my colleagues in the House to follow Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation's lead by supporting promising initiatives and working with all partners in their regions. Every new housing project is an opportunity to meet the needs of families, workers, seniors and single-parent families. By providing our local partners with information, encouragement and guidance, we are taking concrete steps to help build more housing and strengthen our communities for years to come. The team Canada strong initiative will transform the skilled trades sector. It will create skilled jobs for workers, plumbers and electricians. This will help us become more prosperous and create jobs. It will attract more apprentices to the workforce. I come from the construction industry, specifically the trades. When government announcements are made at the right time, it helps attract students who are still in school and get them into apprenticeships. Our goal is to train the next generation of workers and create good jobs. This initiative will ensure that young Canadians are ready to build the housing and infrastructure we need. It will create new jobs, provide access to good jobs and strengthen Canada's workforce of tomorrow. That is how, over time, we have developed trades that did not exist 20 or 25 years ago, like tiling, roofing and interior finishing. These are trades that involve vocational training and that are expected to continue to grow in the construction industry. The Government of Canada is taking decisive action now to transform our country and make it more resilient so that it can move from dependence to resilience. The goal is to make Canada one of the fastest-growing and most competitive economies in the world and to usher in a new era of economic security and prosperity for Canadians. I am proud to promote Build Canada Homes in Quebec because partners are getting on board. Organizations believe in it; the sector believes in it. Nothing is perfect, but at least we have an accountability mechanism that will enable us to track each individual project so we can deliver as many homes as possible, end the housing crisis and reduce rents. The Government of Canada is achieving this by leaning on solid foundations laid by strong Canadian industries. We are investing in our future and fostering economic growth through Build Canada Homes and the buy Canadian policy. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes will be funded by the initial $13‑billion allocation announced in the 2025 budget. Build Homes Canada was designed to consolidate federal support for affordable housing in one place by coordinating with other government departments and agencies, including the Government of Quebec. It is a partnership. The Government of Quebec is proud to be working with us to build a stronger Canada and a stronger Quebec.

Mr. Speaker, if you did not get a specific answer earlier, I cannot provide one now, either. It is not a fixed timeline. I have explained the process we are following in Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation. We send documents out all over the place, reach out to people, meet with entrepreneurs, secure municipal land and work with the RCMs. Our goal is ambitious. You are asking for a specific number, but there is no crystal ball when it comes to such a great program. The answer is that we want to build as many homes as possible.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague, who is well aware that I am a staunch defender of the French language. Build Canada Homes is good news. My colleague would rather talk about the French language when we are debating Build Canada Homes. There is nothing but good news when it comes to Build Canada Homes. It is a very good program. My colleague is attacking the French language because there is nothing bad to say about Build Canada Homes.

Mr. Speaker, I am staunch defender not only of the French language, but also of rural communities and the regions. Members are well aware of that. Throughout the process, I have worked to ensure that the regions and rural communities are included. I have explained exactly what approach to take in a riding where most of the municipalities are in rural areas. We need to work with the municipalities, municipal councillors, mayors, municipal departments and RCMs to promote Build Canada Homes. I have good news. It is working. It is working because we are getting responses and requests, and construction is under way. Construction is under way in rural communities and the regions. I would invite my Bloc Québécois colleagues and members who represent rural communities across Canada to follow the example of Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation.

Mr. Speaker, our government is making historic investments to help communities build the infrastructure they need to grow and prosper. Yesterday, we announced a major agreement with Quebec to support public transit and the infrastructure that is essential to our communities. These investments help build stronger, better-connected communities across Quebec. Can the minister explain how this agreement will translate into meaningful benefits for Quebeckers and their communities?

Mr. Speaker, it is with heavy hearts we learned of the sudden passing of Claude Lemieux at age 60. Born in Buckingham, my riding, Mr. Lemieux's talent, determination and immense love of competition left a mark on hockey in Quebec, Canada and around the world. Drafted by the Montreal Canadiens, he helped his team achieve a Stanley Cup victory in 1986. I was there. He stood out as one of the greatest playoff competitors of his generation. Over the course of his brilliant career, he won four Stanley Cups. He gained a reputation as a player who could rise to the occasion in the toughest moments and turn games around. Quebec has lost one of its greatest sports ambassadors, a man who inspired generations of young hockey fans with his dedication and perseverance. On behalf of all Quebeckers and Canadians, and on behalf of the constituents of Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, I offer my sincerest condolences to Claude Lemieux's family and loved ones, and to his extended family of Montreal Canadiens.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to share my time with the MP for Scarborough Southwest. I am very pleased to rise today to speak to the Online Streaming Act, the modernization of Canada's broadcasting system and the importance of ensuring that the stories told by Canadian creators remain a centrepiece of the modern broadcasting landscape. At the core of this problem is a simple reality that we are all familiar with: The way Canadians consume content has changed at lightning speed. The Broadcasting Act was designed for a world of television, radio and cable channels and prime-time audiences. This world has not disappeared entirely, as shown by the millions of Canadians who gathered to watch the Montreal Canadiens during the playoffs. However, it is a thing of the past for most of the Canadians consuming content nowadays. Children no longer run off to get a snack during the commercial breaks, as we did when we were kids. They bring their phones with them and watch whatever they want, whenever they want, provided their parents let them. This change has had some huge benefits. Canadians can access content from around the world more easily than ever before. We can watch Korean dramas, Mexican heist dramas, British bake-offs and singing competitions from around the world. American movies, TV shows and music are also widely available in Canada, and Canadians continue to consume this content extensively every day. There is no denying this reality. This is not necessarily a problem in and of itself. Canadians value choice, and the Online Streaming Act does not take that choice away from them. The act ensures that, in this new content-rich environment, Canadian stories are also supported and showcased. It incorporates the key online streaming services that operate and generate revenue in Canada into a modernized accountability framework. Just as traditional broadcasters have long been expected to contribute to Canadian culture, so too must today's broadcasters. Through the Online Streaming Act, the House modernized the Broadcasting Act to ensure that foreign streaming companies support our creators, our stories and Canadian music for generations to come. The act establishes a fair and simple regulatory framework under which comparable broadcasting services are subject to similar regulatory requirements. The government has made it clear that the Online Streaming Act and the CRTC's implementation of regulatory measures are consistent with Canada's trade obligations, including those under CUSMA. The Online Streaming Act was drafted with Canada's international obligations and commitments in mind. I want to emphasize that the act is not intended to discriminate against non‑Canadian services. It applies to all undertakings that provide online broadcasting services to Canadians. It is not a matter of nationality, but rather of participating in the Canadian broadcasting system and profiting from it here at home. Far from being discriminatory, the act does exactly the opposite. It requires each company to contribute appropriately to the creation and presentation of Canadian programming, in proportion to its presence and importance in the system. It is a matter of fairness. If a business generates income in Canada, it is expected to contribute fairly and equitably. That is why it is misleading to claim that the act targets U.S. companies. In reality, it aims to create a fair, flexible framework for online streaming services operating in Canada that complies with Canada's international commitments. Although it requires the CRTC to ensure that online streaming services contribute significantly to the broadcasting system, it does not put U.S. content streamers or creators at a disadvantage. In fact, Canadian streamers are still expected to spend a higher percentage of their revenues on Canadian content than foreign streamers. In the not-to-distant past, online streamers were not required to support Canadian music or stories while contributing to other major broadcasting objectives. Under the CRTC's Canadian programming expenditure framework, Canadian broadcasting ownership groups are subject to a 25% Canadian programming expenditure requirement, while unaffiliated and non-Canadian online broadcasting ownership groups are subject to a 15% requirement, which includes the 5% base contribution. The framework applies to groups operating in Canada with annual Canadian broadcasting revenues of $25 million or more. This means that small businesses, such as local stations that are often the only sources of information in regional areas, newly launched television services, or specialized streaming television services targeting small audiences, will not be subject to this requirement. It is also important to remember that Canadian broadcasters have long been subject to significant spending and programming obligations and that their obligations to contribute to the system remain in place. Those that generate the most revenue, the major players that are increasingly capturing the public's attention, will be expected to contribute more and will serve as major windows into Canadian and Quebec culture. Only the major players who can afford to do so are expected to make proportional contributions. The new regulations do not penalize streaming services for operating in Canada. Why would they? The reality is that foreign broadcasters have enriched the broadcasting landscape and provided opportunities for Canadian talent. It is a question of fairness. If a company benefits from its operations in the Canadian market, if it reaches Canadian audiences and if it earns significant revenue from Canadian subscribers and viewers, it is entirely reasonable that it should contribute to the sustainability of the system in which it operates. This is not a radical idea. For decades, Canada maintained an outdated broadcasting policy; it recognizes that culture is not simply a commodity like any other. Broadcasting helps shape the way people understand their country, their communities and one another. It ensures that Canadians can see and hear themselves reflected in the programming available to them. Now more than ever, we need to hear stories that come from here. We need to see ourselves on screen. Our government will never stop supporting Canadian artists and culture. It is high time to pass Bill C-11 and bring it into force as soon as possible. I want to talk about Quebec. It is getting harder and harder for French-language content to break into American channels. We do business with the giants of this world, but the giants of this world are centred on the English language. Bill C‑11 will ensure that we get a fair shake when it comes to our content and promoting the French language in Canadian content. For Quebeckers who want to showcase and promote francophone culture, I can attest that this bill is up to date and good for the Quebec community, the Canadian community and the community that wants to promote Canadian content and see it reflected in our young people, in our future and in young audiences currently consuming the major networks' products. Bill C-11 is here to stay and here to make us work for our future. I look forward to answering questions.

Mr. Speaker, my colleague is asking an excellent question. I was just talking about Quebec content, but it is Canadian content that ensures that the money is reinvested in content. In my region, our artists are telling us that they want more investment in Canadian and Quebec content. That is exactly what the percentages levied on content are for. They ensure that we can reinvest them here at home to produce more Canadian content. This aligns perfectly with the bill.

Mr. Speaker, I think that my colleague and I share a Quebec culture and a Canadian culture, which the government greatly supports. Bill C‑11 does just that. That money will be reinvested in Quebec content. We will promote our artists. We will stand up for our creators. For the next generation, we will invest that money in Canadian and Quebec content. I am proud that we can reinvest what comes from digital content in our local and Quebec artists.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for his question. Obviously, it is easy for the Conservatives to target the bill and try to vote against something that helps our Quebec and Canadian artists. However, we must remember that it is also the Conservatives who want to abolish CBC/Radio-Canada and cancel the investments we are making in our Quebec and Canadian advertising. This bill enables us to bring content home and do more for Canadians and Quebeckers.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to reply to my colleague in French. It is clear, and I said it in response to his first question: The money invested that we collect from radio and television broadcasting will be reinvested in Quebec, reinvested in Canada and reinvested in Canadian content. That is exactly why the law is in place. It is to keep our culture at home. I know that my colleague is not happy about that, because he would like to do away with everything that involves the arts, artists or communications, but if there is one thing I would like to say, it is that we are proud of our bill.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to participate in today's debate on Bill C‑25. During this debate, we have heard a number of interesting, enlightening and constructive speeches from all parties in the House. This is a very important bill for ensuring that Canadians continue to trust in our democracy. This bill seeks to protect our elections and our rights, and I am proud to speak to it. The integrity of our electoral system is based on clear, transparent rules that are adapted to the realities of our time. We have had to evolve and adapt to today's technologies, given the changes that have taken place in terms of communications, legislation and so on. Trust in democracy is very important. For me, this concept is at the heart of our democracy. Democracy is built on trust between citizens and elected representatives. During election campaigns, when we meet with Canadians, we tell them about our policies and those of our party, and we listen to them in order to strengthen our democracy. Our role as members of Parliament is to be the voice of our constituents and stand up for them. Even before an election, candidates also have a responsibility to present their values, their vision and their commitment to citizens and Canadians. That is what Bill C‑25 is doing. I believe that democratic dialogue is essential. Fundraising is also a big part of the electoral process. Several MPs have raised issues directly related to the political party financing. It is good to innovate, improve practices and exercise greater caution when it comes to political financing. However, without rigorous oversight, this can open the door to undue influence. We must therefore protect ourselves against foreign interference, particularly with respect to anonymous funding and money that is difficult to trace, such as cryptocurrencies. Unregistered lobby groups are also an issue. Historically, we have taken steps to protect our democracy. Since the 1970s, the Canada Elections Act has evolved in order to strengthen the integrity of political financing. Since then, important steps have been taken, notably in 2003 when a cap was put on political contributions, priority was given to individual contributions and restrictions were put on the role of corporations and unions. Today, Canadian citizens can make contributions to political parties, but corporations cannot. In 2006, another significant change was whereby only Canadian citizens and permanent residents are allowed to make contributions. These reforms have provided strong protection for our democracy. Why do we need Bill C‑25? Its purpose is to modernize everything I just explained. It creates rules to deal with new threats that did not exist before. Since I first arrived in the House in 2015, we have seen the growth of fake news and everything else we have now that did not exist back then. In particular, the bill tackles third-party financing and foreign sources. Several members talked about foreign interference in their speeches and questions today. We are getting more and more concerned about interference by foreign countries. Anonymous contributions can be difficult to detect when things like cryptocurrency, which I talked about earlier, and prepaid cards are used. Regulations for third parties are essential too. Third parties play an active role in electoral debates even though they themselves are not candidates. The point is that their financing must be just as transparent as political party financing. Regulating third parties is also very important. They actively participate in election debates without being candidates themselves. It is essential that their funding be as transparent as that of political parties. The bill emphasizes this point. It ensures that only Canadian citizens and permanent residents can make contributions. Contributions from corporations, unions, and associations are prohibited. There is also an obligation to disclose the source of funds and to file financial statements. When you get into politics, you quickly learn that when you run an election campaign with an official agent and a campaign manager, you have to be squeaky clean. You must be transparent. The sources of donations must be carefully verified. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the volunteers and official agents who support all the candidates in every riding across Canada. They do an outstanding job and incredible work for our democracy. They apply the law to ensure transparency with respect to contributions and ensure sound financial management during election campaigns. Candidates are required to submit their financial statements, which ensures transparency and fairness for everyone. I want to say a quick word about cryptocurrency, or what I refer to as “opaque contributions”, because they are invisible. They are very hard to trace. The source of these donations has to be traced virtually. Anything virtual is harder to trace than something tangible, such as a cheque with photocopies taken of both sides. It is absolutely essential that legislation be passed to protect us in that regard. The anonymous and volatile nature of cryptocurrencies poses a significant risk to electoral integrity. The bill therefore prohibits political contributions made in cryptocurrency. This prevents money laundering. It prevents the transfer of foreign funds that can be easily transferred electronically and it prevents anonymous contributions. This represents a shift to a more modern approach, one that reflects our current reality in 2026. Since we are talking today about protecting our constituents and their integrity, it is also important to talk about fair representation for our constituents, which is the other aspect of this bill. A strong democracy depends on territorial representation that accurately reflects the reality on the ground and the circumstances faced by local communities. Electoral redistribution has had a significant impact on my riding, which now includes three RCMs. I inherited an RCM called Collines-de-l'Outaouais. It is an RCM I already knew very well, and I had the opportunity to spend time with its residents during the election campaign. In fact, I wanted to include them. I made a commitment to certain associations and individuals to include them in the new name of my riding, Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation. It now encompasses three RCMs. There is the Argenteuil RCM on the east side, the Papineau RCM in the centre, and the Collines-de-l'Outaouais RCM. This riding encompasses approximately 41 municipalities across 5,600 square kilometres. I can say that it is important to include Collines-de-l'Outaouais. The current name, Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, does not adequately reflect this new reality. The new name will be Argenteuil—Papineau—Des Collines. I hope it is adopted in the House so that I can share the good news with my constituents. On behalf of my riding, I would like to say that this is not merely an administrative detail, as it concerns the collective identity of the people who live there. It is important to me to accurately reflect the communities that make up the region. The people of Collines-de-l'Outaouais need to be able to identify with their federal representation, and the people of Papineau also need to see their region fully recognized. That is why my riding should be renamed Argenteuil—Papineau—Des Collines.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question, and I want to take this opportunity to congratulate him on his fluent and excellent French. My colleagues know that, in my speech, I emphasized the importance of the responsibility of official agents. For quite some time now, every candidate should have had a recognized official agent. However, that comes with a requirement to demonstrate that the person is qualified and authorized. That comes with responsibilities. I am certain that, given the way the bill is drafted right now, we will avoid having straw men or imposters posing as official agents for the candidates.

Mr. Speaker, my colleague is well aware that we have the most rigorous systems in place for political funding and election campaign financing. During an election campaign, it is our responsibility, when appointing an official agent, to comply with the rules and to abide by the law. I have been here since 2015, abiding by the law with no missteps whatsoever despite all the funding I have received since 2015. I aim to set an example in the House.

Mr. Speaker, I am a former welder and pipefitter. Today is World Plumbing Day. It is celebrated every year on March 11 and it serves as a reminder of how important the plumbing sector is for the health, safety and well-being of all our communities across the country. World Plumbing Day gives us the opportunity to recognize the outstanding work of Canada's plumbing professionals, whose expertise ensures that clean and safe water reaches our businesses and public institutions. Plumbing professionals play a key role in the modernization of our systems, energy efficiency and water conservation. Their commitment and innovation have a direct impact on the safety and resilience of our communities. The plumbing and heating sector is also a major economic driver. It contributes over $30 billion to Canada's GDP and supports more than 200,000 jobs across the country. I would like to sincerely thank plumbers. Their vital work keeps our water systems safe, efficient and sustainable.

Mr. Speaker, budget 2025 and its accompanying budget implementation act are a bold plan to respond to unprecedented economic uncertainty with a speed, scope and scale not seen in generations. I am pleased to see that the House is also responding at this crucial time with the same sense of urgency. Earlier this week, the Standing Committee on Finance completed its clause-by-clause review of Bill C‑15, which we voted on last night. Can the Minister of Finance remind us exactly what we voted on?

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight a major winter event in my riding that takes place every year, the Canadian Ski Marathon, which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year. Held on February 6, 7 and 8, this great tradition brings together thousands of skiers and volunteers from across the country. The Canadian Ski Marathon shows off our landscapes, our northern trails and the spirit of achievement and solidarity that drives our communities. The trails go through Argenteuil—La Petite‑Nation, and one of them ends in the municipality of Montebello, a community that is proud to contribute to the success of this iconic event. I want to acknowledge the outstanding work of the organizers, volunteers and municipalities that are participating and whose commitment made it possible for the Canadian Ski Marathon to thrive for more than six decades. For 60 years now, this event continues to be a source of pride for our region and for Canada as a whole.

Madam Speaker, first and foremost, I want to offer my condolences to my colleague across the way and to his entire family. An incident like this does not go unnoticed. I was a teacher for at least two decades, and I saw situations deteriorate right before my eyes for certain groups of students. Teachers are still only allowed to speak to parents if the student gives consent. It is extremely difficult for teachers to cope with these conditions. I rise today because this topic is very important to me. I deeply respect my colleague for having the courage to come share this in the House in the hope of improving the situation. This topic is extremely important not only to me, but to all Canadians, I am sure. Regardless of an individual's family situation, no one is sheltered from issues such as drugs, fentanyl, peer pressure and mental health. During my years as a teacher and as a coach, I saw athletes who could have performed very well at the national and international level get off track because of peer pressure, drugs and other substances that can disrupt the life of a young person, the life of a family, the life of everyone. Bill C-231 is a bill brought forward by my colleague that pertains to the Youth Criminal Justice Act, or YCJA. I have a daughter who is in the throes of adolescence, so I cannot be indifferent to this. I have had occasion to try to keep a closer eye on her. We know that children will have their own experiences. We have little or no control over that, but I am thankful for what life teaches. We have still been able to keep an extremely close eye on the kids, but it is not because of us, their parents. I would like tell my colleague opposite that as parents, we do our best, but we cannot control all the experiences our children have to go through in life. Bill C-231 proposes some changes to the YCJA in order to facilitate access to addiction treatment programs for young persons struggling with addiction who come into contact with the criminal justice system. In particular, this bill would amend the YCJA to clarify the measures governing addiction treatment programs and to authorize youth justice courts to delay sentencing in some scenarios so that young persons are able to participate in an addiction treatment program. My colleague talked about treatments in his speech. There are many that can be used to prevent this. There are many treatments available to help with the illness of drug use. However, we can do better. Our government aims to prioritize permanent approaches for keeping young people away from criminal activities. As my colleague also mentioned, drug use comes with bad habits. It is a vicious circle. If people want to use drugs, they have to get drugs. To get drugs, they have to enter a world that is not exactly legal. It is a vicious circle. Our government seeks to prioritize that approach. The basic principles of this bill promote accountability through measures that offer positive outlooks as well as rehabilitation for social reintegration. It also promotes the use of diversion measures for less severe crimes in order to cut down on the overuse of detention and save court resources for more severe crimes. Vocational education teachers often deal with delinquency or the rehabilitation of young teenagers who have left the system. When I was a vocational teacher, the first thing I would tell young people was that I was welcoming them to their second chance, their opportunity to succeed in life, and that we would be there to support them. It is important for adults to listen, but they may not always be the most suitable confidants for young people. If we had a system designed to help these young people overcome their challenges, many lives could be saved. With the youth justice fund, the federal government provides an annual contribution of nearly $4.5 million to support projects that encourage a more effective youth justice system, respond to emerging youth justice issues, and enable greater citizen and community participation in the youth justice system. This fund provides funding to “improve the youth justice system's ability to help youth rehabilitate and reintegrate; increase the use of out of court measures that are more effective in addressing some types of less serious offending...[and] increase the use of community-based sentences for less serious offending”. Additionally, the federal government's youth justice services funding program provides all provinces and territories with an annual financial contribution totalling nearly $185 million for the period from 2021 to 2027 “to assist in the delivery of various programs and services that target youth who come in contact with the criminal justice system”. Our government has also committed to providing urgent and immediate support in response to the overdose crisis. The federal government has developed measures to address the overdose crisis as part of the Canadian drugs and substances strategy. The government has committed to a public health and safety approach with a number of objectives, including making it easier to access vital services, reducing stigma around substance use and supporting prevention, treatment and recovery efforts. The federal government has also committed significant funding to the illegal toxic drug and overdose crisis. For example, the federal government has invested over $750 million through the substance use and addiction program for more than 460 innovative community-based pilot projects since 2017, including peer support and capacity-building projects. More specifically, when it comes to youth public health, the federal government has invested $500 million in the youth mental health fund. We have heard a lot about that from my colleague. These are illnesses that seem harmless, secret illnesses. We do not know what is going on in our kids' heads. This program finally helps young people in Canada to access the mental health care they need. These investments mainly go toward increasing access to community-based mental health services and improving navigation and referral to mental health services and supports. The federal government has also invested $20.2 million in the program to prevent youth substance use and associated harms. This program supports 12 community projects in developing a tailored approach to preventing and delaying substance use in youth. Thanks to these investments, which are grounded in the realities that communities are facing, young people are getting the support, safety and opportunities they deserve when it comes to the prevention and treatment of substance use. In closing, this program made it possible to reach 198,200 young people through over 1,800 online sessions and 1,000 in-person sessions in high schools between April 2018 and March 2025. In Canada, youth mental and emotional health and well-being is an important health issue that has several implications for the prevention of youth crime and for the youth criminal justice system. In Canada, people with mental illnesses and addictions are overrepresented in the criminal justice system. Bill C-231 addresses an issue that is a major concern for all of us.

Mr. Speaker, as the holiday season approaches, our communities are mobilizing to help those most in need. Food drives organized by big-hearted volunteers remind us of the importance of community and sharing. Every donation, large or small, helps provide food security to disadvantaged families and offers a little comfort to those for whom this time of year can be very difficult. I would like to commend the remarkable work of the community organizations, food banks, parishes and active citizens in Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation that devote themselves tirelessly to ensuring that no one is forgotten. In this season of generosity, I invite all Canadians to give from the heart so that every family can celebrate Christmas with dignity and hope.

Mr. Speaker, as Remembrance Day approaches, it is essential to acknowledge the invaluable role that our Royal Canadian Legion branches play in supporting veterans. Across the country, members of the Royal Canadian Legion look after the well being of those who have served our country with courage and dedication. In my riding of Argenteuil—La Petite‑Nation, regions such as Lachute, Brownsburg‑Chatham, Chénéville, Buckingham and Arundel, which serves the Harrington area, are pillars of solidarity and remembrance. Through their commitment, community activities, and annual poppy campaign, these branches remind each of us to always remember. I would like to thank their dedicated volunteers who, day after day, support our most vulnerable veterans and keep the flame of remembrance alive. Lest we forget.

Mr. Speaker, our government has kept its word. The Minister of Justice tabled Bill C‑14 to strengthen bail and sentencing provisions. This bill will ensure that no sex offender will be able to serve their sentence at home. Bill C‑14, which was developed in collaboration with the provinces, territories and law enforcement, puts victims at the heart of our justice system. Can the Minister of Justice explain how this bill actually protects the public and holds repeat violent offenders fully accountable?

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to congratulate two of our constituents from Montebello who are true baking artisans: Sabrina Sigouin, owner of La Belle Pâtissière, and Sandra Major, owner of Le Sucre au Four. Together, they were crowned overall winners at the International Baking Industry Exposition, or IBIE, in Las Vegas. The competition was held from September 13 to 17. IBIE is the grain-based food industry's largest event in the western hemisphere, bringing together the entire professional baking community In a fierce international competition, Sabrina and Sandra truly stood out for their sculpted buttercream cakes, fine craftsmanship, technical skill and overall creativity. Not only have they won a victory for Montebello, but they have also put Argenteuil—La Petite‑Nation's regional talent in the national and even international spotlight.

Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to speak to Bill C-3 and the transformative power of Canadian citizenship. Fundamentally, this bill is about people from real families, as well as their history, their sacrifices and their deep and lasting ties with Canada, regardless of where their careers or lives take them. In my role as an MP since 2015, I have had the opportunity to meet many families in my riding who were reunited through immigration. I did not experience that with my own family. The Lauzons in Notre‑Dame‑de‑la‑Paix, Petite‑Nation and Gatineau have no family ties with people in other nations. However, I have been able to learn about this through the cases that we have handled in my office and through the assistance that we have been able to provide to families. We have seen how important family reunification is. Fundamentally, this bill is about people from real families. Citizenship is a legal status, of course, but more than that, it is about belonging to a diverse, welcoming community bound by shared democratic values. This is something that reaches across borders and, in an ideal world, we would be able to unite all families, but that is not possible. However, in today's interconnected world, where migration and mobility are facts of modern life in Canada, we have a chance, as Canadians, to lead by example and show the rest of the world how important family unification is. While some countries are restricting access to citizenship, Canada is taking a more principled approach, one that embraces diversity, cross-border families and the lasting ties Canadians have abroad. Many Canadians live and work abroad in international development, the arts, culture, science, education, global commerce or humanitarian aid, to name a few. These citizens have their own deep ties to Canada, often returning here to raise their children, care for loved ones and create new communities. Ensuring that their children, whether born or adopted abroad, can share in this identity is not only a matter of fairness, it also strengthens our country's unity and global reach. Today, I want to share with the House what new Canadians have told us about the importance of their citizenship, what they have told me since 2015. We have had conversations with new Canadian families about the importance of reuniting children and grandchildren, about the impact citizenship has had and about how we must continue to protect the rights, responsibilities and shared value of citizenship. Becoming a Canadian is a privilege, and it is often described as a source of great pride. Our government carefully designed this bill to fill a gap that has existed since 2009. People are proud to call Canada their home and proud of the journey they took to get here. Becoming a Canadian citizen represents the culmination of years of sacrifice, hard work and perseverance, not only by individuals, but often by their entire families. A lot of compromises may have had to be made, sorely testing these families. Gaining citizenship is also a moment for connection and community, a chance to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Many members of the House have seen first-hand the emotional impact of this moment. Newcomers, often with their children by their side, hold their certificates with pride, knowing that their family's future is more secure here, in this wonderful country. This sense of pride transcends borders. People all over the world would love the opportunity to make Canada their home. For those fleeing conflict, persecution or hardship, Canadian citizenship represents a fresh start, a new life, a second chance at life. Most people see it as a privilege and do not take it lightly. New citizens often express how profoundly grateful they are. People often talk about the opportunities that Canada has to offer, especially when it comes to education, health care and peace. These pillars of Canadian life are the cornerstones of a better future, not only for new citizens themselves, but also for their children and future generations. Whether through volunteering, participating in local cultural events or simply getting to know their neighbours, new Canadians play an active role in strengthening the fabric of our society. They embody Canada's spirit of generosity and contribute to the success of their communities in many ways. We all have people like this in our lives today, especially as federal MPs in Ottawa. As a government, we must remain vigilant to ensure that Canadian citizenship remains a symbol of inclusiveness, fairness and security, as well as a commitment to those values. Why is Bill C‑3 important for me? It is the reason why we introduced this bill. It is to ensure that access to citizenship remains fair and transparent. At a time when disinformation and division can threaten confidence in public institutions, Canada must show that its commitment to fairness extends across borders. Providing thoughtful and inclusive pathways to citizenship beyond the first generation affirms that Canadian identity is shaped not only by place of birth but also by connection, contribution and values. The government's role is not limited to protecting the rights of Canadian citizens. It must also clarify the citizenship process and pass laws that take equality and inclusion into account. This bill aims to automatically remedy the status of individuals who would have been Canadians were it not for the first-generation limit. It also creates a forward-looking new framework for citizenship by descent. In the future, children born abroad beyond the first generation will be eligible for citizenship if their Canadian parent can demonstrate a substantial connection to Canada. In the future, as long as the Canadian parent who was born abroad spends a cumulative total of three years in Canada before the birth of their child, their child will also be born a citizen. The objective and structure of the Citizenship Act have been that children adopted abroad by Canadians and children born abroad to Canadians are treated as similarly as possible, and this will continue to be the case after Bill C‑3 comes into force. The great privilege of Canadian citizenship comes with great responsibility. It is a responsibility to engage, to contribute and to build on the values that make our country what it is. Citizenship is not just a destination. It is a journey and a commitment to community, justice and mutual respect. In conclusion, Canadian citizenship is an important and emotional occasion. It is a privilege that comes with opportunities and gratitude, along with a responsibility to uphold the values that unite us. Citizenship is not just a legal matter. It is a reflection of who we are and who we include. By passing Bill C‑3, we are choosing connection over exclusion and fairness over restriction. We are telling Canadians around the world and their children that their ties to our country are important, that their history, their contribution and their sense of belonging are part of what makes Canada strong.

Mr. Speaker, I am very happy to have the opportunity to answer my colleague's question. We are talking about family reunification, about a government that cares deeply about helping families reunite. That being said, I would like my colleague to answer a specific question. How many families have not been able to be together since 2009, when the Harper government made changes to the family class rules? Those measures broke families apart. Now we are trying to fix the Harper government's mistakes.

Mr. Speaker, that is an excellent question. Family reunification is an important value for Canadians, and it is part of the Liberal DNA. One of the primary reasons I entered politics in 2015 is that we are a welcoming country. Canada is known for being inclusive, and we are there for all communities. Personally, I had the good fortune to live surrounded by family, an entirely Quebec Canadian family whose members all lived roughly in the same area. Since 2015, however, I have been deeply moved by the countless applications from people in my riding that allowed us to help several families reunite, including reuniting children with their parents. To me, that is the essence of life itself.

Mr. Speaker, I would encourage my colleague to brush up on his history. It was decisions made in 2009 that led to a generational break in family reunification. It was written into the law. I cannot make this stuff up. That was when the value placed on family reunification and Canadian citizenship began to be reduced. Today, a court ruling is forcing us to introduce a bill to comply with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, respect human rights and correct the mistakes of the past.

Mr. Speaker, agriculture is top of mind for many people in Canada. We are facing increasing global instability, including unfair tariffs imposed by China on Canadian agricultural products such as pork, canola and seafood. The Prime Minister and his cabinet colleagues met with Premier Moe and other key industry players this week in Ottawa. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food give the House an update on the assistance available to Canadian farmers facing these Chinese tariffs?

Mr. Speaker, I have the immense honour of acknowledging the exceptional contribution of an artist back home, watercolourist Jean‑Yves Guindon. He is an artist from Saint‑André‑Avellin in my riding, Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation. With a more than 40-year career and 5,000 paintings to his credit, Mr. Guindon is an emblematic figure of Quebec art. From his unique perspective he has captured the beauty, the landscapes, the soul of the building and architectural heritage of our region with precision and remarkable sensitivity. He has exhibited his artwork in Quebec, Canada and Europe, in Toronto and Brussels, but his inspiration remains deeply rooted at home in Quebec. Beyond his artistic career, Mr. Guindon is also involved in roughly 30 organizations, foundations and corporations in the region. Today, I am proud to present him the King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of his work, his invaluable contribution to Canadian culture and his community involvement.

Mr. Speaker, I want to share my time with my colleague from Nunavut. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise today to speak to the Speech from the Throne delivered on Tuesday by His Majesty King Charles III. This speech will mark the beginning of a new parliamentary session. It charts a course to a fairer, more sustainable and more prosperous future for all Canadians. Today, I would like to highlight certain aspects of this speech that resonate particularly well with the realities of the people of Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation. My primarily rural riding is home to a mosaic of small, vibrant, tight-knit communities surrounding two urban hubs. I am talking about the people of Lachute and part of Gatineau, including Buckingham and Masson-Angers. Throughout my riding, residents have the same aspiration: to live with dignity in affordable, well-serviced, accessible, sustainable communities. What we see in the throne speech is a renewed commitment to quality of life, security and affordability. Building housing is a priority for us. Housing is not a luxury; it is an urgent need. Many families have moved to my riding in recent years, putting enormous pressure on the housing supply. Young people who want to set up house are knocking on the same doors as seniors who want to stay in their communities and newcomers who are searching for a home. We need to build, and we need to build fast, but we also need to build smart. Our government understands that. The government will undertake a series of measures to help double the rate of home building while creating an entirely new housing industry using Canadian technology, Canadian skilled workers and Canadian lumber. The government will introduce measures to deliver affordable homes by creating "build Canada homes". This mission-driven organization will act to accelerate the development of new affordable housing. It will invest in the growth of the prefabricated and modular housing industry, and it will provide significant financing to affordable home builders. That also means supporting our municipalities, which typically do not have the infrastructure or the human resources to properly accommodate this growth, as noted in the throne speech. The government will make the housing market work better, including by cutting municipal development charges in half for all multi-unit housing. The government will drive supply up to bring housing costs down. One sentence in particular from the Speech from the Throne stuck with me: “The Government is guided by its conviction that the economy is only truly strong when it serves everyone.” This is especially true for us in Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, as in other remote rural municipalities. These communities are the beating heart of our country. They feed our cities. They preserve our traditions. They often innovate behind the scenes, but they face unique challenges. Our municipalities are vulnerable. Like many people across our country, certain Canadians, some younger, some older, are struggling to reach their full potential. Our government understands that. It is taking meaningful measures to make life more affordable for middle-class Canadians, including cutting taxes to save dual-earning families up to $840 a year and eliminating the GST for first-time home buyers on homes valued up to $1 million, which will save them up to $50,000. Our government will protect the programs that will save young people and families thousands of dollars every year, including the Canadian dental care plan, which will soon be available to about eight million Canadians. Throughout the election campaign, one thing that kept coming up in our discussions on the ground was the importance of access to dental care. When I was out knocking on doors, visiting markets and seniors' residences, people, especially seniors, talked to me about the Canadian dental care plan. This is more than just one issue among many. It is a question of dignity, health and social justice. This makes me think of Gisèle and Bruno, a couple in my riding who stopped me this week with smiles on their faces. I can picture them now. They told me that they had begun the process of getting dental care under this new plan. Gisèle told me that for the first time in years, she and her husband will be able to see a dentist without worrying about cutting out other expenses. It was only a two-minute conversation, but the message was loud and clear: This program is changing lives in my riding. People like them are the reason we introduced this plan. People should not have to suffer in silence or avoid smiling just because they cannot afford dental care. This program was set up thanks to hard work, political will and openness to hearing what Canadians tell us day after day. I also want to highlight the importance of working together as a nation to create one economy out of 13. This will allow labour mobility between provinces. I would like to share the story of a welder without borders and the story of a trade and a country that need to be harmonized. For 21 years, I put on my leather apron, adjusted my welding helmet and turned on my torch. I was a welder, but I was also a teacher at a vocational school specializing in the building trades. Every day, I shared my knowledge with students of all ages, all motivated by a desire to build the Canada of the future, one steel wall or one building at a time. However, there was always one thing that neither the heat of a workshop nor the passion for a profession could overcome, and that was provincial boundaries. Living and working in a border region means living with a certain amount of nonsense. On one side of the road, students could hope to find a job as soon as they graduated. On the other side of the road, despite having the same skills, students faced an invisible obstacle: provincial credential recognition. Each province wants to define its own criteria and create its own certifications. At the heart of this administrative maze, the workforce remains stuck, immobilized, unable to meet pressing needs elsewhere. This paradox is all the more frustrating given that the country needs these skilled workers who are ready to weld, construct and build. The housing crisis is raging and construction sites are waiting, but workers remain idle, not because of a lack of will, but because of a lack of standardization. What I have learned over the years is that expertise knows no borders. A quality weld is a quality weld, whether it is done in Quebec, Ontario or on pipelines in Alberta. It is time for our system to recognize this as well. Prefabrication is a solid solution. I firmly believe that prefabrication is one of the ways of the future. The steel sector has been using this approach for a long time, manufacturing components in a factory and then installing them. By harmonizing skills across the country, we can set up regional prefabrication centres to produce housing and infrastructure modules that are ready to assemble wherever there is an urgent need. I would like to talk about a strong Canada united by the trades. Yes, the building trades ecosystem is complex, but that is not an insurmountable obstacle. To build a more resilient and united Canada, we need to train more workers, harmonize certifications and open domestic borders. I know for sure that trades play a critical role because, at the end of the day, welders are not merely building things out of steel. They are building bridges between provinces, between generations, between needs and know-how. In the Quebec riding of Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, the majestic Ottawa River is also the border with Ontario. Communities on both sides of the river are closely connected, as are our economies. Barriers to internal trade and labour mobility have impeded economic growth in my riding. I am sure my colleagues will understand why I am so pleased with our government's desire to eliminate all other federal obstacles. To wrap up, the vision of the Prime Minister and our government to build a strong, united Canada that works closely with the provinces will finally lead to a real free trade system across the country. This will enable Canada to reach its full economic potential and, above all, create opportunities for economic development and prosperity across the country. I am determined to work with all my colleagues to ensure that the voices of the regions and the people of Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation continue to be heard, listened to and, above all, respected.

Mr. Speaker, I am a big fan of prefab construction because I represent a rural riding. However, I am also familiar with urban centres. Urban centres thrive with a government willing to fully co-operate with provincial, territorial and municipal governments so that we can work together to further develop and facilitate the environmental and urbanization process across municipalities. Together, we will work better and build better.

Mr. Speaker, a throne speech is meant to be broad. The issues it covers serve as our guidelines. There is work to be done. That is why we were elected as members of Parliament. For my part, as a member of Parliament, I am committed to ensuring that housing is built as quickly as possible in my riding and across Quebec. I also want to help my colleagues across Canada make it easier to build housing. I think a positive step has already been taken by reducing the price of first-time home purchases, not to mention investing in municipalities for infrastructure. I sincerely believe that starting up partnerships with municipalities will make it easier to build.

Mr. Speaker, we have had the opportunity to work with engineers who understand the existing market well. The Quebec municipalities we worked with all told us about the infrastructure deficit. There can be no building without drinking water and waste water infrastructure. That is why, in the Speech from the Throne, we promised to help developers with up to 50% of the development charges associated with large-scale housing projects in both rural and urban areas. We will support businesses that want to build. The more homes we build, the more affordable rents will be.

Mr. Speaker, today I am proud to recognize three exceptionally talented young people from my riding for their outstanding performance at the Olympiades québécoises des métiers et des technologies, a competition for up-and-comers in skilled trades and technology. The event took place in Quebec City from May 7 to 10, 2025. Théolie Lajoie's culinary prowess earned her a gold medal. Mathis Rozon's gold in industrial mechanics was a testament to his ingenuity and rigour. Geneviève De Melo was awarded a bronze medal in baking for her promising talent in this demanding trade. All three medallists are students at CFP Innovation Outaouais, a top-notch institution in my riding that is passionate about training the next generation of tradespeople. I heartily congratulate them on their hard work, their perseverance and their success. They are an inspiration to an entire community, and we are extremely proud of them. Congratulations to Théolie, Mathis and Geneviève.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the volunteers in my riding who help those in need. I also thank the Deputy Prime Minister for making this important gesture and giving us a GST holiday, a measure the Conservatives voted against. I invite my colleague opposite to meet with his constituents over the holidays and tell them that his party voted against the GST relief measure intended to help those in need.

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his interest in improving Service Canada. Service Canada is currently working with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to assess every opportunity for expanding the services that are currently available. Locations are selected based on a number of criteria, including access, the demand for passports and demographics. We are always looking for ways to improve service, and that is exactly what we are doing. As early as next Tuesday, we will be meeting with the minister to discuss this issue.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to reiterate the numbers my colleague just mentioned. Nearly 98% of Canadians have access. In addition, according to the figures from his riding, 92% of passports can be delivered in his riding within 20 business days. Now, I would still urge everyone to plan ahead. Travel plans must be made beforehand, and passports should be applied for 20 days in advance in order to ensure that all requests can be fulfilled. We continue to work with the member, with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and with Service Canada to improve services.

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague and friend for his speech. I serve with him on the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities. I also want to thank him for his introductory course on how we can build a Canadian economy that revolves around small businesses. I like how he said that his selection criteria were based on permanent or long-term measures, rather than on measures that are not good and that last only for two months, like the GST holiday. Why, then, did my opposition colleague vote against permanent measures like the Canada child benefit, the school food program and housing measures? These are long-term decisions. Why did my colleague vote against them?

Madam Speaker, today we commemorate the tragedy that took place at École Polytechnique on December 6, 1989. Thirty-five years ago, 14 women were brutally murdered simply because they were women. This femicide left a lasting mark on our society and impresses upon us the importance of fighting violence against women and hate speech. We honour the memory of the victims, and we support their families and the survivors. This grim anniversary encourages us to reflect on the progress accomplished since then and the work that remains to be done toward building an egalitarian society that is safe for all women. As parliamentarians, we have a duty to strengthen our laws in order to prevent such tragedies, to support education and awareness initiatives, and to unequivocally condemn all acts of violence. Despite the pain it has caused, may this tragedy inspire us to take action for a better tomorrow. We will never forget them.

Madam Speaker, affordability for our families and for our kids is top of mind for everyone. We have put measures in place, such as breakfast programs for kids and a GST break. The Conservatives had a great opportunity to vote with us. They had a great opportunity to tell families in need this holiday season that, yes, the Conservatives have their backs. They did exactly the opposite. They voted against every measure for Canadian kids.

Mr. Speaker, this is the time of year when we are all getting ready to celebrate Christmas and New Year's. We are planning our holiday meals with family and buying gifts for children, relatives and friends. Big box retailers are having sales on a wide range of items, but we must not forget the small businesses, artisans and makers in our communities. Shopping local means investing in our economy to help create jobs. It also means supporting small businesses, independent retailers and makers in the regions, especially mine. It is also a way to reduce our environmental footprint, because the fewer kilometres there are between us and our products, the less shipping is required, which means fewer greenhouse gas emissions. This Christmas, let us shop local and support local businesses.

Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise in the House and answer my colleague's questions. We heard my colleague make personal attacks against a minister he disagrees with about the immigration system, but he also tried to stoke Canadians' fears over immigration. However, I want to say how important it is to our government and to the department that these matters be discussed at length and publicly. We cannot talk about specific cases, but I can speak to our general immigration guidelines. Every application is unique. Every applicant can apply for programs, but spaces are limited. It can take longer to enter the system if information is missing from an application or if applicants do not answer questions promptly. My colleague mentioned doctors. He also mentioned skilled workers, who are part of our society. My riding of Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation is no exception. We have doctors who are there to support the community, who are willing to stay in remote communities. However, it is because of the immigration system that communities like ours in Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation can have good doctors. It is the same for agricultural workers. Farm workers depend on our culture. They depend on every type of product that reaches our plates. There are vineyards that benefit from immigration. Berry farmers benefit. It is also good for tourism development. For example, at Château Montebello in Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, foreign workers enable the hotel to offer world-class service. We see that there is high demand to immigrate to Canada. Many applications are submitted every year. People want to benefit from the good quality of life that we have in Canada. The department is meeting its target of processing 80% of the applications, including in a certain number of important programs: citizenship, highly skilled workers in areas of federal jurisdiction, provincial candidates, family reunification for spouses and children. I am thinking about Tony, my barber, who is working on reuniting his family. They are in a war-torn country. We have an immigration system in place. We intend to modernize it, make it more accessible and easier, while taking into account the lack of housing in Canada. We have to reduce the level of immigration, but we have to do it the right way. We are also digitizing several programs to reduce the bureaucracy. We are improving services for clients and Canadians and aligning objectives for 2025 to 2027. I do have a message for my colleague, however: he needs to stop scaring Canadians.

Mr. Speaker, I have full confidence in our Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. The minister is working to protect national security. He is working with the Prime Minister's Office and with the best experts in Canada. The Minister of Immigration is supported by various services to keep Canadians as safe as possible. We have strengthened our borders. We have invested in technology. We have also increased the number of officers at the border. Why have we done this? We did it to be better. As soon as new immigrants arrive in Canada, they go through a variety of services to ensure that they are safe in Canada and that Canadians are safe when we welcome these immigrants.