Most toxic speeches
Mr. Speaker, Chris Garnier is still in jail receiving treatment that veterans and first responders should get. Yesterday, Catherine Campbell's mother said that she could not believe that a government would condone a convicted murderer receiving treatment that veterans and first responders deserved.Incredibly, despite their loss and immeasurable pain, all the Campbells want is that our first responders and our veterans come first and get the help they need, not convicted murderers. Could the Prime Minister look the Campbells in the eyes and tell them why Chris Garnier continues to receive this treatment.
Mr. Speaker, as the many Canadians who were watching my intervention yesterday saw, I predicted that the Conservatives would end up trying to find a rhetorical trick to make this seem very complicated and very difficult. Therefore, let us make it very simple. We are putting a price on pollution because we want less pollution, and putting a price on it actually reduces pollution. At the same time, we are putting money in the pockets of Canadians to help them through the fight against climate change, because we know that Canadians expect real action, real action they are incapable of
Mr. Speaker, I am afraid I am going to have to channel my former profession of teaching when I point out that if the member opposite, who spends so much time trying to worm around and confuse everyone about our plan, spent more time on developing his own plan to fight climate change, we would all be better off and he would have something more intelligent to say.We are fighting climate change and we are doing it in a real way on real terms because that is what Canadians expect.
Mr. Speaker, I will rephrase my question. We are not talking about Vice-Admiral Norman's case.What the Conservatives want to know is whether the Prime Minister gave journalist James Cudmore a job so he would stop reporting on the Liberal government's shenanigans at the expense of Davie.
Mr. Speaker, excuse me if I find it a bit rich for them to be asking us to table documents when they have not even put forward any plan at all to fight climate change.Canadians expect leadership. Canadians expect action. Maybe they
Mr. Speaker, when it comes to recycling, we can all get behind that, but when it comes to the Trans Mountain pipeline, the Liberal government has taken things to extremes, because the Prime Minister is recycling the same broken process that has already failed us. Indigenous leaders, environmental groups and local leaders have blasted his so-called new pipeline review, calling it rigged with impossible timelines.Thrown out by the courts, rejected by indigenous leaders and a clear threat to our coastline, the only real question is how much longer will he recycle his flawed, failed and flagrantly inept process before he just finally gives up on the whole thing?
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, that is simply not true. We are ensuring that we are returning all the money collected from the price on pollution to the jurisdiction in which it was collected. That is a commitment we have made in law. Of course, that is a law the Conservatives voted against. A lot of the Conservatives continue to stop that because they have no approach to fight climate change. They do not think that it matters to fight climate change. Tell that to folks in B.C. suffering through forest fires every summer. Tell that to folks in Saskatchewan dealing with floods. Tell that to the people facing droughts in Manitoba. Tell that to the folks across the country who know that climate change is real.
Mr. Speaker, a poll this week shows that 47% of Canadians feel that the USMCA is a disappointment. Liberals can repeat the same tired lines about this deal, but Canadians are not buying it. Instead of standing strong, they saw their government make concession after concession at the negotiating table, concessions that have put their jobs in peril, concessions that render their businesses more vulnerable, concessions that have made drugs more expensive. This is not how one stands up for Canadians. How can the Prime Minister say he is proud of this deal when Canadians are going to pay the price?
Mr. Speaker, former premier Brad Wall said it best when he said, Usually when someone tells you to send in money but you'll get more back in return, it's a Nigerian prince. The bad news for Canadians is that is actually coming from their Prime Minister. The government expects suburban moms and dads to believe that a measly $12.50 a month per taxpayer will cover higher fuel costs and higher home heating costs.If the Prime Minister believes that to be the case, why will he not finally table the documents that show the true cost of the carbon tax for those very same families?
Mr. Speaker, every Liberal stood in the House and voted to maintain the benefits to murderer, Chris Garnier. True leaders, when they realize a mistake has been made, correct it. Chris Garnier never served one minute of his life in a military uniform, yet he is getting benefits for which veterans are waiting. This is outrageous, and we demand the government take leadership and revoke his benefits.
Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to believe that it is meaningful when they are giving themselves four months to consult.The more time goes by, the more Canadians believe that the Liberals did not negotiate a good trade agreement with Mexico and the United States because the cost of prescription drugs is going to go up, they have created a new breach in the supply management system, and there is no guarantee that the tariffs on steel and aluminum will be eliminated. Entrepreneurs, workers, and farmers feel that they have been abandoned by this government. Why did the Liberals give in instead of standing firm for Canadians?
Mr. Speaker, I know a lot of Quebeckers who are going to be concerned about the Prime Minister's answer because they are committed to protecting our rivers and our access to clean drinking water.The Prime Minister is using his slingshot to fight climate change, when what we really need is to bring out the heavy artillery. The Conservatives are declaring war on Quebec by trying to bring back energy east. We are in trouble. The Liberal and Conservative pipeline coalition could care less about the environment.What I want is for the Prime Minister to commit, here and now, to never bring back energy east. Does he have the courage to do that or is he the oil lobbies' puppet? What is it going to be ?
Mr. Speaker, it is not just Conservatives who believe that this new carbon tax will be hard on small businesses. Here is what the Canadian Federation of Independent Business had to say about this new tax: They already picked a fight with business owners with the small business tax changes in 2017 and now it looks like there will be another big one in 2018.It is the Prime Minister who accused small business owners of being tax cheats and who granted special deals to big corporations as he went after small business owners.The question once again is this: will small and medium-sized businesses get the same exemption that big corporate emitters got?
Mr. Speaker, for two years, we worked with premiers right across this country, including premiers of Saskatchewan, to establish a way forward on putting a price on pollution that would fight climate change and support families through this important transition in our economies. Unfortunately, Saskatchewan and other provinces decided not to move forward with a concrete plan to fight climate change and therefore, we are moving forward with our national plan.
Mr. Speaker, the NDP is all talk and no action.We have a real plan that will enable us to meet the Paris greenhouse gas reduction targets. We are putting a price on pollution with the understanding that we need to create jobs and a greener and more prosperous future for all Canadians.That is the balance we are striking. We understand that that balance is what is necessary, and it is what we heard Quebeckers and Canadians say they want. The NDP is still pitting the environment and the economy against each other, which does not work for Quebeckers or indeed all Canadians.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians will be faced with a very simple question over the next 12 months. Do they want to act on climate change and protect future generations or not?It is very clear that the Conservatives are unwilling to take leadership and action in the fight against climate change. We have put forward a comprehensive plan that actually involves a price on pollution and many measures across the economy that will demonstrate that we can not only fight climate change but also benefit Canadians and grow the economy at the same time.They have no plan. We have a strong plan.
Mr. Speaker, with climate rebates, the Prime Minister has offered mo' money to Saskatchewan people, but our premier has responded with Moe problems. A solution would be to extend the federal carbon price to the carbon content of imports from countries that do not price their emissions. Will the Prime Minister enact a carbon tariff to ensure a level playing field for Canadian workers and to collect more revenue, which could fund greater rebates?
Mr. Speaker, in addition to the devastating toll that opioids are having on families across Canada, our public system has been severely stressed as well. Front-line responders, overdose prevention services, emergency room staff and treatment centres have all borne an enormous cost. While opioid manufacturers have reaped billions in profits, the public has been left with massive costs from these addictive and dangerous substances. U.S. governments have recovered over $600 million in damages and British Columbia has just launched a lawsuit to protect taxpayers. Will the government join it?
Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt condolences to the family of Constable Catherine Campbell. She was truly a hero to her community and we will always remember her contributions and sacrifice. The government is changing the policy that led to Catherine's killer, Christopher Garnier, receiving benefits from Veterans Affairs, even though he never actually served in the Canadian Armed Forces. However, it has refused to intervene and revoke those benefits for Garnier himself. Catherine Campbell's parents are visiting Parliament Hill today, so I wonder if the Prime Minister could explain why he is putting the interests of Catherine Campbell's killer ahead of the interests of Canada's veterans.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is talking about the billions he is going to spend, which is precisely what we predicted. They are collecting this tax so that they can spend it how they choose. In fact, just in Ontario alone, they admit they will collect $1.45 billion more in taxes than they will give out in rebates to individuals and families. That money, that difference, is the net tax grab on Canadians, especially suburban commuters, soccer moms and average ordinary families. Is that not yet more proof that this just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and rightfully so. As we know, across Canada, one out of eight women will receive the diagnosis of breast cancer during her lifetime. Research is key.Can the Prime Minister inform this House of the actions taken by the government regarding breast cancer?
Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition mentioned earlier that he hopes to be on this side of the House after the next election. Canadians will not allow him to get here if he does not show real leadership on climate change, on taking
Mr. Speaker, Steve Fobister Sr. of Grassy Narrows died of mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Seventeen-year-old Calvin Kokopenace died from mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Children who are suffering ongoing mercury poisoning have been denied special education funding for six years. That is a fact. What is also a fact is that the Prime Minister promised the people of Grassy Narrows that he would clean up that river once and for all and not a dime has been spent.What is it going to take for the Prime Minister to admit that people are still being poisoned and for his government to pay its share to clean up the Wabigoon and English River systems, once and for all for these people?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Brampton South for her hard work and her advocacy on this important issue. Thousands of Canadians have joined walks in their cities and communities with many others who have also been impacted by breast cancer. This month, let us all learn more about breast cancer, starting with prevention and screening. We recognize the importance of research, and support organizations like Canadian Partnership Against Cancer with close to $50 million annually. Mr. Speaker, through you to all survivors and families who have lost loved ones, we will not stop until we find a cure.
Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. The family is right here in Ottawa, and it deserves an answer. The real question is this. Does the Prime Minister think this murderer should be getting veteran benefits? If he does, he should say so. If he does not, he should tell us what he is going to do to stop these payments. Will he finally give the Campbell family and veterans a straight answer?
Mr. Speaker, there are 40 Liberal MPs from Quebec, but they are obviously not listening to Quebeckers. Opposition to energy east is practically unanimous, but when the Conservatives promise to bring back the pipeline, the Liberals leave the door wide open.Does Ottawa listen to anyone but oil industry lobbyists?How much does the ear of an opposition leader or a prime minister cost? Does a private dinner go for $1,500? That is a small price to pay to jeopardize Quebec's main drinking water source.
Mr. Speaker, in January, the government announced that it will establish a Canadian ombudsperson for responsible enterprise, also known as CORE. CORE's jobs is to investigate the allegations of human rights abuses linked to Canadian corporate activity abroad. However, here we are 10 months later and all that has been done is one announcement, one meeting, one phone call. No ombudsperson has been named yet and there is no mandate yet. Canadians expect our government to uphold corporation responsibility abroad. Therefore, when will we see real action on this new human rights watchdog?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is a good actor, but a very poor negotiator. Just ask any dairy, egg or poultry producer in Quebec or the rest of Canada, who were sacrificed at the negotiating table to reach a deal with the U.S.The president of Dairy Farmers of Canada has been clear. He simply does not understand how that agreement will benefit the 220,000 Canadian families that depend on dairy for their livelihood. A good actor repeats his lines, and the Prime Minister has done plenty of that today. A good negotiator, though, prepares his strategy.Can the Prime Minister tell us what studies he looked at before deciding to turn his back on Canadian farmers?
Mr. Speaker, once again, small businesses across the country rejoiced at the fact that we lowered small business taxes to the lowest rate of any country in the G7. As of January 1, 9% will be the small business tax rate. We support small businesses and will always do so. However, we also understand that Canadians are concerned about climate change, wildfires, floods, drugs and increased hurricane activity south of us. These are the things that worry Canadians. That is why we are taking real action. Unfortunately, the Conservatives have no plan and are not doing anything.
Mr. Speaker, unlike the Conservatives we believe that emissions need to go down, that we need to continue creating good middle-class jobs for Canadians and support small businesses.What the Conservatives are saying is factually wrong. We have set a target for industry to reduce pollution and if it fails to meet that target, it will pay the price. If industry does better, for example, through innovation, it will be rewarded.Our plan will also give money directly to households where the federal backstop applies. The only mystery here is why have the Conservatives not put forward their plan?
Mr. Speaker, this spring, there were two significant sulphuric acid spills from transport trucks in Trail, B.C. Over a thousand cars that drove through the spills had to be written off because they were unsafe to drive. The Trail fire department lost two of their trucks. A smaller spill happened again in September. Regional authorities are deeply concerned that Transport Canada does not have the staffing capacity to effectively deal with incidents like this. Is Transport Canada investigating these acid spills? What enforcement actions will it take to resolve the issues faced by local residents and governments?
Mr. Speaker, the public health emergency caused by opioids is having devastating impacts on our families. Even our life expectancy is declining due to this crisis. The U.S. has already secured criminal pleas, along with dozens of states, for over $600 million in damages from opioid manufacturers, yet the Liberals have taken no steps to investigate potential violations of Canadian law, or to pursue civil damages. We need justice and accountability.Will the government launch now an investigation into the role drug companies may have played in fuelling the opioid crisis in our country?
Mr. Speaker, now the Prime Minister says that small businesses should rejoice at his tax increases. First of all, according to him, they should rejoice that he is punishing them for saving money within their companies and for sharing the work and earnings of their business with family members who contribute, and now he wants them to rejoice that they will have to pay higher energy costs because of his tax.I have a simple question, and we will all rejoice if he finally answers it. Will small businesses get the same exemption as large industrial emitters under his plan?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister likes simplicity. Let me make it very simple for him. His own documents show that he has a separate system that includes a massive exemption for large corporate emitters that can afford well-paid government lobbyists. Small businesses, which are the backbone of this economy, will face higher fuel costs and higher heating costs. Will those same businesses, this is very simple, get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on November 20, CBC reporter James Cudmore broke the story of the Liberals' decision to terminate the Davie contract. Curiously, two months later, as if by magic, he was hired by the Minister of National Defence's office as a policy adviser.I have a simple question for the Prime Minister. Was it the Prime Minister's Office or the Minister of National Defence's office that hired Mr. Cudmore to keep him quiet about the Liberal schemes he had exposed involving the Davie contract?
Mr. Speaker, all we asked for was the date that James Cudmore was offered a job in the Minister of National Defence's office. We have had no answer for three days.We asked if he was hired to stop him from continuing to report on the Liberals' political meddling in the Davie shipyard contract, but our question is still unanswered.This sounds like more Liberal skulduggery. What is the Prime Minister hiding?
Mr. Speaker, for the second consecutive year, the Prime Minister is going after small businesses. Unlike large corporations that are entitled to special deals with the Liberals, small businesses will bear the brunt of the Prime Minister's carbon tax.Why is it that every time the Prime Minister increases taxes, the people who can least afford it are the ones who end up paying the most?
Mr. Speaker, actually, what his own government documents state is that that so-called target is a 90% exemption for the large industrial emitters. We have simply asked if small businesses will get the same exemption. We have had no answer.In light of that, the Prime Minister still thinks that Canadian taxpayers should believe that if he puts his hands in their left pocket, he will give some of it back in their right pocket. His own documents admit that the government will collect more in taxes than it will give out in rebates. Is that not proof that this is just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the Conservatives have no plan to fight climate change. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting forward real and concrete action to help Canadians create jobs and protect their future generations. This is something that we take very seriously. Just like the 10 years under Stephen Harper, when they were unwilling and unable to act on the environment, they continue to be unwilling and unable to take on climate change.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for LaurentidesLabelle for his work on the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs' study of this bill.Our bill addresses more than 85% of the recommendations made by the Chief Electoral Officer. We are improving transparency, making voting more accessible and protecting Canadians' privacy.Unlike the Conservatives, who deprived many Canadians of their right to vote, we believe that our democracy is stronger when more Canadians are able to participate. That is exactly what we are aiming for.
Mr. Speaker, that is simply not true. We are moving forward with putting a price on pollution, taking real action on fighting climate change, something the Conservatives were unwilling and unable to do for 10 years while in government, and evidently, continue to be unwilling to do. They have no plan to approach the fight against climate change and will not put a price on pollution. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting a price on pollution and are supporting families so they are actually better off with our plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister talked about protecting businesses, but it turns out that his carbon tax scheme protects large corporate emitters by giving them a massive exemption from the costs they will have to pay. Small businesses that will face rising fuel and home heating costs will have to bear the brunt of his new carbon tax plan. Therefore, the question is very simple. Will he grant the same exemption to small and medium-size businesses he has given to large corporate emitters?
Mr. Speaker, our hearts, and the hearts of all Canadians, go out to Susan and Dwight and all of Constable Campbell's family. I know the Minister of Veterans Affairs and the member for Central Nova have reached out and conveyed that to them directly. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help.
Mr. Speaker, obviously, we take this situation seriously. This is something which, of course, Transport Canada is looking at. We know that the protection of communities and citizens right across the country is one of the fundamental responsibilities of any government, and it is one which we take very seriously.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister can try to deflect attention all he wants, but the facts are in his own government's backgrounder. It states: The federal system has two components: a charge on fossil fuels that will generally be paid by fuel producers or distributors, and a separate pricing system for industrial facilities That separate system includes a massive exemption. The question again is this. Will small and medium-size businesses get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are proud of lowering small business taxes to 9%, which is the lowest small business tax rate in the G7.Canadians expect us to put a price on pollution and to take climate action. This is exactly what we are doing, while ensuring that families, small businesses and our institutions are protected during the transition. This is exactly what we are doing.The Conservatives do not want to take action and have no plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, listen carefully to his wording. All the money collected from taxpayers will be returned to the jurisdiction, not to the taxpayer. That is a key distinction. The government plans to spend the money. The rule here is that if Canadians send it, the Prime Minister will spend it. That is distinct from making taxpayers whole for their costs. This will be especially hard for suburban commuters, hockey moms and middle-class people who will pay more and get less, all so that the Prime Minister can spend it all in the jurisdiction of his choice.Is that not a tax
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, over the past year and a half we said that we would defend Canadians' interests above all else and that we would be constructive but firm.The agreement in principle will eliminate uncertainty for our manufacturers and investors and improve the labour rights of all North Americans. When it comes into force, NAFTA will be preserved, updated and modernized for the 21st century. I want to again thank all Canadians who stood by us even in the difficult moments.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister will have plenty of opportunity to ask me questions after the next election. The question today is very simple. The Prime Minister can act all he wants, but he cannot act his way out of this one. He has given a special deal to large corporate emitters. Small businesses with five and four employees will face massive new costs under his plan. Will they receive the same deal that government lobbyists secured for large corporate emitters, yes or no?
Mr. Speaker, what I am looking for comment on is the reason why the Prime Minister is withholding documents for a straight-up defence of a person accused of a serious crime. If he will not tell us who he is protecting, maybe I can surmise that it was the President of the Treasury Board who did receive a letter from Irving, asking for his intervention.I also note that the current Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs and Internal Trade did not post his conflict screen until three months after the secret cabinet meeting.Is that who the Prime Minister is protecting?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for allowing me to remind the House that we are actually giving a 10% top-up to small and rural communities because we know that we need to make sure that everyone has the proper support as we move forward with a price on pollution.Specifically, our plan to put a price on pollution will encourage companies to innovate and pollute less, while ensuring they create good jobs for Canadians. Our system sets aside $1.45 billion from pollution pricing in order to support small and medium-sized businesses, because we know that small and medium-sized businesses are
Mr. Speaker, I believe the question that the government was asked to answer was the date on which the offer was made. That is the information we will continue to seek.In 2015, right after swearing in, the cabinet and the government set up a secret cabinet committee. This secret cabinet committee had one purpose, and that was to stop the procurement of a navy vessel.Interestingly enough, in the attempt to cover it up, the government is now denying documents for a fair trial. In the spirit of access to justice week, will the Prime Minister release these documents?
Mr. Speaker, we are taking real action on a plan to fight climate change. The Conservatives, evidently, as is their right, as is their responsibility, need to oppose, and that is fine. They will. They will find fault with our plan to concretely fight climate change and support Canadians. The question is this. Canadians are not satisfied with just opposition. They want to know what his plan is. What is the Conservatives' plan to tackle the greatest global challenge we are facing right now? What is their plan to fight climate change?
Mr. Speaker, on this side of the House, we respect the independence of our judicial system. It is out of respect for that independence that we will not engage with the Conservatives' prosecution of this case on the floor of this House. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on an ongoing court case. The Conservatives well know that because they made that clear over 300 times when they were in government.
Mr. Speaker, the member opposite and, indeed, the Conservatives in general used to understand that we cannot comment on an ongoing court case. That is why they cited that rule in the House over 300 times when they were in government.We respect the independence of the judicial system, and we will not comment.
Mr. Speaker, as I said, employment details have already been provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in this House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, I would encourage the NDP to follow the new public funding rules we brought in. We welcome the media, and we are open and transparent about all political donations. That is what we are doing. Why are they still hiding their secret fundraisers? All parties should be more transparent, just as we are being more transparent.On the subject of investment, we are always open to investment, but everyone needs to follow the proper procedure. That is what all Canadians, including Quebeckers, expect.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are actually following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why the previous government, for a decade, was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States.We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, we are following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why, for a decade, the previous government was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States. We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, as you know, the opioid crisis is something that affects us all deeply and on which Canada is taking significant leadership, primarily by working with front-line responders and the provinces and municipalities to put forward the measures they need. We are going to continue to work with the provinces on initiatives they think can help, because we realize the devastating impact on families, on communities and on people right across the country that this opioid epidemic has given.
Mr. Speaker, every member in the House is grieving with Constable Campbell's family. This is a tragic situation and the minister has taken steps to address the policy to ensure this does not occur moving forward. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help, while maintaining the integrity of the system.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians who have suffered from the effects of thalidomide are of real concern to all of us. That is why we stand united in wanting to do right by them. We are working with them, ensuring that it actually gives them the proper support.
Mr. Speaker, our plan to create jobs and grow the middle class with programs like the Canada child benefit is working in Guelph and across the country. The latest Statistics Canada labour force survey showed something I am proud to share. The city of Guelph has the lowest unemployment in Canada at 3.6%. Could the Prime Minister update the House on more highlights from the latest Statistics Canada labour force survey and the success that Canadians across Canada are experiencing?
Mr. Speaker, yesterday, indigenous communities and environmental groups in British Columbia denounced the new Trans Mountain pipeline assessment process. They condemn the government's rush to get everything wrapped up by February. They condemn the botched consultations that will lead to yet another botched assessment. According to Stewart Phillip, Grand Chief of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, the new process is even worse than the old one.Is that because the Liberals are working to cobble together a process that will lead to a yes?
Mr. Speaker, the agreement with the United States and Mexico preserves and maintains supply management. Its future is no longer in question.With regard to market shares, we promised farmers that they would receive full and fair compensation. The changes to market access in this agreement are similar to those in the TPP, which was lauded by the Conservatives.Supply management is protected and farmers will be compensated. As always, the Conservatives are playing political games.
Mr. Speaker, what happened in this case should not have happened. The minister has taken steps to address this policy and ensure that this ceases with cases going forward. However, because a veteran is involved, I am not allowed to discuss what benefits he or his family may or may not be receiving.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, I am proud of the important work we have done on modernizing our election laws.As part of our study of the Chief Electoral Officer's report following the 2015 election, we released a series of reports containing numerous recommendations. We are pleased to have completed our clause-by-clause study of Bill C-76 and to see that the bill will be sent back to the House of Commons this week.Could the Prime Minister tell the House about the measures our government is taking to follow through on our commitment to strengthen the openness and fairness of Canada's democratic institutions?
Mr. Speaker, on May 3 of this year, I rose in the House to ask a question that was supposed to be asked by our colleague Gord Brown. I wanted to know whether there was going to be compensation for the forgotten thalidomide survivors coming from the promised spring budget. The Prime Minister said on that day, We will have more good news to share shortly on this issue.They are still suffering, so I am following up on the question today. When will the Prime Minister do the right thing and honour the word he gave us on May 3?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister suggests he has provided that information and we are suggesting he has not. I would ask him to table the documents they have shared on what date he was offered a job. What is really concerning about this is that James Cudmore's stories led to a Privy Council investigation in January. That investigation revealed six separate leaks and 73 people who knew the details of the Liberal cabinet meeting. I want the Prime Minister to tell this House how many of those 73 were Atlantic Liberal MPs.
Mr. Speaker, those employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, it is important to this government, it is important to all Canadians that Canadian companies around the world respect the values and the laws that we cherish in Canada. That is why we are moving forward on a process to do a better job of holding Canadian companies overseas to account. We look forward to continuing to work with all members in the House to make sure that we are doing it the right way and in a way that will meet the high expectations of Canadians, and continue to demonstrate our capacity to create growth and success around the world.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Guelph for his tireless work in the community and congratulate the people of Guelph for the success they are building. We were elected to grow our economy and support the middle class. The growth in Guelph is just one example of how Canadians are succeeding, thanks to our plan. We have been working hard with Canadians all across the country who have created over half a million full-time jobs. We know the job does not end here. We will continue to invest in Canadians to grow the middle class and help all those working hard to join it.
Mr. Speaker, coming out of question period, I have a point of order.The Prime Minister stood in his place and declared that on some previous date the Prime Minister's Office had contacted the opposition House leader's office to tell her office on which day James Cudmore was offered a job. I can tell members that is unequivocally untrue and I would ask the Prime Minister to table the evidence.
Mr. Speaker, on November 4, the Liberal cabinet was sworn in and within days it was trying to change the Davie contract. CBC journalist James Cudmore wrote three stories on this controversy. The last one was on December 21, and on January 8, he left his job with the CBC. The Prime Minister is trying to be cute here. On what day was James Cudmore offered a job, and who in his office offered that job? Was it on Christmas Day? Give us the day, through you, Mr. Speaker, when James Cudmore was offered a job.
Mr. Speaker, what happened should not have happened. We are ensuring that going forward these cases will not reoccur. We are changing the policy. We understand how important it is to support veterans and their families and we are making sure that we do that in an appropriate and responsible way. However, because this is an issue that affects directly a veteran and his family members, we will not be commenting on the specifics of this case. We respect the privacy of members who have served in this country.
Mr. Speaker, we are deeply concerned about the tragic effects the opioid crisis has had across this country. Our response to this national public health crisis is comprehensive, compassionate and evidence-based. We are making major investments in harm-reduction services. We are working closely with provinces and territories to support those on the front lines. We are also working with partners to turn the tide of this crisis by committing new resources to improve and broaden access to treatment, by supporting innovative approaches and by fighting the stigma related to opioid use.
Mr. Speaker, our government is actively engaged with communities to support their health needs. Last November, we affirmed our government's commitment to funding the treatment centre that the people of Grassy Narrows need and rightfully deserve. We are actively engaged with the community to move it forward. We are working closely with both communities to determine their needs and priorities.
Mr. Speaker, just a few weeks ago, I was meeting with workers who were telling me what a great deal it was, how reassured they were. Where were those workers? In the Windsor area. Folks in Windsor, in particular, are extraordinarily pleased that we have secured access to the North American market for their jobs and industries. We have made sure that we continue to invest in manufacturing across this country, including in the WindsorEssex area, because we know that those are good, middle-class jobs that we have protected for generations to come.
Mr. Speaker, no.
Mr. Speaker, Chris Garnier is still in jail receiving treatment that veterans and first responders should get. Yesterday, Catherine Campbell's mother said that she could not believe that a government would condone a convicted murderer receiving treatment that veterans and first responders deserved.Incredibly, despite their loss and immeasurable pain, all the Campbells want is that our first responders and our veterans come first and get the help they need, not convicted murderers. Could the Prime Minister look the Campbells in the eyes and tell them why Chris Garnier continues to receive this treatment.
Mr. Speaker, as the many Canadians who were watching my intervention yesterday saw, I predicted that the Conservatives would end up trying to find a rhetorical trick to make this seem very complicated and very difficult. Therefore, let us make it very simple. We are putting a price on pollution because we want less pollution, and putting a price on it actually reduces pollution. At the same time, we are putting money in the pockets of Canadians to help them through the fight against climate change, because we know that Canadians expect real action, real action they are incapable of
Mr. Speaker, I am afraid I am going to have to channel my former profession of teaching when I point out that if the member opposite, who spends so much time trying to worm around and confuse everyone about our plan, spent more time on developing his own plan to fight climate change, we would all be better off and he would have something more intelligent to say.We are fighting climate change and we are doing it in a real way on real terms because that is what Canadians expect.
Mr. Speaker, I will rephrase my question. We are not talking about Vice-Admiral Norman's case.What the Conservatives want to know is whether the Prime Minister gave journalist James Cudmore a job so he would stop reporting on the Liberal government's shenanigans at the expense of Davie.
Mr. Speaker, excuse me if I find it a bit rich for them to be asking us to table documents when they have not even put forward any plan at all to fight climate change.Canadians expect leadership. Canadians expect action. Maybe they
Mr. Speaker, when it comes to recycling, we can all get behind that, but when it comes to the Trans Mountain pipeline, the Liberal government has taken things to extremes, because the Prime Minister is recycling the same broken process that has already failed us. Indigenous leaders, environmental groups and local leaders have blasted his so-called new pipeline review, calling it rigged with impossible timelines.Thrown out by the courts, rejected by indigenous leaders and a clear threat to our coastline, the only real question is how much longer will he recycle his flawed, failed and flagrantly inept process before he just finally gives up on the whole thing?
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, that is simply not true. We are ensuring that we are returning all the money collected from the price on pollution to the jurisdiction in which it was collected. That is a commitment we have made in law. Of course, that is a law the Conservatives voted against. A lot of the Conservatives continue to stop that because they have no approach to fight climate change. They do not think that it matters to fight climate change. Tell that to folks in B.C. suffering through forest fires every summer. Tell that to folks in Saskatchewan dealing with floods. Tell that to the people facing droughts in Manitoba. Tell that to the folks across the country who know that climate change is real.
Mr. Speaker, a poll this week shows that 47% of Canadians feel that the USMCA is a disappointment. Liberals can repeat the same tired lines about this deal, but Canadians are not buying it. Instead of standing strong, they saw their government make concession after concession at the negotiating table, concessions that have put their jobs in peril, concessions that render their businesses more vulnerable, concessions that have made drugs more expensive. This is not how one stands up for Canadians. How can the Prime Minister say he is proud of this deal when Canadians are going to pay the price?
Mr. Speaker, former premier Brad Wall said it best when he said, Usually when someone tells you to send in money but you'll get more back in return, it's a Nigerian prince. The bad news for Canadians is that is actually coming from their Prime Minister. The government expects suburban moms and dads to believe that a measly $12.50 a month per taxpayer will cover higher fuel costs and higher home heating costs.If the Prime Minister believes that to be the case, why will he not finally table the documents that show the true cost of the carbon tax for those very same families?
Mr. Speaker, every Liberal stood in the House and voted to maintain the benefits to murderer, Chris Garnier. True leaders, when they realize a mistake has been made, correct it. Chris Garnier never served one minute of his life in a military uniform, yet he is getting benefits for which veterans are waiting. This is outrageous, and we demand the government take leadership and revoke his benefits.
Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to believe that it is meaningful when they are giving themselves four months to consult.The more time goes by, the more Canadians believe that the Liberals did not negotiate a good trade agreement with Mexico and the United States because the cost of prescription drugs is going to go up, they have created a new breach in the supply management system, and there is no guarantee that the tariffs on steel and aluminum will be eliminated. Entrepreneurs, workers, and farmers feel that they have been abandoned by this government. Why did the Liberals give in instead of standing firm for Canadians?
Mr. Speaker, I know a lot of Quebeckers who are going to be concerned about the Prime Minister's answer because they are committed to protecting our rivers and our access to clean drinking water.The Prime Minister is using his slingshot to fight climate change, when what we really need is to bring out the heavy artillery. The Conservatives are declaring war on Quebec by trying to bring back energy east. We are in trouble. The Liberal and Conservative pipeline coalition could care less about the environment.What I want is for the Prime Minister to commit, here and now, to never bring back energy east. Does he have the courage to do that or is he the oil lobbies' puppet? What is it going to be ?
Mr. Speaker, it is not just Conservatives who believe that this new carbon tax will be hard on small businesses. Here is what the Canadian Federation of Independent Business had to say about this new tax: They already picked a fight with business owners with the small business tax changes in 2017 and now it looks like there will be another big one in 2018.It is the Prime Minister who accused small business owners of being tax cheats and who granted special deals to big corporations as he went after small business owners.The question once again is this: will small and medium-sized businesses get the same exemption that big corporate emitters got?
Mr. Speaker, for two years, we worked with premiers right across this country, including premiers of Saskatchewan, to establish a way forward on putting a price on pollution that would fight climate change and support families through this important transition in our economies. Unfortunately, Saskatchewan and other provinces decided not to move forward with a concrete plan to fight climate change and therefore, we are moving forward with our national plan.
Mr. Speaker, the NDP is all talk and no action.We have a real plan that will enable us to meet the Paris greenhouse gas reduction targets. We are putting a price on pollution with the understanding that we need to create jobs and a greener and more prosperous future for all Canadians.That is the balance we are striking. We understand that that balance is what is necessary, and it is what we heard Quebeckers and Canadians say they want. The NDP is still pitting the environment and the economy against each other, which does not work for Quebeckers or indeed all Canadians.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians will be faced with a very simple question over the next 12 months. Do they want to act on climate change and protect future generations or not?It is very clear that the Conservatives are unwilling to take leadership and action in the fight against climate change. We have put forward a comprehensive plan that actually involves a price on pollution and many measures across the economy that will demonstrate that we can not only fight climate change but also benefit Canadians and grow the economy at the same time.They have no plan. We have a strong plan.
Mr. Speaker, with climate rebates, the Prime Minister has offered mo' money to Saskatchewan people, but our premier has responded with Moe problems. A solution would be to extend the federal carbon price to the carbon content of imports from countries that do not price their emissions. Will the Prime Minister enact a carbon tariff to ensure a level playing field for Canadian workers and to collect more revenue, which could fund greater rebates?
Mr. Speaker, in addition to the devastating toll that opioids are having on families across Canada, our public system has been severely stressed as well. Front-line responders, overdose prevention services, emergency room staff and treatment centres have all borne an enormous cost. While opioid manufacturers have reaped billions in profits, the public has been left with massive costs from these addictive and dangerous substances. U.S. governments have recovered over $600 million in damages and British Columbia has just launched a lawsuit to protect taxpayers. Will the government join it?
Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt condolences to the family of Constable Catherine Campbell. She was truly a hero to her community and we will always remember her contributions and sacrifice. The government is changing the policy that led to Catherine's killer, Christopher Garnier, receiving benefits from Veterans Affairs, even though he never actually served in the Canadian Armed Forces. However, it has refused to intervene and revoke those benefits for Garnier himself. Catherine Campbell's parents are visiting Parliament Hill today, so I wonder if the Prime Minister could explain why he is putting the interests of Catherine Campbell's killer ahead of the interests of Canada's veterans.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is talking about the billions he is going to spend, which is precisely what we predicted. They are collecting this tax so that they can spend it how they choose. In fact, just in Ontario alone, they admit they will collect $1.45 billion more in taxes than they will give out in rebates to individuals and families. That money, that difference, is the net tax grab on Canadians, especially suburban commuters, soccer moms and average ordinary families. Is that not yet more proof that this just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and rightfully so. As we know, across Canada, one out of eight women will receive the diagnosis of breast cancer during her lifetime. Research is key.Can the Prime Minister inform this House of the actions taken by the government regarding breast cancer?
Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition mentioned earlier that he hopes to be on this side of the House after the next election. Canadians will not allow him to get here if he does not show real leadership on climate change, on taking
Mr. Speaker, Steve Fobister Sr. of Grassy Narrows died of mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Seventeen-year-old Calvin Kokopenace died from mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Children who are suffering ongoing mercury poisoning have been denied special education funding for six years. That is a fact. What is also a fact is that the Prime Minister promised the people of Grassy Narrows that he would clean up that river once and for all and not a dime has been spent.What is it going to take for the Prime Minister to admit that people are still being poisoned and for his government to pay its share to clean up the Wabigoon and English River systems, once and for all for these people?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Brampton South for her hard work and her advocacy on this important issue. Thousands of Canadians have joined walks in their cities and communities with many others who have also been impacted by breast cancer. This month, let us all learn more about breast cancer, starting with prevention and screening. We recognize the importance of research, and support organizations like Canadian Partnership Against Cancer with close to $50 million annually. Mr. Speaker, through you to all survivors and families who have lost loved ones, we will not stop until we find a cure.
Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. The family is right here in Ottawa, and it deserves an answer. The real question is this. Does the Prime Minister think this murderer should be getting veteran benefits? If he does, he should say so. If he does not, he should tell us what he is going to do to stop these payments. Will he finally give the Campbell family and veterans a straight answer?
Mr. Speaker, there are 40 Liberal MPs from Quebec, but they are obviously not listening to Quebeckers. Opposition to energy east is practically unanimous, but when the Conservatives promise to bring back the pipeline, the Liberals leave the door wide open.Does Ottawa listen to anyone but oil industry lobbyists?How much does the ear of an opposition leader or a prime minister cost? Does a private dinner go for $1,500? That is a small price to pay to jeopardize Quebec's main drinking water source.
Mr. Speaker, in January, the government announced that it will establish a Canadian ombudsperson for responsible enterprise, also known as CORE. CORE's jobs is to investigate the allegations of human rights abuses linked to Canadian corporate activity abroad. However, here we are 10 months later and all that has been done is one announcement, one meeting, one phone call. No ombudsperson has been named yet and there is no mandate yet. Canadians expect our government to uphold corporation responsibility abroad. Therefore, when will we see real action on this new human rights watchdog?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is a good actor, but a very poor negotiator. Just ask any dairy, egg or poultry producer in Quebec or the rest of Canada, who were sacrificed at the negotiating table to reach a deal with the U.S.The president of Dairy Farmers of Canada has been clear. He simply does not understand how that agreement will benefit the 220,000 Canadian families that depend on dairy for their livelihood. A good actor repeats his lines, and the Prime Minister has done plenty of that today. A good negotiator, though, prepares his strategy.Can the Prime Minister tell us what studies he looked at before deciding to turn his back on Canadian farmers?
Mr. Speaker, once again, small businesses across the country rejoiced at the fact that we lowered small business taxes to the lowest rate of any country in the G7. As of January 1, 9% will be the small business tax rate. We support small businesses and will always do so. However, we also understand that Canadians are concerned about climate change, wildfires, floods, drugs and increased hurricane activity south of us. These are the things that worry Canadians. That is why we are taking real action. Unfortunately, the Conservatives have no plan and are not doing anything.
Mr. Speaker, unlike the Conservatives we believe that emissions need to go down, that we need to continue creating good middle-class jobs for Canadians and support small businesses.What the Conservatives are saying is factually wrong. We have set a target for industry to reduce pollution and if it fails to meet that target, it will pay the price. If industry does better, for example, through innovation, it will be rewarded.Our plan will also give money directly to households where the federal backstop applies. The only mystery here is why have the Conservatives not put forward their plan?
Mr. Speaker, this spring, there were two significant sulphuric acid spills from transport trucks in Trail, B.C. Over a thousand cars that drove through the spills had to be written off because they were unsafe to drive. The Trail fire department lost two of their trucks. A smaller spill happened again in September. Regional authorities are deeply concerned that Transport Canada does not have the staffing capacity to effectively deal with incidents like this. Is Transport Canada investigating these acid spills? What enforcement actions will it take to resolve the issues faced by local residents and governments?
Mr. Speaker, the public health emergency caused by opioids is having devastating impacts on our families. Even our life expectancy is declining due to this crisis. The U.S. has already secured criminal pleas, along with dozens of states, for over $600 million in damages from opioid manufacturers, yet the Liberals have taken no steps to investigate potential violations of Canadian law, or to pursue civil damages. We need justice and accountability.Will the government launch now an investigation into the role drug companies may have played in fuelling the opioid crisis in our country?
Mr. Speaker, now the Prime Minister says that small businesses should rejoice at his tax increases. First of all, according to him, they should rejoice that he is punishing them for saving money within their companies and for sharing the work and earnings of their business with family members who contribute, and now he wants them to rejoice that they will have to pay higher energy costs because of his tax.I have a simple question, and we will all rejoice if he finally answers it. Will small businesses get the same exemption as large industrial emitters under his plan?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister likes simplicity. Let me make it very simple for him. His own documents show that he has a separate system that includes a massive exemption for large corporate emitters that can afford well-paid government lobbyists. Small businesses, which are the backbone of this economy, will face higher fuel costs and higher heating costs. Will those same businesses, this is very simple, get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on November 20, CBC reporter James Cudmore broke the story of the Liberals' decision to terminate the Davie contract. Curiously, two months later, as if by magic, he was hired by the Minister of National Defence's office as a policy adviser.I have a simple question for the Prime Minister. Was it the Prime Minister's Office or the Minister of National Defence's office that hired Mr. Cudmore to keep him quiet about the Liberal schemes he had exposed involving the Davie contract?
Mr. Speaker, all we asked for was the date that James Cudmore was offered a job in the Minister of National Defence's office. We have had no answer for three days.We asked if he was hired to stop him from continuing to report on the Liberals' political meddling in the Davie shipyard contract, but our question is still unanswered.This sounds like more Liberal skulduggery. What is the Prime Minister hiding?
Mr. Speaker, for the second consecutive year, the Prime Minister is going after small businesses. Unlike large corporations that are entitled to special deals with the Liberals, small businesses will bear the brunt of the Prime Minister's carbon tax.Why is it that every time the Prime Minister increases taxes, the people who can least afford it are the ones who end up paying the most?
Mr. Speaker, actually, what his own government documents state is that that so-called target is a 90% exemption for the large industrial emitters. We have simply asked if small businesses will get the same exemption. We have had no answer.In light of that, the Prime Minister still thinks that Canadian taxpayers should believe that if he puts his hands in their left pocket, he will give some of it back in their right pocket. His own documents admit that the government will collect more in taxes than it will give out in rebates. Is that not proof that this is just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the Conservatives have no plan to fight climate change. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting forward real and concrete action to help Canadians create jobs and protect their future generations. This is something that we take very seriously. Just like the 10 years under Stephen Harper, when they were unwilling and unable to act on the environment, they continue to be unwilling and unable to take on climate change.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for LaurentidesLabelle for his work on the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs' study of this bill.Our bill addresses more than 85% of the recommendations made by the Chief Electoral Officer. We are improving transparency, making voting more accessible and protecting Canadians' privacy.Unlike the Conservatives, who deprived many Canadians of their right to vote, we believe that our democracy is stronger when more Canadians are able to participate. That is exactly what we are aiming for.
Mr. Speaker, that is simply not true. We are moving forward with putting a price on pollution, taking real action on fighting climate change, something the Conservatives were unwilling and unable to do for 10 years while in government, and evidently, continue to be unwilling to do. They have no plan to approach the fight against climate change and will not put a price on pollution. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting a price on pollution and are supporting families so they are actually better off with our plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister talked about protecting businesses, but it turns out that his carbon tax scheme protects large corporate emitters by giving them a massive exemption from the costs they will have to pay. Small businesses that will face rising fuel and home heating costs will have to bear the brunt of his new carbon tax plan. Therefore, the question is very simple. Will he grant the same exemption to small and medium-size businesses he has given to large corporate emitters?
Mr. Speaker, our hearts, and the hearts of all Canadians, go out to Susan and Dwight and all of Constable Campbell's family. I know the Minister of Veterans Affairs and the member for Central Nova have reached out and conveyed that to them directly. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help.
Mr. Speaker, obviously, we take this situation seriously. This is something which, of course, Transport Canada is looking at. We know that the protection of communities and citizens right across the country is one of the fundamental responsibilities of any government, and it is one which we take very seriously.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister can try to deflect attention all he wants, but the facts are in his own government's backgrounder. It states: The federal system has two components: a charge on fossil fuels that will generally be paid by fuel producers or distributors, and a separate pricing system for industrial facilities That separate system includes a massive exemption. The question again is this. Will small and medium-size businesses get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are proud of lowering small business taxes to 9%, which is the lowest small business tax rate in the G7.Canadians expect us to put a price on pollution and to take climate action. This is exactly what we are doing, while ensuring that families, small businesses and our institutions are protected during the transition. This is exactly what we are doing.The Conservatives do not want to take action and have no plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, listen carefully to his wording. All the money collected from taxpayers will be returned to the jurisdiction, not to the taxpayer. That is a key distinction. The government plans to spend the money. The rule here is that if Canadians send it, the Prime Minister will spend it. That is distinct from making taxpayers whole for their costs. This will be especially hard for suburban commuters, hockey moms and middle-class people who will pay more and get less, all so that the Prime Minister can spend it all in the jurisdiction of his choice.Is that not a tax
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, over the past year and a half we said that we would defend Canadians' interests above all else and that we would be constructive but firm.The agreement in principle will eliminate uncertainty for our manufacturers and investors and improve the labour rights of all North Americans. When it comes into force, NAFTA will be preserved, updated and modernized for the 21st century. I want to again thank all Canadians who stood by us even in the difficult moments.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister will have plenty of opportunity to ask me questions after the next election. The question today is very simple. The Prime Minister can act all he wants, but he cannot act his way out of this one. He has given a special deal to large corporate emitters. Small businesses with five and four employees will face massive new costs under his plan. Will they receive the same deal that government lobbyists secured for large corporate emitters, yes or no?
Mr. Speaker, what I am looking for comment on is the reason why the Prime Minister is withholding documents for a straight-up defence of a person accused of a serious crime. If he will not tell us who he is protecting, maybe I can surmise that it was the President of the Treasury Board who did receive a letter from Irving, asking for his intervention.I also note that the current Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs and Internal Trade did not post his conflict screen until three months after the secret cabinet meeting.Is that who the Prime Minister is protecting?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for allowing me to remind the House that we are actually giving a 10% top-up to small and rural communities because we know that we need to make sure that everyone has the proper support as we move forward with a price on pollution.Specifically, our plan to put a price on pollution will encourage companies to innovate and pollute less, while ensuring they create good jobs for Canadians. Our system sets aside $1.45 billion from pollution pricing in order to support small and medium-sized businesses, because we know that small and medium-sized businesses are
Mr. Speaker, I believe the question that the government was asked to answer was the date on which the offer was made. That is the information we will continue to seek.In 2015, right after swearing in, the cabinet and the government set up a secret cabinet committee. This secret cabinet committee had one purpose, and that was to stop the procurement of a navy vessel.Interestingly enough, in the attempt to cover it up, the government is now denying documents for a fair trial. In the spirit of access to justice week, will the Prime Minister release these documents?
Mr. Speaker, we are taking real action on a plan to fight climate change. The Conservatives, evidently, as is their right, as is their responsibility, need to oppose, and that is fine. They will. They will find fault with our plan to concretely fight climate change and support Canadians. The question is this. Canadians are not satisfied with just opposition. They want to know what his plan is. What is the Conservatives' plan to tackle the greatest global challenge we are facing right now? What is their plan to fight climate change?
Mr. Speaker, on this side of the House, we respect the independence of our judicial system. It is out of respect for that independence that we will not engage with the Conservatives' prosecution of this case on the floor of this House. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on an ongoing court case. The Conservatives well know that because they made that clear over 300 times when they were in government.
Mr. Speaker, the member opposite and, indeed, the Conservatives in general used to understand that we cannot comment on an ongoing court case. That is why they cited that rule in the House over 300 times when they were in government.We respect the independence of the judicial system, and we will not comment.
Mr. Speaker, as I said, employment details have already been provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in this House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, I would encourage the NDP to follow the new public funding rules we brought in. We welcome the media, and we are open and transparent about all political donations. That is what we are doing. Why are they still hiding their secret fundraisers? All parties should be more transparent, just as we are being more transparent.On the subject of investment, we are always open to investment, but everyone needs to follow the proper procedure. That is what all Canadians, including Quebeckers, expect.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are actually following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why the previous government, for a decade, was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States.We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, we are following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why, for a decade, the previous government was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States. We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, as you know, the opioid crisis is something that affects us all deeply and on which Canada is taking significant leadership, primarily by working with front-line responders and the provinces and municipalities to put forward the measures they need. We are going to continue to work with the provinces on initiatives they think can help, because we realize the devastating impact on families, on communities and on people right across the country that this opioid epidemic has given.
Mr. Speaker, every member in the House is grieving with Constable Campbell's family. This is a tragic situation and the minister has taken steps to address the policy to ensure this does not occur moving forward. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help, while maintaining the integrity of the system.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians who have suffered from the effects of thalidomide are of real concern to all of us. That is why we stand united in wanting to do right by them. We are working with them, ensuring that it actually gives them the proper support.
Mr. Speaker, our plan to create jobs and grow the middle class with programs like the Canada child benefit is working in Guelph and across the country. The latest Statistics Canada labour force survey showed something I am proud to share. The city of Guelph has the lowest unemployment in Canada at 3.6%. Could the Prime Minister update the House on more highlights from the latest Statistics Canada labour force survey and the success that Canadians across Canada are experiencing?
Mr. Speaker, yesterday, indigenous communities and environmental groups in British Columbia denounced the new Trans Mountain pipeline assessment process. They condemn the government's rush to get everything wrapped up by February. They condemn the botched consultations that will lead to yet another botched assessment. According to Stewart Phillip, Grand Chief of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, the new process is even worse than the old one.Is that because the Liberals are working to cobble together a process that will lead to a yes?
Mr. Speaker, the agreement with the United States and Mexico preserves and maintains supply management. Its future is no longer in question.With regard to market shares, we promised farmers that they would receive full and fair compensation. The changes to market access in this agreement are similar to those in the TPP, which was lauded by the Conservatives.Supply management is protected and farmers will be compensated. As always, the Conservatives are playing political games.
Mr. Speaker, what happened in this case should not have happened. The minister has taken steps to address this policy and ensure that this ceases with cases going forward. However, because a veteran is involved, I am not allowed to discuss what benefits he or his family may or may not be receiving.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, I am proud of the important work we have done on modernizing our election laws.As part of our study of the Chief Electoral Officer's report following the 2015 election, we released a series of reports containing numerous recommendations. We are pleased to have completed our clause-by-clause study of Bill C-76 and to see that the bill will be sent back to the House of Commons this week.Could the Prime Minister tell the House about the measures our government is taking to follow through on our commitment to strengthen the openness and fairness of Canada's democratic institutions?
Mr. Speaker, on May 3 of this year, I rose in the House to ask a question that was supposed to be asked by our colleague Gord Brown. I wanted to know whether there was going to be compensation for the forgotten thalidomide survivors coming from the promised spring budget. The Prime Minister said on that day, We will have more good news to share shortly on this issue.They are still suffering, so I am following up on the question today. When will the Prime Minister do the right thing and honour the word he gave us on May 3?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister suggests he has provided that information and we are suggesting he has not. I would ask him to table the documents they have shared on what date he was offered a job. What is really concerning about this is that James Cudmore's stories led to a Privy Council investigation in January. That investigation revealed six separate leaks and 73 people who knew the details of the Liberal cabinet meeting. I want the Prime Minister to tell this House how many of those 73 were Atlantic Liberal MPs.
Mr. Speaker, those employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, it is important to this government, it is important to all Canadians that Canadian companies around the world respect the values and the laws that we cherish in Canada. That is why we are moving forward on a process to do a better job of holding Canadian companies overseas to account. We look forward to continuing to work with all members in the House to make sure that we are doing it the right way and in a way that will meet the high expectations of Canadians, and continue to demonstrate our capacity to create growth and success around the world.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Guelph for his tireless work in the community and congratulate the people of Guelph for the success they are building. We were elected to grow our economy and support the middle class. The growth in Guelph is just one example of how Canadians are succeeding, thanks to our plan. We have been working hard with Canadians all across the country who have created over half a million full-time jobs. We know the job does not end here. We will continue to invest in Canadians to grow the middle class and help all those working hard to join it.
Mr. Speaker, coming out of question period, I have a point of order.The Prime Minister stood in his place and declared that on some previous date the Prime Minister's Office had contacted the opposition House leader's office to tell her office on which day James Cudmore was offered a job. I can tell members that is unequivocally untrue and I would ask the Prime Minister to table the evidence.
Mr. Speaker, on November 4, the Liberal cabinet was sworn in and within days it was trying to change the Davie contract. CBC journalist James Cudmore wrote three stories on this controversy. The last one was on December 21, and on January 8, he left his job with the CBC. The Prime Minister is trying to be cute here. On what day was James Cudmore offered a job, and who in his office offered that job? Was it on Christmas Day? Give us the day, through you, Mr. Speaker, when James Cudmore was offered a job.
Mr. Speaker, what happened should not have happened. We are ensuring that going forward these cases will not reoccur. We are changing the policy. We understand how important it is to support veterans and their families and we are making sure that we do that in an appropriate and responsible way. However, because this is an issue that affects directly a veteran and his family members, we will not be commenting on the specifics of this case. We respect the privacy of members who have served in this country.
Mr. Speaker, we are deeply concerned about the tragic effects the opioid crisis has had across this country. Our response to this national public health crisis is comprehensive, compassionate and evidence-based. We are making major investments in harm-reduction services. We are working closely with provinces and territories to support those on the front lines. We are also working with partners to turn the tide of this crisis by committing new resources to improve and broaden access to treatment, by supporting innovative approaches and by fighting the stigma related to opioid use.
Mr. Speaker, our government is actively engaged with communities to support their health needs. Last November, we affirmed our government's commitment to funding the treatment centre that the people of Grassy Narrows need and rightfully deserve. We are actively engaged with the community to move it forward. We are working closely with both communities to determine their needs and priorities.
Mr. Speaker, just a few weeks ago, I was meeting with workers who were telling me what a great deal it was, how reassured they were. Where were those workers? In the Windsor area. Folks in Windsor, in particular, are extraordinarily pleased that we have secured access to the North American market for their jobs and industries. We have made sure that we continue to invest in manufacturing across this country, including in the WindsorEssex area, because we know that those are good, middle-class jobs that we have protected for generations to come.
Mr. Speaker, no.
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Mr. Speaker, every member in the House is grieving with Constable Campbell's family. This is a tragic situation and the minister has taken steps to address the policy to ensure this does not occur moving forward. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help, while maintaining the integrity of the system.
Mr. Speaker, the public health emergency caused by opioids is having devastating impacts on our families. Even our life expectancy is declining due to this crisis. The U.S. has already secured criminal pleas, along with dozens of states, for over $600 million in damages from opioid manufacturers, yet the Liberals have taken no steps to investigate potential violations of Canadian law, or to pursue civil damages. We need justice and accountability.Will the government launch now an investigation into the role drug companies may have played in fuelling the opioid crisis in our country?
Mr. Speaker, every Liberal stood in the House and voted to maintain the benefits to murderer, Chris Garnier. True leaders, when they realize a mistake has been made, correct it. Chris Garnier never served one minute of his life in a military uniform, yet he is getting benefits for which veterans are waiting. This is outrageous, and we demand the government take leadership and revoke his benefits.
Mr. Speaker, once again, small businesses across the country rejoiced at the fact that we lowered small business taxes to the lowest rate of any country in the G7. As of January 1, 9% will be the small business tax rate. We support small businesses and will always do so. However, we also understand that Canadians are concerned about climate change, wildfires, floods, drugs and increased hurricane activity south of us. These are the things that worry Canadians. That is why we are taking real action. Unfortunately, the Conservatives have no plan and are not doing anything.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, over the past year and a half we said that we would defend Canadians' interests above all else and that we would be constructive but firm.The agreement in principle will eliminate uncertainty for our manufacturers and investors and improve the labour rights of all North Americans. When it comes into force, NAFTA will be preserved, updated and modernized for the 21st century. I want to again thank all Canadians who stood by us even in the difficult moments.
Mr. Speaker, what I am looking for comment on is the reason why the Prime Minister is withholding documents for a straight-up defence of a person accused of a serious crime. If he will not tell us who he is protecting, maybe I can surmise that it was the President of the Treasury Board who did receive a letter from Irving, asking for his intervention.I also note that the current Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs and Internal Trade did not post his conflict screen until three months after the secret cabinet meeting.Is that who the Prime Minister is protecting?
Mr. Speaker, in addition to the devastating toll that opioids are having on families across Canada, our public system has been severely stressed as well. Front-line responders, overdose prevention services, emergency room staff and treatment centres have all borne an enormous cost. While opioid manufacturers have reaped billions in profits, the public has been left with massive costs from these addictive and dangerous substances. U.S. governments have recovered over $600 million in damages and British Columbia has just launched a lawsuit to protect taxpayers. Will the government join it?
Mr. Speaker, when it comes to recycling, we can all get behind that, but when it comes to the Trans Mountain pipeline, the Liberal government has taken things to extremes, because the Prime Minister is recycling the same broken process that has already failed us. Indigenous leaders, environmental groups and local leaders have blasted his so-called new pipeline review, calling it rigged with impossible timelines.Thrown out by the courts, rejected by indigenous leaders and a clear threat to our coastline, the only real question is how much longer will he recycle his flawed, failed and flagrantly inept process before he just finally gives up on the whole thing?
Mr. Speaker, coming out of question period, I have a point of order.The Prime Minister stood in his place and declared that on some previous date the Prime Minister's Office had contacted the opposition House leader's office to tell her office on which day James Cudmore was offered a job. I can tell members that is unequivocally untrue and I would ask the Prime Minister to table the evidence.
Mr. Speaker, obviously, we take this situation seriously. This is something which, of course, Transport Canada is looking at. We know that the protection of communities and citizens right across the country is one of the fundamental responsibilities of any government, and it is one which we take very seriously.
Mr. Speaker, our government is actively engaged with communities to support their health needs. Last November, we affirmed our government's commitment to funding the treatment centre that the people of Grassy Narrows need and rightfully deserve. We are actively engaged with the community to move it forward. We are working closely with both communities to determine their needs and priorities.
Mr. Speaker, as the many Canadians who were watching my intervention yesterday saw, I predicted that the Conservatives would end up trying to find a rhetorical trick to make this seem very complicated and very difficult. Therefore, let us make it very simple. We are putting a price on pollution because we want less pollution, and putting a price on it actually reduces pollution. At the same time, we are putting money in the pockets of Canadians to help them through the fight against climate change, because we know that Canadians expect real action, real action they are incapable of
Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the Conservatives have no plan to fight climate change. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting forward real and concrete action to help Canadians create jobs and protect their future generations. This is something that we take very seriously. Just like the 10 years under Stephen Harper, when they were unwilling and unable to act on the environment, they continue to be unwilling and unable to take on climate change.
Mr. Speaker, it is not just Conservatives who believe that this new carbon tax will be hard on small businesses. Here is what the Canadian Federation of Independent Business had to say about this new tax: They already picked a fight with business owners with the small business tax changes in 2017 and now it looks like there will be another big one in 2018.It is the Prime Minister who accused small business owners of being tax cheats and who granted special deals to big corporations as he went after small business owners.The question once again is this: will small and medium-sized businesses get the same exemption that big corporate emitters got?
Mr. Speaker, our hearts, and the hearts of all Canadians, go out to Susan and Dwight and all of Constable Campbell's family. I know the Minister of Veterans Affairs and the member for Central Nova have reached out and conveyed that to them directly. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Guelph for his tireless work in the community and congratulate the people of Guelph for the success they are building. We were elected to grow our economy and support the middle class. The growth in Guelph is just one example of how Canadians are succeeding, thanks to our plan. We have been working hard with Canadians all across the country who have created over half a million full-time jobs. We know the job does not end here. We will continue to invest in Canadians to grow the middle class and help all those working hard to join it.
Mr. Speaker, unlike the Conservatives we believe that emissions need to go down, that we need to continue creating good middle-class jobs for Canadians and support small businesses.What the Conservatives are saying is factually wrong. We have set a target for industry to reduce pollution and if it fails to meet that target, it will pay the price. If industry does better, for example, through innovation, it will be rewarded.Our plan will also give money directly to households where the federal backstop applies. The only mystery here is why have the Conservatives not put forward their plan?
Mr. Speaker, I know a lot of Quebeckers who are going to be concerned about the Prime Minister's answer because they are committed to protecting our rivers and our access to clean drinking water.The Prime Minister is using his slingshot to fight climate change, when what we really need is to bring out the heavy artillery. The Conservatives are declaring war on Quebec by trying to bring back energy east. We are in trouble. The Liberal and Conservative pipeline coalition could care less about the environment.What I want is for the Prime Minister to commit, here and now, to never bring back energy east. Does he have the courage to do that or is he the oil lobbies' puppet? What is it going to be ?
Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt condolences to the family of Constable Catherine Campbell. She was truly a hero to her community and we will always remember her contributions and sacrifice. The government is changing the policy that led to Catherine's killer, Christopher Garnier, receiving benefits from Veterans Affairs, even though he never actually served in the Canadian Armed Forces. However, it has refused to intervene and revoke those benefits for Garnier himself. Catherine Campbell's parents are visiting Parliament Hill today, so I wonder if the Prime Minister could explain why he is putting the interests of Catherine Campbell's killer ahead of the interests of Canada's veterans.
Mr. Speaker, what happened in this case should not have happened. The minister has taken steps to address this policy and ensure that this ceases with cases going forward. However, because a veteran is involved, I am not allowed to discuss what benefits he or his family may or may not be receiving.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, those employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, I will rephrase my question. We are not talking about Vice-Admiral Norman's case.What the Conservatives want to know is whether the Prime Minister gave journalist James Cudmore a job so he would stop reporting on the Liberal government's shenanigans at the expense of Davie.
Mr. Speaker, no.
Mr. Speaker, as I said, employment details have already been provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in this House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and rightfully so. As we know, across Canada, one out of eight women will receive the diagnosis of breast cancer during her lifetime. Research is key.Can the Prime Minister inform this House of the actions taken by the government regarding breast cancer?
Mr. Speaker, there are 40 Liberal MPs from Quebec, but they are obviously not listening to Quebeckers. Opposition to energy east is practically unanimous, but when the Conservatives promise to bring back the pipeline, the Liberals leave the door wide open.Does Ottawa listen to anyone but oil industry lobbyists?How much does the ear of an opposition leader or a prime minister cost? Does a private dinner go for $1,500? That is a small price to pay to jeopardize Quebec's main drinking water source.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister talked about protecting businesses, but it turns out that his carbon tax scheme protects large corporate emitters by giving them a massive exemption from the costs they will have to pay. Small businesses that will face rising fuel and home heating costs will have to bear the brunt of his new carbon tax plan. Therefore, the question is very simple. Will he grant the same exemption to small and medium-size businesses he has given to large corporate emitters?
Mr. Speaker, as you know, the opioid crisis is something that affects us all deeply and on which Canada is taking significant leadership, primarily by working with front-line responders and the provinces and municipalities to put forward the measures they need. We are going to continue to work with the provinces on initiatives they think can help, because we realize the devastating impact on families, on communities and on people right across the country that this opioid epidemic has given.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, that is simply not true. We are ensuring that we are returning all the money collected from the price on pollution to the jurisdiction in which it was collected. That is a commitment we have made in law. Of course, that is a law the Conservatives voted against. A lot of the Conservatives continue to stop that because they have no approach to fight climate change. They do not think that it matters to fight climate change. Tell that to folks in B.C. suffering through forest fires every summer. Tell that to folks in Saskatchewan dealing with floods. Tell that to the people facing droughts in Manitoba. Tell that to the folks across the country who know that climate change is real.
Mr. Speaker, listen carefully to his wording. All the money collected from taxpayers will be returned to the jurisdiction, not to the taxpayer. That is a key distinction. The government plans to spend the money. The rule here is that if Canadians send it, the Prime Minister will spend it. That is distinct from making taxpayers whole for their costs. This will be especially hard for suburban commuters, hockey moms and middle-class people who will pay more and get less, all so that the Prime Minister can spend it all in the jurisdiction of his choice.Is that not a tax
Mr. Speaker, we are deeply concerned about the tragic effects the opioid crisis has had across this country. Our response to this national public health crisis is comprehensive, compassionate and evidence-based. We are making major investments in harm-reduction services. We are working closely with provinces and territories to support those on the front lines. We are also working with partners to turn the tide of this crisis by committing new resources to improve and broaden access to treatment, by supporting innovative approaches and by fighting the stigma related to opioid use.
Mr. Speaker, the member opposite and, indeed, the Conservatives in general used to understand that we cannot comment on an ongoing court case. That is why they cited that rule in the House over 300 times when they were in government.We respect the independence of the judicial system, and we will not comment.
Mr. Speaker, a poll this week shows that 47% of Canadians feel that the USMCA is a disappointment. Liberals can repeat the same tired lines about this deal, but Canadians are not buying it. Instead of standing strong, they saw their government make concession after concession at the negotiating table, concessions that have put their jobs in peril, concessions that render their businesses more vulnerable, concessions that have made drugs more expensive. This is not how one stands up for Canadians. How can the Prime Minister say he is proud of this deal when Canadians are going to pay the price?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for allowing me to remind the House that we are actually giving a 10% top-up to small and rural communities because we know that we need to make sure that everyone has the proper support as we move forward with a price on pollution.Specifically, our plan to put a price on pollution will encourage companies to innovate and pollute less, while ensuring they create good jobs for Canadians. Our system sets aside $1.45 billion from pollution pricing in order to support small and medium-sized businesses, because we know that small and medium-sized businesses are
Mr. Speaker, I believe the question that the government was asked to answer was the date on which the offer was made. That is the information we will continue to seek.In 2015, right after swearing in, the cabinet and the government set up a secret cabinet committee. This secret cabinet committee had one purpose, and that was to stop the procurement of a navy vessel.Interestingly enough, in the attempt to cover it up, the government is now denying documents for a fair trial. In the spirit of access to justice week, will the Prime Minister release these documents?
Mr. Speaker, for the second consecutive year, the Prime Minister is going after small businesses. Unlike large corporations that are entitled to special deals with the Liberals, small businesses will bear the brunt of the Prime Minister's carbon tax.Why is it that every time the Prime Minister increases taxes, the people who can least afford it are the ones who end up paying the most?
Mr. Speaker, for two years, we worked with premiers right across this country, including premiers of Saskatchewan, to establish a way forward on putting a price on pollution that would fight climate change and support families through this important transition in our economies. Unfortunately, Saskatchewan and other provinces decided not to move forward with a concrete plan to fight climate change and therefore, we are moving forward with our national plan.
Mr. Speaker, now the Prime Minister says that small businesses should rejoice at his tax increases. First of all, according to him, they should rejoice that he is punishing them for saving money within their companies and for sharing the work and earnings of their business with family members who contribute, and now he wants them to rejoice that they will have to pay higher energy costs because of his tax.I have a simple question, and we will all rejoice if he finally answers it. Will small businesses get the same exemption as large industrial emitters under his plan?
Mr. Speaker, former premier Brad Wall said it best when he said, Usually when someone tells you to send in money but you'll get more back in return, it's a Nigerian prince. The bad news for Canadians is that is actually coming from their Prime Minister. The government expects suburban moms and dads to believe that a measly $12.50 a month per taxpayer will cover higher fuel costs and higher home heating costs.If the Prime Minister believes that to be the case, why will he not finally table the documents that show the true cost of the carbon tax for those very same families?
Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition mentioned earlier that he hopes to be on this side of the House after the next election. Canadians will not allow him to get here if he does not show real leadership on climate change, on taking
Mr. Speaker, yesterday, indigenous communities and environmental groups in British Columbia denounced the new Trans Mountain pipeline assessment process. They condemn the government's rush to get everything wrapped up by February. They condemn the botched consultations that will lead to yet another botched assessment. According to Stewart Phillip, Grand Chief of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, the new process is even worse than the old one.Is that because the Liberals are working to cobble together a process that will lead to a yes?
Mr. Speaker, in January, the government announced that it will establish a Canadian ombudsperson for responsible enterprise, also known as CORE. CORE's jobs is to investigate the allegations of human rights abuses linked to Canadian corporate activity abroad. However, here we are 10 months later and all that has been done is one announcement, one meeting, one phone call. No ombudsperson has been named yet and there is no mandate yet. Canadians expect our government to uphold corporation responsibility abroad. Therefore, when will we see real action on this new human rights watchdog?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister will have plenty of opportunity to ask me questions after the next election. The question today is very simple. The Prime Minister can act all he wants, but he cannot act his way out of this one. He has given a special deal to large corporate emitters. Small businesses with five and four employees will face massive new costs under his plan. Will they receive the same deal that government lobbyists secured for large corporate emitters, yes or no?
Mr. Speaker, on November 20, CBC reporter James Cudmore broke the story of the Liberals' decision to terminate the Davie contract. Curiously, two months later, as if by magic, he was hired by the Minister of National Defence's office as a policy adviser.I have a simple question for the Prime Minister. Was it the Prime Minister's Office or the Minister of National Defence's office that hired Mr. Cudmore to keep him quiet about the Liberal schemes he had exposed involving the Davie contract?
Mr. Speaker, we are following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why, for a decade, the previous government was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States. We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are actually following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why the previous government, for a decade, was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States.We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are proud of lowering small business taxes to 9%, which is the lowest small business tax rate in the G7.Canadians expect us to put a price on pollution and to take climate action. This is exactly what we are doing, while ensuring that families, small businesses and our institutions are protected during the transition. This is exactly what we are doing.The Conservatives do not want to take action and have no plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister likes simplicity. Let me make it very simple for him. His own documents show that he has a separate system that includes a massive exemption for large corporate emitters that can afford well-paid government lobbyists. Small businesses, which are the backbone of this economy, will face higher fuel costs and higher heating costs. Will those same businesses, this is very simple, get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. The family is right here in Ottawa, and it deserves an answer. The real question is this. Does the Prime Minister think this murderer should be getting veteran benefits? If he does, he should say so. If he does not, he should tell us what he is going to do to stop these payments. Will he finally give the Campbell family and veterans a straight answer?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister can try to deflect attention all he wants, but the facts are in his own government's backgrounder. It states: The federal system has two components: a charge on fossil fuels that will generally be paid by fuel producers or distributors, and a separate pricing system for industrial facilities That separate system includes a massive exemption. The question again is this. Will small and medium-size businesses get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on this side of the House, we respect the independence of our judicial system. It is out of respect for that independence that we will not engage with the Conservatives' prosecution of this case on the floor of this House. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on an ongoing court case. The Conservatives well know that because they made that clear over 300 times when they were in government.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians will be faced with a very simple question over the next 12 months. Do they want to act on climate change and protect future generations or not?It is very clear that the Conservatives are unwilling to take leadership and action in the fight against climate change. We have put forward a comprehensive plan that actually involves a price on pollution and many measures across the economy that will demonstrate that we can not only fight climate change but also benefit Canadians and grow the economy at the same time.They have no plan. We have a strong plan.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians who have suffered from the effects of thalidomide are of real concern to all of us. That is why we stand united in wanting to do right by them. We are working with them, ensuring that it actually gives them the proper support.
Mr. Speaker, I would encourage the NDP to follow the new public funding rules we brought in. We welcome the media, and we are open and transparent about all political donations. That is what we are doing. Why are they still hiding their secret fundraisers? All parties should be more transparent, just as we are being more transparent.On the subject of investment, we are always open to investment, but everyone needs to follow the proper procedure. That is what all Canadians, including Quebeckers, expect.
Mr. Speaker, that is simply not true. We are moving forward with putting a price on pollution, taking real action on fighting climate change, something the Conservatives were unwilling and unable to do for 10 years while in government, and evidently, continue to be unwilling to do. They have no plan to approach the fight against climate change and will not put a price on pollution. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting a price on pollution and are supporting families so they are actually better off with our plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, excuse me if I find it a bit rich for them to be asking us to table documents when they have not even put forward any plan at all to fight climate change.Canadians expect leadership. Canadians expect action. Maybe they
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is talking about the billions he is going to spend, which is precisely what we predicted. They are collecting this tax so that they can spend it how they choose. In fact, just in Ontario alone, they admit they will collect $1.45 billion more in taxes than they will give out in rebates to individuals and families. That money, that difference, is the net tax grab on Canadians, especially suburban commuters, soccer moms and average ordinary families. Is that not yet more proof that this just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, on November 4, the Liberal cabinet was sworn in and within days it was trying to change the Davie contract. CBC journalist James Cudmore wrote three stories on this controversy. The last one was on December 21, and on January 8, he left his job with the CBC. The Prime Minister is trying to be cute here. On what day was James Cudmore offered a job, and who in his office offered that job? Was it on Christmas Day? Give us the day, through you, Mr. Speaker, when James Cudmore was offered a job.
Mr. Speaker, the NDP is all talk and no action.We have a real plan that will enable us to meet the Paris greenhouse gas reduction targets. We are putting a price on pollution with the understanding that we need to create jobs and a greener and more prosperous future for all Canadians.That is the balance we are striking. We understand that that balance is what is necessary, and it is what we heard Quebeckers and Canadians say they want. The NDP is still pitting the environment and the economy against each other, which does not work for Quebeckers or indeed all Canadians.
Mr. Speaker, Chris Garnier is still in jail receiving treatment that veterans and first responders should get. Yesterday, Catherine Campbell's mother said that she could not believe that a government would condone a convicted murderer receiving treatment that veterans and first responders deserved.Incredibly, despite their loss and immeasurable pain, all the Campbells want is that our first responders and our veterans come first and get the help they need, not convicted murderers. Could the Prime Minister look the Campbells in the eyes and tell them why Chris Garnier continues to receive this treatment.
Mr. Speaker, this spring, there were two significant sulphuric acid spills from transport trucks in Trail, B.C. Over a thousand cars that drove through the spills had to be written off because they were unsafe to drive. The Trail fire department lost two of their trucks. A smaller spill happened again in September. Regional authorities are deeply concerned that Transport Canada does not have the staffing capacity to effectively deal with incidents like this. Is Transport Canada investigating these acid spills? What enforcement actions will it take to resolve the issues faced by local residents and governments?
Mr. Speaker, actually, what his own government documents state is that that so-called target is a 90% exemption for the large industrial emitters. We have simply asked if small businesses will get the same exemption. We have had no answer.In light of that, the Prime Minister still thinks that Canadian taxpayers should believe that if he puts his hands in their left pocket, he will give some of it back in their right pocket. His own documents admit that the government will collect more in taxes than it will give out in rebates. Is that not proof that this is just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, the agreement with the United States and Mexico preserves and maintains supply management. Its future is no longer in question.With regard to market shares, we promised farmers that they would receive full and fair compensation. The changes to market access in this agreement are similar to those in the TPP, which was lauded by the Conservatives.Supply management is protected and farmers will be compensated. As always, the Conservatives are playing political games.
Mr. Speaker, I am afraid I am going to have to channel my former profession of teaching when I point out that if the member opposite, who spends so much time trying to worm around and confuse everyone about our plan, spent more time on developing his own plan to fight climate change, we would all be better off and he would have something more intelligent to say.We are fighting climate change and we are doing it in a real way on real terms because that is what Canadians expect.
Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to believe that it is meaningful when they are giving themselves four months to consult.The more time goes by, the more Canadians believe that the Liberals did not negotiate a good trade agreement with Mexico and the United States because the cost of prescription drugs is going to go up, they have created a new breach in the supply management system, and there is no guarantee that the tariffs on steel and aluminum will be eliminated. Entrepreneurs, workers, and farmers feel that they have been abandoned by this government. Why did the Liberals give in instead of standing firm for Canadians?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is a good actor, but a very poor negotiator. Just ask any dairy, egg or poultry producer in Quebec or the rest of Canada, who were sacrificed at the negotiating table to reach a deal with the U.S.The president of Dairy Farmers of Canada has been clear. He simply does not understand how that agreement will benefit the 220,000 Canadian families that depend on dairy for their livelihood. A good actor repeats his lines, and the Prime Minister has done plenty of that today. A good negotiator, though, prepares his strategy.Can the Prime Minister tell us what studies he looked at before deciding to turn his back on Canadian farmers?
Mr. Speaker, all we asked for was the date that James Cudmore was offered a job in the Minister of National Defence's office. We have had no answer for three days.We asked if he was hired to stop him from continuing to report on the Liberals' political meddling in the Davie shipyard contract, but our question is still unanswered.This sounds like more Liberal skulduggery. What is the Prime Minister hiding?
Mr. Speaker, we are taking real action on a plan to fight climate change. The Conservatives, evidently, as is their right, as is their responsibility, need to oppose, and that is fine. They will. They will find fault with our plan to concretely fight climate change and support Canadians. The question is this. Canadians are not satisfied with just opposition. They want to know what his plan is. What is the Conservatives' plan to tackle the greatest global challenge we are facing right now? What is their plan to fight climate change?
Mr. Speaker, Steve Fobister Sr. of Grassy Narrows died of mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Seventeen-year-old Calvin Kokopenace died from mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Children who are suffering ongoing mercury poisoning have been denied special education funding for six years. That is a fact. What is also a fact is that the Prime Minister promised the people of Grassy Narrows that he would clean up that river once and for all and not a dime has been spent.What is it going to take for the Prime Minister to admit that people are still being poisoned and for his government to pay its share to clean up the Wabigoon and English River systems, once and for all for these people?
Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, I am proud of the important work we have done on modernizing our election laws.As part of our study of the Chief Electoral Officer's report following the 2015 election, we released a series of reports containing numerous recommendations. We are pleased to have completed our clause-by-clause study of Bill C-76 and to see that the bill will be sent back to the House of Commons this week.Could the Prime Minister tell the House about the measures our government is taking to follow through on our commitment to strengthen the openness and fairness of Canada's democratic institutions?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Brampton South for her hard work and her advocacy on this important issue. Thousands of Canadians have joined walks in their cities and communities with many others who have also been impacted by breast cancer. This month, let us all learn more about breast cancer, starting with prevention and screening. We recognize the importance of research, and support organizations like Canadian Partnership Against Cancer with close to $50 million annually. Mr. Speaker, through you to all survivors and families who have lost loved ones, we will not stop until we find a cure.
Mr. Speaker, what happened should not have happened. We are ensuring that going forward these cases will not reoccur. We are changing the policy. We understand how important it is to support veterans and their families and we are making sure that we do that in an appropriate and responsible way. However, because this is an issue that affects directly a veteran and his family members, we will not be commenting on the specifics of this case. We respect the privacy of members who have served in this country.
Mr. Speaker, on May 3 of this year, I rose in the House to ask a question that was supposed to be asked by our colleague Gord Brown. I wanted to know whether there was going to be compensation for the forgotten thalidomide survivors coming from the promised spring budget. The Prime Minister said on that day, We will have more good news to share shortly on this issue.They are still suffering, so I am following up on the question today. When will the Prime Minister do the right thing and honour the word he gave us on May 3?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister suggests he has provided that information and we are suggesting he has not. I would ask him to table the documents they have shared on what date he was offered a job. What is really concerning about this is that James Cudmore's stories led to a Privy Council investigation in January. That investigation revealed six separate leaks and 73 people who knew the details of the Liberal cabinet meeting. I want the Prime Minister to tell this House how many of those 73 were Atlantic Liberal MPs.
Mr. Speaker, just a few weeks ago, I was meeting with workers who were telling me what a great deal it was, how reassured they were. Where were those workers? In the Windsor area. Folks in Windsor, in particular, are extraordinarily pleased that we have secured access to the North American market for their jobs and industries. We have made sure that we continue to invest in manufacturing across this country, including in the WindsorEssex area, because we know that those are good, middle-class jobs that we have protected for generations to come.
Mr. Speaker, it is important to this government, it is important to all Canadians that Canadian companies around the world respect the values and the laws that we cherish in Canada. That is why we are moving forward on a process to do a better job of holding Canadian companies overseas to account. We look forward to continuing to work with all members in the House to make sure that we are doing it the right way and in a way that will meet the high expectations of Canadians, and continue to demonstrate our capacity to create growth and success around the world.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for LaurentidesLabelle for his work on the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs' study of this bill.Our bill addresses more than 85% of the recommendations made by the Chief Electoral Officer. We are improving transparency, making voting more accessible and protecting Canadians' privacy.Unlike the Conservatives, who deprived many Canadians of their right to vote, we believe that our democracy is stronger when more Canadians are able to participate. That is exactly what we are aiming for.
Mr. Speaker, our plan to create jobs and grow the middle class with programs like the Canada child benefit is working in Guelph and across the country. The latest Statistics Canada labour force survey showed something I am proud to share. The city of Guelph has the lowest unemployment in Canada at 3.6%. Could the Prime Minister update the House on more highlights from the latest Statistics Canada labour force survey and the success that Canadians across Canada are experiencing?
Mr. Speaker, with climate rebates, the Prime Minister has offered mo' money to Saskatchewan people, but our premier has responded with Moe problems. A solution would be to extend the federal carbon price to the carbon content of imports from countries that do not price their emissions. Will the Prime Minister enact a carbon tariff to ensure a level playing field for Canadian workers and to collect more revenue, which could fund greater rebates?
Mr. Speaker, every member in the House is grieving with Constable Campbell's family. This is a tragic situation and the minister has taken steps to address the policy to ensure this does not occur moving forward. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help, while maintaining the integrity of the system.
Mr. Speaker, the public health emergency caused by opioids is having devastating impacts on our families. Even our life expectancy is declining due to this crisis. The U.S. has already secured criminal pleas, along with dozens of states, for over $600 million in damages from opioid manufacturers, yet the Liberals have taken no steps to investigate potential violations of Canadian law, or to pursue civil damages. We need justice and accountability.Will the government launch now an investigation into the role drug companies may have played in fuelling the opioid crisis in our country?
Mr. Speaker, every Liberal stood in the House and voted to maintain the benefits to murderer, Chris Garnier. True leaders, when they realize a mistake has been made, correct it. Chris Garnier never served one minute of his life in a military uniform, yet he is getting benefits for which veterans are waiting. This is outrageous, and we demand the government take leadership and revoke his benefits.
Mr. Speaker, once again, small businesses across the country rejoiced at the fact that we lowered small business taxes to the lowest rate of any country in the G7. As of January 1, 9% will be the small business tax rate. We support small businesses and will always do so. However, we also understand that Canadians are concerned about climate change, wildfires, floods, drugs and increased hurricane activity south of us. These are the things that worry Canadians. That is why we are taking real action. Unfortunately, the Conservatives have no plan and are not doing anything.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, over the past year and a half we said that we would defend Canadians' interests above all else and that we would be constructive but firm.The agreement in principle will eliminate uncertainty for our manufacturers and investors and improve the labour rights of all North Americans. When it comes into force, NAFTA will be preserved, updated and modernized for the 21st century. I want to again thank all Canadians who stood by us even in the difficult moments.
Mr. Speaker, what I am looking for comment on is the reason why the Prime Minister is withholding documents for a straight-up defence of a person accused of a serious crime. If he will not tell us who he is protecting, maybe I can surmise that it was the President of the Treasury Board who did receive a letter from Irving, asking for his intervention.I also note that the current Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs and Internal Trade did not post his conflict screen until three months after the secret cabinet meeting.Is that who the Prime Minister is protecting?
Mr. Speaker, in addition to the devastating toll that opioids are having on families across Canada, our public system has been severely stressed as well. Front-line responders, overdose prevention services, emergency room staff and treatment centres have all borne an enormous cost. While opioid manufacturers have reaped billions in profits, the public has been left with massive costs from these addictive and dangerous substances. U.S. governments have recovered over $600 million in damages and British Columbia has just launched a lawsuit to protect taxpayers. Will the government join it?
Mr. Speaker, when it comes to recycling, we can all get behind that, but when it comes to the Trans Mountain pipeline, the Liberal government has taken things to extremes, because the Prime Minister is recycling the same broken process that has already failed us. Indigenous leaders, environmental groups and local leaders have blasted his so-called new pipeline review, calling it rigged with impossible timelines.Thrown out by the courts, rejected by indigenous leaders and a clear threat to our coastline, the only real question is how much longer will he recycle his flawed, failed and flagrantly inept process before he just finally gives up on the whole thing?
Mr. Speaker, coming out of question period, I have a point of order.The Prime Minister stood in his place and declared that on some previous date the Prime Minister's Office had contacted the opposition House leader's office to tell her office on which day James Cudmore was offered a job. I can tell members that is unequivocally untrue and I would ask the Prime Minister to table the evidence.
Mr. Speaker, obviously, we take this situation seriously. This is something which, of course, Transport Canada is looking at. We know that the protection of communities and citizens right across the country is one of the fundamental responsibilities of any government, and it is one which we take very seriously.
Mr. Speaker, our government is actively engaged with communities to support their health needs. Last November, we affirmed our government's commitment to funding the treatment centre that the people of Grassy Narrows need and rightfully deserve. We are actively engaged with the community to move it forward. We are working closely with both communities to determine their needs and priorities.
Mr. Speaker, as the many Canadians who were watching my intervention yesterday saw, I predicted that the Conservatives would end up trying to find a rhetorical trick to make this seem very complicated and very difficult. Therefore, let us make it very simple. We are putting a price on pollution because we want less pollution, and putting a price on it actually reduces pollution. At the same time, we are putting money in the pockets of Canadians to help them through the fight against climate change, because we know that Canadians expect real action, real action they are incapable of
Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the Conservatives have no plan to fight climate change. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting forward real and concrete action to help Canadians create jobs and protect their future generations. This is something that we take very seriously. Just like the 10 years under Stephen Harper, when they were unwilling and unable to act on the environment, they continue to be unwilling and unable to take on climate change.
Mr. Speaker, it is not just Conservatives who believe that this new carbon tax will be hard on small businesses. Here is what the Canadian Federation of Independent Business had to say about this new tax: They already picked a fight with business owners with the small business tax changes in 2017 and now it looks like there will be another big one in 2018.It is the Prime Minister who accused small business owners of being tax cheats and who granted special deals to big corporations as he went after small business owners.The question once again is this: will small and medium-sized businesses get the same exemption that big corporate emitters got?
Mr. Speaker, our hearts, and the hearts of all Canadians, go out to Susan and Dwight and all of Constable Campbell's family. I know the Minister of Veterans Affairs and the member for Central Nova have reached out and conveyed that to them directly. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Guelph for his tireless work in the community and congratulate the people of Guelph for the success they are building. We were elected to grow our economy and support the middle class. The growth in Guelph is just one example of how Canadians are succeeding, thanks to our plan. We have been working hard with Canadians all across the country who have created over half a million full-time jobs. We know the job does not end here. We will continue to invest in Canadians to grow the middle class and help all those working hard to join it.
Mr. Speaker, unlike the Conservatives we believe that emissions need to go down, that we need to continue creating good middle-class jobs for Canadians and support small businesses.What the Conservatives are saying is factually wrong. We have set a target for industry to reduce pollution and if it fails to meet that target, it will pay the price. If industry does better, for example, through innovation, it will be rewarded.Our plan will also give money directly to households where the federal backstop applies. The only mystery here is why have the Conservatives not put forward their plan?
Mr. Speaker, I know a lot of Quebeckers who are going to be concerned about the Prime Minister's answer because they are committed to protecting our rivers and our access to clean drinking water.The Prime Minister is using his slingshot to fight climate change, when what we really need is to bring out the heavy artillery. The Conservatives are declaring war on Quebec by trying to bring back energy east. We are in trouble. The Liberal and Conservative pipeline coalition could care less about the environment.What I want is for the Prime Minister to commit, here and now, to never bring back energy east. Does he have the courage to do that or is he the oil lobbies' puppet? What is it going to be ?
Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt condolences to the family of Constable Catherine Campbell. She was truly a hero to her community and we will always remember her contributions and sacrifice. The government is changing the policy that led to Catherine's killer, Christopher Garnier, receiving benefits from Veterans Affairs, even though he never actually served in the Canadian Armed Forces. However, it has refused to intervene and revoke those benefits for Garnier himself. Catherine Campbell's parents are visiting Parliament Hill today, so I wonder if the Prime Minister could explain why he is putting the interests of Catherine Campbell's killer ahead of the interests of Canada's veterans.
Mr. Speaker, what happened in this case should not have happened. The minister has taken steps to address this policy and ensure that this ceases with cases going forward. However, because a veteran is involved, I am not allowed to discuss what benefits he or his family may or may not be receiving.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, those employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, I will rephrase my question. We are not talking about Vice-Admiral Norman's case.What the Conservatives want to know is whether the Prime Minister gave journalist James Cudmore a job so he would stop reporting on the Liberal government's shenanigans at the expense of Davie.
Mr. Speaker, no.
Mr. Speaker, as I said, employment details have already been provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in this House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and rightfully so. As we know, across Canada, one out of eight women will receive the diagnosis of breast cancer during her lifetime. Research is key.Can the Prime Minister inform this House of the actions taken by the government regarding breast cancer?
Mr. Speaker, there are 40 Liberal MPs from Quebec, but they are obviously not listening to Quebeckers. Opposition to energy east is practically unanimous, but when the Conservatives promise to bring back the pipeline, the Liberals leave the door wide open.Does Ottawa listen to anyone but oil industry lobbyists?How much does the ear of an opposition leader or a prime minister cost? Does a private dinner go for $1,500? That is a small price to pay to jeopardize Quebec's main drinking water source.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister talked about protecting businesses, but it turns out that his carbon tax scheme protects large corporate emitters by giving them a massive exemption from the costs they will have to pay. Small businesses that will face rising fuel and home heating costs will have to bear the brunt of his new carbon tax plan. Therefore, the question is very simple. Will he grant the same exemption to small and medium-size businesses he has given to large corporate emitters?
Mr. Speaker, as you know, the opioid crisis is something that affects us all deeply and on which Canada is taking significant leadership, primarily by working with front-line responders and the provinces and municipalities to put forward the measures they need. We are going to continue to work with the provinces on initiatives they think can help, because we realize the devastating impact on families, on communities and on people right across the country that this opioid epidemic has given.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, that is simply not true. We are ensuring that we are returning all the money collected from the price on pollution to the jurisdiction in which it was collected. That is a commitment we have made in law. Of course, that is a law the Conservatives voted against. A lot of the Conservatives continue to stop that because they have no approach to fight climate change. They do not think that it matters to fight climate change. Tell that to folks in B.C. suffering through forest fires every summer. Tell that to folks in Saskatchewan dealing with floods. Tell that to the people facing droughts in Manitoba. Tell that to the folks across the country who know that climate change is real.
Mr. Speaker, listen carefully to his wording. All the money collected from taxpayers will be returned to the jurisdiction, not to the taxpayer. That is a key distinction. The government plans to spend the money. The rule here is that if Canadians send it, the Prime Minister will spend it. That is distinct from making taxpayers whole for their costs. This will be especially hard for suburban commuters, hockey moms and middle-class people who will pay more and get less, all so that the Prime Minister can spend it all in the jurisdiction of his choice.Is that not a tax
Mr. Speaker, we are deeply concerned about the tragic effects the opioid crisis has had across this country. Our response to this national public health crisis is comprehensive, compassionate and evidence-based. We are making major investments in harm-reduction services. We are working closely with provinces and territories to support those on the front lines. We are also working with partners to turn the tide of this crisis by committing new resources to improve and broaden access to treatment, by supporting innovative approaches and by fighting the stigma related to opioid use.
Mr. Speaker, the member opposite and, indeed, the Conservatives in general used to understand that we cannot comment on an ongoing court case. That is why they cited that rule in the House over 300 times when they were in government.We respect the independence of the judicial system, and we will not comment.
Mr. Speaker, a poll this week shows that 47% of Canadians feel that the USMCA is a disappointment. Liberals can repeat the same tired lines about this deal, but Canadians are not buying it. Instead of standing strong, they saw their government make concession after concession at the negotiating table, concessions that have put their jobs in peril, concessions that render their businesses more vulnerable, concessions that have made drugs more expensive. This is not how one stands up for Canadians. How can the Prime Minister say he is proud of this deal when Canadians are going to pay the price?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for allowing me to remind the House that we are actually giving a 10% top-up to small and rural communities because we know that we need to make sure that everyone has the proper support as we move forward with a price on pollution.Specifically, our plan to put a price on pollution will encourage companies to innovate and pollute less, while ensuring they create good jobs for Canadians. Our system sets aside $1.45 billion from pollution pricing in order to support small and medium-sized businesses, because we know that small and medium-sized businesses are
Mr. Speaker, I believe the question that the government was asked to answer was the date on which the offer was made. That is the information we will continue to seek.In 2015, right after swearing in, the cabinet and the government set up a secret cabinet committee. This secret cabinet committee had one purpose, and that was to stop the procurement of a navy vessel.Interestingly enough, in the attempt to cover it up, the government is now denying documents for a fair trial. In the spirit of access to justice week, will the Prime Minister release these documents?
Mr. Speaker, for the second consecutive year, the Prime Minister is going after small businesses. Unlike large corporations that are entitled to special deals with the Liberals, small businesses will bear the brunt of the Prime Minister's carbon tax.Why is it that every time the Prime Minister increases taxes, the people who can least afford it are the ones who end up paying the most?
Mr. Speaker, for two years, we worked with premiers right across this country, including premiers of Saskatchewan, to establish a way forward on putting a price on pollution that would fight climate change and support families through this important transition in our economies. Unfortunately, Saskatchewan and other provinces decided not to move forward with a concrete plan to fight climate change and therefore, we are moving forward with our national plan.
Mr. Speaker, now the Prime Minister says that small businesses should rejoice at his tax increases. First of all, according to him, they should rejoice that he is punishing them for saving money within their companies and for sharing the work and earnings of their business with family members who contribute, and now he wants them to rejoice that they will have to pay higher energy costs because of his tax.I have a simple question, and we will all rejoice if he finally answers it. Will small businesses get the same exemption as large industrial emitters under his plan?
Mr. Speaker, former premier Brad Wall said it best when he said, Usually when someone tells you to send in money but you'll get more back in return, it's a Nigerian prince. The bad news for Canadians is that is actually coming from their Prime Minister. The government expects suburban moms and dads to believe that a measly $12.50 a month per taxpayer will cover higher fuel costs and higher home heating costs.If the Prime Minister believes that to be the case, why will he not finally table the documents that show the true cost of the carbon tax for those very same families?
Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition mentioned earlier that he hopes to be on this side of the House after the next election. Canadians will not allow him to get here if he does not show real leadership on climate change, on taking
Mr. Speaker, yesterday, indigenous communities and environmental groups in British Columbia denounced the new Trans Mountain pipeline assessment process. They condemn the government's rush to get everything wrapped up by February. They condemn the botched consultations that will lead to yet another botched assessment. According to Stewart Phillip, Grand Chief of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, the new process is even worse than the old one.Is that because the Liberals are working to cobble together a process that will lead to a yes?
Mr. Speaker, in January, the government announced that it will establish a Canadian ombudsperson for responsible enterprise, also known as CORE. CORE's jobs is to investigate the allegations of human rights abuses linked to Canadian corporate activity abroad. However, here we are 10 months later and all that has been done is one announcement, one meeting, one phone call. No ombudsperson has been named yet and there is no mandate yet. Canadians expect our government to uphold corporation responsibility abroad. Therefore, when will we see real action on this new human rights watchdog?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister will have plenty of opportunity to ask me questions after the next election. The question today is very simple. The Prime Minister can act all he wants, but he cannot act his way out of this one. He has given a special deal to large corporate emitters. Small businesses with five and four employees will face massive new costs under his plan. Will they receive the same deal that government lobbyists secured for large corporate emitters, yes or no?
Mr. Speaker, on November 20, CBC reporter James Cudmore broke the story of the Liberals' decision to terminate the Davie contract. Curiously, two months later, as if by magic, he was hired by the Minister of National Defence's office as a policy adviser.I have a simple question for the Prime Minister. Was it the Prime Minister's Office or the Minister of National Defence's office that hired Mr. Cudmore to keep him quiet about the Liberal schemes he had exposed involving the Davie contract?
Mr. Speaker, we are following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why, for a decade, the previous government was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States. We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are actually following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why the previous government, for a decade, was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States.We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are proud of lowering small business taxes to 9%, which is the lowest small business tax rate in the G7.Canadians expect us to put a price on pollution and to take climate action. This is exactly what we are doing, while ensuring that families, small businesses and our institutions are protected during the transition. This is exactly what we are doing.The Conservatives do not want to take action and have no plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister likes simplicity. Let me make it very simple for him. His own documents show that he has a separate system that includes a massive exemption for large corporate emitters that can afford well-paid government lobbyists. Small businesses, which are the backbone of this economy, will face higher fuel costs and higher heating costs. Will those same businesses, this is very simple, get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. The family is right here in Ottawa, and it deserves an answer. The real question is this. Does the Prime Minister think this murderer should be getting veteran benefits? If he does, he should say so. If he does not, he should tell us what he is going to do to stop these payments. Will he finally give the Campbell family and veterans a straight answer?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister can try to deflect attention all he wants, but the facts are in his own government's backgrounder. It states: The federal system has two components: a charge on fossil fuels that will generally be paid by fuel producers or distributors, and a separate pricing system for industrial facilities That separate system includes a massive exemption. The question again is this. Will small and medium-size businesses get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on this side of the House, we respect the independence of our judicial system. It is out of respect for that independence that we will not engage with the Conservatives' prosecution of this case on the floor of this House. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on an ongoing court case. The Conservatives well know that because they made that clear over 300 times when they were in government.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians will be faced with a very simple question over the next 12 months. Do they want to act on climate change and protect future generations or not?It is very clear that the Conservatives are unwilling to take leadership and action in the fight against climate change. We have put forward a comprehensive plan that actually involves a price on pollution and many measures across the economy that will demonstrate that we can not only fight climate change but also benefit Canadians and grow the economy at the same time.They have no plan. We have a strong plan.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians who have suffered from the effects of thalidomide are of real concern to all of us. That is why we stand united in wanting to do right by them. We are working with them, ensuring that it actually gives them the proper support.
Mr. Speaker, I would encourage the NDP to follow the new public funding rules we brought in. We welcome the media, and we are open and transparent about all political donations. That is what we are doing. Why are they still hiding their secret fundraisers? All parties should be more transparent, just as we are being more transparent.On the subject of investment, we are always open to investment, but everyone needs to follow the proper procedure. That is what all Canadians, including Quebeckers, expect.
Mr. Speaker, that is simply not true. We are moving forward with putting a price on pollution, taking real action on fighting climate change, something the Conservatives were unwilling and unable to do for 10 years while in government, and evidently, continue to be unwilling to do. They have no plan to approach the fight against climate change and will not put a price on pollution. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting a price on pollution and are supporting families so they are actually better off with our plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, excuse me if I find it a bit rich for them to be asking us to table documents when they have not even put forward any plan at all to fight climate change.Canadians expect leadership. Canadians expect action. Maybe they
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is talking about the billions he is going to spend, which is precisely what we predicted. They are collecting this tax so that they can spend it how they choose. In fact, just in Ontario alone, they admit they will collect $1.45 billion more in taxes than they will give out in rebates to individuals and families. That money, that difference, is the net tax grab on Canadians, especially suburban commuters, soccer moms and average ordinary families. Is that not yet more proof that this just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, on November 4, the Liberal cabinet was sworn in and within days it was trying to change the Davie contract. CBC journalist James Cudmore wrote three stories on this controversy. The last one was on December 21, and on January 8, he left his job with the CBC. The Prime Minister is trying to be cute here. On what day was James Cudmore offered a job, and who in his office offered that job? Was it on Christmas Day? Give us the day, through you, Mr. Speaker, when James Cudmore was offered a job.
Mr. Speaker, the NDP is all talk and no action.We have a real plan that will enable us to meet the Paris greenhouse gas reduction targets. We are putting a price on pollution with the understanding that we need to create jobs and a greener and more prosperous future for all Canadians.That is the balance we are striking. We understand that that balance is what is necessary, and it is what we heard Quebeckers and Canadians say they want. The NDP is still pitting the environment and the economy against each other, which does not work for Quebeckers or indeed all Canadians.
Mr. Speaker, Chris Garnier is still in jail receiving treatment that veterans and first responders should get. Yesterday, Catherine Campbell's mother said that she could not believe that a government would condone a convicted murderer receiving treatment that veterans and first responders deserved.Incredibly, despite their loss and immeasurable pain, all the Campbells want is that our first responders and our veterans come first and get the help they need, not convicted murderers. Could the Prime Minister look the Campbells in the eyes and tell them why Chris Garnier continues to receive this treatment.
Mr. Speaker, this spring, there were two significant sulphuric acid spills from transport trucks in Trail, B.C. Over a thousand cars that drove through the spills had to be written off because they were unsafe to drive. The Trail fire department lost two of their trucks. A smaller spill happened again in September. Regional authorities are deeply concerned that Transport Canada does not have the staffing capacity to effectively deal with incidents like this. Is Transport Canada investigating these acid spills? What enforcement actions will it take to resolve the issues faced by local residents and governments?
Mr. Speaker, actually, what his own government documents state is that that so-called target is a 90% exemption for the large industrial emitters. We have simply asked if small businesses will get the same exemption. We have had no answer.In light of that, the Prime Minister still thinks that Canadian taxpayers should believe that if he puts his hands in their left pocket, he will give some of it back in their right pocket. His own documents admit that the government will collect more in taxes than it will give out in rebates. Is that not proof that this is just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, the agreement with the United States and Mexico preserves and maintains supply management. Its future is no longer in question.With regard to market shares, we promised farmers that they would receive full and fair compensation. The changes to market access in this agreement are similar to those in the TPP, which was lauded by the Conservatives.Supply management is protected and farmers will be compensated. As always, the Conservatives are playing political games.
Mr. Speaker, I am afraid I am going to have to channel my former profession of teaching when I point out that if the member opposite, who spends so much time trying to worm around and confuse everyone about our plan, spent more time on developing his own plan to fight climate change, we would all be better off and he would have something more intelligent to say.We are fighting climate change and we are doing it in a real way on real terms because that is what Canadians expect.
Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to believe that it is meaningful when they are giving themselves four months to consult.The more time goes by, the more Canadians believe that the Liberals did not negotiate a good trade agreement with Mexico and the United States because the cost of prescription drugs is going to go up, they have created a new breach in the supply management system, and there is no guarantee that the tariffs on steel and aluminum will be eliminated. Entrepreneurs, workers, and farmers feel that they have been abandoned by this government. Why did the Liberals give in instead of standing firm for Canadians?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is a good actor, but a very poor negotiator. Just ask any dairy, egg or poultry producer in Quebec or the rest of Canada, who were sacrificed at the negotiating table to reach a deal with the U.S.The president of Dairy Farmers of Canada has been clear. He simply does not understand how that agreement will benefit the 220,000 Canadian families that depend on dairy for their livelihood. A good actor repeats his lines, and the Prime Minister has done plenty of that today. A good negotiator, though, prepares his strategy.Can the Prime Minister tell us what studies he looked at before deciding to turn his back on Canadian farmers?
Mr. Speaker, all we asked for was the date that James Cudmore was offered a job in the Minister of National Defence's office. We have had no answer for three days.We asked if he was hired to stop him from continuing to report on the Liberals' political meddling in the Davie shipyard contract, but our question is still unanswered.This sounds like more Liberal skulduggery. What is the Prime Minister hiding?
Mr. Speaker, we are taking real action on a plan to fight climate change. The Conservatives, evidently, as is their right, as is their responsibility, need to oppose, and that is fine. They will. They will find fault with our plan to concretely fight climate change and support Canadians. The question is this. Canadians are not satisfied with just opposition. They want to know what his plan is. What is the Conservatives' plan to tackle the greatest global challenge we are facing right now? What is their plan to fight climate change?
Mr. Speaker, Steve Fobister Sr. of Grassy Narrows died of mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Seventeen-year-old Calvin Kokopenace died from mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Children who are suffering ongoing mercury poisoning have been denied special education funding for six years. That is a fact. What is also a fact is that the Prime Minister promised the people of Grassy Narrows that he would clean up that river once and for all and not a dime has been spent.What is it going to take for the Prime Minister to admit that people are still being poisoned and for his government to pay its share to clean up the Wabigoon and English River systems, once and for all for these people?
Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, I am proud of the important work we have done on modernizing our election laws.As part of our study of the Chief Electoral Officer's report following the 2015 election, we released a series of reports containing numerous recommendations. We are pleased to have completed our clause-by-clause study of Bill C-76 and to see that the bill will be sent back to the House of Commons this week.Could the Prime Minister tell the House about the measures our government is taking to follow through on our commitment to strengthen the openness and fairness of Canada's democratic institutions?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Brampton South for her hard work and her advocacy on this important issue. Thousands of Canadians have joined walks in their cities and communities with many others who have also been impacted by breast cancer. This month, let us all learn more about breast cancer, starting with prevention and screening. We recognize the importance of research, and support organizations like Canadian Partnership Against Cancer with close to $50 million annually. Mr. Speaker, through you to all survivors and families who have lost loved ones, we will not stop until we find a cure.
Mr. Speaker, what happened should not have happened. We are ensuring that going forward these cases will not reoccur. We are changing the policy. We understand how important it is to support veterans and their families and we are making sure that we do that in an appropriate and responsible way. However, because this is an issue that affects directly a veteran and his family members, we will not be commenting on the specifics of this case. We respect the privacy of members who have served in this country.
Mr. Speaker, on May 3 of this year, I rose in the House to ask a question that was supposed to be asked by our colleague Gord Brown. I wanted to know whether there was going to be compensation for the forgotten thalidomide survivors coming from the promised spring budget. The Prime Minister said on that day, We will have more good news to share shortly on this issue.They are still suffering, so I am following up on the question today. When will the Prime Minister do the right thing and honour the word he gave us on May 3?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister suggests he has provided that information and we are suggesting he has not. I would ask him to table the documents they have shared on what date he was offered a job. What is really concerning about this is that James Cudmore's stories led to a Privy Council investigation in January. That investigation revealed six separate leaks and 73 people who knew the details of the Liberal cabinet meeting. I want the Prime Minister to tell this House how many of those 73 were Atlantic Liberal MPs.
Mr. Speaker, just a few weeks ago, I was meeting with workers who were telling me what a great deal it was, how reassured they were. Where were those workers? In the Windsor area. Folks in Windsor, in particular, are extraordinarily pleased that we have secured access to the North American market for their jobs and industries. We have made sure that we continue to invest in manufacturing across this country, including in the WindsorEssex area, because we know that those are good, middle-class jobs that we have protected for generations to come.
Mr. Speaker, it is important to this government, it is important to all Canadians that Canadian companies around the world respect the values and the laws that we cherish in Canada. That is why we are moving forward on a process to do a better job of holding Canadian companies overseas to account. We look forward to continuing to work with all members in the House to make sure that we are doing it the right way and in a way that will meet the high expectations of Canadians, and continue to demonstrate our capacity to create growth and success around the world.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for LaurentidesLabelle for his work on the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs' study of this bill.Our bill addresses more than 85% of the recommendations made by the Chief Electoral Officer. We are improving transparency, making voting more accessible and protecting Canadians' privacy.Unlike the Conservatives, who deprived many Canadians of their right to vote, we believe that our democracy is stronger when more Canadians are able to participate. That is exactly what we are aiming for.
Mr. Speaker, our plan to create jobs and grow the middle class with programs like the Canada child benefit is working in Guelph and across the country. The latest Statistics Canada labour force survey showed something I am proud to share. The city of Guelph has the lowest unemployment in Canada at 3.6%. Could the Prime Minister update the House on more highlights from the latest Statistics Canada labour force survey and the success that Canadians across Canada are experiencing?
Mr. Speaker, with climate rebates, the Prime Minister has offered mo' money to Saskatchewan people, but our premier has responded with Moe problems. A solution would be to extend the federal carbon price to the carbon content of imports from countries that do not price their emissions. Will the Prime Minister enact a carbon tariff to ensure a level playing field for Canadian workers and to collect more revenue, which could fund greater rebates?
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Mr. Speaker, with climate rebates, the Prime Minister has offered mo' money to Saskatchewan people, but our premier has responded with Moe problems. A solution would be to extend the federal carbon price to the carbon content of imports from countries that do not price their emissions. Will the Prime Minister enact a carbon tariff to ensure a level playing field for Canadian workers and to collect more revenue, which could fund greater rebates?
Mr. Speaker, our plan to create jobs and grow the middle class with programs like the Canada child benefit is working in Guelph and across the country. The latest Statistics Canada labour force survey showed something I am proud to share. The city of Guelph has the lowest unemployment in Canada at 3.6%. Could the Prime Minister update the House on more highlights from the latest Statistics Canada labour force survey and the success that Canadians across Canada are experiencing?
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for LaurentidesLabelle for his work on the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs' study of this bill.Our bill addresses more than 85% of the recommendations made by the Chief Electoral Officer. We are improving transparency, making voting more accessible and protecting Canadians' privacy.Unlike the Conservatives, who deprived many Canadians of their right to vote, we believe that our democracy is stronger when more Canadians are able to participate. That is exactly what we are aiming for.
Mr. Speaker, it is important to this government, it is important to all Canadians that Canadian companies around the world respect the values and the laws that we cherish in Canada. That is why we are moving forward on a process to do a better job of holding Canadian companies overseas to account. We look forward to continuing to work with all members in the House to make sure that we are doing it the right way and in a way that will meet the high expectations of Canadians, and continue to demonstrate our capacity to create growth and success around the world.
Mr. Speaker, just a few weeks ago, I was meeting with workers who were telling me what a great deal it was, how reassured they were. Where were those workers? In the Windsor area. Folks in Windsor, in particular, are extraordinarily pleased that we have secured access to the North American market for their jobs and industries. We have made sure that we continue to invest in manufacturing across this country, including in the WindsorEssex area, because we know that those are good, middle-class jobs that we have protected for generations to come.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister suggests he has provided that information and we are suggesting he has not. I would ask him to table the documents they have shared on what date he was offered a job. What is really concerning about this is that James Cudmore's stories led to a Privy Council investigation in January. That investigation revealed six separate leaks and 73 people who knew the details of the Liberal cabinet meeting. I want the Prime Minister to tell this House how many of those 73 were Atlantic Liberal MPs.
Mr. Speaker, on May 3 of this year, I rose in the House to ask a question that was supposed to be asked by our colleague Gord Brown. I wanted to know whether there was going to be compensation for the forgotten thalidomide survivors coming from the promised spring budget. The Prime Minister said on that day, We will have more good news to share shortly on this issue.They are still suffering, so I am following up on the question today. When will the Prime Minister do the right thing and honour the word he gave us on May 3?
Mr. Speaker, what happened should not have happened. We are ensuring that going forward these cases will not reoccur. We are changing the policy. We understand how important it is to support veterans and their families and we are making sure that we do that in an appropriate and responsible way. However, because this is an issue that affects directly a veteran and his family members, we will not be commenting on the specifics of this case. We respect the privacy of members who have served in this country.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Brampton South for her hard work and her advocacy on this important issue. Thousands of Canadians have joined walks in their cities and communities with many others who have also been impacted by breast cancer. This month, let us all learn more about breast cancer, starting with prevention and screening. We recognize the importance of research, and support organizations like Canadian Partnership Against Cancer with close to $50 million annually. Mr. Speaker, through you to all survivors and families who have lost loved ones, we will not stop until we find a cure.
Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, I am proud of the important work we have done on modernizing our election laws.As part of our study of the Chief Electoral Officer's report following the 2015 election, we released a series of reports containing numerous recommendations. We are pleased to have completed our clause-by-clause study of Bill C-76 and to see that the bill will be sent back to the House of Commons this week.Could the Prime Minister tell the House about the measures our government is taking to follow through on our commitment to strengthen the openness and fairness of Canada's democratic institutions?
Mr. Speaker, Steve Fobister Sr. of Grassy Narrows died of mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Seventeen-year-old Calvin Kokopenace died from mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Children who are suffering ongoing mercury poisoning have been denied special education funding for six years. That is a fact. What is also a fact is that the Prime Minister promised the people of Grassy Narrows that he would clean up that river once and for all and not a dime has been spent.What is it going to take for the Prime Minister to admit that people are still being poisoned and for his government to pay its share to clean up the Wabigoon and English River systems, once and for all for these people?
Mr. Speaker, we are taking real action on a plan to fight climate change. The Conservatives, evidently, as is their right, as is their responsibility, need to oppose, and that is fine. They will. They will find fault with our plan to concretely fight climate change and support Canadians. The question is this. Canadians are not satisfied with just opposition. They want to know what his plan is. What is the Conservatives' plan to tackle the greatest global challenge we are facing right now? What is their plan to fight climate change?
Mr. Speaker, all we asked for was the date that James Cudmore was offered a job in the Minister of National Defence's office. We have had no answer for three days.We asked if he was hired to stop him from continuing to report on the Liberals' political meddling in the Davie shipyard contract, but our question is still unanswered.This sounds like more Liberal skulduggery. What is the Prime Minister hiding?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is a good actor, but a very poor negotiator. Just ask any dairy, egg or poultry producer in Quebec or the rest of Canada, who were sacrificed at the negotiating table to reach a deal with the U.S.The president of Dairy Farmers of Canada has been clear. He simply does not understand how that agreement will benefit the 220,000 Canadian families that depend on dairy for their livelihood. A good actor repeats his lines, and the Prime Minister has done plenty of that today. A good negotiator, though, prepares his strategy.Can the Prime Minister tell us what studies he looked at before deciding to turn his back on Canadian farmers?
Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to believe that it is meaningful when they are giving themselves four months to consult.The more time goes by, the more Canadians believe that the Liberals did not negotiate a good trade agreement with Mexico and the United States because the cost of prescription drugs is going to go up, they have created a new breach in the supply management system, and there is no guarantee that the tariffs on steel and aluminum will be eliminated. Entrepreneurs, workers, and farmers feel that they have been abandoned by this government. Why did the Liberals give in instead of standing firm for Canadians?
Mr. Speaker, I am afraid I am going to have to channel my former profession of teaching when I point out that if the member opposite, who spends so much time trying to worm around and confuse everyone about our plan, spent more time on developing his own plan to fight climate change, we would all be better off and he would have something more intelligent to say.We are fighting climate change and we are doing it in a real way on real terms because that is what Canadians expect.
Mr. Speaker, the agreement with the United States and Mexico preserves and maintains supply management. Its future is no longer in question.With regard to market shares, we promised farmers that they would receive full and fair compensation. The changes to market access in this agreement are similar to those in the TPP, which was lauded by the Conservatives.Supply management is protected and farmers will be compensated. As always, the Conservatives are playing political games.
Mr. Speaker, actually, what his own government documents state is that that so-called target is a 90% exemption for the large industrial emitters. We have simply asked if small businesses will get the same exemption. We have had no answer.In light of that, the Prime Minister still thinks that Canadian taxpayers should believe that if he puts his hands in their left pocket, he will give some of it back in their right pocket. His own documents admit that the government will collect more in taxes than it will give out in rebates. Is that not proof that this is just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, this spring, there were two significant sulphuric acid spills from transport trucks in Trail, B.C. Over a thousand cars that drove through the spills had to be written off because they were unsafe to drive. The Trail fire department lost two of their trucks. A smaller spill happened again in September. Regional authorities are deeply concerned that Transport Canada does not have the staffing capacity to effectively deal with incidents like this. Is Transport Canada investigating these acid spills? What enforcement actions will it take to resolve the issues faced by local residents and governments?
Mr. Speaker, Chris Garnier is still in jail receiving treatment that veterans and first responders should get. Yesterday, Catherine Campbell's mother said that she could not believe that a government would condone a convicted murderer receiving treatment that veterans and first responders deserved.Incredibly, despite their loss and immeasurable pain, all the Campbells want is that our first responders and our veterans come first and get the help they need, not convicted murderers. Could the Prime Minister look the Campbells in the eyes and tell them why Chris Garnier continues to receive this treatment.
Mr. Speaker, the NDP is all talk and no action.We have a real plan that will enable us to meet the Paris greenhouse gas reduction targets. We are putting a price on pollution with the understanding that we need to create jobs and a greener and more prosperous future for all Canadians.That is the balance we are striking. We understand that that balance is what is necessary, and it is what we heard Quebeckers and Canadians say they want. The NDP is still pitting the environment and the economy against each other, which does not work for Quebeckers or indeed all Canadians.
Mr. Speaker, on November 4, the Liberal cabinet was sworn in and within days it was trying to change the Davie contract. CBC journalist James Cudmore wrote three stories on this controversy. The last one was on December 21, and on January 8, he left his job with the CBC. The Prime Minister is trying to be cute here. On what day was James Cudmore offered a job, and who in his office offered that job? Was it on Christmas Day? Give us the day, through you, Mr. Speaker, when James Cudmore was offered a job.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is talking about the billions he is going to spend, which is precisely what we predicted. They are collecting this tax so that they can spend it how they choose. In fact, just in Ontario alone, they admit they will collect $1.45 billion more in taxes than they will give out in rebates to individuals and families. That money, that difference, is the net tax grab on Canadians, especially suburban commuters, soccer moms and average ordinary families. Is that not yet more proof that this just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, excuse me if I find it a bit rich for them to be asking us to table documents when they have not even put forward any plan at all to fight climate change.Canadians expect leadership. Canadians expect action. Maybe they
Mr. Speaker, that is simply not true. We are moving forward with putting a price on pollution, taking real action on fighting climate change, something the Conservatives were unwilling and unable to do for 10 years while in government, and evidently, continue to be unwilling to do. They have no plan to approach the fight against climate change and will not put a price on pollution. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting a price on pollution and are supporting families so they are actually better off with our plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, I would encourage the NDP to follow the new public funding rules we brought in. We welcome the media, and we are open and transparent about all political donations. That is what we are doing. Why are they still hiding their secret fundraisers? All parties should be more transparent, just as we are being more transparent.On the subject of investment, we are always open to investment, but everyone needs to follow the proper procedure. That is what all Canadians, including Quebeckers, expect.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians who have suffered from the effects of thalidomide are of real concern to all of us. That is why we stand united in wanting to do right by them. We are working with them, ensuring that it actually gives them the proper support.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians will be faced with a very simple question over the next 12 months. Do they want to act on climate change and protect future generations or not?It is very clear that the Conservatives are unwilling to take leadership and action in the fight against climate change. We have put forward a comprehensive plan that actually involves a price on pollution and many measures across the economy that will demonstrate that we can not only fight climate change but also benefit Canadians and grow the economy at the same time.They have no plan. We have a strong plan.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister can try to deflect attention all he wants, but the facts are in his own government's backgrounder. It states: The federal system has two components: a charge on fossil fuels that will generally be paid by fuel producers or distributors, and a separate pricing system for industrial facilities That separate system includes a massive exemption. The question again is this. Will small and medium-size businesses get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on this side of the House, we respect the independence of our judicial system. It is out of respect for that independence that we will not engage with the Conservatives' prosecution of this case on the floor of this House. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on an ongoing court case. The Conservatives well know that because they made that clear over 300 times when they were in government.
Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. The family is right here in Ottawa, and it deserves an answer. The real question is this. Does the Prime Minister think this murderer should be getting veteran benefits? If he does, he should say so. If he does not, he should tell us what he is going to do to stop these payments. Will he finally give the Campbell family and veterans a straight answer?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister likes simplicity. Let me make it very simple for him. His own documents show that he has a separate system that includes a massive exemption for large corporate emitters that can afford well-paid government lobbyists. Small businesses, which are the backbone of this economy, will face higher fuel costs and higher heating costs. Will those same businesses, this is very simple, get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are proud of lowering small business taxes to 9%, which is the lowest small business tax rate in the G7.Canadians expect us to put a price on pollution and to take climate action. This is exactly what we are doing, while ensuring that families, small businesses and our institutions are protected during the transition. This is exactly what we are doing.The Conservatives do not want to take action and have no plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, we are following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why, for a decade, the previous government was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States. We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are actually following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why the previous government, for a decade, was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States.We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, on November 20, CBC reporter James Cudmore broke the story of the Liberals' decision to terminate the Davie contract. Curiously, two months later, as if by magic, he was hired by the Minister of National Defence's office as a policy adviser.I have a simple question for the Prime Minister. Was it the Prime Minister's Office or the Minister of National Defence's office that hired Mr. Cudmore to keep him quiet about the Liberal schemes he had exposed involving the Davie contract?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister will have plenty of opportunity to ask me questions after the next election. The question today is very simple. The Prime Minister can act all he wants, but he cannot act his way out of this one. He has given a special deal to large corporate emitters. Small businesses with five and four employees will face massive new costs under his plan. Will they receive the same deal that government lobbyists secured for large corporate emitters, yes or no?
Mr. Speaker, in January, the government announced that it will establish a Canadian ombudsperson for responsible enterprise, also known as CORE. CORE's jobs is to investigate the allegations of human rights abuses linked to Canadian corporate activity abroad. However, here we are 10 months later and all that has been done is one announcement, one meeting, one phone call. No ombudsperson has been named yet and there is no mandate yet. Canadians expect our government to uphold corporation responsibility abroad. Therefore, when will we see real action on this new human rights watchdog?
Mr. Speaker, yesterday, indigenous communities and environmental groups in British Columbia denounced the new Trans Mountain pipeline assessment process. They condemn the government's rush to get everything wrapped up by February. They condemn the botched consultations that will lead to yet another botched assessment. According to Stewart Phillip, Grand Chief of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, the new process is even worse than the old one.Is that because the Liberals are working to cobble together a process that will lead to a yes?
Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition mentioned earlier that he hopes to be on this side of the House after the next election. Canadians will not allow him to get here if he does not show real leadership on climate change, on taking
Mr. Speaker, former premier Brad Wall said it best when he said, Usually when someone tells you to send in money but you'll get more back in return, it's a Nigerian prince. The bad news for Canadians is that is actually coming from their Prime Minister. The government expects suburban moms and dads to believe that a measly $12.50 a month per taxpayer will cover higher fuel costs and higher home heating costs.If the Prime Minister believes that to be the case, why will he not finally table the documents that show the true cost of the carbon tax for those very same families?
Mr. Speaker, now the Prime Minister says that small businesses should rejoice at his tax increases. First of all, according to him, they should rejoice that he is punishing them for saving money within their companies and for sharing the work and earnings of their business with family members who contribute, and now he wants them to rejoice that they will have to pay higher energy costs because of his tax.I have a simple question, and we will all rejoice if he finally answers it. Will small businesses get the same exemption as large industrial emitters under his plan?
Mr. Speaker, for two years, we worked with premiers right across this country, including premiers of Saskatchewan, to establish a way forward on putting a price on pollution that would fight climate change and support families through this important transition in our economies. Unfortunately, Saskatchewan and other provinces decided not to move forward with a concrete plan to fight climate change and therefore, we are moving forward with our national plan.
Mr. Speaker, for the second consecutive year, the Prime Minister is going after small businesses. Unlike large corporations that are entitled to special deals with the Liberals, small businesses will bear the brunt of the Prime Minister's carbon tax.Why is it that every time the Prime Minister increases taxes, the people who can least afford it are the ones who end up paying the most?
Mr. Speaker, I believe the question that the government was asked to answer was the date on which the offer was made. That is the information we will continue to seek.In 2015, right after swearing in, the cabinet and the government set up a secret cabinet committee. This secret cabinet committee had one purpose, and that was to stop the procurement of a navy vessel.Interestingly enough, in the attempt to cover it up, the government is now denying documents for a fair trial. In the spirit of access to justice week, will the Prime Minister release these documents?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for allowing me to remind the House that we are actually giving a 10% top-up to small and rural communities because we know that we need to make sure that everyone has the proper support as we move forward with a price on pollution.Specifically, our plan to put a price on pollution will encourage companies to innovate and pollute less, while ensuring they create good jobs for Canadians. Our system sets aside $1.45 billion from pollution pricing in order to support small and medium-sized businesses, because we know that small and medium-sized businesses are
Mr. Speaker, a poll this week shows that 47% of Canadians feel that the USMCA is a disappointment. Liberals can repeat the same tired lines about this deal, but Canadians are not buying it. Instead of standing strong, they saw their government make concession after concession at the negotiating table, concessions that have put their jobs in peril, concessions that render their businesses more vulnerable, concessions that have made drugs more expensive. This is not how one stands up for Canadians. How can the Prime Minister say he is proud of this deal when Canadians are going to pay the price?
Mr. Speaker, the member opposite and, indeed, the Conservatives in general used to understand that we cannot comment on an ongoing court case. That is why they cited that rule in the House over 300 times when they were in government.We respect the independence of the judicial system, and we will not comment.
Mr. Speaker, we are deeply concerned about the tragic effects the opioid crisis has had across this country. Our response to this national public health crisis is comprehensive, compassionate and evidence-based. We are making major investments in harm-reduction services. We are working closely with provinces and territories to support those on the front lines. We are also working with partners to turn the tide of this crisis by committing new resources to improve and broaden access to treatment, by supporting innovative approaches and by fighting the stigma related to opioid use.
Mr. Speaker, listen carefully to his wording. All the money collected from taxpayers will be returned to the jurisdiction, not to the taxpayer. That is a key distinction. The government plans to spend the money. The rule here is that if Canadians send it, the Prime Minister will spend it. That is distinct from making taxpayers whole for their costs. This will be especially hard for suburban commuters, hockey moms and middle-class people who will pay more and get less, all so that the Prime Minister can spend it all in the jurisdiction of his choice.Is that not a tax
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, that is simply not true. We are ensuring that we are returning all the money collected from the price on pollution to the jurisdiction in which it was collected. That is a commitment we have made in law. Of course, that is a law the Conservatives voted against. A lot of the Conservatives continue to stop that because they have no approach to fight climate change. They do not think that it matters to fight climate change. Tell that to folks in B.C. suffering through forest fires every summer. Tell that to folks in Saskatchewan dealing with floods. Tell that to the people facing droughts in Manitoba. Tell that to the folks across the country who know that climate change is real.
Mr. Speaker, as you know, the opioid crisis is something that affects us all deeply and on which Canada is taking significant leadership, primarily by working with front-line responders and the provinces and municipalities to put forward the measures they need. We are going to continue to work with the provinces on initiatives they think can help, because we realize the devastating impact on families, on communities and on people right across the country that this opioid epidemic has given.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister talked about protecting businesses, but it turns out that his carbon tax scheme protects large corporate emitters by giving them a massive exemption from the costs they will have to pay. Small businesses that will face rising fuel and home heating costs will have to bear the brunt of his new carbon tax plan. Therefore, the question is very simple. Will he grant the same exemption to small and medium-size businesses he has given to large corporate emitters?
Mr. Speaker, there are 40 Liberal MPs from Quebec, but they are obviously not listening to Quebeckers. Opposition to energy east is practically unanimous, but when the Conservatives promise to bring back the pipeline, the Liberals leave the door wide open.Does Ottawa listen to anyone but oil industry lobbyists?How much does the ear of an opposition leader or a prime minister cost? Does a private dinner go for $1,500? That is a small price to pay to jeopardize Quebec's main drinking water source.
Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt condolences to the family of Constable Catherine Campbell. She was truly a hero to her community and we will always remember her contributions and sacrifice. The government is changing the policy that led to Catherine's killer, Christopher Garnier, receiving benefits from Veterans Affairs, even though he never actually served in the Canadian Armed Forces. However, it has refused to intervene and revoke those benefits for Garnier himself. Catherine Campbell's parents are visiting Parliament Hill today, so I wonder if the Prime Minister could explain why he is putting the interests of Catherine Campbell's killer ahead of the interests of Canada's veterans.
Mr. Speaker, what happened in this case should not have happened. The minister has taken steps to address this policy and ensure that this ceases with cases going forward. However, because a veteran is involved, I am not allowed to discuss what benefits he or his family may or may not be receiving.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, those employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, I will rephrase my question. We are not talking about Vice-Admiral Norman's case.What the Conservatives want to know is whether the Prime Minister gave journalist James Cudmore a job so he would stop reporting on the Liberal government's shenanigans at the expense of Davie.
Mr. Speaker, no.
Mr. Speaker, as I said, employment details have already been provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in this House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and rightfully so. As we know, across Canada, one out of eight women will receive the diagnosis of breast cancer during her lifetime. Research is key.Can the Prime Minister inform this House of the actions taken by the government regarding breast cancer?
Mr. Speaker, I know a lot of Quebeckers who are going to be concerned about the Prime Minister's answer because they are committed to protecting our rivers and our access to clean drinking water.The Prime Minister is using his slingshot to fight climate change, when what we really need is to bring out the heavy artillery. The Conservatives are declaring war on Quebec by trying to bring back energy east. We are in trouble. The Liberal and Conservative pipeline coalition could care less about the environment.What I want is for the Prime Minister to commit, here and now, to never bring back energy east. Does he have the courage to do that or is he the oil lobbies' puppet? What is it going to be ?
Mr. Speaker, unlike the Conservatives we believe that emissions need to go down, that we need to continue creating good middle-class jobs for Canadians and support small businesses.What the Conservatives are saying is factually wrong. We have set a target for industry to reduce pollution and if it fails to meet that target, it will pay the price. If industry does better, for example, through innovation, it will be rewarded.Our plan will also give money directly to households where the federal backstop applies. The only mystery here is why have the Conservatives not put forward their plan?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Guelph for his tireless work in the community and congratulate the people of Guelph for the success they are building. We were elected to grow our economy and support the middle class. The growth in Guelph is just one example of how Canadians are succeeding, thanks to our plan. We have been working hard with Canadians all across the country who have created over half a million full-time jobs. We know the job does not end here. We will continue to invest in Canadians to grow the middle class and help all those working hard to join it.
Mr. Speaker, our hearts, and the hearts of all Canadians, go out to Susan and Dwight and all of Constable Campbell's family. I know the Minister of Veterans Affairs and the member for Central Nova have reached out and conveyed that to them directly. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help.
Mr. Speaker, it is not just Conservatives who believe that this new carbon tax will be hard on small businesses. Here is what the Canadian Federation of Independent Business had to say about this new tax: They already picked a fight with business owners with the small business tax changes in 2017 and now it looks like there will be another big one in 2018.It is the Prime Minister who accused small business owners of being tax cheats and who granted special deals to big corporations as he went after small business owners.The question once again is this: will small and medium-sized businesses get the same exemption that big corporate emitters got?
Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the Conservatives have no plan to fight climate change. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting forward real and concrete action to help Canadians create jobs and protect their future generations. This is something that we take very seriously. Just like the 10 years under Stephen Harper, when they were unwilling and unable to act on the environment, they continue to be unwilling and unable to take on climate change.
Mr. Speaker, as the many Canadians who were watching my intervention yesterday saw, I predicted that the Conservatives would end up trying to find a rhetorical trick to make this seem very complicated and very difficult. Therefore, let us make it very simple. We are putting a price on pollution because we want less pollution, and putting a price on it actually reduces pollution. At the same time, we are putting money in the pockets of Canadians to help them through the fight against climate change, because we know that Canadians expect real action, real action they are incapable of
Mr. Speaker, our government is actively engaged with communities to support their health needs. Last November, we affirmed our government's commitment to funding the treatment centre that the people of Grassy Narrows need and rightfully deserve. We are actively engaged with the community to move it forward. We are working closely with both communities to determine their needs and priorities.
Mr. Speaker, obviously, we take this situation seriously. This is something which, of course, Transport Canada is looking at. We know that the protection of communities and citizens right across the country is one of the fundamental responsibilities of any government, and it is one which we take very seriously.
Mr. Speaker, coming out of question period, I have a point of order.The Prime Minister stood in his place and declared that on some previous date the Prime Minister's Office had contacted the opposition House leader's office to tell her office on which day James Cudmore was offered a job. I can tell members that is unequivocally untrue and I would ask the Prime Minister to table the evidence.
Mr. Speaker, when it comes to recycling, we can all get behind that, but when it comes to the Trans Mountain pipeline, the Liberal government has taken things to extremes, because the Prime Minister is recycling the same broken process that has already failed us. Indigenous leaders, environmental groups and local leaders have blasted his so-called new pipeline review, calling it rigged with impossible timelines.Thrown out by the courts, rejected by indigenous leaders and a clear threat to our coastline, the only real question is how much longer will he recycle his flawed, failed and flagrantly inept process before he just finally gives up on the whole thing?
Mr. Speaker, in addition to the devastating toll that opioids are having on families across Canada, our public system has been severely stressed as well. Front-line responders, overdose prevention services, emergency room staff and treatment centres have all borne an enormous cost. While opioid manufacturers have reaped billions in profits, the public has been left with massive costs from these addictive and dangerous substances. U.S. governments have recovered over $600 million in damages and British Columbia has just launched a lawsuit to protect taxpayers. Will the government join it?
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, over the past year and a half we said that we would defend Canadians' interests above all else and that we would be constructive but firm.The agreement in principle will eliminate uncertainty for our manufacturers and investors and improve the labour rights of all North Americans. When it comes into force, NAFTA will be preserved, updated and modernized for the 21st century. I want to again thank all Canadians who stood by us even in the difficult moments.
Mr. Speaker, what I am looking for comment on is the reason why the Prime Minister is withholding documents for a straight-up defence of a person accused of a serious crime. If he will not tell us who he is protecting, maybe I can surmise that it was the President of the Treasury Board who did receive a letter from Irving, asking for his intervention.I also note that the current Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs and Internal Trade did not post his conflict screen until three months after the secret cabinet meeting.Is that who the Prime Minister is protecting?
Mr. Speaker, once again, small businesses across the country rejoiced at the fact that we lowered small business taxes to the lowest rate of any country in the G7. As of January 1, 9% will be the small business tax rate. We support small businesses and will always do so. However, we also understand that Canadians are concerned about climate change, wildfires, floods, drugs and increased hurricane activity south of us. These are the things that worry Canadians. That is why we are taking real action. Unfortunately, the Conservatives have no plan and are not doing anything.
Mr. Speaker, every Liberal stood in the House and voted to maintain the benefits to murderer, Chris Garnier. True leaders, when they realize a mistake has been made, correct it. Chris Garnier never served one minute of his life in a military uniform, yet he is getting benefits for which veterans are waiting. This is outrageous, and we demand the government take leadership and revoke his benefits.
Mr. Speaker, the public health emergency caused by opioids is having devastating impacts on our families. Even our life expectancy is declining due to this crisis. The U.S. has already secured criminal pleas, along with dozens of states, for over $600 million in damages from opioid manufacturers, yet the Liberals have taken no steps to investigate potential violations of Canadian law, or to pursue civil damages. We need justice and accountability.Will the government launch now an investigation into the role drug companies may have played in fuelling the opioid crisis in our country?
Mr. Speaker, every member in the House is grieving with Constable Campbell's family. This is a tragic situation and the minister has taken steps to address the policy to ensure this does not occur moving forward. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help, while maintaining the integrity of the system.
Mr. Speaker, with climate rebates, the Prime Minister has offered mo' money to Saskatchewan people, but our premier has responded with Moe problems. A solution would be to extend the federal carbon price to the carbon content of imports from countries that do not price their emissions. Will the Prime Minister enact a carbon tariff to ensure a level playing field for Canadian workers and to collect more revenue, which could fund greater rebates?
Mr. Speaker, our plan to create jobs and grow the middle class with programs like the Canada child benefit is working in Guelph and across the country. The latest Statistics Canada labour force survey showed something I am proud to share. The city of Guelph has the lowest unemployment in Canada at 3.6%. Could the Prime Minister update the House on more highlights from the latest Statistics Canada labour force survey and the success that Canadians across Canada are experiencing?
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for LaurentidesLabelle for his work on the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs' study of this bill.Our bill addresses more than 85% of the recommendations made by the Chief Electoral Officer. We are improving transparency, making voting more accessible and protecting Canadians' privacy.Unlike the Conservatives, who deprived many Canadians of their right to vote, we believe that our democracy is stronger when more Canadians are able to participate. That is exactly what we are aiming for.
Mr. Speaker, it is important to this government, it is important to all Canadians that Canadian companies around the world respect the values and the laws that we cherish in Canada. That is why we are moving forward on a process to do a better job of holding Canadian companies overseas to account. We look forward to continuing to work with all members in the House to make sure that we are doing it the right way and in a way that will meet the high expectations of Canadians, and continue to demonstrate our capacity to create growth and success around the world.
Mr. Speaker, just a few weeks ago, I was meeting with workers who were telling me what a great deal it was, how reassured they were. Where were those workers? In the Windsor area. Folks in Windsor, in particular, are extraordinarily pleased that we have secured access to the North American market for their jobs and industries. We have made sure that we continue to invest in manufacturing across this country, including in the WindsorEssex area, because we know that those are good, middle-class jobs that we have protected for generations to come.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister suggests he has provided that information and we are suggesting he has not. I would ask him to table the documents they have shared on what date he was offered a job. What is really concerning about this is that James Cudmore's stories led to a Privy Council investigation in January. That investigation revealed six separate leaks and 73 people who knew the details of the Liberal cabinet meeting. I want the Prime Minister to tell this House how many of those 73 were Atlantic Liberal MPs.
Mr. Speaker, on May 3 of this year, I rose in the House to ask a question that was supposed to be asked by our colleague Gord Brown. I wanted to know whether there was going to be compensation for the forgotten thalidomide survivors coming from the promised spring budget. The Prime Minister said on that day, We will have more good news to share shortly on this issue.They are still suffering, so I am following up on the question today. When will the Prime Minister do the right thing and honour the word he gave us on May 3?
Mr. Speaker, what happened should not have happened. We are ensuring that going forward these cases will not reoccur. We are changing the policy. We understand how important it is to support veterans and their families and we are making sure that we do that in an appropriate and responsible way. However, because this is an issue that affects directly a veteran and his family members, we will not be commenting on the specifics of this case. We respect the privacy of members who have served in this country.
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Brampton South for her hard work and her advocacy on this important issue. Thousands of Canadians have joined walks in their cities and communities with many others who have also been impacted by breast cancer. This month, let us all learn more about breast cancer, starting with prevention and screening. We recognize the importance of research, and support organizations like Canadian Partnership Against Cancer with close to $50 million annually. Mr. Speaker, through you to all survivors and families who have lost loved ones, we will not stop until we find a cure.
Mr. Speaker, as a member of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, I am proud of the important work we have done on modernizing our election laws.As part of our study of the Chief Electoral Officer's report following the 2015 election, we released a series of reports containing numerous recommendations. We are pleased to have completed our clause-by-clause study of Bill C-76 and to see that the bill will be sent back to the House of Commons this week.Could the Prime Minister tell the House about the measures our government is taking to follow through on our commitment to strengthen the openness and fairness of Canada's democratic institutions?
Mr. Speaker, Steve Fobister Sr. of Grassy Narrows died of mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Seventeen-year-old Calvin Kokopenace died from mercury poisoning. That is a fact. Children who are suffering ongoing mercury poisoning have been denied special education funding for six years. That is a fact. What is also a fact is that the Prime Minister promised the people of Grassy Narrows that he would clean up that river once and for all and not a dime has been spent.What is it going to take for the Prime Minister to admit that people are still being poisoned and for his government to pay its share to clean up the Wabigoon and English River systems, once and for all for these people?
Mr. Speaker, we are taking real action on a plan to fight climate change. The Conservatives, evidently, as is their right, as is their responsibility, need to oppose, and that is fine. They will. They will find fault with our plan to concretely fight climate change and support Canadians. The question is this. Canadians are not satisfied with just opposition. They want to know what his plan is. What is the Conservatives' plan to tackle the greatest global challenge we are facing right now? What is their plan to fight climate change?
Mr. Speaker, all we asked for was the date that James Cudmore was offered a job in the Minister of National Defence's office. We have had no answer for three days.We asked if he was hired to stop him from continuing to report on the Liberals' political meddling in the Davie shipyard contract, but our question is still unanswered.This sounds like more Liberal skulduggery. What is the Prime Minister hiding?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is a good actor, but a very poor negotiator. Just ask any dairy, egg or poultry producer in Quebec or the rest of Canada, who were sacrificed at the negotiating table to reach a deal with the U.S.The president of Dairy Farmers of Canada has been clear. He simply does not understand how that agreement will benefit the 220,000 Canadian families that depend on dairy for their livelihood. A good actor repeats his lines, and the Prime Minister has done plenty of that today. A good negotiator, though, prepares his strategy.Can the Prime Minister tell us what studies he looked at before deciding to turn his back on Canadian farmers?
Mr. Speaker, it is difficult to believe that it is meaningful when they are giving themselves four months to consult.The more time goes by, the more Canadians believe that the Liberals did not negotiate a good trade agreement with Mexico and the United States because the cost of prescription drugs is going to go up, they have created a new breach in the supply management system, and there is no guarantee that the tariffs on steel and aluminum will be eliminated. Entrepreneurs, workers, and farmers feel that they have been abandoned by this government. Why did the Liberals give in instead of standing firm for Canadians?
Mr. Speaker, I am afraid I am going to have to channel my former profession of teaching when I point out that if the member opposite, who spends so much time trying to worm around and confuse everyone about our plan, spent more time on developing his own plan to fight climate change, we would all be better off and he would have something more intelligent to say.We are fighting climate change and we are doing it in a real way on real terms because that is what Canadians expect.
Mr. Speaker, the agreement with the United States and Mexico preserves and maintains supply management. Its future is no longer in question.With regard to market shares, we promised farmers that they would receive full and fair compensation. The changes to market access in this agreement are similar to those in the TPP, which was lauded by the Conservatives.Supply management is protected and farmers will be compensated. As always, the Conservatives are playing political games.
Mr. Speaker, actually, what his own government documents state is that that so-called target is a 90% exemption for the large industrial emitters. We have simply asked if small businesses will get the same exemption. We have had no answer.In light of that, the Prime Minister still thinks that Canadian taxpayers should believe that if he puts his hands in their left pocket, he will give some of it back in their right pocket. His own documents admit that the government will collect more in taxes than it will give out in rebates. Is that not proof that this is just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, this spring, there were two significant sulphuric acid spills from transport trucks in Trail, B.C. Over a thousand cars that drove through the spills had to be written off because they were unsafe to drive. The Trail fire department lost two of their trucks. A smaller spill happened again in September. Regional authorities are deeply concerned that Transport Canada does not have the staffing capacity to effectively deal with incidents like this. Is Transport Canada investigating these acid spills? What enforcement actions will it take to resolve the issues faced by local residents and governments?
Mr. Speaker, Chris Garnier is still in jail receiving treatment that veterans and first responders should get. Yesterday, Catherine Campbell's mother said that she could not believe that a government would condone a convicted murderer receiving treatment that veterans and first responders deserved.Incredibly, despite their loss and immeasurable pain, all the Campbells want is that our first responders and our veterans come first and get the help they need, not convicted murderers. Could the Prime Minister look the Campbells in the eyes and tell them why Chris Garnier continues to receive this treatment.
Mr. Speaker, the NDP is all talk and no action.We have a real plan that will enable us to meet the Paris greenhouse gas reduction targets. We are putting a price on pollution with the understanding that we need to create jobs and a greener and more prosperous future for all Canadians.That is the balance we are striking. We understand that that balance is what is necessary, and it is what we heard Quebeckers and Canadians say they want. The NDP is still pitting the environment and the economy against each other, which does not work for Quebeckers or indeed all Canadians.
Mr. Speaker, on November 4, the Liberal cabinet was sworn in and within days it was trying to change the Davie contract. CBC journalist James Cudmore wrote three stories on this controversy. The last one was on December 21, and on January 8, he left his job with the CBC. The Prime Minister is trying to be cute here. On what day was James Cudmore offered a job, and who in his office offered that job? Was it on Christmas Day? Give us the day, through you, Mr. Speaker, when James Cudmore was offered a job.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is talking about the billions he is going to spend, which is precisely what we predicted. They are collecting this tax so that they can spend it how they choose. In fact, just in Ontario alone, they admit they will collect $1.45 billion more in taxes than they will give out in rebates to individuals and families. That money, that difference, is the net tax grab on Canadians, especially suburban commuters, soccer moms and average ordinary families. Is that not yet more proof that this just another Liberal tax grab?
Mr. Speaker, excuse me if I find it a bit rich for them to be asking us to table documents when they have not even put forward any plan at all to fight climate change.Canadians expect leadership. Canadians expect action. Maybe they
Mr. Speaker, that is simply not true. We are moving forward with putting a price on pollution, taking real action on fighting climate change, something the Conservatives were unwilling and unable to do for 10 years while in government, and evidently, continue to be unwilling to do. They have no plan to approach the fight against climate change and will not put a price on pollution. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting a price on pollution and are supporting families so they are actually better off with our plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, I would encourage the NDP to follow the new public funding rules we brought in. We welcome the media, and we are open and transparent about all political donations. That is what we are doing. Why are they still hiding their secret fundraisers? All parties should be more transparent, just as we are being more transparent.On the subject of investment, we are always open to investment, but everyone needs to follow the proper procedure. That is what all Canadians, including Quebeckers, expect.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians who have suffered from the effects of thalidomide are of real concern to all of us. That is why we stand united in wanting to do right by them. We are working with them, ensuring that it actually gives them the proper support.
Mr. Speaker, Canadians will be faced with a very simple question over the next 12 months. Do they want to act on climate change and protect future generations or not?It is very clear that the Conservatives are unwilling to take leadership and action in the fight against climate change. We have put forward a comprehensive plan that actually involves a price on pollution and many measures across the economy that will demonstrate that we can not only fight climate change but also benefit Canadians and grow the economy at the same time.They have no plan. We have a strong plan.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister can try to deflect attention all he wants, but the facts are in his own government's backgrounder. It states: The federal system has two components: a charge on fossil fuels that will generally be paid by fuel producers or distributors, and a separate pricing system for industrial facilities That separate system includes a massive exemption. The question again is this. Will small and medium-size businesses get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on this side of the House, we respect the independence of our judicial system. It is out of respect for that independence that we will not engage with the Conservatives' prosecution of this case on the floor of this House. It would be inappropriate for me to comment on an ongoing court case. The Conservatives well know that because they made that clear over 300 times when they were in government.
Mr. Speaker, enough is enough. The family is right here in Ottawa, and it deserves an answer. The real question is this. Does the Prime Minister think this murderer should be getting veteran benefits? If he does, he should say so. If he does not, he should tell us what he is going to do to stop these payments. Will he finally give the Campbell family and veterans a straight answer?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister likes simplicity. Let me make it very simple for him. His own documents show that he has a separate system that includes a massive exemption for large corporate emitters that can afford well-paid government lobbyists. Small businesses, which are the backbone of this economy, will face higher fuel costs and higher heating costs. Will those same businesses, this is very simple, get the same deal?
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are proud of lowering small business taxes to 9%, which is the lowest small business tax rate in the G7.Canadians expect us to put a price on pollution and to take climate action. This is exactly what we are doing, while ensuring that families, small businesses and our institutions are protected during the transition. This is exactly what we are doing.The Conservatives do not want to take action and have no plan to fight climate change.
Mr. Speaker, we are following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why, for a decade, the previous government was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States. We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are actually following the blueprint put forward by the court to move ahead with this project in the right way. We understand that moving ahead in the right way means taking real measures to protect the environment and engage in meaningful consultations with indigenous peoples. Not doing either of those things is why the previous government, for a decade, was unable to get resources to markets other than the United States.We understand the importance of diversification, and we will do it in the right way.
Mr. Speaker, on November 20, CBC reporter James Cudmore broke the story of the Liberals' decision to terminate the Davie contract. Curiously, two months later, as if by magic, he was hired by the Minister of National Defence's office as a policy adviser.I have a simple question for the Prime Minister. Was it the Prime Minister's Office or the Minister of National Defence's office that hired Mr. Cudmore to keep him quiet about the Liberal schemes he had exposed involving the Davie contract?
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister will have plenty of opportunity to ask me questions after the next election. The question today is very simple. The Prime Minister can act all he wants, but he cannot act his way out of this one. He has given a special deal to large corporate emitters. Small businesses with five and four employees will face massive new costs under his plan. Will they receive the same deal that government lobbyists secured for large corporate emitters, yes or no?
Mr. Speaker, in January, the government announced that it will establish a Canadian ombudsperson for responsible enterprise, also known as CORE. CORE's jobs is to investigate the allegations of human rights abuses linked to Canadian corporate activity abroad. However, here we are 10 months later and all that has been done is one announcement, one meeting, one phone call. No ombudsperson has been named yet and there is no mandate yet. Canadians expect our government to uphold corporation responsibility abroad. Therefore, when will we see real action on this new human rights watchdog?
Mr. Speaker, yesterday, indigenous communities and environmental groups in British Columbia denounced the new Trans Mountain pipeline assessment process. They condemn the government's rush to get everything wrapped up by February. They condemn the botched consultations that will lead to yet another botched assessment. According to Stewart Phillip, Grand Chief of the Union of British Columbia Indian Chiefs, the new process is even worse than the old one.Is that because the Liberals are working to cobble together a process that will lead to a yes?
Mr. Speaker, the Leader of the Opposition mentioned earlier that he hopes to be on this side of the House after the next election. Canadians will not allow him to get here if he does not show real leadership on climate change, on taking
Mr. Speaker, former premier Brad Wall said it best when he said, Usually when someone tells you to send in money but you'll get more back in return, it's a Nigerian prince. The bad news for Canadians is that is actually coming from their Prime Minister. The government expects suburban moms and dads to believe that a measly $12.50 a month per taxpayer will cover higher fuel costs and higher home heating costs.If the Prime Minister believes that to be the case, why will he not finally table the documents that show the true cost of the carbon tax for those very same families?
Mr. Speaker, now the Prime Minister says that small businesses should rejoice at his tax increases. First of all, according to him, they should rejoice that he is punishing them for saving money within their companies and for sharing the work and earnings of their business with family members who contribute, and now he wants them to rejoice that they will have to pay higher energy costs because of his tax.I have a simple question, and we will all rejoice if he finally answers it. Will small businesses get the same exemption as large industrial emitters under his plan?
Mr. Speaker, for two years, we worked with premiers right across this country, including premiers of Saskatchewan, to establish a way forward on putting a price on pollution that would fight climate change and support families through this important transition in our economies. Unfortunately, Saskatchewan and other provinces decided not to move forward with a concrete plan to fight climate change and therefore, we are moving forward with our national plan.
Mr. Speaker, for the second consecutive year, the Prime Minister is going after small businesses. Unlike large corporations that are entitled to special deals with the Liberals, small businesses will bear the brunt of the Prime Minister's carbon tax.Why is it that every time the Prime Minister increases taxes, the people who can least afford it are the ones who end up paying the most?
Mr. Speaker, I believe the question that the government was asked to answer was the date on which the offer was made. That is the information we will continue to seek.In 2015, right after swearing in, the cabinet and the government set up a secret cabinet committee. This secret cabinet committee had one purpose, and that was to stop the procurement of a navy vessel.Interestingly enough, in the attempt to cover it up, the government is now denying documents for a fair trial. In the spirit of access to justice week, will the Prime Minister release these documents?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member opposite for allowing me to remind the House that we are actually giving a 10% top-up to small and rural communities because we know that we need to make sure that everyone has the proper support as we move forward with a price on pollution.Specifically, our plan to put a price on pollution will encourage companies to innovate and pollute less, while ensuring they create good jobs for Canadians. Our system sets aside $1.45 billion from pollution pricing in order to support small and medium-sized businesses, because we know that small and medium-sized businesses are
Mr. Speaker, a poll this week shows that 47% of Canadians feel that the USMCA is a disappointment. Liberals can repeat the same tired lines about this deal, but Canadians are not buying it. Instead of standing strong, they saw their government make concession after concession at the negotiating table, concessions that have put their jobs in peril, concessions that render their businesses more vulnerable, concessions that have made drugs more expensive. This is not how one stands up for Canadians. How can the Prime Minister say he is proud of this deal when Canadians are going to pay the price?
Mr. Speaker, the member opposite and, indeed, the Conservatives in general used to understand that we cannot comment on an ongoing court case. That is why they cited that rule in the House over 300 times when they were in government.We respect the independence of the judicial system, and we will not comment.
Mr. Speaker, we are deeply concerned about the tragic effects the opioid crisis has had across this country. Our response to this national public health crisis is comprehensive, compassionate and evidence-based. We are making major investments in harm-reduction services. We are working closely with provinces and territories to support those on the front lines. We are also working with partners to turn the tide of this crisis by committing new resources to improve and broaden access to treatment, by supporting innovative approaches and by fighting the stigma related to opioid use.
Mr. Speaker, listen carefully to his wording. All the money collected from taxpayers will be returned to the jurisdiction, not to the taxpayer. That is a key distinction. The government plans to spend the money. The rule here is that if Canadians send it, the Prime Minister will spend it. That is distinct from making taxpayers whole for their costs. This will be especially hard for suburban commuters, hockey moms and middle-class people who will pay more and get less, all so that the Prime Minister can spend it all in the jurisdiction of his choice.Is that not a tax
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, that is simply not true. We are ensuring that we are returning all the money collected from the price on pollution to the jurisdiction in which it was collected. That is a commitment we have made in law. Of course, that is a law the Conservatives voted against. A lot of the Conservatives continue to stop that because they have no approach to fight climate change. They do not think that it matters to fight climate change. Tell that to folks in B.C. suffering through forest fires every summer. Tell that to folks in Saskatchewan dealing with floods. Tell that to the people facing droughts in Manitoba. Tell that to the folks across the country who know that climate change is real.
Mr. Speaker, as you know, the opioid crisis is something that affects us all deeply and on which Canada is taking significant leadership, primarily by working with front-line responders and the provinces and municipalities to put forward the measures they need. We are going to continue to work with the provinces on initiatives they think can help, because we realize the devastating impact on families, on communities and on people right across the country that this opioid epidemic has given.
Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister talked about protecting businesses, but it turns out that his carbon tax scheme protects large corporate emitters by giving them a massive exemption from the costs they will have to pay. Small businesses that will face rising fuel and home heating costs will have to bear the brunt of his new carbon tax plan. Therefore, the question is very simple. Will he grant the same exemption to small and medium-size businesses he has given to large corporate emitters?
Mr. Speaker, there are 40 Liberal MPs from Quebec, but they are obviously not listening to Quebeckers. Opposition to energy east is practically unanimous, but when the Conservatives promise to bring back the pipeline, the Liberals leave the door wide open.Does Ottawa listen to anyone but oil industry lobbyists?How much does the ear of an opposition leader or a prime minister cost? Does a private dinner go for $1,500? That is a small price to pay to jeopardize Quebec's main drinking water source.
Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by expressing my heartfelt condolences to the family of Constable Catherine Campbell. She was truly a hero to her community and we will always remember her contributions and sacrifice. The government is changing the policy that led to Catherine's killer, Christopher Garnier, receiving benefits from Veterans Affairs, even though he never actually served in the Canadian Armed Forces. However, it has refused to intervene and revoke those benefits for Garnier himself. Catherine Campbell's parents are visiting Parliament Hill today, so I wonder if the Prime Minister could explain why he is putting the interests of Catherine Campbell's killer ahead of the interests of Canada's veterans.
Mr. Speaker, what happened in this case should not have happened. The minister has taken steps to address this policy and ensure that this ceases with cases going forward. However, because a veteran is involved, I am not allowed to discuss what benefits he or his family may or may not be receiving.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, these employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, those employment details were already provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in the House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, I will rephrase my question. We are not talking about Vice-Admiral Norman's case.What the Conservatives want to know is whether the Prime Minister gave journalist James Cudmore a job so he would stop reporting on the Liberal government's shenanigans at the expense of Davie.
Mr. Speaker, no.
Mr. Speaker, as I said, employment details have already been provided to the opposition House leader. The Conservatives are simply trying to indirectly prosecute an ongoing court case in this House. We will not comment on an ongoing court case.
Mr. Speaker, October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month and rightfully so. As we know, across Canada, one out of eight women will receive the diagnosis of breast cancer during her lifetime. Research is key.Can the Prime Minister inform this House of the actions taken by the government regarding breast cancer?
Mr. Speaker, I know a lot of Quebeckers who are going to be concerned about the Prime Minister's answer because they are committed to protecting our rivers and our access to clean drinking water.The Prime Minister is using his slingshot to fight climate change, when what we really need is to bring out the heavy artillery. The Conservatives are declaring war on Quebec by trying to bring back energy east. We are in trouble. The Liberal and Conservative pipeline coalition could care less about the environment.What I want is for the Prime Minister to commit, here and now, to never bring back energy east. Does he have the courage to do that or is he the oil lobbies' puppet? What is it going to be ?
Mr. Speaker, unlike the Conservatives we believe that emissions need to go down, that we need to continue creating good middle-class jobs for Canadians and support small businesses.What the Conservatives are saying is factually wrong. We have set a target for industry to reduce pollution and if it fails to meet that target, it will pay the price. If industry does better, for example, through innovation, it will be rewarded.Our plan will also give money directly to households where the federal backstop applies. The only mystery here is why have the Conservatives not put forward their plan?
Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Guelph for his tireless work in the community and congratulate the people of Guelph for the success they are building. We were elected to grow our economy and support the middle class. The growth in Guelph is just one example of how Canadians are succeeding, thanks to our plan. We have been working hard with Canadians all across the country who have created over half a million full-time jobs. We know the job does not end here. We will continue to invest in Canadians to grow the middle class and help all those working hard to join it.
Mr. Speaker, our hearts, and the hearts of all Canadians, go out to Susan and Dwight and all of Constable Campbell's family. I know the Minister of Veterans Affairs and the member for Central Nova have reached out and conveyed that to them directly. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help.
Mr. Speaker, it is not just Conservatives who believe that this new carbon tax will be hard on small businesses. Here is what the Canadian Federation of Independent Business had to say about this new tax: They already picked a fight with business owners with the small business tax changes in 2017 and now it looks like there will be another big one in 2018.It is the Prime Minister who accused small business owners of being tax cheats and who granted special deals to big corporations as he went after small business owners.The question once again is this: will small and medium-sized businesses get the same exemption that big corporate emitters got?
Mr. Speaker, it is obvious that the Conservatives have no plan to fight climate change. They want to make pollution free again. We are putting forward real and concrete action to help Canadians create jobs and protect their future generations. This is something that we take very seriously. Just like the 10 years under Stephen Harper, when they were unwilling and unable to act on the environment, they continue to be unwilling and unable to take on climate change.
Mr. Speaker, as the many Canadians who were watching my intervention yesterday saw, I predicted that the Conservatives would end up trying to find a rhetorical trick to make this seem very complicated and very difficult. Therefore, let us make it very simple. We are putting a price on pollution because we want less pollution, and putting a price on it actually reduces pollution. At the same time, we are putting money in the pockets of Canadians to help them through the fight against climate change, because we know that Canadians expect real action, real action they are incapable of
Mr. Speaker, our government is actively engaged with communities to support their health needs. Last November, we affirmed our government's commitment to funding the treatment centre that the people of Grassy Narrows need and rightfully deserve. We are actively engaged with the community to move it forward. We are working closely with both communities to determine their needs and priorities.
Mr. Speaker, obviously, we take this situation seriously. This is something which, of course, Transport Canada is looking at. We know that the protection of communities and citizens right across the country is one of the fundamental responsibilities of any government, and it is one which we take very seriously.
Mr. Speaker, coming out of question period, I have a point of order.The Prime Minister stood in his place and declared that on some previous date the Prime Minister's Office had contacted the opposition House leader's office to tell her office on which day James Cudmore was offered a job. I can tell members that is unequivocally untrue and I would ask the Prime Minister to table the evidence.
Mr. Speaker, when it comes to recycling, we can all get behind that, but when it comes to the Trans Mountain pipeline, the Liberal government has taken things to extremes, because the Prime Minister is recycling the same broken process that has already failed us. Indigenous leaders, environmental groups and local leaders have blasted his so-called new pipeline review, calling it rigged with impossible timelines.Thrown out by the courts, rejected by indigenous leaders and a clear threat to our coastline, the only real question is how much longer will he recycle his flawed, failed and flagrantly inept process before he just finally gives up on the whole thing?
Mr. Speaker, in addition to the devastating toll that opioids are having on families across Canada, our public system has been severely stressed as well. Front-line responders, overdose prevention services, emergency room staff and treatment centres have all borne an enormous cost. While opioid manufacturers have reaped billions in profits, the public has been left with massive costs from these addictive and dangerous substances. U.S. governments have recovered over $600 million in damages and British Columbia has just launched a lawsuit to protect taxpayers. Will the government join it?
Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, over the past year and a half we said that we would defend Canadians' interests above all else and that we would be constructive but firm.The agreement in principle will eliminate uncertainty for our manufacturers and investors and improve the labour rights of all North Americans. When it comes into force, NAFTA will be preserved, updated and modernized for the 21st century. I want to again thank all Canadians who stood by us even in the difficult moments.
Mr. Speaker, what I am looking for comment on is the reason why the Prime Minister is withholding documents for a straight-up defence of a person accused of a serious crime. If he will not tell us who he is protecting, maybe I can surmise that it was the President of the Treasury Board who did receive a letter from Irving, asking for his intervention.I also note that the current Minister of Intergovernmental and Northern Affairs and Internal Trade did not post his conflict screen until three months after the secret cabinet meeting.Is that who the Prime Minister is protecting?
Mr. Speaker, once again, small businesses across the country rejoiced at the fact that we lowered small business taxes to the lowest rate of any country in the G7. As of January 1, 9% will be the small business tax rate. We support small businesses and will always do so. However, we also understand that Canadians are concerned about climate change, wildfires, floods, drugs and increased hurricane activity south of us. These are the things that worry Canadians. That is why we are taking real action. Unfortunately, the Conservatives have no plan and are not doing anything.
Mr. Speaker, every Liberal stood in the House and voted to maintain the benefits to murderer, Chris Garnier. True leaders, when they realize a mistake has been made, correct it. Chris Garnier never served one minute of his life in a military uniform, yet he is getting benefits for which veterans are waiting. This is outrageous, and we demand the government take leadership and revoke his benefits.
Mr. Speaker, the public health emergency caused by opioids is having devastating impacts on our families. Even our life expectancy is declining due to this crisis. The U.S. has already secured criminal pleas, along with dozens of states, for over $600 million in damages from opioid manufacturers, yet the Liberals have taken no steps to investigate potential violations of Canadian law, or to pursue civil damages. We need justice and accountability.Will the government launch now an investigation into the role drug companies may have played in fuelling the opioid crisis in our country?
Mr. Speaker, every member in the House is grieving with Constable Campbell's family. This is a tragic situation and the minister has taken steps to address the policy to ensure this does not occur moving forward. The minister has increased the level of scrutiny and the department is addressing its existing policy in relation to treatment of family members under extenuating circumstances, such as conviction of a serious crime. This will ensure we continue to support veterans and their families that need our help, while maintaining the integrity of the system.