During the [current government’s] turn at the helm of the Arctic Council, they moved away from its mandate of research, environmental protection, and co-operation to one of resource exploitation and confrontation with our Arctic neighbours … When is the government going to bring in policies that actually support northerners and not just make a few large southern companies rich?

I look forward to hosting the Arctic Council ministerial meeting this Friday in Iqaluit … Each year between 2010 and 2013, both the economy and the number of jobs across the north increased, and growth was supported by the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency in more than 900 projects that created jobs and opportunities for northerners.

Last month, in Lima, at the climate negotiations, Canada signed on to a decision in which all nations are invited to submit their intended nationally determined contributions — in other words, the next round of pledges for cuts — within the first quarter of 2015 … Will Canada meet this request? Will we submit new pledges by the first quarter of 2015? Will it slide to a nebulous budget date? Will we actually have a pledge that will mean we can avoid a 2° Celsius global average temperature increase?

[O]ur government is working to negotiate a new global climate change agreement that includes commitments from all major emitters. We take the challenge of climate change seriously, which is why we are doing our part reducing emissions in Canada and working with our international partners. We will continue to reduce short-lived climate pollutants under the Climate and Clean Air Coalition, the Arctic Council, and the Montreal protocol. Our recent contribution to the Green Climate Fund will also help developing countries mitigate and adapt to climate change and promote private sector investment.

Could [the Minister] state the 2030 target in megatonnes?

Our government announced a very fair and ambitious target for Canada that would be in line with other major industrialized countries. Canada is taking a leadership role on the climate change file. We plan to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 30% below 2005 levels by 2030. That translates to 225 megatonnes. We will continue to take a responsible approach, a balanced approach. Building on this, we will reduce methane emissions in the oil and gas sector, regulate the production of chemicals and nitrogen fertilizers, and regulate emissions from natural gas-fired electricity generation.

There is no international relationship more important to Canada than that between the U.S. president and the Canadian prime minister. When will the Prime Minister take personal responsibility for [the] diplomatic failure [with respect to energy]?

In the last year alone, in full co-operation with the secretary for the department of energy, we have made significant progress in a number of key files related to energy. Indeed, we have a relationship worth $140 billion a year in energy trade. We have the most advanced power and gas and oil grids, and pipeline systems known the world over. We move forward in energy terms as full partners. We are aligned with the United States on reducing emissions and lead the way, for example, in phasing-out traditional coal powered plants on which the president followed our lead.

The Prime Minister is introducing last-minute bills … like the Lake Superior National Marine Conservation Area Act … [W]ill the Prime Minister seek unanimous consent for Bill C-61[ ^{Footnote 5} ] to actually pass before the House rises?

Our government has played a leadership role when it comes to protecting our environment. This is why we have invested significantly to clean up and improve water quality and to protect fish in the Great Lakes. The new Canada-Ontario Agreement on Great Lakes Water Quality and Ecosystem Health entered into force just last December. We also worked with our American partners to update the Canada-U.S. Great Lakes water quality agreement. That will help to prevent and address issues impacting water quality and ecosystem health.

Demain est la date limite pour annoncer les cibles de réduction de gaz à effet de serre en vue de la Conférence de Paris sur le climat. Le Mexique a déjà soumis son plan d’action, et les États-Unis devraient officiellement annoncer leurs engagements demain … Pourquoi ce gouvernement est-il encore à la traîne?

Our government is playing a constructive role in establishing a new international climate change agreement that includes meaningful and transparent commitment from all major emitters. In line with the Lima agreement, Canada is preparing its intended nationally determined contribution and is committed to submitting it well in advance of the December 2015 COP [Conference of the Parties] 21 meetings. As this is an international contribution, we are seeking information from the provinces and territories to understand how they intend to meet their targets and how their plans will factor into Canada’s overall commitment. In the lead-up to Paris, we will continue to take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions … [W]e welcome the announcement recently by the United States and Mexico on climate change. We are very pleased to see that Mexico and the United States are undertaking efforts that emulate much of the work that Canada has done in partnership with the United States. Canada and the United States are successfully aligning regulations in several areas, including the vehicles and the HFCs. At home our government is reducing emissions while growing the economy.

When will the government announce new ambitious targets to fight the climate crisis?

We have always said that to effectively reduce global greenhouse gas emissions all major emitters must be on board. We have aligned regulations with the United States in several areas, and are working closer together to developing clean energy. Canada has one of the cleanest electricity supplies, with 80% of our economy coming from sources that emit no greenhouse gas emissions. The United States has only 30%.

Le premier ministre peut-il s’engager ici, aujourd’hui, à ce que, en 2016, les émissions de gaz à effet de serre du Canada vont diminuer?

La réalité, c’est que nous avons proposé un nouveau plan à Paris. Pendant la campagne électorale, nous nous sommes engagés à fournir des dizaines de milliards de dollars pour de nouveaux investissements en infrastructures vertes, en innovation, en énergie verte et en énergie propre. Nous avons tout un plan qui nous permettra d’atteindre ce que le gouvernement précédent n’a pas pu atteindre, c’est-à-dire la réduction de nos émissions de gaz à effet de serre.

With President Obama’s veto of the Keystone XL pipeline, the Prime Minister has not fulfilled [the] responsibility … to grow our exports. [W]ill he at long last work with the provinces to put a price on carbon?

With respect to Keystone, this is a debate between Canada and the United States, a debate between the president and the American people, the majority of whom are supportive of this project. Keystone XL would create jobs, strengthen energy security for North America, and the state department was clear that it can be environmentally, sustainably done through Keystone XL. It is not a question of if, it is a question of when this project will be approved. We will continue to be a strong advocate for responsible resource management.

Last year the presidents of China and the United States personally agreed to 10-year visas for tourists and business travellers from both countries. Meanwhile, Canada is out in the cold at a great cost to Chinese Canadians, the tourist industry, and Canadian jobs. Will the government immediately enter into discussions with China to get the same treatment as the United States, that is, 10-year reciprocal visas for visitors and business people?

Any questions about Chinese visa policy might well be addressed to the Chinese government. For our part, we have … visa application centres across China. Chinese citizens received over a quarter of all the visas issued by Canada in the world last year, and the vast majority of those were 10-year multiple entry visas … We are in touch with the Government of China on this, as on many other issues, because we are making huge progress with it on immigration issues and trade issues. We have grown trade and investment … There is approved destination status for tourist groups coming to Canada. We have multiplied the number of direct flights from China. There is service without visas for Chinese citizens transiting to the United States. This is a huge record of achievement that all Canadians should celebrate.

Once again Israel has come under attack. In recent days, a number of rockets have been launched from the Gaza strip … [What has been] Canada’s reaction to these acts of terror?

Canada condemns, in the strongest possible terms, these rocket attacks from Gaza. According to the reports, one such rocket actually fell short of its target and landed within Gaza. This is just another proof of what we have said all along. The only group responsible for the sufferings of the Palestinian people is the terrorist group Hamas. Israel is Canada’s greatest ally in the region. [Our …] government stands with Israel.

[W]hy these two close Putin comrades [Sergey Chemezov and Igor Sechin] are banned by our allies, but not by Canada?

No government in the world has stood up stronger than Canada in our support of the Ukrainian people. Canadians can be very proud of that leadership. In terms of sanctions, Canada has implemented 199 separate sanctions, while the United States has only 127. There is no government in the western world that is standing up against Putin and against his war in Ukraine more than this government and this Prime Minister.

The serious situation in Ukraine is escalating. Russian-backed rebels in Mariupol fired rockets that killed 30 innocent Ukrainians. This escalation of hostilities has resulted in a mounting civilian death toll and has exacerbated an already-dire humanitarian crisis in eastern Ukraine. Russia continues not to fulfill its commitment outlined in the Minsk agreement. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence please comment on this serious situation in Ukraine?

Our government is appalled by Russia’s latest aggression, and we demand that Russia stop its reprehensible actions. Russia must immediately abide by the Minsk agreement and respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. Furthermore, today we join the Canadian Ukrainian community in calling for the immediate release of the Ukrainian pilot and member of parliament, Nadiya Savchenko, who was illegally abducted and is now being held in Russia. Our government will continue to work with our allies to isolate Russia for its destabilizing actions in Ukraine. As the Prime Minister has said, Russia needs to get out of Ukraine.

[What has been] the latest contribution Canada has made to NATO’s Ukrainian assurance measures?

Last month HMCS Fredericton departed Canadian Forces Base Halifax to join Operation Reassurance. The Fredericton is the first modernized, high-readiness frigate to deploy overseas. As a result of investments from this government, HMCS Fredericton has new radar capabilities, a new electronic warfare system and upgraded communications and missiles. People should make no mistake. This government will continue to show, by supporting this mission, our support for the people of Ukraine.

[What have been] the activities of the HMCS Fredericton?

The HMCS Fredericton is participating in a joint NATO training exercise with warships from several allied and partner nations in the Black Sea. This strengthens not only our operational readiness, but also our ability to work with NATO allies and security partners in the region. Since arriving in the Black Sea, Royal Canadian Navy sailors have been confronted by Russian warships and buzzed by Russian fighter jets. Indeed, the HMCS Toronto entered the Black Sea last September, to be circled by Russian military aircraft as well. We are there as part of Canada and NATO’s steadfast commitment to our allies and security partners in the region in the face of Russia’s continued aggression toward Ukraine.

[What have been] the most recent measures our government has taken to support Ukraine and its territorial integrity?

Canada strongly condemns the actions of the combined Russian separatist forces, and we remain concerned about what appears to be Vladimir Putin’s command and control of militants in occupied Ukraine. Today, I was pleased to announce, along with the Ukrainian Foreign Minister, Pavlo Klimkin, Canadian funding for a series of projects to strengthen human rights and improve Ukraine’s business environment. This is in addition to Canada’s significant military contribution, NATO’s assurance packages, and the world’s strongest sanctions … Canada stands with Ukraine.

What further action has the government taken to show our support for the people of Ukraine?

Since the Minsk agreement we have seen hundreds of attacks on Ukrainian forces by Putin-backed groups. This is cause for serious concern. Recently, we announced that Canada will contribute $1.2 million to Ukraine’s ministry of defence to improve its medical systems. We are also transferring non-lethal equipment in the form of 1,600 tactical medical kits. Some of these kits were provided to some 100 Ukrainian soldiers this past weekend. President Poroshenko has said such equipment is saving the lives of his people. Make no mistake, Canada and our government will stand with Ukraine against Putin’s aggression.

We have just heard that the first case of H7N9 bird flu in North America has been found in a traveller in British Columbia. [W]hat measures [will] the government be taking to screen travellers and identify anyone who may have been in contact with that virus?

Unfortunately, the first case of H7N9 has now reached Canadian soil. The patient is being monitored, is in isolation, and is recovering. Health officials have also been in contact with the close contacts of that patient, and all of those individuals are being monitored. The Public Health Agency advised us that the risk to Canadians remains very low, as H7N9 does not appear to spread easily from human to human.

Canadians are worried about pandemics and communicable diseases, but instead of investing to improve public health, the [government] ha[s] cut billions in funding. The estimates have now revealed that the Public Health Agency of Canada’s budget is being cut by 7.7%. This includes a $53.5-million cut to health promotion and disease prevention and the sunsetting of a major program for hepatitis-C survivors. How can the minister justify these cuts to such vital public health services?

[This] is just wrong. In fact, in terms of the Public Health Agency of Canada, our spending on health security has actually nearly doubled since 2010. Of course, this year we will see quite a bit of an increase coming through the Public Health Agency of Canada because of our numerous investments in Ebola preparedness, whether it is the unprecedented vaccine and treatment clinical trials we are funding all over the world, or supporting provinces in their community preparedness for Ebola, both in training and the equipment they needed, or the public awareness campaign we launched on Ebola to help fight stigma for health care workers … The Public Health Agency is very active and engaged in the issue of hepatitis C, particularly through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, and research to support those who are suffering from hepatitis C.

We all hope that the new discovery of BSE in Canada is an isolated case. The disease once devastated our agriculture industry, and there is huge potential for serious economic problems. South Korea has already moved to close off beef imports. Can the minister tell the House if the source of the illness has been found and what assistance has been offered to ranchers and farmers?

Unfortunately, but not unexpectedly, another positive case of BSE was found in a cow in northern Alberta, in the Spruce Grove area I understand. The expectations of the farm and CFIA are that they will source this out. They are doing that right now, according to the international protocols that we all adhere to … We continue to work with CFIA and with the farm that is under quarantine at this point. We also put forward in our latest budget some $200 million to enhance our BSE training.

Canadian families expect the government to make sure that the food they are putting on their family tables is safe. New reports from a CFIA inspector are actually quite distressing. She said she was regularly intimidated by abattoir operators just for trying to do her job. When she brought forward her concerns, her supervisors dismissed them. Is the minister aware of this situation, and if indeed the minister is, does she really think this level of oversight will keep Canadians’ food safe?

[I]n the last budget we invested another $390 million in the Canadian Food Inspection Agency. That is almost $1 billion, under our government, into food safety. Today the Conference Board of Canada rates our food safety system number one against 17 other OECD countries. We are very proud of that. We can always do better. In terms of this issue, I am aware of it, and I have asked the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to provide a safe and respectful workplace and environment, as we all expect, and I know it will be doing that.

The living conditions of mothers, newborns, and children in the developing world [are a concern] … Globally, between 2010 and 2013, an estimated two million child deaths from disease have been prevented. Two million children have been saved. Could the minister please update Canadians on our action?

Notre premier ministre a annoncé une importante contribution qui aidera à vacciner 300 millions d’enfants et qui devrait sauver jusqu’à 6 millions de vies. We are working with other donors, the private sector, international organizations, and developing countries to deliver results. We are especially proud of our partnership with GAVI Alliance and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation.

[What has been] Canada’s … work on [improving the health of mothers, newborns, and children around the world]?

Today we are pleased to welcome to Ottawa one of our closest partners in the efforts to improve maternal, newborn, and child health, Bill Gates. We are proud of the work our government has done with the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation to keep these critical issues at the forefront of the global agenda and to put an end to the tragedy of women and children dying needlessly from causes that we know we can prevent. Work by our government and the Gates foundation has contributed to the immunization of 26 million children in 46 countries since 2011 and will avert 500,000 future deaths. Our Government of Canada will continue to lead in saving the lives of mothers and children.

Anti-Semitism is on the rise globally and we must stand ready to fight this rising hatred. [What are] our government’s efforts to combat anti-Semitism?

[W]ith Canada and the international community standing up to the menace of terrorism and the ideology of hatred and violence it represents, we find ourselves increasingly dealing with the scourge of anti-Semitism, which we thought we had left behind. That is why Canada continues to participate in a meeting of the UN called just last week by Israel to address the rise of anti-Semitism … We have supported efforts to promote Holocaust remembrance and are opposing the deeply misguided boycott, divestment, and sanctions campaign. This government will stand on the principle of opposing anti-Semitism.

Lors du 41e Parlement, j’ai … demandé pourquoi le gouvernement de l’époque déportait encore les citoyens du Burundi.[ ^{Footnote 6} ] … Le ministre de la Sécurité publique pourrait-il nous dire ce que le Canada entend faire pour stabiliser le Burundi?

When people need to be removed from Canada according to the law, one of the factors taken into consideration is whether that can be done safely. The most recent information available to us on Burundi indicates that removals cannot be done safely at the present time. Consequently, the Government of Canada has announced that the Canada Border Services Agency has imposed an administrative deferral on all removals from Canada to Burundi, effective immediately.

Depuis quelque temps, la situation des Haïtiens en République dominicaine retient l’attention. Des abus sont commis en pleine rue. Des injustices ont eu lieu dans les plantations de cannes à sucre. Des déportations de plusieurs milliers de personnes sont prévues. Le gouvernement … peut-il informer la Chambre s’il a eu des discussions avec les autorités dominicaines et haïtiennes? De plus, est-ce que le gouvernement s’attend à ce que le Canada joue un rôle pour s’assurer du respect des droits de la personne?

Canada is deeply concerned about these events and the subsequent violence, which is affecting both nations, as a result of a constitutional tribunal that could render countless Dominican-born persons of Haitian descent stateless. Canada encourages the governments of the Dominican Republic and Haiti to work together in good faith to resolve these issues as quickly as possible in a non-violent manner.

Vendredi dernier était la Journée internationale de la Francophonie, mais ici, au Canada, l’esprit n’était malheureusement pas à la fête. Après tout, la dernière année a vu le gouvernement nommer un ministre des Affaires étrangères unilingue anglophone et couper dans la diffusion de contenu francophone et dans les nouvelles régionales à Radio-Canada. Ce n’est qu’un bref aperçu de leur mauvaise gestion. C’est honteux. Qu’attend le gouvernement pour enfin agir contre le recul de la langue française au pays au lieu d’y contribuer?

On peut se réjouir, effectivement, à la suite de la Journée internationale de la Francophonie, le 20 mars dernier, puisque le Canada, à l’unisson avec le Nouveau-Brunswick et le Québec, a réussi à faire élire Michaëlle Jean à la tête de l’Organisation internationale de la Francophonie. Maintenant, c’est le temps de consolider l’héritage d’Abdou Diouf en matière de bonne gouvernance, de transparence et de règles de droit. Mme Jean, elle, a présenté un plan de stratégie économique qui va propulser encore davantage la Francophonie dans le XXIe siècle, et on peut en être fier. Il y a beaucoup de belles retombées à venir.

Les délais de traitement pour les dossiers de parrainage de conjoints qui vivent au Canada sont maintenant de 25 mois. Ce sont 25 mois pendant lesquels des milliers de jeunes familles canadiennes doivent attendre des réponses dans la précarité et l’incertitude … Quel est le problème?

Notre gouvernement est évidemment très fier du bilan des réformes de tous ses programmes d’immigration au cours des neuf dernières années. Nous avons atteint les taux d’immigration les plus importants de l’histoire canadienne, y compris en ce qui concerne la réunification familiale … De plus, à la fin de l’année dernière, nous avons annoncé encore une nouvelle réforme, soit un projet pilote pour offrir des permis de travail aux époux parrainés. On a déjà émis des milliers de tels permis de travail au cours de cette année. On va continuer de réformer notre système d’immigration.

Le programme Entrée express des conservateurs soulève l’inquiétude à plusieurs égards. Cette fois-ci, la Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne du Canada sonne l’alarme, en prétendant que le programme ne permet pas d’identifier les immigrants francophones inscrits. Sur plus de 22 000 personnes inscrites dans le bassin de recrutement de ce programme, seulement 200 seraient francophones, ce qui est à peine 2 %, alors que la cible est de 4 % en ce qui concerne l’immigration francophone. Avec un tel programme, comment le ministre va-t-il s’assurer d’atteindre ses propres cibles pour ce qui est de l’immigration francophone?

Notre gouvernement est fier d’avoir été le seul, dans l’histoire du Canada, à avoir livré plus de 2 500 immigrants francophones dans les provinces et territoires hors Québec chaque année depuis 2006. Le nouveau système Entrée express va nous permettre d’identifier beaucoup plus d’immigrants francophones et de faire en sorte qu’ils arrivent dans toutes les régions plus vite que jamais. Nous avons financé les communautés francophones et les Réseaux en immigration francophone au moyen de la Feuille de route. Nous agissons pour favoriser la présence francophone partout au Canada.

Au Burundi, la crise et la violence s’intensifient à l’approche des élections présidentielles du 15 juillet. Le gouvernement canadien devrait, à mon avis, accélérer le traitement des demandes de réunification familiale … Le gouvernement va-t-il donc temporairement suspendre les quelques 650 déportations prévues de ressortissants burundais?

Nous suivons de près la situation au Burundi. Les décisions à cet égard, comme toujours dans le cas des pays en conflit, seront prises de façon très soigneuse par le ministre de la Sécurité publique et de la Protection civile et le ministre de la Citoyenneté et de l’Immigration. Nous avons l’intention de continuer à réunir les familles et à accueillir les gens du Burundi ici au Canada, dans la mesure du possible.

Amnesty International’s annual report highlights systemic violations of the rights of indigenous peoples in Canada. The report identified shameful behaviour from the federal government, including being the only country to take issue with outcomes from the UN World Conference on Indigenous Peoples, and of course, refusing to take action on missing and murdered indigenous women. Will the government pay attention to the international community and end the systemic violations against indigenous peoples in our country?

[W]e have remained committed to working with aboriginal communities on our shared priorities since 2006, giving women living on reserve matrimonial property rights, which that member and her party opposed. We eliminated the discrimination clause in section 67 of the Canadian Human Rights Act, which again they opposed. We have taken concrete actions to try to improve lives on reserve by investing, and every time, New Democrats have opposed those measures … On ne s’alarmera pas à cause du rapport d’Amnistie internationale. On va plutôt regarder les faits … Nous allons continuer à travailler avec les Premières Nations dans la bonne direction.

In light of today’s report of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, is the Prime Minister willing to vote to implement the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples?

Canada is one of the very few countries in the world where aboriginal treaty rights are fully recognized in our Constitution. That is one of the reasons why the government accepted the UN declaration as an aspirational document. We have taken specific actions to enhance the rights of aboriginal people, particularly women living on reserves and generally all aboriginal people, under the Canadian Human Rights Act. Sadly, the opposition parties voted against it. I hope they will reconsider some of those positions.

The 10 men accused of attacking Malala Yousafzai, back in 2012, were recently arrested in Pakistan for their barbaric acts … [What has been] Canada’s response?

[We are] pleased with the news that the perpetrators of these brutal acts against Malala Yousafzai have been arrested. We hope they will face the full force of Pakistan’s law and that justice will be done. It is precisely because Malala Yousafzai was not silenced by these terrorists that she has become an inspiration to all Canadians. She has become an advocate for girls’ education. She has been an advocate for human rights and for freedom. On this side of the House, we are particularly proud to be bestowing upon her honorary Canadian citizenship. We hope this process will bring the terrorists to justice.

On Friday I was in Bruce — Grey — Owen Sound listening to residents about their hopes, concerns, and priorities. What I heard over and over again was shock and embarrassment about their … MP telling Muslim women to stay the blank where they came from. At the Owen Sound Muslim centre, community leaders told us that they have never felt more afraid. Will the [government] denounce this blatantly racist statement?

The member has recognized that his comments were inappropriate and has apologized. The fact is that immigration has built this great country … Canada has enjoyed the highest sustained levels of immigration in Canadian history. The government’s position is clear. We believe covering one’s face during a citizenship ceremony, at the very time one is being welcomed into the Canadian family, is contrary to the Canadian values of openness and equality. The majority of Canadians, including new Canadians, agree with our position.

As of today, Mohamed Fahmy, the award-winning Canadian journalist, has spent 402 days detained by Egyptian authorities … His friend and Australian colleague, Peter Greste, was released over the weekend. [What is] the status of the release of Mr. Fahmy?

[We] have raised this issue of Mr. Fahmy’s case with their counterparts … at all levels of our government. We welcome positive developments and remain hopeful that Mr. Fahmy’s case will be resolved shortly.

Bashir Makhtal, a Canadian citizen, was arrested in 2006 at the Kenya-Somalia border and transferred to Ethiopia. He was denied access to Canadian consular services for a year and a half. Serious questions have been raised about the validity of his trial and the possibility of torture and of a forced confession. He has been serving a life sentence since 2007. His family has concerns about his health. It appears that our consular officials have exhausted all avenues to help Mr. Makhtal. Will the Prime Minister consider intervening in this case?

Canada will continue to advocate on behalf of Bashir Makhtal. We have actively engaged the Government of Ethiopia to the highest level, including through our former foreign affairs minister, for due process and the protection of his rights … Through our government’s actions, we continue to provide consular access to ensure the health and welfare of Mr. Makhtal and to provide updates to his family.

Today the U.S. is holding a global summit on countering violent extremism. It is focused on empowering local communities. As President Obama stated, “the best way to protect people ... from falling into the grip of violent extremists is the support of their family, friends, teachers and faith leaders”. In Canada, instead of working with faith leaders to find solutions, the Prime Minister singles out Canada’s Muslim community. Why does the Prime Minister’s so-called security bill do nothing to prevent or reverse radicalization?

That is patently false. Many departments of government, including the justice department, have cross-cultural round tables. Our security forces themselves are often involved in outreach, and they will continue to do so. However, with respect to the substance of Bill C-51 before the House, the bill would give tools to our security forces to allow them to do more to prevent terrorism, to prevent violence. That is something that all communities in Canada are interested in and engaged in the discussion.

How much has [the Minister’s] department spent fighting a vindictive campaign against refugees?

We have done nothing but support the health of refugees. What we object to is asylum claimants who have failed to be deemed refugees by the Immigration Refugee Board, some of whom have fraudulent and bogus claims, receiving gold-plated health care that goes beyond what Canadians receive. That is why we are the only party in this place standing up for Canadian taxpayers and the only party that will speak honestly about protection of the health care of refugees.

[T]he case of Raif Badawi, a free-speech activist in Saudi Arabia, [has been] condemned to 1,000 lashes for making a website. [W]ill [the Canadian government] send an unambiguous message to the Government of Saudi Arabia [?]

Canada does consider the punishment of Mr. Badawi to be a violation, a very serious violation, of human dignity, and we do continue to call for clemency in this case. The promotion and protection of human rights are integral to our policy, and we promote and protect human rights. While Mr. Badawi is not a Canadian citizen, we will continue to make our position very clear, diplomatically and publicly.

L’égalité des femmes est encore à réaliser ici, au Canada, et partout dans le monde. Dans une semaine et demie, la Commission de la condition de la femme des Nations unies célébrera le 20e anniversaire du Programme d’action de Beijing sur l’égalité des sexes. Le soutien international est largement répandu et plusieurs pays ont déjà réaffirmé leur engagement. Le Canada va-t-il en faire partie et réaffirmer dès maintenant son engagement à la Déclaration et au Programme d’action de Beijing?

We have been focused on and reviewing the Beijing accord. Our intention is to attend the international event that is taking place, which celebrates all women and the opportunities they have in the future. The Government of Canada has been very focused on International Women’s Week. I encourage the opposition to please support what we are doing through that week, March 2 to 8, to ensure that women are provided opportunities in Canada to excel and achieve what they absolutely can achieve through the great commitment to Canada.

[What has been] the status of our operations in the Caribbean Sea to prevent illegal drugs from coming to our shores?

This month, Her Majesty’s Canadian Ships Goose Bay and Shawinigan seized over 1,000 kilograms of cocaine in a major drug bust in the Caribbean Sea. These dangerous narcotics would have otherwise landed on our streets and in our communities. We are proud of our Canadian Armed Forces members who worked with the United States Coast Guard and U.S. Navy in this successful disruption. We will continue to work with our allies to fight transnational criminal activity and keep Canadian communities safe.

Nous sommes tous d’accord pour que le Centre de la sécurité des télécommunications surveille de près les téléchargements liés à des activités terroristes. Par contre, quand on parle de 10 à 15 millions de téléchargements inspectés, chaque jour, cela me semble énorme. Le gouvernement veille-t-il à ce que les activités personnelles des Canadiens ne soient pas surveillées, pour ne pas dire espionnées? Comment le gouvernement s’assure-t-il de protéger la sécurité des Canadiens, tout en préservant leur vie privée?

CSE’s foreign signals intelligence plays a vital role in revealing the efforts of foreign terrorists to carry out attacks against Canadians here and abroad. These CSE actions have been sanctioned by the commissioner, who has indicated that its actions are lawful … This government will track all foreign-based threats that pose a risk to Canadians. In accordance with the law, data collection is focused on foreign entities to protect Canadians against terrorism and cyberattacks.

[W]hat [is] the Government of Canada’s position on [the] latest attacks [in Israel]?

Canada condemns the terrorist attack by Hezbollah on northern Israel. We stand with all of the Israeli people after this terrorist attack. Far too often the Jewish people and the Jewish state are on the front lines in the battle against terrorism. That is why this government unequivocally stands against terrorism and stands in support of the only liberal democracy in the region, the state of Israel.

Every day we hear new reports of crimes against humanity committed by [the ISIL] terrorist group. Yesterday was no exception. According to human rights groups, ISIL terrorists abducted at least 90 people from Christian villages in northeastern Syria. Can the Minister of Foreign Affairs please provide Canada’s update on this atrocity?

The deliberate targeting, killing, and abduction of religious minorities by the jihadist terrorist group ISIL is simply outrageous. Canada condemns these abhorrent acts in the strongest possible terms. We will continue to work with our allies to confront and degrade this terrorist threat. This is in addition to the significant humanitarian aid our government has provided to the region. The … choice … is not about either security or aid; we cannot effectively deliver aid without security. This is why we are committed to this fight.

Last night, President Obama stated that air strikes were a key pillar in the fight against ISIS. In the last week, we have seen the Obama administration, Germany, France, and the U.K. step up their efforts in their air strikes. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister has ordered our CF-18s to stand down. Why is the Prime Minister stepping back from the fight when our allies are stepping up?

Canada has spoken clearly in this election. It wants Canadians and our military to continue to engage in the fight against ISIS, and we are committed to continuing to do that. However, we have also made a clear commitment to withdraw the six CF-18 fighter jets and to engage in a continued way militarily, in humanitarian efforts, and in refugee efforts, which we are continuing to do. I have engaged with our allies on these issues and they have reassured me that we are continuing to be helpful.

While the international community is taking meaningful steps toward a world free from the threat of nuclear weapons, Canada is sitting on the sidelines. Just last week, the [government] played the spoiler role by blocking consensus at the nuclear non-proliferation treaty talks in New York. [It has] also refused to join more than 100 countries in signing the international agreement recognizing the terrible consequences of nuclear weapons. Why is the government not working with our allies constructively to free the world from nuclear weapons?

Canada is very heavily engaged to ensure that we have a nuclear-free world. [W]e will not support a one-sided resolution, a one-sided agreement over there. Canada took a stand very clearly out there to ensure that if there is a consensus, it is a fair consensus for everyone.

Over the coming weeks, there are about to be severe cuts to the shrimp fishery in northeastern Newfoundland and Labrador for the entire province. This coming Monday, there is a large protest scheduled by citizens on Fogo Island. Specifically, they are going after the last-in, first-out policy … [W]ill [the government] eliminate … [this] policy and save our inshore fishery?

The minister is committed to balancing economic opportunity while promoting the sustainability of the northern shrimp fishery. Reductions to quotas are never easy, but our priority has to be sustainability. The last-in, first-out policy has been part of this fishery since 1997 … Under that policy, the new entrants received the vast majority of the new access with the understanding that if reductions were necessary in the future, the LIFO policy would be in effect. It is our view that the terms agreed to previously need to be respected.

Current fruit and vegetable producers are uniquely vulnerable against lost payments because, when a client goes bankrupt, they cannot just demand their product back. However, [the government] refused to introduce a payment protection program here in Canada, and as a result, the United States withdrew the protection it had extended to Canadians under its own program. Why [is the government] refusing to protect farmers with such an easy, simple solution?

Our government understands the vulnerability of Canada’s fresh produce industry and its contribution to our economy. That is why we introduced clear legislation to provide a single dispute resolution body that would help reduce issues of non-payment faced by the fresh produce industry. We consulted widely on Canada’s bankruptcy and insolvency laws … The fresh produce industry and other stakeholders will be able to participate in the parliamentary review process, and our government is committed to supporting Canadian producers and exporters and will continue to look at this issue … We are listening to producers, and as part of Canada’s economic action plan, we brought in clear legislation to provide fresh produce sellers with a single dispute resolution body, a clear promise we made to our horticultural sector. These changes will allow industry to manage its own system of effective trading rules. Meanwhile, we continue to expand our markets for fresh fruit and vegetable growers beyond the U.S.A. to new markets such as Europe and Asia.

Why is the government in such a hurry to sell off GM shares at the expense of Canadian workers and Canadian taxpayers?

At the height of the recession, our government took decisive action to support the automotive industry, including purchasing shares of General Motors. This decisive action helped to save over 52,000 jobs in Canada. Our government is committed to selling more shares at a time and place that is in the best interests of all Canadians … Canadian Vehicle Manufacturers’ Association says that budget 2014 “demonstrates the government’s continued recognition of the importance of the auto sector to Canada’s economy.” Add to that, news just last week that both Ford and GM are going to be building new cars in Canada. Add to that, the fact that Chrysler has announced that it is investing $2 billion into its plant. Add to that, the fact that Ford is expanding its footprint in Oakville, adding 1,200 new jobs. Add to that, the fact that Honda is expanding. Add to that, the fact that Toyota is expanding. It shows, again and again, that our government gets, supports, and is building the Canadian auto sector.

[What progress has been made] on … [the] project of the U.S. customs plaza, [a new Detroit River international plaza between Windsor and Detroit]?

An arrangement has been signed by all parties and all partners in the project to allow the U.S. customs plaza to be incorporated into the public-private partnership that will be building the other aspects of the bridge. We said very clearly that we were not going to allow financial considerations to get in the way of having progress on this bridge, and indeed that is the case.

Last fall, before the oil downturn, the IMF projected 139 countries would grow faster this year than Canada. In the OECD, there were 16, including Greece. More recently, the OECD has downgraded Canadian growth, while upgrading many others: the U.S., Europe, Japan, Germany, France, India. Why is the government content to have the worst economic growth record in eight decades?

[W]e have had the strongest economic growth record of any country in the G7. We have created almost 1.2 million net new jobs and we have launched the largest federal infrastructure plan in Canada’s history. The G20 summit’s action plan singled out Canada for our strong growth. The IMF and OECD both project that Canada will have among the strongest growth in the G7 in the years ahead.

[W]hat [is] Canada doing to make it easier for Canadian firms to trade with and do business in China?

Yesterday the Minister of Finance launched North America’s first renminbi trading hub. This is further evidence of how Canada is deepening both its coastal and commercial ties with China, while helping Canadian businesses grow. The Canadian Chamber of Commerce has applauded this announcement, calling it a big deal that will make a real difference on the ground. Using the renminbi hub will be more efficient for Canadian firms doing business with China. It will now be easier for Canadian firms to make payments and investments in renminbi, thereby lowering the costs, creating jobs, growth and long-term prosperity for Canadians.

Canada has been invited by China to join its newly created Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank … We understand that the invitation is extended until the end of the month. We know that France, Germany, and Great Britain have joined the bank. Is the government seriously considering this invitation from China?

Our ties with China, both commercial as well as heritage, have improved dramatically. We have just recently announced the renminbi trading hub in Canada, which will help businesses. We are continuing to look at this possible bank venture as well.

Le budget fait passer la durée du droit d’auteur pour les enregistrements sonores de 50 à 70 ans, comme c’est déjà le cas aux États-Unis et en Europe. Or le gouvernement n’a rien fait pour les auteurs et les compositeurs de musique canadiens dont les oeuvres continueront à n’être protégées que 50 ans après leur décès, contrairement aux Américains et Européens qui, eux, ont 70 ans de protection après leur décès. Pourquoi le gouvernement conservateur néglige-t-il les auteurs et compositeurs de musique?

We have introduced the Canada 150 fund, which means we are extending the copyright term for artists from 50 to 70 years. It will modernize the Canadian honour system. There is a lot of good stuff in the budget for culture … The work we did and the recommendations that were made with respect to the music industry helped lead to the decision to extend copyright from 50 to 70 years and protect artists across our country. Those in the industry are supporting us. For example, Barry Sookman, copyright intellectual property lawyer, said: “The extension amendments will enable Canada to harmonize its copyright laws with the laws in more than 60 other countries.” We are right on track when it comes to the music industry.

Last year the federal government announced its intention to attract double the number of international students … A Citizenship and Immigration Canada report … shows a 30% increase in processing times for study permits and a doubling of time for temporary resident visas … Does the minister understand that failing to attract international students hurts our competitiveness and leaves Canada falling further behind?

This government has doubled the number of foreign students in this country since 2005. Last year, we saw a double-digit growth across the board once again, and 29,000 Chinese international students who came to this country in 2013 were succeeded last year by over 60,000. That is from one single country. We have never seen growth like this. We are proud of our universities and colleges. Our strategy is working, and an unprecedented number now have the opportunity to become permanent residents of this country as well.

[P]ourquoi le ministre des Finances ne fait-il pas preuve de leadership pour donner de l’oxygène à nos entreprises afin qu’elles créent des emplois?

Le gouvernement se concentre sur ce qui compte pour les Canadiens: les emplois et la croissance économique. Plus de 1,2 million de nouveaux emplois ont été créés net, depuis la récession. Le FMI et l’OCDE prédisent tous deux que le Canada figurera parmi les économies qui affichent la plus forte croissance des pays du G7 dans les années à venir. Selon un rapport de l’Organisation internationale du travail portant sur les salaires, le Canada verse les deuxièmes meilleurs salaires du G20.

This past November the Minister of International Trade launched the Go Global workshops to provide Canadian small and medium-size enterprises with the tools they need to seize new opportunities created by the most ambitious pro-jobs and pro-export plan in Canadian history. [What has been] the progress of these workshops?

Today the Minister of International Trade is in Kitchener-Waterloo hosting the Go Global workshops, which provide SMEs with the tools, services, and information they need to succeed. By tomorrow, over 500 participants will be reached. Our government is committed to working shoulder to shoulder with Canadian SMEs in every sector across the country to seize export opportunities and create jobs.

Canadian beef exports to South Korea are worth $25.8 million annually. The Canada-Korea Free Trade Agreement was supposed to increase the beef trade with South Korea, but the latest BSE discovery has now put a halt to these exports. Other trading partners may soon follow suit if information or reassurances are not provided. What steps is the minister taking to protect our existing beef exports, and when will Canadian farmers be able to resume their beef exports to Korea?

The World Organisation for Animal Health recognizes Canada as a controlled risk status country. We expect our trading partners to continue to recognize this status. South Korea, in particular, has followed our bilateral trading protocol and used Canada’s strong controlled system. The government is working to fix this temporary trade disruption as soon as possible.

Maria Venancio was a Filipino temporary foreign worker who worked at a McDonald’s Restaurant in Edmonton. In 2011, Ms. Venancio was biking to work and was struck by a motor vehicle, rendering her a paraplegic and therefore unable to work. Under the rules of the temporary foreign worker program, as she is unable to work, she has no status and is currently facing deportation. Ms. Venancio has applied to become a permanent resident, but deporting her to the Philippines while she is convalescent would seem to be inhumane and even un-Canadian. Why will the [government] not intervene to protect an extremely vulnerable temporary foreign worker?

Because of privacy laws, I cannot speak to the specifics of this particular case. I will state this. Canada has one of the most fair and generous immigration systems in the world. With that said, we must ensure that we continue to welcome newcomers while respecting Canadian taxpayers at all times.

Le ministre a-t-il un plan pour enrayer ce déclin des entreprises manufacturières canadiennes?

Nous avons mis en avant des politiques dans le but d’aider les manufacturiers, et nous allons aider toutes les grandes et les petites entreprises en leur donnant un régime d’impôt plus compétitif que celui des autres pays. D’ailleurs, il est déjà plus compétitif que celui des États-Unis, car le taux d’impôt est de 46 % moins élevé que celui des États-Unis.

Eastern Canada imports 80% of its oil from places like Arabia and Venezuela, the world’s most expensive and risky oil, while we export twice as much as we import, as well as the jobs that go with it, as raw crude to the U.S.A. at a 20% to 30% discount. Why do we buy high and sell low, and why are we the only member of the G20 with no national energy strategy?

There are solutions for that. They come in the form of pipelines. A viable option and solution would be for Canada to find ways to diversify its markets around the world. We know there are demands in Europe and Asia.

L’Association canadienne des prospecteurs et entrepreneurs tiendra son congrès annuel à Toronto dans quelques jours. Le bilan … n’est pas brillant pour le secteur minier. Le gouvernement traîne les pieds dans le dossier du Cercle de feu, et on ne sait toujours pas si le crédit d’impôt pour les jeunes entreprises du secteur minier sera renouvelé. Pourquoi le gouvernement … n’offre-t-il pas un soutien prévisible et à long terme au secteur minier?

Mining is a global industry, and our government is committed to attracting investment, opening new markets, supporting innovation, improving regulatory effectiveness, and promoting corporate social responsibility. That is why we are continuing to lower taxes, reduce red tape, open new markets, and create the conditions for companies to succeed in Canada, particularly those in the extractive sector. Canada has the lowest overall tax rate on new business investments in the G7, giving us a distinct advantage in the extractive sector. We will continue to build on this action.

An investigation into the train accident near Gogama found that 29 cars derailed, 21 cars caught fire, and it took 6 days to extinguish … Even more disturbing, the new standards put in place in 2014 for tank cars are still inadequate. The safety board is urging Transport Canada to quickly introduce enhanced protection standards for more robust cars. When will the minister introduce higher standards to protect Canadians?

Transport Canada has already removed the least crash-resistant DOT-111 tank cars. In fact, we moved far faster than anyone else has with respect to this matter. Second, because of the nature of the tank cars between the United States and Canada, it is very important that we work in co-operation and coordination with the United States on these matters. That is exactly what the department is doing.

[H]ow [is] our government ensuring that Canada remains a global leader in international space exploration?

Canada has an extraordinarily proud history in space, and the future is even brighter. In this year’s budget, we are supporting Canada’s full participation in the European Space Agency, the James Webb space telescope and the Thirty Meter Telescope. Today I was very proud to announce that Canada will be extending our full participation in the International Space Station through 2024. As a result of that, building on the legacy of success of Colonel Chris Hadfield as commander of the International Space Station, Canada will be sending two more astronauts to space: Lieutenant-Colonel Jeremy Hansen and Dr. David Saint-Jacques, who are with us today in Ottawa. We wish them all the best as they go to space.

Today is Seal Day on the Hill, a day to recognize and help raise awareness of Canada’s ethical and humane seal hunt. [W]hat [is] the government doing to stand up for sealers and the traditional values of northerners?

Today is a day to celebrate the way of life of northerners. This includes defending the seal hunt, which is at the very heart of the economic well-being of our communities. Our government has been working with the European Union to negotiate access for Canadian indigenous seal products to the EU markets since the WTO decision of last year. The seal hunt not only provides a livelihood for our families but also enables Inuit to maintain their traditional way of life. Our government will continue to stand up for northerners and all Canadians to support this important industry in Canada and abroad.

A woman from Newfoundland and Labrador recently had her sealskin purse confiscated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection because seals are on the endangered species list in the United States. She is now forced to pay a $250 fine for trying to take her purse across the border. Seal products are becoming more and more popular. It has been documented and scientifically proven that the northwest harp seal population is healthy and abundant and is not an endangered species. [When was] the last time the government has had discussions with American officials with regards to having seals removed from the endangered species list in the United States? Will the minister ask the United States to remove this ban immediately?

This government remains rock solid in its support for the Canadian seal industry. We know that sealing provides much needed jobs and economic opportunities for Canadians in coastal communities and right across the north. That is why we challenged the EU’s unfair ban on Canadian seal products and why we are working with the EU to come into compliance with the results of our appeal. We will continue to stand up for rural communities and for sealers.

USW Local 1005 president Gary Howe said, “Our members and our community don’t trust U.S. Steel or this government to do what’s best for workers and pensioners” … Workers, Stelco retirees, and the City of Hamilton are in court yet again to force the Conservatives to reveal the contents of the secret deal they made with U.S. Steel. [W]hy [is the government] still refusing to give them the details?

It is against the law for the Government of Canada to release this information without the consent of the company. It is up to the company to make this information public. Our government is the only government in Canadian history to take a company to court in order to ensure that it meets its Investment Canada commitments. A recent report by the Chamber of Commerce said that 13,000 new jobs will be created in Hamilton, driven primarily by the manufacturing sector, thanks to the great work of this Canadian government and this finance minister on the economy.

The Public Interest Advocacy Centre reports what Canadians already know: we pay some of the highest wireless rates in the world, more even than the United States. We pay almost double what French and U.K. consumers pay for home telecom packages … Why are they failing to make life more affordable for Canadians?

That is of course ridiculous. The Wall report that was tabled just last year reported that wireless rates in Canada are down 22% all across this country because of our government’s policy. Our spectrum transfer policy is driving more competition in the wireless sector. The AWS spectrum auction that we announced two weeks ago has resulted now in more than a quarter of all spectrum being in the hands of competitors to the incumbent big three wireless providers. We can add to that our connecting Canadians program, which is building the final mile for those 6% or 280,000 Canadian households that do not have access to high-speed connectivity. We are making sure that access to the digital world will be available to all Canadians in all regions, whether wireless or wired, well into the future.

En 2002, au Canada, 40% du revenu découlant du tourisme provenait du tourisme international. Aujourd’hui, ce chiffre a chuté de 20% … Quand le ministre fera-t-il les investissements appropriés en ce qui a trait au marketing touristique à l’international pour redorer le profil du Canada comme destination touristique de choix?

Notre gouvernement est fier des mesures concrètes qu’il a prises pour soutenir l’industrie touristique du Canada. Nous avons lancé la Stratégie fédérale en matière de tourisme pour assurer que le Canada continue de créer des emplois et de la croissance dans les secteurs importants. L’industrie touristique canadienne est florissante. Le nombre des destinations au pays a atteint une année record l’an dernier.

2014 was a record year for the tourism industry in Canada, with many destinations showing growth. Overall, tourism revenues grew by 4.7%, reaching nearly $89 billion last year. It being Tourism Week in Canada, [what have been] all the recent initiatives our government has undertaken to further grow tourism in Canada?

The Prime Minister announced an additional $30 million over three years to Destination Canada for it to reach out to more visitors from the United States. This funding will be matched by the provincial tourism organizations, by the territorial organizations and also by the private sector. We will be able to reach more visitors from the U.S. to come to our country.

Quel est [le] plan pour réduire le déficit commercial?

No government has done more to advance Canada’s trading relationships. We concluded trade agreements with 38 different countries over 9 years. What is more, last year, Canada’s trade surplus was $5.2 billion, which was a turnaround of $12 billion. Exports last year were up another 10% from the previous year. Our government remains focused on creating jobs through aggressive trade promotion, while of course the NDP wants to raise taxes on the middle class. That is not what we are going to do.

Canada is … offside with every single one of our allies when it comes to the Arms Trade Treaty. One hundred and thirty countries have signed the treaty. Every single member of NATO, Israel, and Ukraine have all signed the treaty, but not Canada. Why [is the government] keeping company with countries like North Korea, Syria, and Iran when it comes to opposing the Arms Trade Treaty?

Signing the Arms Trade Treaty would not improve on how Canada assesses exports of military items. We already have one of the strongest export control systems in the world. The ATT actually brings other countries up to the standards we already have. There are some concerns about how the treaty affects lawful and responsible firearms owners. As such, we continue to consult various stakeholders and experts on their views.

Could the minister please share with the House the latest development in the Canadian-Ukrainian economic partnership?

Our government is committed to supporting efforts to build a prosperous, peaceful and democratic Ukraine. The people of Ukraine face enormous security and economic challenges, and Canada will remain Ukraine’s steadfast and trusted partner in its time of need. Yesterday I was in Kiev to announce that Canada and Ukraine were actively engaged in negotiations toward a free trade agreement. I also announced another $52 million of development assistance and economic support. By further strengthening our economic partnership, our work together will improve social and economic conditions, and create growth and prosperity for all Ukrainians.

[The government is] embroiled in another trade dispute, this time with China, over pulp that will further damage this important sector. Government should resolve issues with major trade partners before they erupt into disputes that hurt businesses and throw workers out of their jobs. Why did the minister fail to sort this issue out before it became a full-blown trade dispute?

This government has taken this issue to the World Trade Organization, where we will be pursuing Canadian interests standing up for our industry … [and] where we believe we will prevail. This government stands up for the dissolving pulp industry as it does for the forestry industry more broadly.

This morning, the WTO sided with Canada for the third time on the matter of discriminatory U.S. COOL legislation. The WTO arbitrator has found that the nullification and impairment under COOL costs Canada about a billion dollars a year and costs Mexico about $228 million U.S. annually. [H]ow [will] this ruling affect Canada’s pork and beef products [?]

We welcome the WTO ruling. This is a vindication of the Canadian position … It is the fourth time the WTO has ruled in our favour, with a record $1 billion quantum. We are pursuing this matter. I welcome the fact that the House of Representatives has repealed COOL. We are calling on the Senate to do the same. Senator Pat Roberts, chairman of the agriculture committee, has already, today, called for the repeal of COOL … We are working very hard in Washington with the Senate … We are on the side of Canada’s producers. We are in their corner, and if we have to retaliate we will.

Yesterday, the Minister of National Defence said that the legal case for dropping bombs in Syria was based on criminality, or Canada’s independent right of self-defence, or it was because of the genocide dimension, or perhaps it was article 51 of the UN Charter. The Prime Minister said that international law was not really applicable … [W]hat [is] the legal rationale today?

We have indicated that the government of Iraq has the collective right to self-defence under article 51 of the United Nations. It has officially requested international help, so we will comply with that. We will work on the same basis as our American allies are doing and report that to the United Nations.