OFFICIAL REPORT (HANSARD)

House of Commons Debates Volume 152 No. 053 1st SESSION 45th PARLIAMENT Friday, November 7, 2025 Speaker: The Honourable Francis Scarpaleggia HOUSE OF COMMONS CANADA (Table of Contents appears at back of this issue.) COMMONS DEBATES November 7, 2025 DEBATES No. 053 No. 053 N o 053 Volume 152 053 07 11 2025 2025/11/07 10:00:00 Débats de la Chambre des communes House of Commons Debates House Of Commons 1 45

The House met at 10 a.m. Prayer

Government Orders The Budget

(1000) [ English ] The Budget Financial Statement of Minister of Finance Motion

The House resumed from November 6 consideration of the motion that this House approve in general the budgetary policy of the government, and of the amendment.

Scott Anderson (Vernon—Lake Country—Monashee, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Skeena—Bulkley Valley . According to the CIBC's most recent economic flash, Canadian GDP is abysmal. The bank expected a modest acceleration in GDP growth to 1% in the final quarter of the year, but the lack of momentum toward the end of the quarter suggests that not even this anemic goal will be met. This kind of thing has become a standard economic warning bell in Canada these days, with increasing blame for the economic malaise in Canada being put not on sector-specific tariffs by the Americans, but on Canadian government policy.

It is no wonder the Liberals want a Christmas election. They know they cannot keep the bait and switch going with Canadians for very much longer. They want an election before the full weight of their disastrous policies comes crashing down. We Conservatives consistently try to explain to the Liberals that Canadians want and need jobs and an affordable life. We constantly try to explain that massive deficits, high taxation, onerous regulation and irresponsible spending are at the root of our economic problems, not Donald Trump.

Incredibly, the Liberals' response is to boast about government handouts and more bureaucracy. They seem to think that it is quite acceptable to tax and regulate us all into poverty as long as they dribble a little back to some of us. They have the gall to ignore pleas for jobs and answer with boasts about better handouts, and they apparently cannot see the logic of self-sufficiency. This budget is part of a problem: the Liberal belief that more government, more regulation and more free programs somehow equal prosperity. There is nothing free about any of this.

Every free thing the government offers has a cost behind it, every cost has a tax behind it and every new layer of bureaucracy not only costs more, but squeezes the very people who create value in this country. The Liberals talk about affordability while quietly making everything Canadians buy, build or grow more expensive. They call it compassion; I call it economic vandalism. Now Liberal MPs are publicly mocking the very idea that parents want to be able to afford to feed their own kids rather than accept free handouts from the government. One asked last week where the logic was. Seriously?

Where is the logic in wanting to be able to feed our own kids? Where is the logic in wanting to stand proudly self-sufficient instead of relying on Liberal handouts? What is next, soup lines for parents? This does not sound like a vision for the strongest economy in the G7; it sounds dystopian. It sounds like bread crumbs for the masses while the Prime Minister 's rich friends belly up to the Canadian tax trough. There seems to be a real disconnect between the Liberals and Canadians.

Hard-working Canadians want jobs and a thriving economy so they can look after their families, support their communities and help those who truly need it, like seniors on fixed incomes or single parents working two jobs just to stay afloat. I believe that Canadians want government to keep the country safe from outside threats, build conditions for prosperity at home, keep the streets safe and make sure Canadians can walk downtown without fear of harassment. Hard-working Canadians do not mind paying taxes for those things.

What they do mind paying for is massive, wasteful bureaucracies built on vote-buying handouts. What they do mind paying for is over-regulation that feeds bureaucrats more than it helps Canadians. Let us look at what is actually happening on the ground. According to the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, small firms are suffocating under the cost of Liberal policy. CFIB's most recent research shows that business-operating costs are up 26% since 2017. Everything is more expensive: fuel, energy, insurance and shipping. Two-thirds of small business owners say that rising costs are their top concern.

When the people who provide 60% of private sector jobs in this country cannot afford to stay open, that is not just a business problem; it is a national problem. CFIB also reports that small firms spend about 735 hours a year just on regulator compliance. That is 32 working days, a month and a half, lost to red tape. Here is the kicker: CFIB estimates that $18 billion of that red tape could vanish tomorrow and no one would even notice. That is enough to pay for safer streets, stronger border enforcement or better health care infrastructure, unless, of course, it disappears into Bermuda.

(1005) Into this environment of record costs, ballooning debt and economic uncertainty, the government has brought forward the behemoth of budgets, a budget that makes even Justin Trudeau look like a miser. The new federal budget represents a direct hit on the affordability of life for Canadians. Despite promises of restraint and fiscal responsibility, the government's spending spree is fuelling inflation and driving up prices across the board. Families already struggling to afford groceries, rent and mortgage payments now face even greater pressure as inflationary spending adds $5,400 per household per year.

By running a $78-billion deficit, far above the $62-billion pledge, the government has made everyday essentials more expensive, leaving ordinary Canadians to shoulder the burden of its broken promises. In this budget, hidden food taxes, like the industrial carbon tax, still increase the cost of everything at every stage of production. The energy to grow, harvest, process and transport food is taxed at every step of the way. That means the price increases every step of the way until it reaches the ridiculous price we consumers are used to paying at the checkout stand, or trying to.

While our neighbours to the south embark on aggressive tax restructuring to become competitive, the Liberals are dragging on our economy with hidden taxes and stifling red tape. While the Americans are rapidly reindustrializing, the Liberals are still chasing industries out of Canada with punitive taxation, onerous red tape and accusations of greed whenever a company does manage to succeed in this hostile environment. While the world is changing before our eyes and other countries are quickly adapting, the Liberal government seems to be stuck in 2015, leisurely taking half-steps and clinging to old ideologies.

This budget is just more evidence of the same thing. The Liberals and their friends, the NDP, blame high prices on corporate greed, but in reality, businesses are simply passing on government greed. When things cost more to make and transport, they cost more at the checkout stand. This is called inflation, and it is caused in part by the industrial gas tax and other hidden taxes like it. It is made worse by the explosion of the expensive bureaucracy the Liberals have embarked on.

Every time the government pats itself on the back for protecting workers but drives employers out of business, it is not helping labour; it is destroying jobs, futures and, in many cases, families. Canadians do not want to be wards of the state. They want the dignity of earning their own way. Young people do not want a low-wage rental economy. They want to own a home someday, like their parents, once they have good jobs and can build an affordable life. They want to know that if they work hard, they can afford to buy a home, start a business and feed their families without waiting for a government cheque.

Conservatives are offering a better path forward: an affordable budget for an affordable life. That means ending hidden taxes that quietly drain household budgets, cutting wasteful government spending and removing the bureaucratic roadblocks that prevent homes from being built. By opening the country to opportunity and rewarding hard work, we can restore hope to families barely getting by. It is time to turn away from generational debt and toward common sense. Let me return to the question a Liberal MP mockingly asked last week: Where is the logic?

Where is the logic in a government that taxes work, punishes success and calls dependency progress? Where is the logic in driving businesses to the brink of insolvency, and then bragging about new programs for the unemployed? Where is the logic in claiming to fight for the middle class while making it impossible for the middle class to even exist? The Conservatives will continue to fight for real affordability, for policies that empower Canadians to feed their own kids, build their own businesses and stand proudly self-sufficient in a country that rewards work, not dependency.

(1010) Hon. Kevin Lamoureux (Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, in the month of October, 67,000 jobs were created. Of those jobs, 55,000 were in the province of Ontario. We have a Prime Minister and a Liberal caucus focused on building Canada strong. On the other hand, we have the extreme Conservative right. Quite frankly, I think Joe Clark said it best when he said that he never left the party; the party left him. Today's Conservative Party is so far to the right there is no room for progressive-minded individuals or red Conservatives. We do not see that. I am wondering if the member can provide his thoughts as to why the Conservative Party has moved so far to the right, to the detriment of good public policy.

Scott Anderson :

Mr. Speaker, I obviously reject the characterization by the member opposite. I would ask the member whether he believes it is logical for parents to have to rely on the state after they have been driven into bankruptcy by the policies of the government and whether it is logical for them to want to be wards of state.

Alex Ruff (Bruce—Grey—Owen Sound, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, first off, I want to thank my hon. colleague for his service in the Canadian Armed Forces, as we are coming up on Remembrance Day. I have a huge concern about the amount of the annual deficit the Liberal government has been running for the last 10 years. It is over $54 billion or $55 billion, more money than the federal government transfers to the provinces for health care. It is putting enormous stress on future generations. Does my hon. colleague share the same concerns?

Scott Anderson :

Mr. Speaker, I once ran myself into credit card debt very badly. I found myself paying hundreds of dollars in interest every single month, with no benefit. If I had not used my credit card, I would have been able to put that money away in savings. It is not a good feeling to be simply throwing money out the door or giving it to bankers, especially if they are involved with our money in other countries. I share my colleague's deep concern over the deficit. We are never going to end the deficit if we do not smarten up and have logical budgets in the future.

Doug Eyolfson (Winnipeg West, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, with regard to industrial carbon pricing and the claims of what it does to inflation, how does the hon. member respond to a study by the Bank of Canada that says carbon pricing has contributed a maximum of 0.15% to the rate of inflation?

(1015) Scott Anderson :

Mr. Speaker, I cannot speak to that report. I have not read it. What I can tell the hon. member is that we do not need an economics degree to understand that being taxed at every step along the line of food production is going to add costs. We can parse those numbers, look at them and mitigate them with other numbers. The fact still remains that when we tax the economy, food prices are going to go up. That just makes sense.

[ Translation ]

Claude DeBellefeuille (Beauharnois—Salaberry—Soulanges—Huntingdon, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, I do not know if my colleague's province is experiencing much the same thing as Quebec, in other words, a crisis in health and social services due to growing needs and an aging population. As a matter of fact, British Columbia and Quebec are the two provinces where the population is aging at the highest rate. In addition, health care professionals are being asked to do more with less. Does my colleague not find it unusual that, in the budget we are discussing today, there is no more money being transferred to the provinces so they can provide the quality services necessary to meet the needs of Canadians?

[ English ]

Scott Anderson :

Mr. Speaker, I would certainly agree, if we were delivering quality health care. We did a study not long ago, about 10 years ago, in which we found that Interior Health, which is my region's health authority, had a manager for every six workers on the front lines. The management burden at the top has to come down. I think we can do more with less. I believe that we owe a responsibility to the provinces—

The Deputy Speaker :

Resuming debate, the hon. member for Skeena—Bulkley Valley.

Ellis Ross (Skeena—Bulkley Valley, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to get up and make my first budget speech on behalf of Skeena—Bulkley Valley. It is quite the auspicious event because this is everything that the Prime Minister promised not to deliver. The Prime Minister promised less spending and more fiscal responsibility but reversed that once elected. Budget 2025 has brought Canadian debt up to $1.35 trillion. That number is pretty hard to visualize for the average Canadian, let alone a new MP. The interest payment on this debt for 2025-26 is $55.6 billion. That is more than the health transfer agreement.

That is more than what the Canadian government collects in GST. For all the younger people watching this, because it is going to be their debt, this budget adds $10 million to our debt every hour. I want to talk about specific items in the budget that relate directly to my constituents in Skeena—Bulkley Valley. One is the firearms confiscation program put together by the Liberal government. The overall budget for this program is $742 million, and the budget actually earmarks $38.7 million for the pilot project in Cape Breton.

The Liberal minister responsible for this program said that it will not work, that it is a political stunt and that he would bail his tenant out of jail if these provisions actually affected the tenant renting his property. I think everyone is aware that the Liberal minister responsible for the confiscation program does not even support the program. I want to talk to Canadians about the penalties. The Liberal government has criminalized law-abiding citizens overnight, the citizens who lawfully and legally registered their guns, got their PALs and obeyed the law.

This one piece of legislation turns them into criminals overnight. This includes indigenous people as well, such as indigenous hunters and indigenous sport shooters. If people do not abide by the legislation, they could face up to five years in prison for an indictable offence. For a

summary conviction, it is up to two years less a day. This is the penalty for law-abiding citizens. The elbows-up strategy is missing Trump and hitting law-abiding Canadians. This does not make any sense. If we are going to crack down on crime, we should go after criminals. Criminals do not register their guns or get licences. The amount of money being spent on this program, the $742 million, could go toward programs for Canadians. It could go toward seniors and youth. It could go toward our economy. It could pay down our debt, God forbid.

It does not make sense for people who inherited firearms, people who purchased firearms or people who are sport shooters to turn their guns in on a voluntary basis and receive $1,300 per firearm, especially when some of these firearms are a lot more expensive than that. The cost of groceries is up, and it is going to keep going up. The Prime Minister said he wants to be judged based on prices at grocery stores. The verdict is in: He is guilty of doing nothing. In fact, as prices go up, the usage of food banks increases.

(1020) As seniors and middle-income people flock to the food banks, over two million in Canada, 700,000 of which are children, the Liberal government proudly gets up and talks about its contribution to food banks instead of fixing the root cause. The Liberals have stunted the economy. They have increased taxes, with more on the way. There is a packaging tax. Everybody is talking about how the packaging tax is going to increase costs at the grocery store. There is another tax coming that the government failed to talk to Canadians about, the International Maritime Organization's carbon tax on shipping.

It is not official yet, but it is Canada's intention to vote in favour of this shipping tax that will raise the cost of goods and groceries for Canadians. I want to talk briefly about the decriminalization experiment that happened when I was an MLA in B.C. It turned B.C. into a haven for drug use; federal dollars were even used to purchase hydromorphone and distribute it unmanaged and unchecked. It started making its way into our general population. This experiment the Liberals used on British Columbians, which Oregon actually got rid of because it did not work, is going to take decades to recover from.

This is going to be a generational issue for leaders and legislatures. This experiment was not needed, not when Oregon had already tried it and, when it failed, got rid of it. Contrary to popular opinion, the emissions cap is not gone. If all the other mechanisms mentioned in the budget fail, the emissions cap will be enforced on the Canadian resource economy. That will limit the Liberal government's plans to turn Canada into an energy superpower and turn us into the best-performing country in the G7.

By the way, if we want to be the best-performing country in the G7, we have to outperform the United States, the largest economy in the G7, if not the world. We are going to have to do 100 times better than what we are doing now. The government is going to have to get rid of the legislation that limits our economy if we want to be that energy superpower or a well-performing country in the G7. It cannot do it by allowing all these tariffs to take hold in our economy. From the United States alone, the softwood lumber tariff is 45%, reciprocal tariffs are 25% to 35%. There are steel tariffs. The list goes on.

India has imposed 30% tariffs on yellow peas. China has 100% tariffs on canola oil, peas, pork, seafood and canola seed. The list goes on. I am not a banker. I did not even graduate high school, but I am pretty sure I could have gotten a better deal than this. What is the strategy of allowing an ad by the Ontario government to air in the United States to anger it even further and have it stop all negotiations on trade? Can the Liberals please explain to me the strategy behind that? By the way, after the Prime Minister saw that ad and allowed it to air, B.C. was going to do the same.

It later declined, saying it was going to align itself with Canada's strategy on trade. What is the strategy? The strategy so far is putting so much pressure on Canadians that it is stunting our economy. I have not even talked yet about the Arctic sovereignty that Russia, China and the United States have their eyes on. The government has a sovereignty clause in there, but it does not mentioned the Northwest Passage, which Russia has aimed its eyes on for shipping goods and drilling for oil and gas. We are a mess. This budget proves it. That is why I cannot support the budget put forward for 2025.

(1025) [ Translation ]

Guillaume Deschênes-Thériault (Madawaska—Restigouche, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I hear my colleague across the way criticizing the budget. However, in this budget, we are making generational investments to strengthen our economy while protecting our social programs. I would like to ask my colleague the following question. If the budget had been tabled by a Conservative government, which social program would my colleague have wanted to eliminate? Would it have been the Canada child benefit, which helps over six million parents across the country? Would it have been the national school food program, which we made permanent and which feeds over 400,000 children?

Would he have wanted to cut our affordable child care program, which benefits over 900,000 children? Would he have wanted to put an end to the Canadian dental care plan for which over five million Canadians have registered? On this side of the House, we have made generational investments while protecting important social programs. Would my colleague who is criticizing the budget have wanted to see some of these programs disappear?

[ English ]

Ellis Ross :

Mr. Speaker, this is parallel to what we did in my small native village, which was in worse shape than what Canada is facing right now in terms of the social issues. We would not have cut the social programs. We would have fixed the root causes. We would not have added to it, as the Liberal government has done. In fact, what the Liberals are saying is, “Hold my beer. We are actually going to double down on what we have already done to the Canadian public.” I cannot support that.

[ Translation ]

Claude DeBellefeuille (Beauharnois—Salaberry—Soulanges—Huntingdon, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, my question is fairly simple. The Quebec finance minister has expressed his profound disappointment with the budget, particularly because very little real money will be transferred to the provinces for infrastructure programs. It currently costs between $4 billion and $5 billion, or even more, to build a hospital. That is what we saw with CHUM in Quebec. During this public finance crisis, does my colleague think it is right that Ottawa, which has the money, is not transferring enough to the provinces so that they can invest in their infrastructure?

[ English ]

Ellis Ross :

Mr. Speaker, I agree. In fact, if we want to be the best-performing country in the G7, we have to be functioning at all levels. Infrastructure is a key point. We cannot be the best-performing country if we do not take the people along with us, and that includes the economy, social issues and health. I totally agree with the member.

Todd Doherty (Cariboo—Prince George, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for the wisdom he shares all the time. I have known him for a long time. He is a leader within our region, our province and our country. I deeply respect his comments. My colleague and I have neighbouring ridings, so we face many of the same problems. Just last night I received word of another mill closure in my riding. It is 165 jobs in a small community in my riding, 165 families that are facing uncertainty. I also want to talk about the mental health and addictions crisis we are facing. There was a 500-page budget tabled just the other day.

Mental health and addictions combined were mentioned six times. There is no new money. We now spend more money servicing our debt than on health care transfers to our provinces. That is shameful. I want to ask our hon. colleague for his views on that.

(1030) Ellis Ross :

Mr. Speaker, coming from a small first nations reserve, I understand mental health and drug addiction, as well as substance abuse issues. We tried to battle that as much as we could without government support. There was an experiment in B.C. to decriminalize drugs, between Ottawa and B.C. It was a disaster. By the way, as an MLA in the B.C. legislature, I tried to fight as hard as I could to get treatment centres in our region. We were rejected, even though indigenous leaders were the ones putting together the plans. We have a huge problem across Canada, and it is a shame that the Canadian Liberal government does not recognize this and try to address it head-on.

Gord Johns (Courtenay—Alberni, NDP) :

Mr. Speaker, my colleague and I may disagree on how we proceed to deal with the mental health and toxic drug crisis, but one thing we can agree on is that the Liberal government has failed to show any leadership. In the House yesterday, I raised the fact that over 52,000 Canadians have died of toxic overdoses. The response from the Liberal government was that it is a provincial and territorial responsibility. Basically, the Liberals are abandoning any leadership role. There are things we can agree on. Does my colleague agree with me that the federal government absolutely has a role and responsibility when it comes to the mental health and toxic drug crisis in this country?

Ellis Ross :

Mr. Speaker, I totally agree with my colleague. Ottawa does have a role to play. In fact, if that were not the case, why did it impose this drug experiment in B.C., decriminalizing heroin, cocaine and up to 2.5 grams of fentanyl? We know that 2.5 grams of fentanyl could kill a normal person. Ottawa does have a role to play in the drug crisis we are facing.

Marie-France Lalonde (Orléans, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to rise in the House today to speak about budget 2025, the “Canada Strong” budget. I will be sharing my time with my great colleague, the hon. member for Kanata . On Tuesday, the government presented a plan that makes a generational investment to build the foundation of a stronger, more resilient Canada. It is a plan to build more homes for Canadians, to deliver major infrastructure projects across the country and to support our industries from coast to coast to coast. Canadians understand that we are living in a rapidly changing and increasingly uncertain world.

This budget is our plan of action to navigate those realities. The government is focused on what it can control: building an economy that is bigger, faster and stronger than ever before. [ Translation ] As Canada's new government, our goal is clear: to make Canada the strongest economy in the G7. We will do that by boosting productivity, competitiveness and innovation, and by creating new opportunities that will benefit all Canadians. For my community of Orleans, this budget includes key investments that will make a real difference in the lives of its residents.

As one of the fastest-growing ridings in the National Capital Region, Orleans needs strong local infrastructure and services to keep pace with its growth and improve quality of life. [ English ] Through the building community strong fund, the government is committing $51 billion over 10 years, starting in 2026-27, to support infrastructure projects in communities across the country. I have to say that in our budget there was a mention of Orléans.

For over over four decades, the Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex has been a pillar of our community, a place where residents of all ages come together to stay active, learn new skills and connect. As a former figure skater, I have had the pleasure of using the ice rink at that arena. I am very thrilled to share that, as highlighted in the budget, Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex is one of the 23 highlighted projects that will receive funding through the direct delivery stream to modernize and expand this vital facility. This investment is a testament to the government's commitment to building a stronger Canada.

I could not be more excited to help build a stronger Orléans. (1035) [ Translation ] As we face a more uncertain global environment, Canada must also be prepared to defend its territory, its people and its sovereignty. That is why this budget includes historic investments in defence.

By committing $81.8 billion over the next five years, we are demonstrating to our allies and our men and women in uniform that Canada takes its national and collective security seriously. [ English ] These investments will strengthen recruitment and retention, deliver well-deserved pay raises and expand access to health care for serving members. They will also repair and sustain existing capabilities while investing new and modern infrastructure, including advanced technologies to protect Canada's digital networks.

I am especially proud that the government is investing in next-generation military capabilities from armoured vehicles and counter-drone systems to long-range precision strike capabilities and submarines. We have come a long way since 2013 when defence spending was below 1% of our GDP. The government has committed to reach 5% by 2035, a clear statement of Canada's commitment to global security and national readiness. [ Translation ] I also want to speak directly to young Canadians, including the youth of Orleans. This budget charts a path to a more affordable and brighter future.

The Canada summer jobs program has been a huge success in Orleans. It has helped young people gain valuable work experience while supporting local employers. This budget proposes additional funding for youth employment of $1.5 billion over three years through the Canada summer jobs program, the youth employment and skills strategy and the student work placement program.

Together, these initiatives will create approximately 175,000 new opportunities for young Canadians and, I hope, for young people in Orleans. [ English ] We are also helping young Canadians achieve the dream of home ownership by eliminating the GST for first-time homebuyers on homes valued at $1 million or less through our first-time homebuyers GST tax credit. Through building Canada homes, we will double the pace of home construction over the next decade, building the affordable homes Canadians need. [ Translation ] I am really excited about this budget and the bold path it charts for our country.

Under the Prime Minister 's leadership, Canada's new government is positioning the country as a global leader by making smart investments, by launching ambitious construction projects and by planning responsibly for the future. This budget delivers for Canadians today and builds a stronger, more prosperous Canada for tomorrow. [ English ] I invite all members of the House to take a close look at what this budget offers, because it is, without a doubt, the right plan for Canada today.

Finally, as we mark Veterans' Week, I want to take a moment to thank the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Veterans Affairs Canada for hosting a beautiful candlelight tribute at the Canadian War Museum to reflect on the service of all the men and women who have served in the defence of Canada. Furthermore, I want to congratulate the Royal Canadian Mint for the beautiful coin it unveiled at the event, which pays tribute to the Unknown Soldier, a beautiful dedication of remembrance. It was truly touching.

As Remembrance Day draws near, we pause to honour the brave Canadians who answered the call to service to defend our freedom, our democracy and our way of life. (1040) [ Translation ] We remember those who gave their lives so that we could live in peace. We thank them for their service and sacrifice. Lest we forget.

[ English ]

Harb Gill (Windsor West, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, according to the Globe and Mail's Bill Curry, the government tucked 75 legislative changes into an annex that mysteriously vanished from the printed budget MPs were given. Is this what digital transformation means now, that the Liberals transform transparency into an upload? Can the member opposite ask the finance minister to table the full online annex today, or are MPs supposed to legislate by hyperlink? Can she explain why the Liberals decided to undertake such deception against fellow parliamentarians?

[ Translation ]

Marie-France Lalonde :

Mr. Speaker, of all the questions my colleague could have asked, I am glad he chose that one. With all due respect to him, what I will say to Canadians and to the people of Orleans that I represent is that our government is there for them. Our government will protect the necessary investments that are important to them while allowing for responsible budgetary expenditures. We are in an era of modernization, with artificial intelligence and everything that goes with it. Again, I say to our young people that we are there for them.

Hon. Jean-Yves Duclos (Québec Centre, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I am grateful and proud of my colleague's speech. I heard her talk about the Canada summer jobs program. I believe that very few members of the House recognize that the proposed budget would increase the number of jobs under the Canada summer jobs program from 70,000 to 100,000 next summer. Could my colleague talk about the impact of this increase in the number of jobs for young people, for community organizations and for small and medium-sized businesses in her riding?

Marie-France Lalonde :

Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question, because I think 343 members have been able to take advantage of this program over the past few years. I know it has been useful to me in Orléans. I have always been well aware of the significant benefits of this program, which is making a difference. We have been asking for this program to be enhanced for several years now, and that is what this government is going to do. Not only will more young people be able to take advantage of it, but more non-profit organizations and small and medium-sized businesses in my community will benefit from having young people there to help them next summer.

[ English ]

Todd Doherty (Cariboo—Prince George, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, to my hon. colleague across the way, 500 pages were tabled just the other day. Over 50,000 Canadians have died from overdose since 2016. More Canadians have died from overdose than died in World War II, yet there is no new money for addictions in this budget. Mental health was only mentioned five times. We are now spending more money servicing our debt than we do in health care transfers to provinces. How does the member rationalize this generational crisis with absolutely no new money?

Marie-France Lalonde :

Mr. Speaker, I know how much of an advocate this member has been on the subject of mental health, and I want to commend him for his advocacy. As a former social worker who has first-hand experience on the impacts on mental health, I have to say it is most important that we continue. I was actually quite pleased to see, in the past few years, our federal government, while doing its accord on health care, increase the capacity of transfers specifically on mental health services to local communities.

(1045) [ Translation ]

Claude DeBellefeuille (Beauharnois—Salaberry—Soulanges—Huntingdon, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, the Canada summer jobs program definitely needed to be indexed. We have been getting many requests for years now to promote student employment and give them a great experience. It is true that it is very appealing, but quite honestly, if I had had a choice, I would have pushed for an increase in health transfers because this is what the provinces are really crying out for.

Marie-France Lalonde :

Mr. Speaker, I am proud to answer this question because we have increased funding over the past few years for transfer payments. I was previously a member of a provincial cabinet. I can assure the member that funding was increased by more than $200 billion, which the provinces have been able to benefit from in recent years. We will continue to be there for the health of Canadians.

[ English ]

Hon. Jenna Sudds (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement and to the Secretary of State (Defence Procurement), Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, budget 2025 is about meeting the moment and building Canada strong. It is a plan rooted in confidence: confidence in our people, in our innovators and in Canada's ability to lead through change. At a time when the world is shifting, with new trade barriers, global uncertainty and the race to harness technologies such as artificial intelligence, Canada is acting with purpose. This budget invests to protect our sovereignty, supercharge our productivity and empower Canadians to get ahead.

It is about spending less to invest more in housing Canadians can afford, in building the infrastructure of the next generation, in clean energy and in creating the high-value jobs of tomorrow. For the communities I represent, Kanata, Carp, Bells Corners and Stittsville, this means accelerating innovation in semiconductors, photonics and AI, and supporting our skilled trades and small businesses, ensuring that the opportunities of the economy are built right here at home. At the heart of the budget are families and the youth of my community.

With budget 2025, we are cutting taxes for the middle class, saving the average two-income family about $840 a year. We have cancelled the consumer carbon price, lowering gas prices by about 18¢ a litre. We are making the national school food program permanent, helping 400,000 kids get a healthy meal at school and saving families up to $800 a year. We are continuing to invest in child care, saving families in my community over $10,000 a year per child. We are also launching automatic federal benefits so up to 5.5 million low-income Canadians will get the supports they deserve without extra paperwork.

For young people, the budget is a game-changer. We are creating 175,000 job placements to help young Canadians gain the skills and experience they need to succeed in high-growth industries of tomorrow, such as technology, clean energy and digital innovation. These opportunities will ensure that the next generation of Canadians has the tools it needs to help shape the future. For the communities I represent in Kanata, Carp, Bells Corners and Stittsville, that means more opportunities for young people and more money staying in families' pockets.

Whether it is fuelling the car for hockey practice, paying the mortgage or putting healthy meals on the table, the budget makes life more affordable, more predictable and more fair for Canadian families. Budget 2025 is about building Canada's future economy, one powered by innovation, research and the incredible talent we have in Kanata, Carp, Bells Corners and Stittsville. The budget invests to supercharge productivity and innovation, introducing the new productivity superdeduction to help companies invest in new technologies and to strengthen the SR&ED tax incentive that fuels R and D.

The budget also makes major commitments in artificial intelligence, semiconductors and photonics, including supporting the Canadian Photonics Fabrication Centre right here in Ottawa, ensuring that we have sovereign semiconductor fabrication capability, world-class research, and manufacturing that stays in Canada. These investments mean more high-paying jobs, stronger small businesses and new opportunities for our talented engineers, scientists and entrepreneurs.

In Kanata North, Canada's largest technology park, the budget builds on our strengths, helping local innovators compete globally while creating the careers of tomorrow right here at home. Strong communities are the foundation of a strong Canada, and budget 2025 delivers with the new build community strong fund. This landmark $51-billion investment over 10 years would help municipalities build the infrastructure that Canadians rely on every day.

(1050) For Kanata, Carp, Bells Corners and Stittsville, this means upgrades to local roads and transit connections, expanded recreation and community facilities, and stronger flood and stormwater protection for our growing community. This is about giving local leaders the tools to shape their future, building healthy, connected and resilient communities where families can thrive and where every investment helps make our community and our country Canada strong. Affordable housing is one of the greatest challenges we face, and budget 2025 takes bold action to address it.

Through Build Canada Homes, we are launching the most ambitious housing plan in a generation by investing $25 billion to double the pace of construction, cut red tape and attract private investment. We are also eliminating the GST on new homes under $1 million for first-time homebuyers and training the next generation of Canadian builders through expanded programs for the skilled trades. In Kanata, Carp, Bells Corners and Stittsville, these measures mean more attainable homes for young families, more work for local builders and tradespeople, and more vibrant, complete communities.

Whether it is for a first home, a rental or a place to age, this budget is about restoring the Canadian dream of a house that is affordable, available and built right here at home. Budget 2025 delivers a generational investment in Canada's security, and that means generational opportunities for Ottawa's defence and technology industries. With a historic $30-billion investment over five years to rebuild, rearm and reinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces, our budget would ensure that Canada meets NATO's 2% target this year, five years ahead of schedule, while strengthening our domestic defence industrial base.

We are creating a new defence investment agency and launching the defence industrial strategy that puts Canadian companies first. That means growing local supply chains, expanding production capacity and supporting made-in-Canada innovations, from advanced sensors to cybersecurity, AI-enabled systems and secure communications. For my communities of Kanata, Carp, Bells Corners and Stittsville, where defence innovation is part of our DNA, this will mean new contracts, new jobs and new partnerships for companies developing the technologies to keep Canadians safe.

From the engineers designing next-generation command systems to the skilled trades supporting our bases and equipment, Ottawa is ready to lead. It is not just an investment in defence; it is also an investment in our people, our technology and our place in the world. Budget 2025 is about leading with confidence and with discipline. It is a plan that balances ambition with responsibility, because Canadians expect their government to be a careful steward of their hard-earned tax dollars. This budget introduces a new approach: spending less to invest more.

We are slowing the growth of government operations, cutting red tape and focusing every dollar on priorities that grow our economy, such as housing, innovation and clean energy. We are maintaining Canada's lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio in the G7. We are also introducing a capital budgeting framework to clearly separate day-to-day spending from long-term investments that build our country's strengths. Budget 2025 is more than a fiscal plan; it is a nation-building blueprint for a stronger, more confident Canada.

It is about protecting what we value, building where we need and empowering every Canadian to help shape our future. In Kanata, Carp, Bells Corners and Stittsville, we see what that future looks like: innovators pushing the boundaries of technology, families working hard to build a life, and communities coming together to create opportunity. This budget invests in them: in affordable homes, good jobs, clean energy and the next generation of Canadian ingenuity.

(1055) Marc Dalton (Pitt Meadows—Maple Ridge, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the red lights go off when I hear about all the investments the Liberals are going to make into tech companies and other businesses, especially when there were so many conflicts of interest with all the tech companies like those in the green slush fund that Liberal insiders and friends were getting their money into. This included COVID contracts' being given to former Liberal ministers. How many contracts, are we going to find out, are really getting friends and families of Liberals rich?

Hon. Jenna Sudds :

Mr. Speaker, I consider myself quite lucky in the role I am in and in being able to represent over 700 companies in Canada's largest technology park. Budget 2025 puts forward major opportunities for businesses across this country. Whether that is the productivity superdeduction, enabling companies to write off their investments and increase their productivity in the short term; investments in AI and the AI compute fund, creating sovereign digital cloud across this country; or enhancements to the SR&ED credit, these are tangible ways that our government is moving forward to make this country more competitive and increase productivity within our companies.

[ Translation ]

Alexis Deschênes (Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine—Listuguj, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, there is one thing missing in this budget that we would have liked to see. It is the renewal of the fisheries fund. I come from Gaspésie. In the Gaspé Peninsula and the Magdalen Islands, the fisheries fund has historically made it possible to invest $40 million to spur innovation and promote scientific research. The fund's goal was to ensure that the fisheries sector remained up to date on the issue of new technological advances. This time, the fisheries fund was not included in the budget. It was not renewed. Can my colleague explain why that is?

[ English ]

Hon. Jenna Sudds :

Mr. Speaker, it is wonderful to hear the connection made between fisheries and technology, because we know that by enabling and leveraging technologies, we are able to increase productivity. That extends across so many sectors across our country. A case in point is the productivity superdeduction, an opportunity for companies and fishers to invest in their businesses and get the equipment they need to be able to be more productive. This is a tangible way that our government is demonstrating our commitment to them and their future.

Statements by Members Statements by Members

(1100) [ English ] Build Communities Strong Fund

Ernie Klassen (South Surrey—White Rock, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, our new budget is about empowering Canadians and strengthening our economic future. It invests in our resilience, our competitiveness and our confidence in the future, not just through big, national projects, but through meaningful investments in smaller communities, where local projects have a tremendous impact on people's daily lives. This is why I am so proud of the build communities strong fund, which would ensure that communities of every size receive the support they need to grow and prosper. I am thrilled that the White Rock Pier is one of the projects supported in this budget.

The pier is more than a landmark; it is the focal point of my community, a gathering place and the main driver for tourism. I have been advocating for its restoration since the day I began campaigning. Central to the budget 2025 plan is building major infrastructure, more homes and stronger communities, one community at a time.

Darshan Singh Sahsi

Sukhman Gill (Abbotsford—South Langley, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, too frequently now, I rise in this chamber to speak to shootings in my community because of the rapid rise of gun crime. Last week, Darshan Singh Sahsi was fatally shot and killed in Abbotsford. He was a father, a philanthropist and a man who came from humble beginnings. I knew Mr. Sahsi personally, and I am struck by the reality that I will never see him again. I trust that the Abbotsford Police Department is doing everything in its power to bring justice to the Sahsi family. To his children and loved ones, I express my deepest condolences. I am so sorry for their loss. As a friend and a member of Parliament, I am here for them.

Infrastructure Investments

Sukh Dhaliwal (Surrey Newton, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I rise to celebrate the proposed improvements to the Newton Athletic Park in the heart of Surrey Newton. Thanks to budget 2025, federal funding will support a new artificial turf field, a practice field, tennis courts and lighting for the walking paths. By creating a more welcoming environment, this project will promote active living, foster community well-being and maximize the park's use throughout the year.

Investments like this, along with upgrades to the Royal Athletic Park in Victoria and the White Rock Pier my colleague already talked about, and support for a new Filipino community and cultural centre in metro Vancouver strengthen community bonds and promote wellness. I will continue to advocate for Surrey Newton and its residents to ensure our community remains safe, vibrant and thriving for everyone.

Addiction Services

Tamara Kronis (Nanaimo—Ladysmith, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, families grieve, addicts struggle and communities do their best to backfill for government failure, and the Liberal government's transformational budget has nothing for us. The word “addiction” appears only once, on page 247, to remind us that $1.2 billion in provincial transfers to support not only addictions, but home and community care and mental health services will vanish after the 2026-27 fiscal year. Today, I am standing up and saying what the 20 Liberal MPs from British Columbia do not have the guts to say, even though Pandora Avenue and the Downtown Eastside are both in Liberal ridings.

With this budget, the Liberal government has abandoned us. There is no national strategy, no support for local treatment and recovery and no recognition of the crisis that is unfolding in towns and cities like mine. In Nanaimo, we need funding for local treatment and recovery beds. Our frontline workers need support, and our communities need a real path to healing.

[ Translation ] Francophone Immigration

Hon. Mona Fortier (Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, ensuring the vitality of francophone minority communities remains a priority for our government, and francophone immigration is an essential part of achieving this goal. As we celebrate National Francophone Immigration Week, it is important to remember the progress that has been made and the next steps to be taken. Thanks to the 2026-28 immigration levels plan announced in the 2025 budget, we are aiming for a steady increase in francophone admissions outside Quebec: 9% in 2026, 9.5% in 2027, and 10.5% in 2028.

Since 2022, we have consistently exceeded our admission targets and are on track to reach a new historic high of 8.5%. I would also like to highlight the francophone community immigration pilot, which helps skilled workers settle in rural francophone regions. As Canada stabilizes its immigration levels, our government is choosing to protect and strengthen francophone immigration.

(1105) [ English ] Agriculture and Agri-Food

Scott Anderson (Vernon—Lake Country—Monashee, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the Supreme Court ruling yesterday removed the last chance these decades-old ostriches had, and I sympathize with the tens of thousands of Canadians who have been caught up in the drama unfolding on a farm in Edgewood, B.C. For the past 10 months, the Canadian Food Inspection Agency operation has disrupted life in the peaceful town of Edgewood, B.C., driven the farm deep into debt and cost Canadian taxpayers millions of dollars in police overtime and agency costs. Perhaps most chilling has been the silence of both the Liberal Minister of Health and the Liberal Minister of Agriculture .

They allowed this to drag out for far too long, keeping Canadians in the dark and even laughing at the plight of these people. This is not how the government should treat our citizens. We still live in a democracy, despite the Liberals' best efforts, and Canadians deserve to know what our government is up to and why.

Chester W. Ruttle

Peter Schiefke (Vaudreuil, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, over 1.1 million Canadians served in the war effort during World War II. More than 45,000 of those brave men and women made the ultimate sacrifice, and another 55,000 were wounded. Among them was Chester W. Ruttle. Chester proudly served in the merchant marine. His work, and that of his fellow service members, was perilous. No one was immune from the threat below the waterline, and Chester was no exception. Both vessels he served on were torpedoed, and both times, he found himself at the mercy of the frigid waters.

He was pulled to safety, but not before he suffered nerve damage and lost partial circulation in his legs. If his service had any silver lining, it came in the form of a nurse who cared for him named Marion. They fell in love, married and had five children, including my father-in-law, Darrell Ruttle, and seven grandchildren, including my wife Paula Ruttle. On behalf of the Ruttle family and all grateful Canadians, I am honoured to thank Chester for his service and his sacrifice. He was indeed part of the greatest generation.

Bone Marrow Donors

Hon. Andrew Scheer (Regina—Qu'Appelle, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, every year, so many Canadians and their families face the unimaginable challenge of searching for a life-saving bone marrow match. Becoming a bone marrow donor is one of the most selfless and meaningful acts a person can do. lt does not require wealth or status, just a willingness to help a person in need, like my nephew, Lincoln, who received a bone marrow transplant from his generous donor, Ann, and like Ollie Ferguson, who is with us here in Ottawa today. Ollie was in need of a bone marrow donor and found one in his sister Scarlett.

Because of Scarlett, Ollie has been able to chase his passion for driving race cars. He races pro late model cars, and he is only 15. Because of Scarlett, he can enjoy climbing the ranks of racing. I encourage everyone to join Canadian Blood Services' stem cell registry. Sign up online and get a cheek swab. It is a simple act that could easily save someone's life. I thank those who have already registered as a donor. Together, we can continue to show the compassion and generosity that makes Canada so great.

[ Translation ] Social Economy Month

Claude DeBellefeuille (Beauharnois—Salaberry—Soulanges—Huntingdon, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, I think it is important, in this month of November, that we call attention to this year's Social Economy Month, because it builds on the advocacy and promotion surrounding the 2025 Social Economy Summit. The summit was so historic that the advocacy work and resulting call to action were unanimously supported by the Quebec National Assembly. The turnout included 1,500 people from all regions and all sectors, including the economic, cultural, community, union and political sectors.

Their common goal was to highlight the transformative potential of the social economy for responding to Quebec's collective challenges, such as population aging, the housing shortage, the protection of our natural environment and cultural vitality. This being Social Economy Month, it seems fitting and necessary that the Bloc Québécois support the next steps in this effort and continue building an economy that works for us.

(1110) [ English ] Craft Brewers

Ron McKinnon (Coquitlam—Port Coquitlam, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, today I congratulate Port Coquitlam's Patina Brewing on its success at the 2025 BC Beer Awards. On October 17, at New Westminster's Anvil Centre, Patina earned second place in the mixed-style beer category for its Italian Pilsner. This recognition reflects the skill and pride of a hometown team that keeps raising the bar for quality and community. Our region's craft beer scene is thriving. Local brewers brought home six awards this year, with strong showings from Burnaby's Dageraad Brewing, Port Moody's Yellow Dog Brewing and New Westminster's Steel & Oak Brewing Co.

These achievements come during challenging times for the industry and they speak to resilience, creativity and the support of loyal customers across the Tri-Cities and New Westminster. Congratulations, Patina. Keep brewing excellence.

The Budget

Larry Brock (Brantford—Brant South—Six Nations, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, after 10 years of Liberal waste, Canadians hoped for change. Instead, the Prime Minister delivered the costliest budget outside of COVID with a bloated, inflation-fuelling deficit that punishes work, drives up prices and shatters every promise his government made. He vowed discipline, but his budget explodes the deficit to $80 billion, piles on $90 billion in new spending and drives both debt and inflation higher. While the Liberals borrow and spend, investment collapses, unemployment climbs and the cost of living crushes working families.

Canadians pay more in interest on Liberal debt than Ottawa transfers for health care. Every dollar does not go to doctors or nurses but rather bankers and bondholders. Ordinary Canadians are paying the price in higher bills, higher taxes and vanishing hope for their kids. Canadians have sacrificed enough. They cannot afford another inflationary Liberal budget. Conservatives will fight for the people who work, pay their bills and build this country, and we will keep working to restore the affordable life Canadians deserve.

Movember

Jake Sawatzky (New Westminster—Burnaby—Maillardville, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, November is Movember, a month for men's health awareness. We lose far too many men to suicide every year. I urge the boys and men hearing this today to take care of their health. It is easy to feel alone, but there are many people who care about them very much and they can talk to. Their existence as people is valuable. If they are ever considering self-harm, I ask them to please fight back against that voice in their head. It is okay to reach out for help. That is the brave thing to do. They just need to talk about it. It is brave to be open about these things. I encourage everyone to take

part in Movember, whether that is by growing a moustache, fundraising, exercising or organizing men's health events. This is a very important cause.

The Budget

Dave Epp (Chatham-Kent—Leamington, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the long-awaited federal budget was tabled, and while a new Liberal leader was supposed to mean a new direction, this budget proves it is the same government with the same wasteful spending and the same pain for Canadians. Families are cutting back on groceries, young people cannot afford homes and retirees are watching their savings shrink. Under the new Liberal leader , nothing has changed. Actually, that is not true. Things are getting worse. Yesterday, Statistics Canada confirmed that food inflation is rising again.

Canada is the only G7 country to see four straight months of rising food inflation. Between March and September, food inflation jumped sharply across everyday staples. Coffee and tea prices rose 15% and beef and berries are up 25%. These are not luxury goods; they are essentials. Conservatives put forward a plan to lower food prices by cutting the industrial carbon tax, the food packaging tax and the costly fuel standard, and by ending inflationary deficits, but the Liberals voted it down. Canadians deserve better. Conservatives will fight for an affordable budget for an affordable life for all Canadians.

[ Translation ] Veterans' Week

Angelo Iacono (Alfred-Pellan, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, this Veterans' Week, I would like to pay tribute to all those who have served Canada with courage and dedication in times of war, conflict and peace. Members of the Canadian Armed Forces have protected our country, defended our values and contributed to international peace and security. Their service reflects Canada's commitment to freedom, democracy and solidarity among nations. On November 8, we pay tribute to indigenous veterans who served with bravery and loyalty. By fully recognizing their contributions, we honour their legacy and affirm our commitment to remembrance and reconciliation.

On November 11, we mark Remembrance Day to honour the memory of those who gave their lives so that we could live in peace. Their courage and sacrifice remain a source of inspiration for all Canadians. Let us all proudly wear our poppies during this week of remembrance. Lest we forget.

(1115) [ English ] The Budget

Kurt Holman (London—Fanshawe, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, this week, the Liberal government released its 10th budget, with the costliest deficit outside of COVID and double what the Prime Minister 's predecessor left behind. Mark Carney broke every promise he made. He promised he would keep the deficit at $62 billion—

The Speaker :

We cannot refer to members of this House by their proper name. The member for London—Fanshawe.

Kurt Holman :

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister broke every promise he made. He promised to keep the deficit at $62 billion, a level the Parliamentary Budget Officer had already called “unsustainable”, yet it will now balloon to nearly $80 billion. He said he would lower the debt-to-GDP ratio, but both debt and inflation are rising. He promised to spend less, but added $90 billion more. That is $5,400 in extra inflationary spending per household. Families in London are paying the price. Groceries, gas, rent and mortgages keep climbing while paycheques fall further behind.

Canadians already spend more on debt interest than on health care. The budget at this time is simply irresponsible. Conservatives stand for an affordable budget for an affordable life. Londoners deserve hope, homes and a future they can afford.

Sleep in Heavenly Peace

Hon. Ginette Petitpas Taylor (Moncton—Dieppe, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, all children deserve a safe, comfortable place to lay their heads, but for some families, a bed for each child is a luxury they simply cannot afford. Since 2018, Sleep in Heavenly Peace Canada has put out a motion for change, as volunteers donate material and their time to help build beds and distribute them in communities across the country. Our local Moncton

chapter was founded just this past June and has already built and delivered 52 beds. Nationwide, the objective is to deliver 3,000 beds by the end of this year. My husband, Brock, and I recently accepted an invitation to join local leaders at Sleep in Heavenly Peace, Jim Merzetti and Marie-Claire Pierce, and helped build some beds with a group of local volunteers. I thank Jim and Marie-Claire for their invitation and for their tireless devotion to this cause. I encourage all Canadians to look for their nearest

chapter of Sleep in Heavenly Peace or even to start a

chapter in their area to support this wonderful charity.

Oral Questions Oral Questions

[ English ] The Economy

Arpan Khanna (Oxford, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the current Liberal government is the most expensive in Canadian history. The more it spends, the more things cost. Its so-called generational budget is nothing more than generational debt, mortgaging away our children’s future. Massive Liberal deficits feed inflation. Inflation fuels unaffordability. Our seniors can barely buy groceries, our families are stretched thin, and our workers are falling behind, yet the Prime Minister still wants them to make more sacrifices. Can the Prime Minister tell us what more is left for Canadians to sacrifice?

Hon. Steven MacKinnon (Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, this morning brings the outstanding news of tens of thousands, in fact, 69,000, new jobs in Canada, in the second straight month of employment growth in this country. What is happening, as the Minister of Natural Resources informed us yesterday, is that investors are piling into Canada. They are expressing confidence in our country. The entrepreneurs, the tech sector and young people are getting energized about this positive economic momentum. We are going to keep it going with this budget. I hope the Conservatives support us in it.

Arpan Khanna (Oxford, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, this Brookfield budget has the largest deficit in history outside of COVID. The interest payments are topping $55 billion, more than what we spend on health care transfers. This means less for doctors, less for nurses and less for our hospitals, but more for bondholders and Liberal insiders. The only thing that is getting healthy under the government is the bankers’ profits. They keep getting rich while Canadians foot the price. Can the Prime Minister tell us why he is so hell-bent on making sure his banker buddies get rich while Canadians suffer?

(1120) Hon. François-Philippe Champagne (Minister of Finance and National Revenue, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I think, as it is Friday, it is worth repeating. The economy has added 67,000 new jobs. Even the Conservatives are happy this morning, on a Friday. We can look at their faces. They are smiling because they are going back home and they have good news, and not only on the budget. There are hundreds of pages of good news. Also, this morning they can say that the plan of the government will build Canada strong, because of what? Because we believe in Canada.

Kyle Seeback (Dufferin—Caledon, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, only a bunch of Liberals would stand up and applaud an unemployment rate of 7% when the United States' unemployment rate is 4.2%. This is the most expensive government in Canadian history. In 10 years, the Liberals doubled the debt, and now they are going to pile on another $78 billion. Meanwhile, 2.2 million Canadians are going to the food bank. The softwood lumber industry is being devastated. The auto industry is being devastated. Is there a Liberal over there who can stand up and explain how the government has spent so much money to accomplish so little?

Hon. Maninder Sidhu (Minister of International Trade, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, 67,000 is how many new jobs were created last month. Twenty thousand of these jobs were for young Canadians, a clear sign that our plan is working. In Canada, one in five jobs is related to trade. From small businesses to major exporters, Canadians are driving growth and creating opportunities. In budget 2025, we have a plan to support our entrepreneurs, our workers and our exporters as we build the strongest economy in the G7.

Kyle Seeback (Dufferin—Caledon, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, once again, how do the Liberals stand up and applaud an unemployment rate of 7% when the United States' unemployment rate is 4.2%? It is actually like we are living in some kind of dystopian universe where they do this. The facts are these. Our softwood lumber industry is being hollowed out, 2.2 million Canadians are using the food bank, the auto industry is on its knees, and the Liberals stand and applaud a 7.1% unemployment rate. They have spent more money than all governments combined in the history of Canada. How can they applaud when they have spent so much to actually accomplish so little?

Hon. Evan Solomon (Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, here is something to applaud about. We created 67,000 new jobs last month. That is right. This is about building an affordable nation for a nation of builders. This budget does just that. We are building affordable housing for young people. We are creating 100,000 new summer jobs. We are investing in the tech sector. At 800,000 workers, it is the fastest-growing job sector in the economy, with many for young people. I hope the Conservatives, and many of them do, support this budget.

[ Translation ] Finance

Gérard Deltell (Louis-Saint-Laurent—Akiawenhrahk, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the Liberals have tabled the costliest budget with the biggest deficit in Canadian history, excluding the pandemic. The deficit is nearly $80 billion. A deficit is what happens when we live beyond our means. A deficit is a bill that we send to our children and our grandchildren. A deficit pours fuel on the fire of inflation. Why is the Prime Minister breaking his promise by recklessly spending more and pouring fuel on the inflationary fire?

Hon. Joël Lightbound (Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to inform my colleague that the Canadian economy added 67,000 jobs in the past month, and that is just the start. If the Conservatives help us pass budget 2025, we will unleash the power of the Canadian economy by building major projects such as the one in Contrecoeur or the container project at the port of Quebec, which my colleague's leader was praising yesterday in Quebec City. I hope the Conservatives will support the budget to build the strongest economy in the G7.

Gérard Deltell (Louis-Saint-Laurent—Akiawenhrahk, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, unfortunately, I am not at all proud of the figure that I am about to share: 2.2 million Canadians are visiting food banks every month. That is the Liberal track record after 10 years. Of these 2.2 million Canadians, one in three is a child. That means that 700,000 children in Canada are relying on food banks to eat. I am sorry, but I love Canada too much to watch this happen. Why is the government continuing to rack up chronic deficits? The deficit is $80 billion, and we know that a deficit is a debt that we pass on to our children and grandchildren. Canadians deserve better than that.

(1125) Hon. Nathalie Provost (Secretary of State (Nature), Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, this budget is a budget that invests in our children. It takes money to invest so that we can create jobs and give all Canadians back their purchasing power. That is what matters. That is what we are doing. That is what Canadians are hoping for, and I hope that our colleagues will support this budget that will give power back to all Canadians.

The Budget

Marilène Gill (Côte-Nord—Kawawachikamach—Nitassinan, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, there would never have been a confidence vote on the budget today if the Liberals had worked in Quebec's best interests, but, unfortunately, here we are. We are here because they refused to negotiate in good faith despite their minority status. They rejected Quebec's demands on health care and infrastructure, just as they ignored the needs of seniors facing the cost of living crisis and the needs of young people hoping to become homeowners. Why did they orchestrate this confidence vote instead of just responding to the needs of Quebeckers?

Hon. Steven MacKinnon (Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, we are fully confident that Quebeckers have seen the investments this budget is making in culture. They have confidence in that. They have confidence in our investments in housing. They have confidence in our investments in the military sector to create jobs at Davie and in aerospace. They have confidence that the Liberal Party will protect our language, culture and Radio-Canada across Canada and invest in our language, our culture in Quebec and our unique Quebec identity. Quebeckers have expressed confidence in this budget. The only question that remains is whether the Bloc Québécois will do the same.

Marilène Gill (Côte-Nord—Kawawachikamach—Nitassinan, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, Quebeckers did not vote Conservative, but this is a Conservative budget, despite its Liberal deficits. Health care cuts, mass layoffs and climate capitulation are all Conservative ideas. The government House leader actually confirmed that in the House on Wednesday when he said that this is a budget that even Conservative voters can like. It must be working, since the Conservative ranks are in turmoil. They can identify with this budget. Why did the Liberals decide to pander to the Conservatives instead of listening to Quebeckers' demands?

Hon. Mélanie Joly (Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, we are very proud to have 44 members from Quebec on this side of the House, which is the largest contingent of members from Quebec ever in this place. We are there to support Quebeckers. Quebeckers asked us for money for health care. We delivered, with hospitals, emergency rooms and medical clinics. We also received support from Quebeckers for our French language and culture initiatives. We have made investments. In the end, what Quebeckers want is jobs, and this is a budget that is going to create jobs.

Yves Perron (Berthier—Maskinongé, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, the Liberals used to draft budgets to please the NDP. Now they are drafting budgets to please the Conservatives. However, there are never any budgets to meet the needs of Quebeckers. What Quebeckers want is a health care system that works. They want to be able to age without losing their purchasing power. They want affordable housing. They want young people to be able to buy a home like the generations before them. That is what we are dealing with in Quebec. Why are the Liberals threatening an election instead of meeting the needs of Quebeckers?

Hon. Joël Lightbound (Minister of Government Transformation, Public Works and Procurement, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I would encourage my colleague to actually read the budget. He mentioned housing. There is a massive investment to build housing in Quebec. He mentioned health care. Quebeckers want high-quality health care infrastructure. There is money for that in the budget. Quebeckers want good jobs. Major projects are planned across Quebec to develop our resources and create opportunities for young people. My colleague mentioned purchasing power. There is a tax cut for 22 million Canadians that will save families an average of $800. What do Quebeckers want? They want a budget that is responsible and ambitious, and that is exactly what we are delivering.

[ English ] Finance

Garnett Genuis (Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister proposed the worst budget deficit in history outside of the COVID period. Every dollar he spends costs Canadians in taxes and through inflation. More spending by government means more sacrifices for Canadians, with more than one in four Canadians now living in financially insecure households. Will the Prime Minister at least consider reducing his deficits to levels we saw under Justin Trudeau?

Leslie Church (Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretaries of State for Labour, for Seniors, and for Children and Youth, and to the Minister of Jobs and Families (Persons with Disabilities), Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, what is remarkable about this budget is that it builds for the future but helps people today. This is a budget that cuts taxes for 22 million Canadians, saving families up to $800 a year. It makes the national school food program permanent, helping over half a million kids. It delivers automatic federal tax filing for five and a half million Canadians. It invests in housing, it invests in infrastructure and it lowers barriers to make the Canada disability benefit more accessible. If the member opposite truly cares about affordability for families in Canada, he will come on over and vote for this budget.

(1130) Garnett Genuis (Sherwood Park—Fort Saskatchewan, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, I know it is difficult for some members of the Liberal caucus to understand, but parents would actually prefer to be able to afford to buy food themselves for their kids. They used to be able to before the Liberals took office. The latest numbers today show that more than one in four people in Canada is living in a financially insecure household. That is the legacy of that party. It was not this way before; it does not have to be this way again. When will the Liberals change course?

Leslie Church (Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretaries of State for Labour, for Seniors, and for Children and Youth, and to the Minister of Jobs and Families (Persons with Disabilities), Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, the Conservatives think they know best, but they are actually ignoring the experts. They are ignoring the Coalition for Healthy School Food, which calls this budget a “great step forward to support children and youth in Canada.” They are ignoring the Heart and Stroke Foundation and the Breakfast Club of Canada, which also applaud our commitment to making the national school food program permanent. The Conservatives need to listen to the experts, listen to Children First Canada, about why this program makes a difference and why half a million families across the country would benefit from it.

Hon. Mike Lake (Leduc—Wetaskiwin, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, speaking of experts, according to Fitch Ratings just yesterday, “Canada's...proposed budget, announced in Parliament on Nov. 4, underscores the erosion of the federal government's finances...[and] persistent fiscal expansion and a rising debt burden have weakened its credit profile and could increase rating pressure over the medium term.” This has happened before, with crushing impacts on Canadians. In the nineties, after similar rating pressure, the Liberal government of the day was forced to cut 32% from federal health and social transfers over just two years. Does anyone over there understand the gravity of this situation?

Hon. Tim Hodgson (Minister of Energy and Natural Resources, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, as somebody who has spent much of his life in the banking community, I will tell the member about the S&P and Moody's ratings, which are AAA, the best in the entire world. We have the second-lowest debt-to-GDP ratio. We are doing just fine.

Hon. Mike Lake (Leduc—Wetaskiwin, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, ratings are always great until the day they are not. Here is a quick review of the early nineties from Reuters. In February 1994, it said, “The...Liberal government brings down what it considers to be a tough budget....

It nonetheless still has spending rising slightly, and immediate public and market reaction is it did not go nearly far enough.” In January 1995, it said, “A biting editorial in the Wall Street Journal headlined ‘Bankrupt Canada’ calls Canada ‘an honorary member of the Third World.’” The next month, the Liberal government was forced to make the most vicious cuts to health care and social programs in Canadian history. Who over there is willing to take a stand to avoid a repeat?

Hon. David McGuinty (Minister of National Defence, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, budget 2025 includes generational investments to rebuild, rearm and reinvest in the Canadian Armed Forces, and it starts with our people. This budget includes a $2-billion historic pay and benefits package, which will impact close to 100,000 forces members and their families. Untrained sailors, privates and aviators are receiving a 20% pay raise. That is what is in our budget. That is what is at stake. All members of the House should come together to support our forces, as they help to build and keep Canada strong.

The Economy

Kelly DeRidder (Kitchener Centre, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, while Canadians are being forced to choose between heating and eating, the government has chosen to increase our national debt by $80 billion. Can the Prime Minister please explain how driving up debt and increasing the cost of living are going to help the single mom skipping meals, the senior afraid to open their hydro bill or the young family priced out of their new home? Is this just continued economic theatre from a government that has completely lost touch with reality?

Hon. Stephanie McLean (Secretary of State (Seniors), Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, they say they are fighting for youth, but they plan to vote against the national school food program. They say they are fighting for families, but they plan to vote against the middle-income tax cut. They say they are fighting for workers, but they plan to vote against the $75-million apprenticeship training fund. They say they are fighting for our borders, but they plan to vote against a much-needed pay raise for service members in our armed forces, including in my riding at CFB Esquimalt. Canadians want to know who the Conservatives are fighting for, because it certainly is not Canadians.

(1135) Hon. Andrew Scheer (Regina—Qu'Appelle, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, after 10 years of Liberal inflationary deficits, working Canadians have never had it so tough. People lined up at food banks and parents putting beef back on the grocery store shelf were desperate for something in the budget to bring prices down. Did the Prime Minister scrap hidden taxes on food? No. Did he scrap the 17¢ fuel standards tax? No. The Prime Minister heard the cries of working Canadians and what did he do? He scrapped the luxury tax on private jets and yachts. That is right. The only measure in this budget to make things cheaper will only apply to boats and airplanes.

Can the Prime Minister tell us how many Canadians lined up at food banks will benefit from the private jet tax cut?

Hon. Patty Hajdu (Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, what Canadians want is a government that will invest in their futures and invest in their possibilities. That is exactly what we have been doing. Some 67,000 new jobs were added this month. For two months in a row, we are seeing unemployment go down. What is great about this is that youth unemployment is going down. The investments we are making are working. This is a budget for young people, seniors and families. The Conservatives are going to vote against things like dental care and child care. That is what families need, and that is exactly what this budget delivers.

Hon. Andrew Scheer (Regina—Qu'Appelle, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, if they really wanted to give workers a break, they would scrap the industrial carbon tax that their American competitors do not have to pay. Now we all know who this budget really was for: It was a Brookfield boardroom budget. After all, the billions in extra debt means that bankers and bondholders get big interest payments, and when those board members go out to buy a luxury private jet, they get a big tax break. A Gulfstream G600 is currently listed for $63 million. Can the Prime Minister tell us how much a Brookfield executive will save with the private jet tax cut, and how much more Canadians will have to pay when food prices go up?

Caroline Desrochers (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Housing and Infrastructure, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, unlike the Conservatives, Canadians do not live in a pretend world. They know there is no tax on food. They know which party always votes against affordability, dental care, pharmacare, child care and basically anything with the word “care” in it. Most importantly, Canadians know that our government is there for them with a budget that will protect jobs in critical sectors like auto, steel, aluminum and lumber, and that will build affordable housing and the infrastructures our communities need all across Canada, empowering and catalyzing our economy. If you are really there for Canadians, you will vote for the budget.

The Speaker :

I would remind the member to go through the Chair. I cannot vote unless there is a tie. The hon. member for Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine—Listuguj.

[ Translation ] Fisheries and Oceans

Alexis Deschênes (Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine—Listuguj, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, yesterday, Radio-Canada's Enquête aired a shocking report on lobster smuggling in New Brunswick. This is troubling for the people of Gaspé and for the Maritimes as a whole. The problem is all the more serious given that, for the past several weeks, troubling revelations have come to light at the Standing Committee on Fisheries and Oceans about political interference in fisheries officers' efforts to combat illegal fishing. Officials from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans are reportedly keeping experienced officers from doing their job. Why are senior department officials intervening to prevent the law from being enforced?

[ English ]

Hon. Joanne Thompson (Minister of Fisheries, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, unauthorized fishing is unacceptable, full stop. Fisheries officers have many tools they use in the management of unauthorized fishing, from education to charges to fines. Often, their work happens in remote areas and at times of the day when people are not aware of the work they are doing. I want to thank fisheries officers for their outstanding work in keeping our fisheries safe and peaceful.

[ Translation ]

Alexis Deschênes (Gaspésie—Les Îles-de-la-Madeleine—Listuguj, BQ) :

Mr. Speaker, illegal lobster fishing is putting the species at risk, and that is what concerns fishers the most. They want to protect the resource so that their kids and grandkids get to fish too. We can do something about illegal fishing; all we need to do is enforce the law. All that the fisheries stakeholders who appear before the committee are asking is that officers be allowed to do their work without political interference or reprisals. My question is simple, and the answer needs to be clear. Will the government ensure that these fisheries officers are able to enforce the law?

(1140) [ English ]

Hon. Joanne Thompson (Minister of Fisheries, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I want to assure my colleague that the work is happening. He needs to look at what has happened in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick and other parts of the country. Fisheries officers are on the water. We support their work. They are making a difference. We accept nothing but authorized fishing.

[ Translation ] Carbon Pricing

Bernard Généreux (Côte-du-Sud—Rivière-du-Loup—Kataskomiq—Témiscouata, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, this is the most expensive government in Canadian history. Every dollar the Prime Minister spends comes directly out of the pockets of Canadians. The more he spends, the more it costs. In my riding's agricultural regions, farmers' costs are skyrocketing because of the industrial carbon tax. Fertilizer, farm equipment and transportation: The cost of everything is going up. It is costing more to farm, and that is driving up grocery prices. While this Prime Minister is spending money hand over fist, families are struggling to put food on the table. Why is this government refusing to admit that its industrial carbon tax is a tax on food that we all have to pay for?

Madeleine Chenette (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and to the Secretary of State (Sport), Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, obviously, it is important to maintain the industrial carbon tax to protect our climate and so forth. That said, the cost of living is the number one priority for our constituents, and we are working on that. This is a responsible budget that enables us to do so. When will the official opposition understand that we need to look at the factors that contribute to Canadians' success? We are counting on the official opposition to support the budget.

Bernard Généreux (Côte-du-Sud—Rivière-du-Loup—Kataskomiq—Témiscouata, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, clearly this parliamentary secretary is out of touch with the reality on the ground, especially in the regions. According to a Nanos poll, one in five Canadians skipped paying a bill just to be able to put food on the table. Frankly, that is unacceptable. Can the Prime Minister explain to my voters and to Liberal voters why he is insisting on keeping the industrial carbon tax while families have to choose between heating their home and filling their fridge?

Hon. Mélanie Joly (Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, we know that Quebeckers support the budget because we have met their expectations with good jobs in my colleague's riding, including in La Pocatière. The people who work at Alstom are going to be able to have good jobs. They will be able to buy groceries and support their families. Quebeckers also want a good health care system. At the federal level, we ensured that transfers continued to increase in the last budget and we secured them in this budget. We have also provided support to build hospitals. The Government of Quebec asked us to do so and we delivered. We are there for Quebec.

[ English ]

Helena Konanz (Similkameen—South Okanagan—West Kootenay, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the Liberals promised to spend less but have introduced the largest budget deficit in history outside of COVID. This is at a time when one in five Canadians say they skipped paying a bill to afford groceries this past year. The Liberals had a chance to lower food prices. Instead, they increased the industrial carbon tax on our farms, driving up the cost of fertilizer and farm equipment. Why is the Prime Minister increasing the industrial carbon tax and making food more expensive?

Hon. John Zerucelli (Secretary of State (Labour), Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, the member should take next week to meet with local chapters of the building trades in her riding. I encourage every member to take next week to meet with the locals to understand why they are supporting this budget. From coast to coast to coast, workers are supporting our plan: the Canadian building trades, the Alberta building trades, IBEW, carpenters and on and on. They are endorsing the investments made in this budget. The SEIU said it best: “Promise made. Promise kept.” They are supporting the investments because we are building good union jobs. We are building this country.

Finance

Aaron Gunn (North Island—Powell River, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, after 10 years of the Liberal government, young Canadians are struggling. They are struggling to afford homes in one of the least affordable housing markets in the world. They are struggling to find jobs in an economy that is increasingly slowing down, and they are struggling just to afford food after some of the highest food inflation in more than 30 years. The budget was an opportunity to do right by the next generation. Instead, the Liberals announced over $300 billion in new debt, debt that will be left to these exact same young Canadians to pay for. How is that ethical? How is that fair? How is that remotely fiscally responsible?

(1145) Maggie Chi (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, here is one number: 67,000 jobs created. How are we supporting them? We are supporting them by investing in their health. Through budget 2025, we are investing $5 billion to renew hospitals and health care centres, as well as $97 million to recognize skilled professionals faster, and giving new supports for personal support workers. Do not just take it from me, Mr. Speaker; take it from the CMA, which says this is a “[right] step in the right direction” to support the health of our nation.

Aaron Gunn (North Island—Powell River, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, I have a simple question for the Liberal government. Over the past 10 years, it has doubled Canada's national debt. In that same time, unsurprisingly, it has also doubled the amount of taxpayers' money that it has wasted on paying interest on that debt. In fact, today, we now spend $55 billion a year just on interest payments. That is more than we collect from the GST. That is more than we spend on health care. Now it wants to borrow another $320 billion. Does the government really think that spending $55 billion not on health care, not on roads, but on interest, is a good use of taxpayers' money, yes or no?

Hon. Adam van Koeverden (Secretary of State (Sport), Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, we are building Canada strong, and that includes the spaces and places that Canadians go to play, to practise and to exercise. A healthy lifestyle is preventative medicine, and we are building the facilities necessary right across this country, with new rinks, new pools and new field houses, so the next generation of Canadians can have better physical literacy and a healthier lifestyle, and so they can connect with their communities in those important places. Why will the Conservatives not join us to build Canada strong and make sure that every community has access to those facilities, the infrastructure that keeps us healthy and our communities connected?

Veterans Affairs

Chris Malette (Bay of Quinte, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, in my riding, the Bay of Quinte, so many of my neighbours are friends of veterans, family members of veterans or veterans themselves. It is a privilege and an honour to be here to represent them. The generational budget introduced by the Prime Minister and finance minister earlier this week will be deeply impactful to communities across Canada, including those like mine that are home to so many veterans and active military members and their families, as well as to all Canadians. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs offer his comments on budget 2025?

Sean Casey (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National Defence, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge Lieutenant Colonel Skip Simpson, retired, from the member for Bay of Quinte's office, both for his service to our country and for his service to the constituents in the Bay of Quinte. Budget 2025 indeed represents generational investment in communities across Canada. It also includes $185 million to streamline services for veterans and their families. I call on all members of the House to join me in acknowledging the service and sacrifice of all Canada's veterans and their families.

Ethics

Michael Cooper (St. Albert—Sturgeon River, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, top executives at the Prime Minister 's company, Brookfield, are defying an order of the House to testify at committee about his use of offshore tax havens. This is tantamount to contempt of Parliament. Will the Prime Minister pick up the phone and tell his pals at Brookfield to comply with the House order, or is he complicit in the cover-up?

Hon. Rachel Bendayan (Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, the news today was that we created 67,000 jobs, six-seven. It is great news. We are growing the economy, and budget 2025 is making historic investments that are going to keep this economy moving for generations to come. Why do the Conservatives not stand up and support this investment budget?

Michael Cooper (St. Albert—Sturgeon River, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, evidently, the Prime Minister is complicit, because here are the facts: He was chair of the company that is Canada's biggest tax-dodger. Not only that, but he set up investment funds in Bermuda and the Cayman Islands in which he stands to make millions. The Prime Minister has a responsibility to come clean and come clean today. How much cash does he have stashed in offshore tax havens?

(1150) Hon. Kody Blois (Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister has a responsibility to help build this country and create jobs, and we created 67,000 jobs in the last month alone. We have a plan in budget 2025 to build this country up by building major projects, including in the member's riding and province. We have investments to help support young people in this country, to build up apprentices, to be able to drive this country forward. That is what we are focused on over on this side of the House: supporting Canadians, creating good jobs and helping drive this country forward. That is what we are going to keep doing.

Housing

Ned Kuruc (Hamilton East—Stoney Creek, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the government is the most expensive in Canadian history. Every dollar the Prime Minister spends comes out of the pockets of Canadians. The more the government spends, the more things like housing cost. The Ontario Home Builders' Association says it is deeply disappointed with the Liberal budget, which fails to unlock supply and restore affordability. The government's inaction on housing has put 40,000 jobs at risk in Ontario, and the impact of these losses on the Ontario economy could be $5.3 billion. How can the Liberal budget cost so much but deliver so little to Canadians?

Hon. Sean Fraser (Minister of Justice and Attorney General of Canada and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, Oscar Wilde described a “cynic” as someone who knows the cost of everything but the value of nothing. On this side of the House, we value investments in health care, we value investments in jobs, we value investments in the Canadian Armed Forces and we value investments in housing. We have irony and hypocrisy on full display when the member stands up to advocate for more money for housing before he votes against a budget that has record investments in housing. On this side of the House, we are going to listen to Canadians and make investments to improve their quality of life. I wish, for once, the Conservatives could do the same.

Indigenous Affairs

Ellis Ross (Skeena—Bulkley Valley, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, Premier Eby says the court decided not to provide Richmond homeowners with notice of the Cowichan court litigation, but the Cowichan lawyers said the judge in the case said the parties were free to provide notice of this litigation to private landowners years ago. This includes Canada as represented by the Attorney General. Canada has been and still is missing in action. Why is the Prime Minister being so quiet at a time when people are anxious about their homes and looking for answers?

Hon. Rebecca Alty (Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, Canada disagrees with the B.C. Supreme Court's ruling and appealed it on September 8. Further legal clarity is required to address the decision, particularly relating to private property rights. The Province of British Columbia, the City of Richmond, Musqueam Indian Band and Tsawwassen First Nation have also appealed. We will continue to work collaboratively with all parties to uphold the principles of reconciliation, transparency and legal responsibility to all parties. We remain available for dialogue with the other parties to the litigation throughout this process.

Ellis Ross (Skeena—Bulkley Valley, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, in the meantime, there is chaos and panic in B.C. Everybody is complaining, and everybody is blaming each other. The public is blaming Richmond's counsel. Premier Eby is blaming the court. The government continues to stay quiet. This was only the second time I have heard the government say anything about this case. The first time, it was a staffer. It has always been the Crown's duty to deal with rights and title issues. That is clear in the 2004 Haida court case. Does the Prime Minister have any statements to make to Canadian citizens regarding the Cowichan ruling?

Hon. Rebecca Alty (Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, we did make an announcement in September on this, and we remain available to work with all parties to address this matter.

Chak Au (Richmond Centre—Marpole, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, homeowners in Richmond are sounding the alarm. The Cowichan court ruling undermines the principle of private property ownership, and many fear their homes and businesses are at risk. The Liberal government saw this coming and did nothing. There is no explanation, no reassurance and no leadership, and the government remains silent. Richmond is left in the dark. Families are anxious; investors are pulling back, and confidence in our communities is crumbling. Why will the Liberal government not stand up to defend property rights in Richmond and soon across Canada?

Hon. Rebecca Alty (Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, as I just said to the other member, Canada disagrees with the B.C. Supreme Court's ruling and appealed it on September 8. We remain available for dialogue with the other parties to the litigation throughout this process.

(1155) Health

Jamil Jivani (Bowmanville—Oshawa North, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, Liberals have banned the vast majority of nicotine pouches for sale in Canada, despite the fact that many Canadians use these products to help quit smoking. Canadians just want to go to the corner store, the gas station or wherever cigarettes are sold and choose an alternative product. Even the Neighbourhood Pharmacy Association of Canada agrees. When will the Liberals do the right thing? When will the Liberals free the Zyn?

Maggie Chi (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, our government remains firmly committed to reducing smoking rates, especially among youth. While nicotine pouches may have a role for adults who are trying to quit smoking, evidence shows they are not risk-free. These products contain nicotine, which is addictive and can harm the developing brain. This is why clear guidelines are in place to ensure they are used appropriately and not marketed or flavoured in ways that attract youth. Our priority is to protect the health of Canadians, especially our next generation.

Jamil Jivani (Bowmanville—Oshawa North, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the very same government that likes to push so-called safe supply drugs into our communities now wants to point out nicotine as a problem for adult usage. Health Canada set a target for 2035 to reduce the number of Canadians smoking to less than 5%. The government should have no excuses for making alternatives to cigarettes available wherever cigarettes are sold, such as corner stores, gas stations, wherever. The question remains. When will the Liberals do the right thing? When will they free the Zyn?

Hon. Maninder Sidhu (Minister of International Trade, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, speaking of young people, the first new medical school in the GTA in over 100 years in Brampton is happening, with a $25-million investment in budget 2025. This government is stepping up to support the new TMU medical school to train the next generation of doctors in Brampton. This is how we are empowering young Canadians across the country. This is how we build Brampton and Canada strong.

Burton Bailey (Red Deer, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, under the Liberal government, it is easier for Canadians to continue smoking than quit. Since former Liberal health minister Mark Holland launched his personal crusade against cigarette alternatives, everything we have heard from the government is smoke and mirrors. While nicotine pouches are banned from pharmacies, cigarettes can be bought anywhere. It makes no sense. Instead of blowing more smoke, will the minister finally give Canadians a real chance to quit, and free the Zyn?

Hon. Adam van Koeverden (Secretary of State (Sport), Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, addiction is a serious issue, and the Conservatives are making it blatantly political, which is wrong. Regardless of where people can access it, nicotine causes addiction to nicotine. The Conservatives should be absolutely ashamed of themselves. We have produced good numbers on nicotine and cigarette reductions. We continue to be there to improve the health of Canadians and make sure these are available at the appropriate time, and never for children, never for children.

[ Translation ] Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Guillaume Deschênes-Thériault (Madawaska—Restigouche, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, as a proud Acadian who represents the riding of Madawaska—Restigouche—

Some hon. members: Oh, oh!

[ English ]

The Speaker :

Fridays are usually quiet; this must be a special day. The hon. member for Madawaska—Restigouche.

[ Translation ]

Guillaume Deschênes-Thériault :

Mr. Speaker, as a proud Acadian who represents the riding of Madawaska—Restigouche in the House, I care about the development of our francophone communities. Since 2022, we have seen a major increase in francophone immigration outside Quebec. It is crucial that we maintain that trend to support the vitality of our communities. Since we are celebrating National Francophone Immigration Week, I would like to ask the minister to tell us how our new immigration levels plan will help ensure the demographic growth of francophone communities across Canada.

(1200) Hon. Lena Metlege Diab (Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for his dedication. In 2023 and 2024, we surpassed our target for French-speaking permanent residents outside Quebec. Today, while stabilizing the overall intake of permanent residents, we still plan to welcome over 30,000 francophones every year for the next three years by increasing the francophone immigration target. That is how we will meet our 12% target and strengthen communities everywhere.

[ English ]

Hon. Michelle Rempel Garner (Calgary Nose Hill, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, non-citizen Abraham Daniel Abraham was convicted of criminally abusing his dog, Simba. Abraham repeatedly punched and kicked Simba and tied him to a pole so high that his front legs dangled off the ground. Simba could not lie down or sit and was left crying and yelping, yet Abraham remains in Canada with no deportation guarantee. That is disgusting. Why has the immigration minister not strengthened the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to make sure non-citizens convicted of serious crimes, like Simba's abuser, are swiftly deported?

Hon. Gary Anandasangaree (Minister of Public Safety, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, Canada has a robust system of removals and inadmissibility that enables us to take action. I will commit to the member opposite to looking into it and will get back to her. The circumstances behind the incident she refers to are abhorrent, and I condemn it wholeheartedly.

Hon. Michelle Rempel Garner (Calgary Nose Hill, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the problem is that we have an immigration minister who is so weak that she will not even stand up to answer questions like this. I asked about the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, but she will not stand up, so I will ask again. The case I referred to is so disgusting. There have been so many cases like it: serious criminals and non-citizens who need to be deported. Will the immigration minister stand up and commit to strengthening the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to make sure that non-citizens who are convicted of serious crimes are actually deported?

Hon. Lena Metlege Diab (Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, on this side of the House, we are delivering for Canadians every day. The government's highest priority is the safety and security of Canadians. Let me be clear: A foreign national who has been convicted of a crime is inadmissible to Canada. We work with the IRB, we work with CBSA, we work with CSIS and we work with the RCMP to ensure that we deport anyone who needs to be deported.

Hon. Michelle Rempel Garner (Calgary Nose Hill, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, that excepts a Pakistani national who was convicted of raping his niece. He came into Canada while being on the U.K. sex offender list. It also excepts Simba's abuser. The government does not take the issue seriously. In fact it is so bad that this week the Liberals admitted that they did not even know how many convicted criminals they gave citizenship to. Seriously, they put that in an Order Paper question. I will give the minister one more opportunity. How many citizenships did she issue to criminals in Canada? Her department could not answer that this week.

Hon. Lena Metlege Diab (Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, let me be clear: Foreign nationals who are convicted of a crime are inadmissible to Canada. On this side of the House, we take the safety and security of all Canadians very seriously, and we act. We work with our RCMP, policing partners and CBSA to ensure that we act in accordance with the law and with the immigration and refugee protection regulations and act.

The Environment

Elizabeth May (Saanich—Gulf Islands, GP) :

Mr. Speaker, while many Canadians are looking at the $78-billion deficit number in the budget, many others, while concerned about that deficit, are also wondering about our children and grandchildren and the growing ecological deficit from lack of action on climate and lack of action to protect nature. We look at this budget and want to weep. Those of us who are grandparents and seniors right across this country, and young people, want to know if the government will step up and tackle the generational ecological deficit.

Hon. François-Philippe Champagne (Minister of Finance and National Revenue, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member for her advocacy. In the throne speech, we said we must fight climate change, and our new climate competitiveness strategy includes measures to reduce emissions, including by strengthening industrial carbon pricing, incentivizing investments to reduce carbon and mobilizing private capital. We are also creating a new youth climate corps to empower young people in the fight against climate change. We are committed to protecting nature by halting and reversing nature loss and biodiversity loss through reinforced efforts to conserve 30%—

(1205) The Speaker :

The hon. member for Nanaimo—Ladysmith has the floor.

The Economy

Tamara Kronis (Nanaimo—Ladysmith, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, the Liberals have introduced the most costly and largest budget deficit in history outside COVID. It will drive up the cost of food, housing and everything else that Canadians buy. In Nanaimo—Ladysmith, food bank use is up and donations are down, in part because the people who formerly supported these services now increasingly need to use them to make ends meet. Liberals had the chance to lower food costs for Canadians by scrapping the industrial carbon tax, but they increased it instead, driving up the cost of everything needed to grow our food. Why is the Prime Minister making food more expensive?

Hon. Rebecca Alty (Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, jobs, housing and infrastructure are what the budget has, including through our investment and commitment to accelerating the additions to reserve process. In October I was in Nanaimo, celebrating with the Snuneymuxw First Nation the addition of 195 acres. With this, the first nation is looking to build a $2.3-billion mixed-use development. That means great housing for youth and for everyone on reserve. That means great jobs during construction, and after, on reserve. We look forward to working with first nations to accelerate more additions to reserves. We hope all parties will support this and the budget.

[ Translation ] Climate Change

Alexandre Boulerice (Rosemont—La Petite-Patrie, NDP) :

Mr. Speaker, the Liberal budget is deeply flawed in many important areas, but the climate plan has become a sick joke, at a time when our collective home is on fire. It abandons the greenhouse gas reduction targets for 2030. It eliminates the emissions cap for the oil and gas sector. The Liberal climate strategy boils down to tax credits for critical minerals and carbon capture, which basically amounts to subsidies for mining and oil companies. How can the Liberals call this a generational budget when it ignores the future of generations to come?

Hon. Julie Dabrusin (Minister of Environment and Climate Change, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, let me be clear. This government will continue to fight climate change, and we will do so across our government. This budget makes it clear that we are going to strengthen industrial carbon pricing, reduce methane emissions and implement the clean fuel regulations. Furthermore, we are going to have tax credits for clean electricity. That is good for all Canadians and especially for Quebec.

[ English ] Indigenous Affairs

Gord Johns (Courtenay—Alberni, NDP) :

Mr. Speaker, friendship centres are lifelines for indigenous people in urban communities, providing food, housing, safety, culture and belonging. The urban indigenous population is growing rapidly, and friendship centres are already stretched past the breaking point. Their core funding runs out in March. Budget 2025 offered nothing. Without stable permanent funding, programs will be cut, and doors will close. This is not reconciliation; it is abandonment. When will the government commit to renewing the critical funding to support indigenous peoples with long-term, secure and stable funding?

Ginette Lavack (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous Services, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, we put indigenous children, families and essential services first. The new government is innovating to better serve Canadians by improving efficiencies and by coordinating across all departments, but the federal government has a distinct duty to indigenous people and a key opportunity to strengthen a renewed, respectful relationship. That is why the priority in budget 2025 is to protect critical services like water, housing and infrastructure in community and to ensure that changes made strengthen service delivery.

Points of Order Statements by Members Points of Order

Kurt Holman (London—Fanshawe, CPC) :

Mr. Speaker, I am asking for unanimous consent to redo my S. O. 31.

(1210) The Speaker :

Does the House give its consent?

Some hon. members: Agreed.

Kurt Holman :

Mr. Speaker, this week the Liberal government released its 10th budget, the costliest deficit outside COVID and double what the Prime Minister ’s predecessor left behind. The Prime Minister broke every promise he made. He promised to keep the deficit at $62 billion, a level the Parliamentary Budget Officer had already called “unsustainable”, yet it has now ballooned to $80 billion. He said that he would lower the debt-to-GDP ratio, but both debt and inflation are rising. He promised to spend less, but he added $90 billion more; that is $5,400 in extra inflationary spending per household.

Families in London are paying the price. Groceries, gas, rent and mortgages keep climbing while paycheques fall further behind. Canadians already spend more on debt interest than on health care. The budget at this time is simply irresponsible. Conservatives stand for an affordable budget and an affordable life. Londoners deserve hope, homes and a future they can afford.

Routine Proceedings Routine Proceedings

[ English ] Supplementary Estimates (B), 2025-26

A message from Her Excellency the Governor General transmitting supplementary estimates (

B) for the financial year ending March 31, 2026, was presented by the President of the Treasury Board and read by the Speaker to the House.

Hon. Shafqat Ali (President of the Treasury Board, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the supplementary estimates (B), 2025‑26.

Public Accounts of Canada

Hon. Shafqat Ali (President of the Treasury Board, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to table, in both official languages, “Public Accounts of Canada 2025”. The Auditor General of Canada has provided an unqualified audit opinion on the Government of Canada's financial statements.

Auditor General of Canada

The Deputy Speaker :

It is my duty to lay upon the table, pursuant to subsection 8(2) of the Auditor General Act, a report of the Auditor General of Canada to the House of Commons entitled “Commentary on the 2024-2025 Financial Audits”. Pursuant to Standing Order 108(3)(g), this document is deemed to have been permanently referred to the Standing Committee on Public Accounts.

Departmental Results Reports 2024-25

Hon. Shafqat Ali (President of the Treasury Board, Lib.) :

Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to table, in b