OFFICIAL REPORT (HANSARD)

House of Commons Debates VOLUME 147 NUMBER 125 2nd SESSION 41st PARLIAMENT Wednesday, October 8, 2014 Speaker: The Honourable Andrew Scheer HOUSE OF COMMONS CANADA (Table of Contents appears at back of this issue.) COMMONS DEBATES October 8, 2014 DEBATES Edited Hansard * Table of Contents * Number 125 (Official Version) Official Report * Table of Contents * Number 125 (Official Version) Compte rendu officiel * Table des matières * Numéro 125 (Version officielle) 147 125 08 10 2014 2014/10/08 14:00:00 House of Commons Débats de la Chambre des communes House of Commons Debates 41 2

The House met at 2 p.m. Prayers

Statements by Members (1405) [ English ] The Speaker : It being Wednesday, we will now have the singing of the national anthem led by the hon. member for Scarborough—Agincourt . [ Members sang the national anthem ] STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS Statements by Members [ English ] The Economy Mrs. Stella Ambler (Mississauga South, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, we all know that the leader of the Liberal Party is known for his “oops” moments, but did members know that his Liberal Party critics are having them too?

The member for Wascana was forced to apologize for misleading the House by misquoting support from a Laval economics professor. Then the Liberal finance critic misquoted Jack Mintz, who said that the Liberal EI scheme encourages employers to fire an older worker to make room for a new worker. While the Liberal Party scrambles to cover up for its leader, we are delivering action on Canada's economy. This week we have even more good news. Last year's deficit was down to roughly $5.2 billion, much better than previously forecast. This demonstrates that we are firmly on track to balance the budget.

Yesterday the IMF projected Canada to be one of the strongest growing economies over the years ahead. The Fraser Institute has just ranked Canada among the most economically free countries in the world.

[ Translation ] Agriculture and Agri-Food Mr. François Lapointe (Montmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-Loup, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, on Friday, October 3, there was an awards ceremony for the 125th Ordre national du mérite agricole competition, which recognizes the excellence and dedication of farmers. The regional event for the Lower St. Lawrence took place in Rivière-du-Loup. Many agricultural endeavours in Montmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-Loup were honoured.

Here are a few examples: Ferme Jeannicole, in Kamouraska, won the prestigious title of commander of the Ordre national du mérite agricole; Ferme Hoelet, in La Pocatière, came in second place nationally; Ferme Jean Labrie, in Kamouraska, came in second place regionally and third place nationally; and Ferme Flamande, in Saint-Hubert-de-Rivière-du-Loup, won the La Coop fédérée agri-environmental award. Mr. Speaker, food security is necessary for members of society to be truly happy.

We must recognize the excellence of our agricultural workers and producers just as we must ensure that each and every decision we make in the House helps our agricultural businesses thrive.

[ English ] Marriage Mr. Maurice Vellacott (Saskatoon—Wanuskewin, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, there is a myth out there that the divorce rate is close to 50%. Shaunti Feldhahn found some startling and encouraging things in the research for her new book, The Good News About Marriage . The divorce rate for first marriages is actually around 30%. Christians have between a 30% and 50% lower divorce rate than the general population. Although these are American figures, we Canucks can likely shave a few points off of that.

If people were to realize these facts and that most marriages do make it, they would be less skittish about tying the knot. When troubles come, they can say that most people have challenges in a marriage, but most people get over them and get through those problems, and they will too. As the Institute of Marriage and Family Canada pointed out in a recent study, married couples tend to live longer. They tend to be wealthier. They tend to have a much easier time getting out of poverty. Their kids do better in school, are less likely to take drugs and alcohol, and are more likely to delay sexual activity.

Of course, they are also happier. There is good news out there about marriage, and we need to spread the word. The vast majority of marriages happily thrive. Marriage is a still a wonderful thing.

Nancy MacLean Hon. Wayne Easter (Malpeque, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Nancy MacLean, who passed away in Vancouver due to unexpected complications following surgery. Nancy was born on P.E.I., grew up in North Wiltshire, and graduated from UPEI with a BA in English and psychology. She so loved to write. She worked in three fields: as writer and editor for the entertainment and family pages of the Charlottetown Patriot ; in the Privy Council Office of Prime Minister Trudeau, leaving for the west coast due to the pull of the sea; and in community work with seniors on the west coast.

Quite young, she was struck down with severely crippling rheumatoid arthritis, forcing her to retire. No stranger to surgery, facing it at least seven times, and certainly no stranger to the pain and depressing impact of arthritis, she never complained. Instead, she showed her kind heart and humour. Everyone who knew her admired her courage. She showed that courage and bravery through her disability. Nancy loved both P.E.I. and B.C., but her heart belonged to P.E.I. We offer our condolences to her brothers, sisters, nieces, and nephews.

Operation Northern Spotlight Mrs. Joy Smith (Kildonan—St. Paul, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, in March I raised the impact of Operation Northern Spotlight, a national anti-trafficking initiative carried out by police services across Canada to identify and rescue victims of sex trafficking from prostitution. Today I am pleased to give the House an update that phase two of Operation Northern Spotlight was carried out last week. Members of 26 police services, including my hometown Winnipeg police force, met with individuals in prostitution.

As a result of the coordinated investigations, nine people were charged with 33 offences, including child pornography, assault, human trafficking, and living off the avails. Police were also able to ensure the safety of 18 people who had been working in the sex trade as minors or against their will. Today I would like to thank the 167 officers and support staff involved in last week's operation, and the local NGOs that partnered with the police. They worked relentlessly to bring freedom to those trapped in prostitution and sex trafficking.

New Westminster—Coquitlam Community Events Mr. Fin Donnelly (New Westminster—Coquitlam, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, “Wait for me, Daddy”. These famous words of Warren “Whitey” Bernard were immortalized in a sculpture unveiled this past weekend in the royal city of New Westminster. The bronze statue depicts the iconic photograph of Whitey reaching out for his father's hand, who was a soldier marching with the B.C. Regiment down Eighth Street headed off to fight in the Second World War. The photograph captures a tender moment that reminds us of the pain of separation and the sacrifices made by those who serve.

As the community gathered for the unveiling of this special sculpture and commemorative stamp and coin, we also were reminded of the hundreds of Canadian soldiers who will be deployed for combat this month, prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country. I would also like to acknowledge Terri Evans of the Coquitlam Farmers Market. This weekend we celebrated her 18 years of service to the society, our community, and the local food movement. Volunteers like Terri contribute to building healthy, sustainable communities, and I thank her for her service.

(1410) Prostitution Mr. Pierre Lemieux (Glengarry—Prescott—Russell, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased that Bill C-36 , the protection of communities and exploited persons act, passed third reading here in the House only two nights ago. Our Conservative government has provided the necessary leadership to ensure that Canada has the laws and safeguards to fight prostitution and the many evils that come with it: the proliferation of sexually transmitted diseases, the degradation and exploitation of women and girls, the scourge of human trafficking, and the involvement of organized crime, to name only a few.

It would be naive to think that these serious harms would be eliminated if prostitution were to suddenly become legal. It should also be stated clearly that prostitution harms marriage and the family, both of which are fundamental to a healthy and strong nation. As the father of five children, four of whom are daughters, I am glad that the purchase of sex through prostitution will remain illegal, thanks to Bill C-36 . I personally thank each parliamentarian who voted in favour of this important legislation.

Riding of Fort McMurray—Athabasca Mr. David Yurdiga (Fort McMurray—Athabasca, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the constituents of Fort McMurray—Athabasca for granting me the privilege to be their voice in the House of Commons. The Fort McMurray—Athabasca riding is large geographically. I had the distinct privilege of meeting many constituents this past summer while travelling throughout the riding. The one characteristic that unifies our region is our strong sense of community.

We are not only blessed with a diverse economy, but also enriched with a healthy and growing multicultural community. As more immigrants become settled, our community has benefited from new cultural exchange and celebrations. Our Conservative government believes in strong, vibrant communities. That is why our government has implemented the new Building Canada plan that focuses on creating jobs, economic growth, and long-term prosperity.

Service Canada Mr. Mike Sullivan (York South—Weston, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, the EI program for parents of critically ill children is a very valuable one, but only if it is working and paying people during their time of need. Sadly, it did not for Amanda Oram. Cole Oram was born prematurely. He and his mom spent the next six months in the neonatal intensive care unit. She had to go into debt because she could not get EI to pay what she was owed.

She spent exhausting hours trying to get through to Service Canada, waiting on hold, getting misdirected, having to resubmit applications, and having hospital documentation wrongly rejected. Service Canada's unreachability and bungling caused Amanda to spend countless hours away from her newborn son. A Mount Sinai Hospital study shows that the presence of parents of preemies improves weight gain, breastfeeding, and decreases infection. Sadly, Cole died. Amanda does not want others to suffer the same nightmare. She will never get back those hours she lost with her son.

Service Canada is under-resourced and poorly managed. This government should be ashamed enough to act now to fix this.

Thanksgiving Mr. Ryan Leef (Yukon, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, as the holiday weekend fast approaches, I would like to highlight that Canadian food banks are encouraging all Canadians to consider those families who are a little less fortunate than theirs by buying a turkey and gifting a turkey. I would like to give thanks this year that I live in a territory of generous people who are full of the volunteerism spirit and are always willing to step up and support a great community cause.

I challenge all Yukoners to do what I have already done and gift a turkey to the local food bank in Whitehorse so that everybody can enjoy a great Thanksgiving weekend this year. To those Yukoners who are taking a break this Thanksgiving weekend by travelling on Yukon's airline, Air North, to Victoria to run the marathon, I would like to wish them all the best in their run. To all Yukoners and all Canadians, from my family to theirs, I wish everybody a very happy Thanksgiving.

(1415) [ Translation ] International Day of the Girl Child Ms. Mylène Freeman (Argenteuil—Papineau—Mirabel, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, to mark the third International Day of the Girl Child, my New Democratic colleagues and I are joining this call for action. Too often, girls and young women are deprived of their right to self-determination. For girls to achieve self-actualization and live with dignity, they need education, they need food security, they need to live free of violence, and they need to have their reproductive choices respected, but in Canada and around the world, we are still fighting for those rights.

We must keep working toward the independence of girls and women. [ English ] We need to enshrine reproductive rights in our laws. Every young woman deserves to choose when, how, and with whom she becomes a mother. We need to empower all women to seek economic, housing, and food security. We need to honour indigenous rights and correct the legacy of colonial violence that afflicts the lives of Métis, Inuit, and first nations girls in Canada. We need a coordinated national action plan to address violence against women.

We must work in solidarity with women and girls in every community to bring these rights and freedoms to indigenous girls, to low-income girls, to girls who face violence, to all girls.

International Trade Mr. Larry Maguire (Brandon—Souris, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to inform the House that Canada's Minister of Agriculture is in Chicago today to meet with American and Mexican representatives to highlight the importance of free and open trade. This is a unique opportunity for all three NAFTA countries to promote the integrated nature of our agriculture and food industry. Since NAFTA came into force, North American agricultural trade has quadrupled to over $1 billion a week.

However, U.S. country of origin labelling continues to be a serious roadblock against Canadian cattle and hog exports. Our government has challenged COOL at the WTO, and the WTO has made it clear: COOL is a blatant trade discrimination. That is why the minister is sending a clear message to our friends in the U.S. that it is time to fall into line with its obligations to the global trading community. We continue to stand with our farmers and ranchers, and we are prepared to seek authorization from the WTO to impose retaliatory tariffs on U.S. imports if COOL is not resolved.

Trade is what drives our economies, and we must continue to work together to grow our agriculture industries and operate our markets under science-based rules that reduce barriers to trade.

Erik Spicer Hon. Ralph Goodale (Wascana, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to an illustrious parliamentarian who passed away September 27. Erik John Spicer was never elected to the House of Commons or called to the Senate, but for 34 years he served these two institutions with skill and devotion as the Parliamentary Librarian of Canada. Erik loved the library, as a building of huge historic importance, as an institution fundamental to our democracy, as a service indispensable to Canadians. He served eight prime ministers, 22 Speakers, thousands of MPs, and millions of citizens.

Erik was a decorated veteran, a patron of the arts, a man active in his local community and devoted to his family. Canada's longest continually serving parliamentary official, Erik was uniquely recognized on his retirement as Librarian Emeritus and an honorary officer of both Houses. Our thoughts and prayers are with his loving wife of 61 years, Helen, and the entire Spicer family.

National Hockey League Mr. Mike Wallace (Burlington, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, with Thanksgiving just around the corner, Canadians from coast to coast have much to be thankful for: a strong Canadian economy and a government committed to lowering taxes, increasing trade with our global partners, and much more. Last but not least is the fact that the NHL is back. After a long summer of watching our professional baseball team tease Canadian sports fans with hopes of making the playoffs, the Canadian Football League playoffs are just around the corner.

As Canadian hockey fans, we are ready to eat, sleep, and breathe hockey, as we embark on the emotional roller coaster of following our favourite teams through every puck drop, penalty shot, goal scored, overtime, and shootout. For all those who are supporting our Canadian teams, the Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, Vancouver Canucks, Ottawa Senators, Winnipeg Jets, Calgary Flames, and Edmonton Oilers, here is hoping our teams have a great season. Go Habs.

Iraq Mr. Glenn Thibeault (Sudbury, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, the word “flip-flop” gets overused sometimes, but in the case of the Liberal Party and Iraq, we have seen so many flip-flops, five of them actually, we have had to coin a new word, the “fifth-flop”. On September 9, the Liberals' foreign affairs critic announced full support for the special forces mission. Two days later, the Liberal leader said that he would not rule out air strikes. The next week he declared that the Liberals would not support combat. However, later the same day he said that he might support combat if the Prime Minister answered questions.

By October 6, the critic was saying that the Liberals were open to a military mission “of a non-combat nature”. Then yesterday he said that the Liberals would support the combat mission after the mission passed the House. Meanwhile, the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration is making up stories about weapons of mass destruction, the Minister of Foreign Affairs is unable to give details about the mission, and the Prime Minister cannot even give a straight answer about how many soldiers are on the ground. Are members confused? So are Canadians, and Canadians deserve better.

(1420) Ukraine Mr. Ted Opitz (Etobicoke Centre, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, our government is steadfast in its support for Ukraine as it works towards a better and freer future. Today, while in Ukraine, Ambassador Andrew Bennett announced additional support to foster the development of a political culture in Ukraine that would facilitate pluralism and religious freedom. Specifically, we are partnering with the OSCE to promote religious freedom and interfaith dialogue and to prevent hate crimes in Ukraine.

Moreover, we will be partnering with the Catholic Near East Welfare Association to promote interfaith and intercultural understanding among the different communities in Ukraine. Pluralism and religious tolerance are essential principles for a thriving democratic society. Canada will always stand with the people of Ukraine as it strengthens its institutions and reinforces the foundations of democracy, human rights, and religious tolerance. Slava Ukraini .

Oral questions Oral Questions [ English ] International Development Hon. Thomas Mulcair (Leader of the Opposition, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, thousands of people have died from Ebola and many more have been exposed. The threat is increasing exponentially. Will the Prime Minister hear the plea from U.S. Secretary of State John Kerry for countries to urgently increase their contribution? How will the Conservative government step up Canada's efforts to help those suffering from this Ebola outbreak and to stop its spread? Right Hon. Stephen Harper (Prime Minister, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, as members know, the Minister of International Development announced only recently increased assistance in this regard. Canada has two mobile units now present there. We have been moving materiel to help support the battle against Ebola. We have made resources, both financial and otherwise, available to the World Health Organization and other organizations that are operating on the ground. We will continue to work with the international community on fighting what is a pandemic of some considerable concern. [ Translation ] Hon. Thomas Mulcair (Leader of the Opposition, NDP) : Mr.

Speaker, I thank the Prime Minister for his answer, but the most important thing is that there is an Ebola vaccine developed here in Canada. The Prime Minister has the power and the duty to make this vaccine available to the human beings who need it. Will the Prime Minister take action, save lives and make sure that this vaccine is delivered to the people who need it? Right Hon. Stephen Harper (Prime Minister, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, there is a vaccine, and the government has made it available to the World Health Organization. It is up to that organization to decide how to use it. The vaccine is available. Hon.

Thomas Mulcair (Leader of the Opposition, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, it is available, but it has not been delivered. The real question is, why has it not been delivered? [ English ] In 2010, the Conservative government gave the intellectual property rights for the Ebola vaccine to a private company. That is the only reason this vaccine is being held up. The Prime Minister knows that as well as we do. What has the Prime Minister done? What has he done to help break this log jam and get this vaccine to the people who desperately need it? Right Hon. Stephen Harper (Prime Minister, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, I have asked and confirmed that there is no intellectual property matter involved in the non-delivery of this vaccine. The vaccine is available to the World Health Organization. The World Health Organization at this point, for its own reasons, has decided not to deploy it. However, it is not due to that reason, and it is available to the WHO.

(1425) [ Translation ] National Defence Hon. Thomas Mulcair (Leader of the Opposition, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, last year the Prime Minister claimed that the situation in Syria was so serious that it warranted a regime change at all costs. Now the Prime Minister would gladly bomb Bashar al-Assad's enemies, but only if the dictator asks him to do so. Why is the Prime Minister willing to compromise our soldiers and Canada's honour to help such a bloodthirsty dictator? Right Hon. Stephen Harper (Prime Minister, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, the government has no intention of engaging in a war against Syria, Iraq or any other country in that region. We are engaging in a military mission against the Islamic State, and we believe it is important that that terrorist organization not have any safe haven in the region. [ English ] Hon. Thomas Mulcair (Leader of the Opposition, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, this weekend, the Minister of Foreign Affairs said that he could not discuss where Canadian aircraft would be based, as it was an operational detail. The United States openly tells its citizens where its planes are based.

It is being reported here in Canada that our planes will be based in Kuwait. Why can the Prime Minister not give Canadians a straight answer to such a clear question? Is the location of our aircraft top secret or can the Prime Minister simply confirm that they will be based in Kuwait? Right Hon. Stephen Harper (Prime Minister, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I can confirm to the House that the CF-18s will be deployed from 4 Wing Cold Lake, the Polaris will be deployed from 8 Wing Trenton, and the Auroras will be deployed from 14 Wing Greenwood.

I know that the military is continuing to work on the deployment plan, and I am not in a position at this point to confirm where that deployment will be.

Insternational Development Mr. Justin Trudeau (Papineau, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, many of the refugees from Kobani who entered southern Turkey had already fled their homes in other parts of Syria. In their rush to escape this time, many left with only the clothes on their back. They will soon be facing a cold winter. The humanitarian effort in the region is underfunded. Does the government intend to offer more than the $10 million in new aid recently announced? Right Hon. Stephen Harper (Prime Minister, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, the government, as the Minister of International Development said yesterday, has been one of the leading donors to the humanitarian crisis in this region, and we will continue to be so. However, let us be very clear. There can be no solution to the refugee crisis if we simply let ISIL go on and create millions more refugees in this region. That is part of the reason why this mission is so necessary.

[ Translation ] Citizenship and Immigration Mr. Justin Trudeau (Papineau, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, millions of Syrian refugees are now in Turkey, and winter is just around the corner. Canada could help by meeting its objectives regarding the number of refugees we welcome here. Will the government provide additional funding to deal with this looming crisis, and will it meet and even increase its own targets? Right Hon. Stephen Harper (Prime Minister, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, as the Minister of International Development has explained from the beginning, the Government of Canada is one of the leading donors to the humanitarian crisis in this region. We will continue to do our part. The Islamic State terrorist organization is creating millions of refugees, and we will not be able to stop it without military action. [ English ] Mr. Justin Trudeau (Papineau, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, last year Canada proposed an initial Syrian refugee intake target of 1,300, but only 200 are reported to have arrived on Canadian soil so far.

When will last year's target be met, and more importantly, when will that target be increased? Right Hon. Stephen Harper (Prime Minister, CPC) : Once again, Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration has addressed that particular question on a number of occasions. I look at the numbers that the leader of the Liberal Party is throwing around. We have an organization in the region destabilizing an entire region and threatening to turn yet millions more people into refugees. There is no solution involved in simply a refugee response.

If we want to stop ISIL, we have to do more than a refugee and humanitarian response, which we are doing. We also have to take a military response. That is what the international community and Canada are doing.

(1430) National Defence Mr. Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, yesterday the Minister of Foreign Affairs said, “We are going to war with ISIL.” I have a question for the government. What is its vision of victory? What are its criteria for victory, and does it still believe that it can win this war in six months? Hon. Rob Nicholson (Minister of National Defence, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, we have been very clear that our mission is to degrade the capability of ISIL to commit the terrorist acts that it has been doing. This is part of our greater effort of humanitarian assistance.

We have been providing surveillance on the ground. We are going to be deploying our planes. This is a mission that should have had the support of everybody last night. I am very disappointed in that. Mr. Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre, NDP) : It is answers like that, Mr. Speaker, that have Canadians worried about mission creep. Last night, the Conservatives voted against the NDP's alternative plan, which would have kept Canada out of the war in Syria. Nearly all of our allies have put into place clear caveats that will not allow them to go into Syria.

Can the government explain why it has opened the door to Canadian combat in Syria? Hon. Rob Nicholson (Minister of National Defence, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, we have been very clear about this mission. We have indicated that it is in Iraq and it is against ISIL. We will be deploying Canadian aircraft from the RCAF, the Polaris, the Auroras and the CF-18s. I am confident that they will get the job done. They will do the right thing and degrade this terrorist organization.

International Development Ms. Hélène Laverdière (Laurier—Sainte-Marie, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, we learned this morning in the Toronto Star that a report from the OECD says that in 2013 Canada was among the countries that reduced its foreign aid budget the most. During that same period, the international community globally increased its development assistance budget. In New York, the Prime Minister acknowledged that poverty and underdevelopment can foster conflict. Does the minister agree? Why not invest more? Ms. Lois Brown (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, we want to assist the most vulnerable people around the world and help to lift them out of poverty. Our government has a global reputation for paying what we pledge. Canada has been commended for delivering on its commitments to transparent and accountable development and for doing exactly what we say we are going to do. We will continue to ensure that all Canadians can take pride in our global leadership in development assistance. [ Translation ] Ms. Hélène Laverdière (Laurier—Sainte-Marie, NDP) : Mr.

Speaker, the OECD report is clear: Canada is giving less and less development assistance, while the entire international community is giving more and more. In New York, the Prime Minister acknowledged that underdevelopment could create a breeding ground for conflict. Does the minister agree that now is not the time for cuts, but for additional investments? [ English ] Ms. Lois Brown (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of International Development, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, as I said earlier, our commitment is to helping people, globally, be lifted out of poverty and to see a better life in the future.

Canada met all of its commitments for our global development . We want to ensure that those dollars are well spent. We want to know that Canadians are proud of the work we are doing, and we will continue to do that.

[ Translation ] Rail Transportation Mr. Hoang Mai (Brossard—La Prairie, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, this morning, the coroner's office released a report on the Lac-Mégantic tragedy. It recommends that no train carrying dangerous goods be left on a main line unsupervised. How is that even still possible, especially after the events at Lac-Mégantic? When will the minister change the regulations and implement these recommendations? [ English ] Hon. Lisa Raitt (Minister of Transport, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, with the release of the report we are reminded that 47 people lost their lives in this tragic incident.

Of course, our thoughts and prayers will continue to be with the victims, their families and those who supported them. That said, we have taken great strides this year to ensure that we have responded to every single recommendation of the Transportation Safety Board. We will take into consideration as well what is put out in the Quebec coroner's report, and together we will ensure that safety in rail is primarily and predominantly at the top of our agenda and will continue to do so. (1435) [ Translation ] Mr. Hoang Mai (Brossard—La Prairie, NDP) : Mr.

Speaker, unfortunately the news in the past few days reminds us that immediate action needs to be taken. Just yesterday, a CN freight train carrying dangerous goods derailed in Saskatchewan. Local residents had to evacuate to avoid breathing in the fumes. The TSB has already come down hard on the government for its lax attitude and lack of oversight. What is the minister doing to ensure that the rail companies are obeying the law? [ English ] Hon. Lisa Raitt (Minister of Transport, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, with respect to the premise that we have not done anything, let me just remind the House that we have invested $60 million to support response and recovery efforts and $95 million for decontamination remediation in Lac-Mégantic. We have removed the least crash-resistant DOT-111 tank cars from service. We require these tank cars be phased out within three years, well before the United States made the same moves. We require ERAPs for everything. We made sure that we brought a task force together with municipalities and first responders. Railway companies are required to reduce the speed of trains.

I have a list that continues on. Mr. Matthew Kellway (Beaches—East York, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, “avoidable” was how the Lac-Mégantic coroner described the 47 deaths. Still, the minister has failed to implement recommendations from the Transportation Safety Board to fix lax oversight of rail safety in her department. Yesterday's fiery derailment in Saskatchewan, once again, raised concerns about the risks posed by hazardous rail shipments. Still, in the House, the minister says accidents like this happen. What more will it take for the minister to simply and finally implement the TSB's recommendations? Hon.

Lisa Raitt (Minister of Transport, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, we have worked diligently on this matter with the municipalities, with the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, with railway companies, with teamsters, with everybody involved in ensuring rail safety moves forward. I can say one thing, though. It is erroneous to assume that this accident was not caused by one person who did not set enough handbrakes. Indeed, that individual and a number of others have been charged criminally in a court of law, as a result of negligence, which will go through its process.

The reality is that we have worked very closely on the matter. We have implemented many different actions to ensure that rail— The Speaker : Order, please. The hon. member for Parkdale—High Park .

Transport Ms. Peggy Nash (Parkdale—High Park, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, it is government negligence that people are most concerned about. Conservatives have also been failing Canadians when it comes to vehicle safety. The number of confirmed deaths due to faulty GM ignition switches has climbed to 24, but there are many more alleged to be linked to the defect. In spite of this, the Conservatives refuse to bring GM and departmental officials to committee to answer questions. Canadians deserve answers. Can the minister at least tell us, so far, how much GM has been fined here in Canada? Hon.

Lisa Raitt (Minister of Transport, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, under the law in Canada there is an obligation on GM to ensure that it informs Transport Canada of any defects. It did so in February of this year. We have not seen any evidence, after requesting more information, of its having any information regarding this defect in Canada prior to that time. As such, there have not been any charges issued under the Motor Vehicle Safety Regulations.

Manufacturing Industry Ms. Peggy Nash (Parkdale—High Park, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, we have to love that voluntary compliance. October is National Manufacturing Month. We would not know it from the minister's press release, but Canada has lost 415,000 good manufacturing jobs under the Conservative government. The Conservatives still have no plan to boost investment and innovation and they have cut support for R and D. Manufacturing creates high-wage, high-quality jobs. When will the Conservatives start defending the interests of the hundreds of thousands of Canadians who work in the manufacturing sector? Hon.

James Moore (Minister of Industry, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, it is a simple fact that Canada's manufacturing sales have bounced back and are actually up 25%. As well, our government's initiatives include the automotive innovation fund. There was an announcement just last week, for example, at Ford in Oakville. It is creating 1,000 jobs on top of the 1,200 jobs that are currently in Oakville. Add to that the fact that I was in Halifax this weekend at the Irving shipyard where there is the largest shipbuilding facility in all of North America, creating ships for Canada, for Canadians, for the future.

It is a $33 billion investment in Canada's manufacturing sector. We are delivering from coast to coast.

(1440) Rail Transportation Hon. Ralph Goodale (Wascana, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, people in Saskatchewan are cleaning up the mess from yesterday's train derailment. There were no injuries, thankfully, but it was dangerous. Twenty-six cars crashed. Dangerous goods spilled. There was a fire and pollution, and 50 people were evacuated. The province, municipalities, and private individuals incurred costs. I have three questions. Will all those costs be fully and quickly reimbursed? Were local first responders informed of the contents of that train before they had to deal with the emergency?

Were these the old DOT-111 cars? Hon. Lisa Raitt (Minister of Transport, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, with respect to the first question from the hon. member, CN is responsible for the cleanup and any costs associated with it, so that is a question he should take up with CN. However, we fully expect a polluter pays principle in this country. In fact, it was this government, in the Speech from the Throne, that indicated even more clearly that we fully expect and anticipate that this will be the regime going forward.

With respect to first responders, I am informed by officials on the ground that, yes indeed, there was collaboration between first responders and the appropriate officials in order to determine what was happening at the time. With respect to the matter of the cars that were in use, the member should ask CN that question. Hon. Ralph Goodale (Wascana, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, we do not yet know the cause of the Saskatchewan train wreck, but apparently operator error is being ruled out.

Nevertheless, there is clearly an ongoing argument between Transport Canada and the railway companies about the issue of operator fatigue. Some reports suggest that as many as three-quarters of freight operators may actually have fallen asleep at the controls. The issue is acknowledged. It has been under investigation since 2009. Air crews and truck drivers are regulated against fatigue. Will the government implement the necessary safety regulations for train crews before Christmas? Hon. Lisa Raitt (Minister of Transport, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, I would just caution the hon. member on talking about the causation before the Transportation Safety Board has weighed in on the cause of the accident. We do wait for it to do its work. With respect to fatigue management plans, Transport Canada does indeed have the requirement that railway companies submit fatigue management plans. As well we do have rules for railway operating employees developed under the Railway Safety Act. We do have rules in place. We expect the companies to respect them. We want to have their plans and we will ensure that we enforce appropriately.

Health Hon. Hedy Fry (Vancouver Centre, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, while we all understand that the nature of contagion of Ebola is low outside of endemic areas, Canadians are understandably anxious about reported cases outside West Africa, such as in Texas and Spain. Can the Minister of Health tell us exactly what is Canada's level of preparedness for containment of possible cases of Ebola, including access to vaccines and treatment here in Canada? Hon. Rona Ambrose (Minister of Health, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, Canada's preparedness is high.

The Chief Public Health Officer is almost daily on calls with his provincial counterparts. I have spoken to all of my health counterparts as well on this issue. We have a very good public health system in Canada, whether it be for prevention, awareness, or treatment. I have had the opportunity to speak with Canada's Chief Public Health Officer this morning on the matter of managing risks to the border. Of course, Canadians should know that international border crossings in Canada are monitoring 24-7, and travellers from the affected West African countries are identified, and they are asked about their health.

Our government will be taking the additional step of doing targeted temperature screenings. We will do whatever is necessary to protect Canadians.

The Environment Ms. Megan Leslie (Halifax, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, the Minister of the Environment 's definition yesterday of “leadership” includes not implementing promises, not meeting targets, and not answering questions. The environment commissioner says that there is no climate change plan. The Conservatives are not going to meet their Copenhagen targets, and their sector-by-sector approach is not working. The Conservatives have had eight years. When are we going to see emissions regulations in the oil and gas sector? Hon.

Leona Aglukkaq (Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, this is a continental issue, and we need a North American-wide solution. Our government will continue to work with the United States on reducing greenhouse gas emissions for the oil and gas sector. We feel it is best to align with the United States as we have done in the transportation sector, as an example.

We will continue to protect the environment and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in a way that maintains job creation and economic growth. (1445) [ Translation ] Ms. Megan Leslie (Halifax, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, according to the environment commissioner, the new environmental assessment process is full of holes. As a result of the Conservatives' legislative tricks, 80% of oil sands extraction projects now do not have to undergo environmental assessments. Why are the Conservatives more concerned about the interests of oil companies than the interests of Canadians? [ English ] Hon.

Leona Aglukkaq (Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I would like to read a quote that has come in from the president of the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association, who told our department that he was very disappointed with the commissioner's report, because it omitted major information.

The president said that the renewable fuel regulations introduced by this Conservative government have removed the equivalent of a million cars and trucks from our roads and that they did so while promoting $3.5 billion in economic growth. This quote came from Scott Thurlow, the president of the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association, who is quite disappointed with the commissioner for omitting that big detail in her report. [ Translation ] Mr. François Lapointe (Montmagny—L'Islet—Kamouraska—Rivière-du-Loup, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, the commissioner's opinion is no small matter.

Next Saturday, a public demonstration will be held in Cacouna. Hundreds of people who are concerned about the future of the St. Lawrence will participate in it. Would people be protesting if environmental assessments were credible and were not rigged in advance in favour of the oil companies? As a result of the consistent incompetence of the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans , the oil port in Cacouna is a complete fiasco. Will the minister finally listen to Canadians and ask real experts to provide real scientific opinions on this issue? This has been an absolute farce for months. [ English ] Hon.

Gail Shea (Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, we have said that projects will only move forward if they are safe for Canadians and safe for the environment. TransCanada has not even submitted the construction of a marine terminal at Cacouna for review, so how can we turn down something that has not been applied for? [ Translation ] Mr. Guy Caron (Rimouski-Neigette—Témiscouata—Les Basques, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, as early as May 2014, three independent scientists asked that all activity planned in the Cacouna area be cancelled because of the serious risk to the beluga whale population.

Hundreds of residents, the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park coordinating committee, the Société pour les mammifères marins and many municipalities also shared their serious concerns, but the minister did not budge. Does the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans think it is right that residents of the Lower St. Lawrence are being forced to go to court in order for their opinions about the oil port in Cacouna to be heard? [ English ] Hon. Gail Shea (Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, at this stage, the only work that is being conducted at Cacouna is exploratory work, and this work has been carefully reviewed by scientists and authorized by scientists, contingent on the very strictest conditions. DFO has scientists specifically devoted to marine mammals, including St. Lawrence belugas, and as I said, projects will only move forward if they are safe for Canadians and safe for the environment.

The Economy Mr. Rodney Weston (Saint John, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, our government is focused on what matters most to Canadians: jobs and economic growth. Over 1.1 million net new jobs have been added since the recession, one of the strongest job creation records in the G7. On top of that, our low-tax plan is making Canada a more attractive place to invest. In fact, Bloomberg has named Canada the second most attractive country in which to do business. Could the Minister of State for Finance please update the House with the latest good news on the economy? Hon. Kevin Sorenson (Minister of State (Finance), CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, Canada is on track for a balanced budget. Last year's deficit was roughly $5.2 billion, much better than previously forecast. It is great news for Canadians. Yesterday the IMF projected Canada to be one of the strongest growing economies in the years ahead. Today the Fraser Institute ranked Canada among the most economically free countries in the world. Canadians know they are better off with this Conservative government.

(1450) [ Translation ] Science and Technology Ms. Laurin Liu (Rivière-des-Mille-Îles, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, the group Evidence for Democracy revealed today the extent to which federal scientists are isolated. The organization gave 15 departments a failing grade when it comes to protecting federal scientists from political interference. The Conservatives have used internal media directives to muzzle our scientists and ensure that their disturbing opinions remain hidden away. When will the Conservatives stop their war on our scientists? [ English ] Hon.

Ed Holder (Minister of State (Science and Technology), CPC) : Mr. Speaker, that is just not the case. My hon. colleague knows well that this government has made record investments in science, technology, and innovation. She also knows that Canada is ranked number one in the G7 for our support for scientific research and development in our colleges, universities, and research institutes. Ministers are the primary spokespersons for government departments, yet scientists have been and are readily available to share their research with Canadians. Mr. Kennedy Stewart (Burnaby—Douglas, NDP) : Mr.

Speaker, the minister is just cherry-picking stats, and what he really has to do is back off and stop muzzling our scientists. Let us be clear. The government is so obsessed with controlling the message it spent $20 million monitoring the media at the same time it was muzzling scientists. Thanks to the independent assessment by E4D of the government's own policies, we can see the government's failure on transparency in black and white. Government scientists in the U.S. are more free to talk publicly about their work and are better protected from political interference.

Why should Canadian scientists not be as free to talk about their work as American scientists? Hon. Ed Holder (Minister of State (Science and Technology), CPC) : Mr. Speaker, if we want to talk facts, let us talk a few things here. Canadian federal departments and agencies produce over 4,000 science publications every year. Fact. Environment Canada fielded nearly 2,500 media enquiries and published about 700 peer-reviewed articles this past year. Fisheries and Oceans Canada fielded 1,600 media enquiries and published 500 peer-reviewed articles last year.

When it comes to science and technology, on this side of the House, we are interested in the facts.

National Defence Mr. Jack Harris (St. John's East, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, the replacement program for the navy's resupply vessels is so far behind that the Conservatives are now considering using private ships to resupply the navy while relying more on the United States. Despite promising replacements in 2006, the Conservatives cancelled the program two years later. We are now years behind. Is this the future for the Canadian navy: lend or lease? Hon. Rob Nicholson (Minister of National Defence, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, that is not the case. The NDP usually gets it wrong on anything to do with Canada's military.

That being said, there is a vigorous program on both coasts: on the west coast and on the east coast. With respect to resupplying the Royal Canadian Navy, we will get the job done. [ Translation ] Ms. Élaine Michaud (Portneuf—Jacques-Cartier, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, the resupply ships fiasco continues. First, the Liberals announced that they were going to buy new ships in 2004, but the project was aborted. The Conservatives did the same thing in 2006, but did not follow through. Now they are promising new ships by 2020, and until then, they are thinking of using a commercial vessel.

Is that what is in store for the Royal Canadian Navy? Will it be using commercial vessels or borrowing ships from the U.S. Navy? Honestly. [ English ] Hon. Rob Nicholson (Minister of National Defence, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, of course, anything from the private sector would be offending to the NDP. That being said, nobody has had a better record of supplying, refurbishing, and modernizing the Royal Canadian Navy, and that would include the Halifax-class frigate modernization program, the Globemaster strategic airlift, and the Arctic offshore patrol ships. We will continue to work.

We will supply the Royal Canadian Navy with what it needs. That is what we are committed to.

[ Translation ] The Environment Mr. Francis Scarpaleggia (Lac-Saint-Louis, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, to date the government has failed in its feeble attempts to reach its own greenhouse gas reduction targets. The cause of this failure: federal inaction, and by that I mean the abysmal lack of leadership on the part of this Conservative government, which has not even bothered to meet with representatives of the oil sector since March 2013 to discuss regulations for this sector. When will the government take action and finally take the threat of climate change seriously? (1455) [ English ] Hon.

Leona Aglukkaq (Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, our government record is very clear. We have taken decisive action in a responsible way to protect our environment and support the economy. Thanks to our leadership and the efforts of different levels of government, businesses, and consumers, Canada's total greenhouse gas emissions in 2020 are projected to be 130 megatonnes lower than what they would have been under the Liberals.

We will continue to move forward with regulatory measures that will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while creating jobs. Hon. John McKay (Scarborough—Guildwood, Lib.) : Still glued to the talking points, Mr. Speaker. Today and yesterday, the minister said the government's record is clear and we have had decisive action— Some hon. members: Oh, oh! The Speaker : Order, please. The hon. member for Scarborough—Guildwood has the floor. Hon. John McKay : There seems to be some enthusiasm for the question, Mr. Speaker.

The environment commissioner, however, says that federal departments have made unsatisfactory progress in the areas examined. Timelines have not been met. Departments are not able to assess whether the measures in place meet the emissions records expected. Is this the record the minister is bragging about that is clear and decisive? That would be talking point number four. Hon. Leona Aglukkaq (Minister of the Environment, Minister of the Canadian Northern Economic Development Agency and Minister for the Arctic Council, CPC) : Mr. Speaker— Some hon. members: Oh, oh! The Speaker : Order, please. The hon.

Minister of the Environment now has the floor. Hon. Leona Aglukkaq : Mr. Speaker, I would like to read for the record a quote from the Canadian Renewable Fuels Association, which told our department, upon the release of the report of the environment commissioner, that it was quite disappointed in the environment commissioner's report, because it omitted information. It said that the renewable fuel regulations introduced by this Conservative government have removed the equivalent of a million cars and trucks from our roads and that they did so while promoting $3.5 billion of economic growth.

Employment Insurance Mr. Robert Chisholm (Dartmouth—Cole Harbour, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, after the Conservatives savaged EI in Atlantic Canada, it appears that the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans perhaps got worried about her seat, because the Conservatives decided they would split P.E.I. in two, effectively dividing islander against islander. The government itself projects that this move would cost the average recipient in Charlottetown $2,560 in lost benefits, and that is if they qualify at all.

My question for the government is this: Instead of ramming through this senseless move, why would the Conservatives not just fix EI so that all islanders will benefit? Hon. Gail Shea (Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, let me be clear that this change is all about fairness. Maybe the member can tell his constituents and Nova Scotians how many regions there are in Nova Scotia.

[ Translation ] Housing Mr. Robert Aubin (Trois-Rivières, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, Conservative ministers from Quebec have done absolutely nothing for pyrrhotite victims. They would rather send the issue back to the Quebec courts. The federal government is responsible for concrete aggregate standards. However, it failed to prevent this tragedy. People in the Mauricie region are calling for a public inquiry to look into this tragedy. Will the minister listen and do what it takes to ensure that this kind of crisis never happens again? Hon. Ed Holder (Minister of State (Science and Technology), CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, as the hon. member knows, the pyrrhotite issue falls under provincial jurisdiction. The Government of Quebec has launched a very important program to provide financial assistance to owners who are dealing with pyrrhotite damage. I urge people affected by this issue to contact the Société d'habitation du Québec.

(1500) [ English ] International Trade Ms. Joyce Bateman (Winnipeg South Centre, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, a small town in Colorado has won a battle with the U.S. federal government over a bridge that contained Canadian steel. A protectionist policy known as “Buy America” would have forced the town to dismantle the bridge and to take the Canadian-made steel out in order to be eligible for a grant. Could the Minister of International Trade please update the House on the government's position regarding Buy America? Hon. Ed Fast (Minister of International Trade, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, I thank the member for that excellent question. We are pleased to see that this issue has been resolved. The situation in Colorado highlights how highly integrated the Canadian and U.S. economies are and how difficult it is to segregate North American supply chains. Protectionism is bad policy and is bad for businesses on both sides of our borders. We will continue to oppose Buy America measures as we engage with our American trading partners to improve the free flow of goods, services, and people between our two great countries.

Veterans Affairs Hon. Judy Sgro (York West, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, just weeks after Ottawa police lost one of their own, the RCMP announced the death of Corporal Ron Francis. Sadly, the list of soldiers and first responders suffering with PTSD grows, yet little is being done to help. Much is said about supporting our troops, but for those with PTSD, actions speak louder than words, and silence is all they see from those with the power to prompt change. Will the government stand with first responders, outlaw harassment, and create a PTSD strategy that will really work before we lose any more of our heroes? Ms.

Roxanne James (Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for that question. First and foremost, our prayers and our thoughts continue to go out to the family of the RCMP officer, as well as to fellow officers within the RCMP. It was certainly a tragedy. As the member knows, the RCMP continues to offer services to treat members with operational stress injuries, including PTSD. We rely on those services provided to help these individuals cope with their injuries.

I just also want to say in addition that RCMP officers also benefit from OSI clinics through Veterans Affairs Canada.

[ Translation ] Citizenship and Immigration Ms. Anne Minh-Thu Quach (Beauharnois—Salaberry, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, when the Minister of Immigration transferred case processing to Mississauga, he promised that there would be no additional delays. However, we are hearing a different story from our constituents. Whether it is for a work permit or family reunification, some of my constituents have been waiting more than 13 months for a response. That is absolutely unacceptable.

Does the minister fully realize that these delays, which are getting longer and longer all the time, are having a major impact on the lives of those involved? Hon. Chris Alexander (Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, that is not true. On the contrary, our office in Mississauga has made very significant progress on citizenship cases. The staff there have processed a record number of cases this year, and the same is true of family cases and economic immigration cases. We have made huge progress in reducing the backlog that we inherited from the Liberal Party in 2006.

[ English ] Sport Mr. Kyle Seeback (Brampton West, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, every day Canada gets closer to hosting the Pan Am and Parapan American Games. We will welcome 10,000 athletes, coaches, volunteers, and, of course, their families and friends from 41 participating countries. I am proud to say that our government is fully committed to these games, with funding that will provide sports facilities across Ontario and legacy initiatives that will leave a lasting impact for both high-performance athletes and for families.

Could the Minister of State for Sport please provide an update on how Canadians can get involved in these games? Hon. Bal Gosal (Minister of State (Sport), CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Brampton West for the question. He is an Olympian himself. We are proud to be hosting the largest multi-sport games Canada has ever hosted next summer. The venues, including buildings such as the athletes' complex in North Shore, the Velodrome in Milton, and an aquatic facility in Scarborough, will leave a lasting legacy.

I am also pleased that our government is supporting a torch relay, which I first announced alongside our honorary torchbearer, Commander Chris Hadfield. Pan Am will need 3,000 volunteer torchbearers to carry the flame through 130 communities across Ontario and five major cities across Canada that have hosted major games. I know that this will be an opportunity to showcase everything that Canada has to offer. I encourage everyone—

(1505) [ Translation ] Canada Post Mrs. Sadia Groguhé (Saint-Lambert, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, Saint-Lambert's city council unanimously opposed the elimination of door-to-door mail delivery, which is slated for 2015 on Montreal's south shore. Canada Post's decision will deprive seniors in my riding, such as Jocelyne Langis of Longueuil, of an essential service. Not everyone can pay a private company to deliver mail to their home. How can the government claim to be listening to the people when it is ignoring the unanimous call by elected officials on the south shore? [ English ] Hon.

Lisa Raitt (Minister of Transport, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, Canada Post currently only delivers to the doors of one-third of Canadian homes. It will be moving to phase that out over the next five years in order to ensure that it can remain self-sufficient, as it is supposed to do under its constituting statutes. That said, the Federation of Canadian Municipalities has had this discussion. It has duly considered a recommendation and a resolution asking the government to overturn Canada Post's decision, and it soundly defeated this resolution en masse. Canada Post will continue to implement its five-point plan.

[ Translation ] Marine Transportation Mr. Louis Plamondon (Bas-Richelieu—Nicolet—Bécancour, BQ) : Mr. Speaker, next Sunday, another megaship will transport several tonnes of oil from the oil sands down the St. Lawrence. In a unanimous resolution, the City of Sorel-Tracy called on the federal government to increase safety and inspection measures for these ships to require that they be prepared for a spill and that they draft a list of all of the liquids they are transporting on the river. In short, they are calling for anyone who uses the St. Lawrence to be socially, environmentally and financially responsible.

Will the minister finally take action and suspend the transportation of dangerous goods on the river until she can ensure that the process is safe and that there are emergency response measures in place? [ English ] Hon. Lisa Raitt (Minister of Transport, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, Canada has a very robust system for dealing with the movement of tankers, whatever their product may be, internally. In fact, we have already had an expert panel review these for us. It has come up with recommendations that we are looking at implementing now as well. The system is safe.

One other thing that I would like to mention is that we have been transporting cargoes of oil on the Atlantic coast for 100 years now. It has always been done very safely, and people in that area are very capable and qualified and competent to deal with anything that may happen.

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS Routine Proceedings [ English ] Interparliamentary Delegations Mr. Ryan Leef (Yukon, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the report of the Canadian delegation to the Canada-Europe Parliamentary Association respecting its participation in the meeting of the Standing Committee of Parliamentarians of the Arctic Region, held in Copenhagen, Denmark, June 10 to 11, 2014.

Committees of the House Procedure and House Affairs Mr. Joe Preston (Elgin—Middlesex—London, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the 22nd report of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs. The committee advises that pursuant to Standing Order 91.1(2), the subcommittee on private members' business met to consider the items added to the order of precedence as a result of the replenishment of Tuesday, September 23, 2014, and recommended that the items listed therein, which it has determined should not be designated non-votable, be considered by the House.

(1510) The Speaker : Pursuant to Standing Order 91.1(2), the report is deemed adopted.

Canadian Heritage Ms. Irene Mathyssen (London—Fanshawe, NDP) Motion for concurrence moved that the second report from the Standing Committee on Canadian Heritage, presented on Wednesday, February 5, 2014, be concurred in. The Speaker : Is the House ready for the question? Some hon. members: Question. The Speaker: The question is on the motion. Is it the pleasure of the House to adopt the motion? Some hon. members: Agreed. Some hon. members: On division. The Speaker: I declare the motion carried. (Motion agreed to) Mr. Joe Preston : Mr.

Speaker, if the House gives its consent, I move that the 18th report of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs, presented to the House early last week, be concurred in. The Speaker : Does the hon. member have the unanimous consent of the House to propose the motion? Some hon. members: Agreed. Some hon. members: No.

Petitions Agriculture Mr. James Lunney (Nanaimo—Alberni, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I have two petitions here. The first petition is with respect to the right to save seeds. It is from some residents of Vancouver Island, who are asking Parliament to recognize the rights of farmers to save, reuse, collect, exchange, and sell seeds and to enact legislation to that end.

Health Mr. James Lunney (Nanaimo—Alberni, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, the next two petitions are in favour of Motion No. 501, a motion calling for a national strategy for innovation, effectiveness, and cost-effectiveness in sustainable health care. That motion will come up for debate in the new year.

Humanitarian Aid in Gaza Mr. Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, I have a petition signed by constituents and people in the Ottawa area who note that the humanitarian situation in the Gaza Strip is critical and that the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East has declared an emergency. The petitioners note that the U.S. has already contributed tens of millions of dollars, and they ask that Canada do the same. They are asking that the government make an immediate contribution to UNRWA for the emergency and to help rebuild Gaza.

Falun Gong Ms. Joyce Bateman (Winnipeg South Centre, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure and honour to submit a petition from the Falun Gong group in my riding. Falun Gong is a traditional Chinese spiritual discipline that consists of meditation, exercise, and moral teachings based on the principles of truthfulness, compassion, and tolerance.

Rouge National Park Mr. Dan Harris (Scarborough Southwest, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, I am presenting a petition from hundreds of local residents regarding the proposed Rouge national park. The petitioners respectfully ask the Government of Canada to protect the irreplaceable 100-square-kilometre public land assembly within a healthy and sustainable Rouge national park.

Sex Selection Mr. Mark Warawa (Langley, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to present a petition that highlights that this Saturday is International Day of the Girl. The petition highlights that CBC revealed that ultrasounds are being used in Canada to tell the sex of an unborn child so that expecting parents can terminate the pregnancy if it is a girl. Ninety-two per cent of Canadians believe that sex-selective pregnancy termination should be made illegal. The petitioners are calling upon all members of Parliament to condemn this practice of discrimination against girls.

Durham Region Federal Lands Mr. Matthew Kellway (Beaches—East York, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to present a petition today with respect to the federal lands in Durham region. The signatories to this petition point out that these lands encompass class one farmland and vital watersheds of the Oak Ridges Moraine. The petitioners call upon the House to rescind all plans for an airport and non-agricultural uses on these federal lands in Durham region and to act instead to preserve the watersheds and the agricultural land of this irreplaceable natural resource for the long-term benefits of all Canadians.

(1515) Genetically Modified Organisms Mr. Alex Atamanenko (British Columbia Southern Interior, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, there are 200 names of citizens from Kamloops, British Columbia on this petition. The petitioners are calling for us to adopt legislation requiring all genetically modified products and ingredients to be labelled as GMOs, thereby allowing consumers to make informed choices about their lifestyles.

Bison Mr. Leon Benoit (Vegreville—Wainwright, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to present two petitions today. In the first petition, the petitioners call on Parliament to recognize August 9 as national bison day. They do this because bison have played an important

part in Canadian history and they still play an important role in Canadian agriculture.

Sex Selection Mr. Leon Benoit (Vegreville—Wainwright, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, as we approach the International Day of the Girl, the petitioners remind Parliament that 92% of Canadians support ending sex-selection pregnancy termination. The petitioners call on Parliament to condemn discrimination against girls occurring through gender-selective pregnancy termination.

Rouge National Park Ms. Rathika Sitsabaiesan (Scarborough—Rouge River, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, I stand today to submit petitions on behalf of people from all across the GTA on the creation of Rouge national park. The current Rouge Park is home to the endangered mixed woodland and Carolinian forest, the northernmost point in North America, and the ancestral home of the Mississauga, Huron-Wendat, and Seneca first nations and their sacred burial and village sites.

The proposed legislation for the Rouge national urban park concept ignores the ecological integrity role of the existing Rouge Park and a true Canadian national park. The petitioners respectfully ask the Government of Canada to protect the irreplaceable 100 square kilometres of public land assembly within a healthy and sustainable Rouge national park.

Falun Gong Ms. Elizabeth May (Saanich—Gulf Islands, GP) : Mr. Speaker, I rise to present two petitions today. Similar to my friend from Winnipeg, there are hundreds of signatures on these petitions. The petitioners are residents primarily of the greater Toronto area. The petitioners call on the Government of Canada to recognize the oppression of practitioners of Falun Gong and Falun Dafa in the People's Republic of China. They call on the government to press the Government of the People's Republic of China to respect human rights, particularly those of religious minorities.

The Environment Ms. Elizabeth May (Saanich—Gulf Islands, GP) : Mr. Speaker, the second petition is from residents primarily of the Vancouver and Burnaby areas. The petitioners note the threat to the waters of the Salish Sea and the surrounding areas from the Kinder Morgan proposal. They call on Parliament to create a permanent legislated ban on supertankers. Mr. Andrew Cash (Davenport, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, I have two petitions to present to the House today. In the first petition, the petitioners call on the government to intervene and stop the development of the Sarnia-Montreal Line 9 pipeline.

They note that it goes through the most densely populated area of the country, that being Toronto. They also note that the energy transport company Enbridge has a poor record when it comes to pipeline safety.

Employment Mr. Andrew Cash (Davenport, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, the second petition pertains to the issue of precarious work in the GTA. Right now, about 50% of all workers in Toronto cannot find a stable full-time job. This petition supports my private member's bill to institute a national urban worker strategy.

Citizenship and Immigration Mr. Brent Rathgeber (Edmonton—St. Albert, Ind.) : Mr. Speaker, I have two petitions to present today. The first petition is on behalf of 112 residents of Edmonton—St. Albert. The petitioners call on the Government of Canada to recognize the dire situation of Christians in Iraq and to speed the refugee process to help displaced Christians and give them safe passage into refugee status.

Falun Gong Mr. Brent Rathgeber (Edmonton—St. Albert, Ind.) : Mr. Speaker, the second petition is signed by 1,671 residents of Edmonton—St. Albert. The petitioners call upon the Government of Canada to recognize the plight of Falun Gong and the Falun Dafa practitioners and the persecution they face in China. They call on the Government of Canada to press the Government of China to end their horrific persecution.

Veterans Affairs Mr. Brian Masse (Windsor West, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, I have two petitions to present. The first petition is asking the government not to close the veterans office in Windsor, which it has done. The petitioners especially note that Windsor was heavily recruited for soldiers, both men and women. They believe that the services should be restored in Windsor.

(1520) Ojibway Prairie Complex Mr. Brian Masse (Windsor West, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, the second petition is to protect the Ojibway Prairie Complex in the Great Lakes area. This land is one of the last forested areas next to the Great Lakes. The petitioners are calling for its protection and assurance that it will be part of a larger environmental park for the region.

Foreign Affairs Ms. Irene Mathyssen (London—Fanshawe, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, I have a petition from a number of citizens of London, Ontario. They begin their petition by reminding us that Canada has long been known as a peacekeeping nation and that we take pride in the neutral stance that we have taken during international conflicts. However, the petitioners are concerned that the current government is increasingly favouring the Israeli side of the Palestinian-Israeli conflict.

They believe that this attitude poses a threat to our country's credibility in the international arena and affects how Canadians are perceived globally. They are concerned about this stance jeopardizing the safety, security, and well-being of Canadian families travelling abroad or residing in these areas of conflict. The petitioners ask all parliamentarians to voice concern about this one-sided approach that the current government has taken.

Human Rights Mr. Kennedy Stewart (Burnaby—Douglas, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a petition from people in my riding who have ancestry and links to Hong Kong regarding the pro-democracy movement in Hong Kong. They believe that this pro-democracy movement is essential to restoring and enhancing basic human rights in Hong Kong. The petitioners call upon the government to denounce the use of violence, evaluate China's human rights record, implement trade sanctions against China, and perhaps stop pipeline projects in Canada that benefit the Chinese government. They urge the government to make an official statement on the actions in Hong Kong.

[ Translation ] Canada Post Mr. Pierre-Luc Dusseault (Sherbrooke, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, it is my honour and my great privilege to present a petition about service cuts at Canada Post signed by several thousand people from Sherbrooke. Many people condemn these service cuts. They want quality, accessible service from their federal government, and that includes home mail delivery. It is an honour and a privilege to present this petition on behalf of the people of Sherbrooke.

[ English ] Questions on the Order Paper

Mr. Tom Lukiwski (Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I ask that all questions be allowed to stand. The Acting Speaker (Mr. Bruce Stanton) : Is that agreed? Some hon. members: Agreed.

Motions for Papers Mr. Tom Lukiwski (Parliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I ask that all notices of motions for the production of papers be allowed to stand. The Acting Speaker (Mr. Bruce Stanton) : Is that agreed? Some hon. members: Agreed.

Private Members' Business The Acting Speaker (Mr. Bruce Stanton) : The Chair would like to take a moment to provide some information to the House regarding the management of private members' business. [ Translation ] As members know, after the order of precedence is replenished, the Chair reviews the new items so as to alert the House to bills that at first glance appear to impinge on the financial prerogative of the crown.

This allows members the opportunity to intervene in a timely fashion to present their views about the need for those bills to be accompanied by a royal recommendation. [ English ] Accordingly, following the September 23, 2014, replenishment of the order of precedence with 15 new items, I wish to inform the House that there is a bill that gives the Chair some concern as to the spending provisions it contemplates. [ Translation ] It is Bill C-622,

An Act to amend the National Defence Act (transparency and accountability), to enact the Intelligence and Security Committee of Parliament Act, and to make consequential amendments to other Acts , standing in the name of the member for Vancouver Quadra . [ English ] I would encourage hon. members who would like to make arguments regarding the need for a royal recommendation for this bill or any other bills now on the order of precedence to do so at an early opportunity. (1525) [ Translation ] I thank honourable members for their attention.

Government Orders Government Orders [ English ] Rouge National Urban Park Act The House resumed from October 2 consideration of the motion that Bill C-40,

An Act respecting the Rouge National Urban Park , be read the second time and referred to a committee. Bill C-40. Second reading Mr. Matthew Kellway (Beaches—East York, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, it gives me great pleasure to stand in the House today to participate in the debate on Bill C-40,

an act respecting the Rouge national urban park . While I stand in support of this bill at this stage of the legislative process, my remarks today are by no means free of criticism of the bill. In fact, this speech, as with all the speeches from the NDP caucus, is intended to send a clear message that significant amendments need to be made to the bill in order to garner support through to the end of the legislative process. Of course, the criticism herein is intended to be constructive.

It is a plea to the government to raise its sights, its ambitions, and to do three things: realize the great potential of this project; realize the dreams of a whole lot of hard-working citizens who always had before them a clear sense of the great potential of this project; and set a precedent for a new kind of Canadian park, a national urban park. There is an existing Rouge Park. At 47 square kilometres, it is one of North America's largest and sits amidst about 20% of Canada's total population. The park is rich in its diversity of nature and culture.

It includes a rare Carolinian forest, numerous species at risk, internationally significant geological outcroppings from the interglacial age, and evidence of human history dating back 10,000 years, including some of Canada's oldest known aboriginal historic sites and villages. For many years, these resources have been under the stewardship of the Rouge Park Alliance, an alliance of many groups, including dedicated citizen groups, but there is now before us the opportunity to move this park and add other resources to it under the stewardship of Parks Canada and its commitment to ecological integrity.

The proposed Rouge national urban park should provide protection and restoration of forests and wetland areas to soften the impacts of urban growth, improve the quality of water entering Lake Ontario, reduce the risks of climate change-related flooding, erosion, and property damage, and improve habitat for rare and endangered species. This is important.

We have built our cities and continue to build our cities with insufficient care and respect for the ecological integrity of the nature that runs through them and borders them, and more than that, with insufficient care and attention to the application of the notion of ecological integrity to how we build and grow cities themselves. There is a certain bitter irony in this. As pointed out in a report by Ontario Nature and the Suzuki Foundation, entitled “Biodiversity in Ontario's Greenbelt”: Humans chose to settle in this part of Ontario in large part because of the rich diversity and fertility of the land.

Millions now make their home in this region, as do a large number of our most enchanting species at risk.... Evidence of that once beautiful natural landscape remains in Toronto. A recent Toronto Star

article put it this way: The city of Toronto was built on the backs of its rivers. Nine rivers and creeks flow through its rich valleys and pour into Lake Ontario, making rivers as essential a part of Toronto's landscape as the CN Tower or Queen's Park. Said Robert Fulford in his book Accidental City , “The ravines are to Toronto what canals are to Venice and hills are to San Francisco”. Some of those rivers were lost but have since been found. Groups such as the Toronto Green Community and the Toronto Field Naturalists actually provide Lost River Walks in the city.

Some rivers, such as the Humber, the Don, and the Rouge, their various branches and tributaries, remain essential to what Toronto is and more important, remain essential to visions of what Toronto could actually be if we took care to restore and preserve their ecological integrity. There are innumerable groups on the ground in our urban communities animated by a vision of preserving and restoring the natural and cultural heritage of these rivers, preserving and restoring that which brought people to settle there and live off that part of the land in the first place.

(1530) In my riding, for example, the Taylor Massey project was developed by a group of volunteers a decade ago for the purpose of increasing community awareness of this 16 kilometre watercourse and for the purpose of restoring the natural heritage of the creek's valley lands and to improve the water quality and aquatic habitats of this urban creek. The Taylor Massey creek flows into the Don River. By 1969, the Don River was reportedly not much more than a city sewer. That prompted some to call it dead.

Therefore, on November 16 of that year, 200 mourners paraded from the University of Toronto campus down to the banks of the Don River in a mock funeral procession complete with hearse. If it was indeed dead, then it has risen from the dead, thanks to the efforts of countless citizens, but not yet fully recovered because much more effort is required. I am thankful for those people who commit their free time and energy to its revitalization and to realize, for their own projects, for their own communities, for the benefit of all of us, what we have now the opportunity to do for the Rouge River.

What we have in this legislation is a great opportunity. With respect to the Rouge, so many people have brought us to this point where this land can be brought under the stewardship of Parks Canada. As stated on its website: Parks Canada's objective is to allow people to enjoy national parks as special places without damaging their integrity. In other words, ecological integrity is our endpoint for park management...

However, rather than bringing to the urban park the same commitment, indeed legislatively set out priority, to ecological integrity that is applied to its other parks, the legislation would shed that commitment and shake loose that priority. Bill C-40 , in fact, would require only that the minister “take into consideration the protection of its natural ecosystems and cultural landscapes and the maintenance of its native wildlife and of the health of those ecosystems”.

This flies in the face of Parks Canada's own governing legislation and policies that specify the maintenance or restoration of ecological integrity through the protection of natural resources and natural processes and the fact that this should be the first priority of the minister when considering all aspects of the management of its parks. What is more, this language affords, according to a recent legal review by Ecojustice, significantly less protection than Ontario's Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act.

In failing to do so, it would appear to be an obvious breach of the memorandum of agreement between Parks Canada and the Ontario government, which requires that the policies that govern the Rouge national urban park meet or exceed provincial policies. This is how we end up in this position, with the Ontario government withholding the transfer of lands to Parks Canada until the federal government commits in effect, and really quite perversely, to live up to its own legislative priorities and commitments.

The bill needs to change so it is consistent with the Canada National Parks Act and lives up to commitments made to the Government of Ontario so we can get on with the great opportunity of creating a first and great national urban park along the Rouge River watershed. Let me conclude by saying, with respect to the many people who are putting their minds and energy to this issue, that we have not really arrived at a clear understanding of what the ecological integrity of the urban actually looks like. However, I approach that issue with the same optimism and the same ambition as I do this legislation.

The urban and the concept of ecological integrity ought not to stand in contradistinction. Indeed, in light of the incredible rate of urbanization globally, we have to make meaningful the notion of “urban ecological integrity”. A first national urban park is the first good step along that path.

(1535) Hon. Michael Chong (Wellington—Halton Hills, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I have listened carefully to the member's critique of the bill. I believe the bill, as it is currently drafted, would allow Parks Canada to implement a management plan for the park that would ensure a higher standard of ecological integrity for this new national urban park than is currently the case for parks in the Ontario provincial park system, parks like Algonquin and Killarney. In the provincial statute, I note that the province is mandated to protect ecological integrity.

Equally, the province is required to protect Ontario's natural and cultural heritage. Both are given equal weight in the provincial statutes. The approach taken in the federal legislation is no different. The big difference is in the actual implementation of these laws. I believe Parks Canada will interpret these laws to a much higher standard than is the case in the Province of Ontario. That will please residents of this area, because the Rouge will exceed Algonquin and other types of provincial parks. Mr. Matthew Kellway : Mr.

Speaker, with all due respect to the member's assurances, I take cold comfort in that. One of the issues is that the management of the provincial parks is happening at a lower standard than the principles and priorities set out in this federal legislation. This bill explicitly stands in contradiction of the priorities as set out in the prevailing legislation for national parks. What we are seeking and asking is that the bill be amended in order to retain the priority of ecological integrity for the management of the Rouge national urban park. Mr. Mike Sullivan (York South—Weston, NDP) : Mr.

Speaker, there are a number of ironies in the government's approach to environmental issues. One of them is that this river used to be protected by the Navigable Waters Protection Act, and that was removed by the government. We have put forward private members' bills, and I believe the member has as well, to re-protect these waters. Would the member like to comment on the apparent contradiction by the government? Mr. Matthew Kellway : Mr. Speaker, I, too, have presented petitions with respect to the Don River, which borders against my riding in Toronto, Beaches—East York.

As I commented in my speech, many people over many long years have put in a lot of effort to ensure that the Don River has been revitalized and that it comes closer to the principle of ecological integrity, as it flows through the city. This is the great opportunity we have with the Rouge park, that under the protection of an appropriately worded bill, that river, too, can be protected and live up to the principles and priority that exists under the National Parks Act of ecological integrity. Hon. Peter Kent (Thornhill, CPC) : Mr.

Speaker, I thank my hon. colleague for his obvious commitment to the rivers and natural places across the GTA. With regard to the question of ecological integrity, the general definition is that in our great and wild national parks ecological integrity is very often taken to allow nature to take its course, whether that is wildfires, floods or erosion, the natural changes that take place across these spaces.

In the parks plan for our oldest parks, Banff and Jasper, for example, there are provisions for interventions around townsites, around the townsite of Banff or Jasper, for example, with regard to fighting fires, floods, controlling river flows, town dumps and the use of infrastructure of these towns. Parks Canada has made a commitment. Certainly the stewards of the Rouge Park Alliance over the years have been looking for one body like Parks Canada, pre-eminent in the world in terms of its stewardship—

(1540) The Acting Speaker (Mr. Bruce Stanton) : Order, please. The hon. member for Beaches—East York . Mr. Matthew Kellway : Quite simply, Mr. Speaker, the language of the bill does not require it to happen. I appreciate the member's point that this is a qualitatively different park than the remote parks under the stewardship of Parks Canada.

However, my point is, given, as per the UN's department of economic and social affairs, that all population growth on this planet will be urban for the next four decades, we need to find a way to make sense of applying the principle and priority of ecological integrity to our cities, how we build them and grow them. Having Canada's first national urban park is a great way to start down that road. Mr. Mike Sullivan (York South—Weston, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Davenport . The notion of ecological integrity is one that may be foreign to some of the members opposite.

Certainly it is foreign to the way the government has approached many of the issues that have arisen over the course of its term in office in terms of protecting and enhancing the environment. The member for Thornhill , who most recently asked a question, was at one point the minister of the environment when one of the worst pieces of legislation, as far as the environment is concerned, was introduced. That was the budget implementation bill of 2012, which in fact eliminated environmental protection through the environmental assessment act and replaced it with

an act that basically does very little to protect the environment. This same government then, in another budget implementation bill, removed the protection for Canada's water systems, the watercourses, for the rivers, the lakes, the streams that run all over our country. Some 250,000 of them used to be protected and now we are down to something like less than a hundred. Therefore, ecological integrity is not top of mind for the members opposite. That said, we support and we will fight for the notion of creating an ecological preserve in the heart of an urban area, in particular in Toronto, where I live.

It will hopefully set a precedent for the creation of other urban area ecological integrity preserves in many urban areas in Canada. As the member for Beaches—East York said, all of the population growth is going to happen in the cities in the next 40 years. We need to get it right. We need to design our park systems to protect the integrity of the ecology. We need to design them to provide access to the burgeoning populations of these great metropolises, while not allowing that access to degrade the park.

We need to be able to use these systems for the creation of parks to provide us with the necessary climate change adaptation that we are now going to be facing. There are members opposite who used to talk about climate change adaptation. In fact, it was the member for Thornhill 's favourite words over the course of his term in office. He said we were not going to protect against climate change; we were going to adapt to it. That seems to have fallen off because someone discovered it costs money to protect us against climate change, but we still need to do it.

One of the ways to do it is to design and protect the integrity of watercourses that flow through our urban areas. One of these watercourses is the Rouge River. The Rouge River gets its start in the headlands north of Toronto in the Oak Ridges Moraine and carries fresh water from a huge area of drainage to Lake Ontario, thus protecting that watercourse. Protecting what flows into that water and protecting the lands around that water will also protect the integrity of Lake Ontario. Lake Ontario is the drinking water source for several million Canadians. Ultimately it flows down the St.

Lawrence toward Montreal and becomes the drinking water source for many more Canadians. Therefore, protecting the integrity of that water system is something that we should be paying careful and close attention to. We cannot do it by removing protections, which is what the government has done in the past. The Canadian Environmental Assessment Act now basically does not protect the environment at all. That was back in 2012, more than two years ago.

Schedule 2 has yet to be published. We still do not know what an environmental assessment will do in terms of human health. A number of pieces of what is to be protected by the environmental assessment is still not defined because the government has still not published the regulations. It is that kind of laissez-faire attitude that we on this side of the House wish to correct.

One of the things we hope to do by giving Bill C-40 support is to bring these flaws to the attention of its drafters in the environmental committee over the course of the next few weeks and months, so that we can make the corrections that are necessary to make the bill much more robust and a better example of a precedent for other cities in the country.

(1545) With this bill we need to provide for a way to adopt the long-standing vision that has been around for many years for the Rouge Park. We need to strengthen and implement the existing environmental protection policy framework and that includes protecting the watercourse. The removal of the watercourse from the Navigable Waters Protection Act, some may wonder what difference that really makes in this day and age.

Surprisingly, a meeting between the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority and Enbridge about Line 9, which flows across this park and across the Rouge River, advised the conservation authority that the removal of the watercourse from the Navigable Waters Protection Act meant that they no longer had to put shut-offs on an oil pipeline as it crossed the river. This is one of the consequences of removing the protection. Was that a deliberate act on the part of the government? I hope not, but it is a consequence of that act and it is a consequence that we cannot sit idly by and let go on.

Imagine if we create this wonderful park and Line 9 bursts over the river? What utter degradation. What utter devastation to the Rouge River would happen then. In addition, the whole notion of will give consideration, which is part of what the bill is about, is one of the things that we have serious reservations about and the Province of Ontario has serious reservations about. That phrasing is in keeping with the government's general approach to the environment, which is “We will give it some thought, but we are not going to be held to anything.

We are not going to actually guarantee that we are going to do anything”. That is one of the reasons the Province of Ontario has withdrawn its support at the moment for transferring its lands into this set of lands. It is afraid that the word “consideration” will mean that the park's ecology can be degraded in a manner that it would not have allowed. I believe that the Province of Ontario may have it right. We do not always agree with the way the Province of Ontario behaves, but in this case it may have it right.

We need to correct the bill in order to make sure that the integrity of the park and the integrity of the entire system is protected and maintained. In addition, there is an opportunity with something called Pickering lands, which are lands that are north of this park, that presents itself to the drafters of the bill and to the government to include a much bigger area in the protections that this park legislation is meant to provide.

We should not bypass that opportunity to try to find a way to protect more of the Oak Ridges Moraine, to connect this park to the Oak Ridges Moraine, because right now the town of Stouffville has way too much development in it to connect it otherwise. Therefore, connecting it through the Pickering lands would be a good additional step. Finally, I want to say something about what was referred to in part by the member for Beaches—East York and that is the notion of the potential for flooding, the potential for climate-change-wrought, weather-related devastation to parts of the city of Toronto.

One of the things we discovered in my riding is that despite the actions of the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority, some devastating flooding took place in the July 8 storm in which more water fell than in Hurricane Hazel and it fell in shorter time. That flooding is a direct result of the massive changes to the weather systems that we are seeing and we are not prepared for it. The cities are not prepared for it.

The creation of this park could give the federal government, the provincial government and the city of Toronto the opportunity to study ways to prevent the kind of disaster that happened on July 8, 2013, and to find ways to make sure that water flow is managed in such a way that it does not affect human habitation around it. The alternative is to spend hundreds of billions of dollars in redirecting water through giant sewers and creating a whole new set of infrastructure that the city cannot afford to do.

It would be turning to the federal government to afford to do that and the federal government has already said there are limits in how far it can go.

(1550) In closing, we do appreciate the effects of the bill, but we wish to see it go to committee so that it can be seriously amended in such a way as to give the land the protection it deserves. Mr. Corneliu Chisu (Pickering—Scarborough East, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, the Rouge national urban park would be unlike other national parks. It would include major highways, rail lines, homes, businesses and hydro corridors as well as farmland. Ecosystems have integrity when their native components are intact, because ecosystems are constantly changing.

Conservation strategies, which have ecological integrity as their primary goal, should maintain or resolve key ecological processes that reflect their natural condition, such as fire, flooding, death and disease outbreaks, among others. These aspects make the concept of ecological integrity inappropriate for the national urban park. Ecological health is an approach that recognizes the park's increasingly urban surroundings. Parks Canada would manage the park in an adaptive way so that it stays healthy and strong while respecting that the park is located in an urban centre.

This approach allows us to balance the pressure of an urban environment. Does the member recognize that there is a need for legislation defining an urban national park, which is different from the legislation of a national park? Mr. Mike Sullivan : Mr. Speaker, I do not disagree with the member opposite that this is a different kind of park, but I do disagree that we cannot strive to do more than just consider the ecological integrity of the park. I believe that we need to preserve the ecological integrity of the park, and that ecological integrity includes a lot of human activity.

I am concerned that human activity could increase exponentially to the detriment of the park and the legislation could not stop it. Mr. Arnold Chan (Scarborough—Agincourt, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, the member for York South—Weston talked in his excellent speech about the importance of connectivity between the Oak Ridges Moraine and through the Rouge national park. Some of the stakeholders, including, for example, the Friends of the Rouge, have suggested that we should have wider corridors, perhaps in the order of about 600-metre corridors.

Does the member have any particular comment with respect to the suggestion that is coming from the Friends of the Rouge Park?

(1555) Mr. Mike Sullivan : Mr. Speaker, I will not get into specifics about the actual width of any particular corridor. My comments were that if the park can be expanded to include lands to the north that connect the park to the moraine, which is the source of the water that flows down the Rouge River, then it would provide us with a better opportunity to protect what eventually flows down into the park. It would provide us with a better opportunity to study, to enhance and to hopefully preserve what is a wonderful ecological piece of the city of Toronto that requires a protection that is currently not provided.

Mr. Andrew Cash (Davenport, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to ask a question on this very important issue among many colleagues from Scarborough, which I think is an exciting thing because that is where I am from originally. Given the government's environmental track record, given the government's laggard behaviour vis-a-vis climate change—in fact it was only a few years ago it was denying the existence of climate change—is the member for York South—Weston confident and comfortable that the protections in the bill would see the Rouge national urban park fulfill all of its possibilities and potential? Mr.

Mike Sullivan : Mr. Speaker, I am not confident that the current wording of the bill would provide the protections necessary so that this park could achieve its fullest potential. Although we are agreeing to support the bill at second reading, that is one of the reasons we will be presenting significant amendments to the bill, in order to reinforce the notion that the ecological integrity of the park is something that requires protection, not merely consideration. The Acting Speaker (Mr. Bruce Stanton) : Resuming debate.

I have noted the other members who were not able to get up on this last round of questions and comments. We will do our best to work them into the next round or two. The hon. member for Davenport . Mr. Andrew Cash (Davenport, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to rise in this place on behalf of the good people of Davenport in the great city of Toronto to debate this bill on an urban park in Toronto. In fact, it is in Scarborough, which is a little dear to my heart, given that I grew up in Scarborough.

It is important to note that there are many people who grow up in Toronto and in greater Toronto area, and there are many people who live in Toronto, who are cut off from the natural endowments the city offers. There are many reasons that happens. I am dwelling on this because of the importance of having green space in an urban context. That is important, as long as people have access to it. I have spoken to seniors, for example, in my community who came to Canada as immigrants and worked very hard their whole lives and never actually had the opportunity to experience the lake.

In fact, they did not even realize that Toronto was right beside a lake. They have not had the opportunity to explore the green spaces. Scarborough has acquired a reputation, which I have always felt was incredibly unfair, even though I grew up at Markham and Lawrence, as being a concrete jungle. In fact, it has some of the most beautiful southern Ontario landscapes one could imagine. I invite you down any time, Mr. Speaker. The issue I am raising is the issue of access. We have so much to offer in the city of Toronto, but we have a growing gap between those who can access these wonders and those who cannot.

That gap largely hinges on economics and the income gap between the rich and the poor. We have communities in the north part of our city with young people who have never gone downtown or visited City Hall, although these days, I do not know if people would want to visit City Hall. These young people have never visited the museums in downtown Toronto. They have never swum in the lake that is right there, at the side of the Gardiner Expressway. A project that is going to create an urban national park in the eastern part of the city is incredibly important, if we do it right.

The NDP has a number of questions about whether we are doing it right. (1600) [ Translation ] The NDP is strongly in favour of protecting the ecological integrity of Canada through the creation of national parks. However, these parks must be protected by strong environmental legislation backed up by sound, scientifically based management plans. The Rouge Park is no exception. [ English ] There is conditional support. We support moving the bill to committee to strengthen it. Part of the reason is that we do not trust the Conservative government on the issue of environmental protection.

It has a long record of doing everything in its power, which is considerable right now, unfortunately, to diminish, denigrate, and demolish environmental protection right across this country. We are very concerned about this. The way the government has first made a promise then delivered a bill that is weaker than the promise gives New Democrats some real concerns. From coast to coast to coast, Canadians recognize the importance of oversight and well-funded institutions that protect our environment and well-funded parks.

New Democrats have many concerns about this bill, which we want to address in committee. [ Translation ] We believe the national park legislation and management plan should adopt the long-standing Rouge Park vision, goal and objectives; strengthen and implement the existing environmental protection policy framework; protect a healthy and sustainable 100 km 2 Rouge national park area; restore a sustainable and integrated natural heritage system; dedicate more of the park to nature and public enjoyment instead of private leases; transition towards smaller-scale farms that support healthy local food production; clearly prioritize ecological health and conservation of the Carolinian and mixed woodland plain forest; ensure that all activities that may affect the Rouge national urban park undergo staunch environmental assessments; and, finally, include a science-based management plan. [ English ] In other words, we have a long list of items we need to raise.

We have a park, and the partner with the largest parcel of land is not in support of the direction the government is going right now. That also underlines a serious concern, and the concern is about leadership. The concern is about the seriousness with which we take our actions in this regard. It is incumbent upon the government to work with all the stakeholders in a manner that moves this park forward in the way it was described initially. It is also important that we look at the natural value and work together to find a way to bring this forward in the manner in which it was initially planned.

On this side of the House, we look forward to working with our fellow parliamentarians to see this park finally realized with the strongest environmental and ecological protections it should have.

(1605) Hon. Michael Chong (Wellington—Halton Hills, CPC) : Mr. Speaker, I want to compare and contrast the legislation in front of us with provincial legislation that governs provincial parks. Yes, it is true that provincial legislation includes the words “ecological integrity”, but those words mean little if we look at the overall provincial legislation. Let us compare the two pieces of legislation, provincial and federal, with respect to two issues, logging and hunting.

The Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006, says, in respect of hunting, in subsection 15(2), “hunting is permitted on the public lands...added to Algonquin Park”. What does the federal statute say in clause 18? It says it is prohibited to “(

b) hunt a wild animal in the Park”. I will do a second quick comparison. The Provincial Parks and Conservation Reserves Act, 2006, says, in subsection 17(1), “timber may be harvested for commercial purposes in Algonquin Provincial Park”. The federal statute says, in subsection 18(2), that it is prohibited to “(

f) harvest timber in the Park”. The federal legislation in front of us clearly is stronger in respect of the actual outcomes of protecting the park. The Rouge Park would be a better protected park than Algonquin Provincial Park, and that is why I am happy that the member opposite is supporting this legislation. Mr. Andrew Cash : Mr. Speaker, I was listening for a question, but it was a comment. I would simply like to say that words matter in legislation. Of course, we stand here day in and day out and in committee battling over words, because they actually mean a lot.

That is why we are raising these concerns about the weakening of the protections that are in the bill right now. Mr. Adam Vaughan (Trinity—Spadina, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, putting aside the very strange comment we just heard from the opposite side, my question is not about whether the Conservatives do or do not support hunting and do or do not support logging. Apparently they do not anymore. That is news, I guess, to many of their party followers.

The issue that I think concerns us all is the environmental standards that have to do with the quality of water, the quality of soil, and the quality of the natural infrastructure. Does the member share the concern of our party that the federal standards do not speak to water quality and the quality of the biosphere and to whether some of the runoff from local farms may in fact damage the quality of the natural environment we seek to protect with the park designation? Mr. Andrew Cash : Mr. Speaker, the short answer is yes, we share those concerns.

It is why we are calling for the legislation to include some of these issues, such as a transition toward smaller-scale farms that support healthy, local food production, which of course would mitigate some of the potential runoff. We have concerns. The Conservatives have been weak on environmental protection in general. The issues with the bill before us underline the concerns that we and many Canadians have.

(1610) Mr. Paul Dewar (Ottawa Centre, NDP) : Mr. Speaker, my colleague from London has brought in a private member's motion on urban forests. Clearly one of the things that is important is having a national strategy, and that is part of her bill. Could my colleague share with me the importance of protecting parks and urban forests and the importance of the national strategy the NDP has put forward? Mr. Andrew Cash : Mr. Speaker, as my colleague for Beaches—East York never wastes an opportunity to underline in this place, Canada is increasingly an urban country, and we are facing a climate change crisis.

We are facing increasing difficulty in our urban areas with extreme heat and various other issues related to climate change. What is important is the precedent it sets and the signal it sends to other levels of government that we take these issues seriously in our urban areas. [ Translation ] The Acting Speaker (Mr.

Bruce Stanton) : Before resuming debate, it is my duty, pursuant to Standing Order 38, to inform the House that the questions to be raised tonight at the time of adjournment are as follows: the hon. member for Acadie—Bathurst , Rail Transportation; and the hon. member for Vancouver Quadra , National Defence. [ English ] Mr. Arnold Chan (Scarborough—Agincourt, Lib.) : Mr. Speaker, I rise in the House today to join the debate on Bill C-40,

an act respecting the Rouge national urban park . This legislation would create the first national urban park in Canada, which is a positive step forward for our national park system. Having an area of pristine wildlife so close to 20% of Canada's population will offer a great value to the entire nation. While the proposed Rouge national urban park is not within my riding of Scarborough--Agincourt, I grew up only a few short kilometres away, and I can tell the House that the Rouge lands are truly a national treasure.

I remember attending my first day camp near the metropolitan zoo in Toronto when I was about 8 or 9 years old, and in many ways this was my first exposure to the splendours of the Rouge Valley system. Because I came from an immigrant family without significant means, this was in many ways my first exposure to the outdoors.

More recently, over the past number of years I have had the pleasure of going back to the Rouge Valley as a cub pack leader and as a scout troop leader, participating in programs such as the 10,000 trees for the Rouge program and planting trees in the Rouge park to add to the wonderful biodiversity found there. My family has taken significant advantage of the Glen Rouge campground that is run by the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority. It is a fabulous opportunity.

We have heard from colleagues on all sides of the House about the tremendous accessibility that this potential national urban park would afford to many residents within the greater Golden Horseshoe. It represents one of the last great unspoiled wildernesses and also happens to be coupled with some of the most outstanding farmland in the country. For example, my family has also had the privilege of going on a number of occasions to Whittamore's Farm. Those were opportunities to expose my family to farming culture, particularly as we enter into the fall harvest season.

Let me simply join my colleagues on all sides of the House in expressing my excitement at the potential opportunity that the creation of this new national urban park would afford to our community and to all residents within Toronto. I am also particularly pleased to see that the government is building upon the tremendous work that has been done by the provincial government with the establishment of the Greenbelt in 2005.

The Greenbelt is one of the largest and most successful areas of preserved green space in the world and serves as a showcase for what an urban green space can offer on a large and significant scale. I had the privilege of being in the legislature as a staffer at the time, and I watched this wonderful legacy unfold.

Unfortunately, at that time the Ontario Conservatives wanted to allow continued development on this precious piece of land, as we may hear from certain members in this House, so it is heartening to see support from the government in the House today and to recognize that it is indeed time to establish a national urban park. I do want to recognize the tremendous work that has been done on all sides of the House and by many stakeholders over the last 20 years, work that has led to where things sit today.

The Rouge national park would provide important connectivity with, for example, the sensitive Oak Ridges Moraine leading to the shoreline of Lake Ontario. Earlier the member for York South—Weston highlighted the importance of creating linkages and connectivities between these various important spaces.

(1615) We support this particular bill, and it appears that essentially all parties across this House will likely be supporting the bill as it moves forward at second reading. However, like most things that the government does, its efforts to create this new national urban park, at least from our perspective, fall short in some key aspects. This park is to be created using lands currently held by the Government of Ontario. In fact, lands being held by the Government of Ontario would represent approximately two-thirds of the total park lands if and when they were transferred to federal control.

However, despite the fact that intergovernmental talks have been going on for a number of years and should be a shining example of intergovernmental co-operation, sadly, we have sometimes seen strife taking place between the two orders of government. For example, when the government was supposed to have engaged in a positive announcement last summer when it was signing the memorandum of agreement to create this national park, it unfortunately turned out to be a bit of a public relations nightmare.

I do not necessarily want to diminish the long-standing efforts of the many people who have been the driving force behind this park or on the long consultative process that has occurred, but if the government was truly committed to building a first-class national urban park, we have to ask why so many environmental groups are applauding the recent actions of the Ontario government. In this debate I have heard the accusation that the Government of Ontario is playing politics with the formation of the Rouge national park, but the question is who is playing politics with whom.

For example, it was this government that blindsided the provincial government when the announcement was made last year about the ongoing development of the Pickering airport at the same press conference, and the Government of Ontario was not given a heads-up that it would be happening. Let us be frank: it is not as though the government has a reputation for sound environmental bona fides. Members could just read, for example, the Commissioner of the Environment's report that was issued yesterday, which was damning in its conclusion that we would not meet the Copenhagen greenhouse gas emission targets by 2020.

This is the same government that has also seen substantial reductions in Parks Canada staff, despite the fact, as I will acknowledge, that the government has set aside a significant amount of funds, in the order of over $140 million, for the creation of this new national urban park. It is no wonder that the Government of Ontario and leading environmental groups just do not trust the government when it comes to acting in the best interests of the environment.

After a decade of environmental management of the Greenbelt, which the Rouge park will become an integral part of, the Government of Ontario requested some assurances from the federal government that it would continue to protect this land, as was befitting a national park. Sadly, this is where the bill fails the people of Scarborough, the people of Toronto, and, frankly, all the people of Canada. In our view, this bill is missing some key details.

For example, it is missing details about how endangered species will be protected, plans showing how heritage areas will be treated, details about how the park will be zoned for different uses, such as farming, hiking, and protection of natural habitats. I stand with the provincial government in asking the government to honour the memorandum of agreement that it signed with the Province of Ontario. I do so because it is important that in establishing a first national urban park, we ultimately get it right.

Despite the fact that the Liberal Party will be supporting this piece of legislation on second reading, we strongly urge the members on the government side, particularly when it goes to committee, to support efforts on this side of the House. These efforts will be undertaken by the member for Halifax and the member for Scarborough—Guildwood , our party's environmental critic, who will attempt to work with members on the other side to fix this pa