← LEADERSHIP TERMINAL

HOUSE OF COMMONS · FORMER

Arielle Kayabaga

London West, Ontario · Liberal · Canada

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Madam Speaker, earlier a member of the opposition talked about the fact that they were not filibustering, yet she was the one who actually told the story about an elephant in a discussion of Bill C-30 , where there is money that has to go out to people who need more housing in a faster way.

SITTING 136 · 2026-06-14 · READ IN HANSARD

Mr. Speaker, obviously, the member has been at the municipal level before, and we know that we cannot build homes without cities and without partnerships with the provinces and municipalities.

SITTING 134 · 2026-06-10 · READ IN HANSARD

Earlier, Mr. Speaker, the member's colleague who sits on committee with me said he feels we are not listening. I talked about the fact that we did extensive collaboration.

SITTING 134 · 2026-06-10 · READ IN HANSARD

Mr. Speaker, I really appreciated my colleague's speech. Of course, we all know that our systems and institutions are very robust in Canada, and I know my hon. colleague touched on that in his speech. Can he tell us more about what Canadians stand to gain from this bill?

SITTING 134 · 2026-06-10 · READ IN HANSARD

Mr. Speaker, what I find interesting from the member opposite, who also sits on the committee with me, is the fact that he said he is not buying what we are selling, though we worked in collaboration with their team to bring the bill forward as quickly as possible.

SITTING 134 · 2026-06-10 · READ IN HANSARD

Bad actors may try to interfere with our democratic processes and our elections from anywhere in the world at any time. Despite these challenges, the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions confirmed that our elections are safe.

SITTING 133 · 2026-06-09 · READ IN HANSARD

The complete record

Every one of 419 lines we hold for Arielle Kayabaga, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 3 of 9.

  1. Mr. Speaker, I already answered that question to some extent in my speech. We are drawing on federal leadership to build houses as quickly as possible and remove all these obstacles. I did mention that we are working with municipalities and provinces. No province will be excluded from our discussions or our work. We campaigned on this issue and Canadians gave us a mandate to implement this program. The program we are implementing will help increase construction, not only across the country, but also in Quebec.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  2. Speaker, the member would not have made the same comments, because the mayor was here last week, talking about the needs in London and the need for us to continue to invest, especially in wraparound services that are needed in our city and that leaders across the board have identified as an issue that they want to work together with all levels of government to address. I am not sure—

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  3. Mr. Speaker, first of all, I do not think the member is aware that I sat on council with Mayor Morgan. In 2018, when the City of London, for the first time, had the opportunity to partner with the federal government to work through the national housing strategy, we worked directly with the federal government. As a member of Parliament, I have had the chance to work directly with the municipality of London to ensure that housing can be built fast. Yes, the City of London has leveraged many federal dollars to be able to provide affordable housing across the board, and it will continue to do so. I do not think the member has had a conversation with Mayor Morgan about this, because he would not have made the same comments he made today. Scott Aitchison: I know him very well. I talk to him all the time. Hon. Arielle Kayabaga: Mr.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  4. It provides stability and dignity for individuals facing complex challenges, reduces strain on emergency systems, improves community outcomes and contributes to the overall housing supply, which helps moderate market pressures. (1615) The Build Canada Homes act would build precisely on this model of coordinated, enabling leadership. By strengthening financing tools, it would allow more projects to proceed with certainty. Every Canadian deserves a place to call home, and the Build Canada Homes act would help to build a strong Canada. It would do exactly what we promised on the campaign trail in April 2025. I look forward to taking questions from my colleagues.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  5. The Build Canada Homes act and the transfer of the land holdings and development experience from Canada Lands Company Limited to Build Canada Homes would accelerate the delivery of affordable housing across the country, contrary to what many colleagues have been commenting here. Moving forward with this legislation means that the Government of Canada would be better positioned to use all the tools that it has at its disposal to ensure that Canadians can have the homes they need. The federal government would implement new ideas and take an innovative approach to building housing across the country. Through this act, the federal government would put public lands to good use by building thousands of new affordable homes. Supportive housing, in particular, reflects this dual benefit.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  6. The Build Canada Homes act would be a major milestone in the government's plan to build more homes in a fast way and to help ensure that every Canadian can have a place to call home that they can afford. Build Canada Homes is becoming a Crown corporation to give it the operational independence, the governance and the flexibility needed to deliver affordable housing while remaining accountable to Parliament. The legislation would also enable Build Canada Homes to leverage Canada Lands Company Limited's land holdings and development expertise, along with its own flexible financial tools. It would provide a streamlined approach to building on public lands.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  7. If we think about a modular home that has to move from one area to another, maybe more start-ups will be interested in modular work. Also, with the barriers that we are removing, there is the possibility of much money to be made across the board and much expertise to be shared among the different provinces. I also had a chance to visit one of these companies in my backyard of southwestern Ontario, near Windsor. I saw how the technology is already there, and it is prepared. As the minister said, we want to build all year long. This is some of the technology and innovation that we could be using to make sure that Canadians are still employed and are able to build homes and get the homes they need, at scale and fast.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  8. The homes will enable long-term affordability through continued public ownership, and the newbuilds will leverage modern methods of construction. This includes prefabrication, modular building and mass timber to speed up construction and take advantage of Canadian technology and materials. Earlier, the minister also talked about how construction will go on all year long. Last year, during the summer, my colleagues and I had our caucus retreat in Edmonton. We were able to visit many start-ups that are doing modular work using AI. They are working with people who are in the sector, in apprenticeships, and they are using AI as a tool that can also build homes in a very fast way. We are doing work around removing barriers across Canada.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  9. Build Canada Homes will develop parcels at six Canada Lands Company Limited sites in Dartmouth, Longueuil, Ottawa, Toronto, Winnipeg and Edmonton. A direct build approach will be used for the construction of these affordable, mixed-income communities. This is one example of how Build Canada Homes will work to improve the availability of affordable housing for those who have been priced out of the market. Build Canada Homes will also look for ways to maximize affordability as much as possible. We will leverage a mixed-market approach. Build Canada Homes will also help unlock new sources of private capital and create more housing supply across the board. It will ensure that housing remains financially viable and affordable for the long term.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  10. This means Build Canada Homes would be equipped with the tools and the authorities to take a leading role in the planning, development and construction of housing on public lands. This would also include the land holdings of Canada Lands Company Limited. It would position Build Canada Homes to streamline construction on public lands. Budget 2025 already announced an initial investment of $13 billion over five years. Of this amount, there is a capital contribution of $1.5 billion to Canada Lands Company Limited. This funding will support the direct construction of up to 4,000 new homes that will remain publicly owned over the long term. This marks a strategic shift in how public lands and development expertise are mobilized to accelerate the supply of affordable housing across the country.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  11. [ English ] The Build Canada Homes act proposes to establish Build Canada Homes as a Crown corporation. The legislation would provide the transitional provisions necessary to move from the existing special operating agency to a Crown corporation. This will allow it to move faster and more efficiently in providing and delivering housing across the board, whether it be in the province of Ontario or across Canada. We would also streamline and strengthen federal efforts and help scale up the supply of affordable housing across the country. The transfer of key elements from Canada Lands Company Limited to Build Canada Homes is an important step in developing and building housing on public lands.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  12. (1610) [ Translation ] The global economy has recently undergone a shift that has profoundly transformed the traditional world order. Canada can no longer count on its most important trading relationship. Because of that, we are building our capacity here at home. We are going to build stronger relationships across all levels of government, including municipal, provincial and territorial governments and with our indigenous partners. We are making strategic investments to build a stronger, more sustainable and more resilient economy. We are working to cut red tape, eliminate internal trade barriers and sign new agreements that will stimulate the local economy. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes will be funded by the initial $13‑billion envelope announced in budget 2025.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  13. We are going to work with the provinces, we are going to work with municipalities, we are going to work with everyone to make sure we can provide homes for Canadians across the board. Being able to afford a home is a human right; it is not a luxury. It is what all Canadians need and deserve, and that is what we are going to continue to do. For young families, for first-time homebuyers, for those seeking to put down roots, housing supply becomes the difference between aspiration and reality. Every home built expands the possibility. Strategic federal investments paired with local leadership and wraparound approaches produce compounding benefits. They will address immediate needs while strengthening long-term market stability. They support the most vulnerable population while improving affordability dynamics for the broader community.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  14. This progress matters, not only for those directly served, but for the broader housing ecosystem. Expanding supply across the housing continuum, including supportive and affordable housing, has a system-wide effect. We already know that when more housing units come online, pressure on rental markets begin to ease. When rental pressures ease, affordability improves across the board. The hope is that Build Canada Homes will do that, so we can see a spike in home builds across the city and across Canada. The reality is that young Canadians, as I said earlier, desire to own a home, and that desire has not wavered, which is why we are going to continue to do everything in our power.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  15. I had an opportunity to chat with a couple of residents there, but more importantly with Ese, who invited me to be the keynote speaker, engaging on Black History Month. The joy she had and the life in the room really brought life to me as well. I was actually not feeling well that day, but it brought so much light and joy to see that, to see the advocacy that went into it, all the partners that went into it and all the hard work of people who want to see the most vulnerable people in our community housed. That is exactly her success and what Ese embodies. As the staff on site said, she has come so far from where she was to where she is now. I am so glad to see that there are tangible people behind these dollars. The work that Build Canada Homes wants to do and will continue to build on is like the project on Thompson Road.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  16. I was there when the first person moved in, and I returned to have a conversation with a resident who was excited to celebrate Black History Month. It really brought warmth to my heart to see that behind all the jargon that politicians use, behind all the numbers we talk about and behind the dollars, there are real people. I was talking about wraparound services and what Build Canada Homes would do to provide more of these opportunities. The minister shared a story earlier about the Dunn project, which is in Toronto, and I am sharing the story about Thompson Road and many others in the city of London, where we see partners come together and get federal dollars to provide units for people who need them the most, the most vulnerable people in our community.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  17. This past week in my riding, I visited an Indwell housing project, a partnership with many partners in the city of London, including the City of London, where residents celebrated Black History Month with the support of staff. I was invited as the speaker by one of the residents who has been there for, I think, about a year, named Este. I saw the joy it brought her to invite me to speak at this Black History Month event. I enjoyed having a conversation with her and getting to know a little about her story, where she started, where she is at today and how far she has come, as well as about the dignity with which Indwell treats its residents. (1605) This is a project we funded. I was there for the groundbreaking. I was there for the opening.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  18. Our community has received among the highest levels of housing funding in the country, reflecting both scale of local need and the city's readiness to respond to that need. London was the first municipality to secure the housing accelerator fund, and through demonstrated performance and ambition, it has received additional funding to further accelerate progress. These investments have translated into tangible results. London has significantly expanded its housing supply, including a substantial increase in supportive housing projects that combine stable accommodation with integrated health and social services that continue to address homelessness and housing vulnerability in a durable and more sustainable way because it is done at a community level. I would like to share a story.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  19. Yes, Canada must build more homes, must accelerate approvals and remove barriers, and it must also ensure that housing systems promote long-term stability, particularly with people who have complex needs. If I may, let me reflect briefly on the experiences of London, Ontario, which offers a compelling example of how federal partnerships and wraparound thinking can produce meaningful outcomes. London has been a national leader in leveraging federal housing dollars and investments, thanks to the many partners in the sector, along with the leadership of the City of London and the many builders across the city who have come together and are responding to the need for housing for every single person in our community. We are, one day at a time, curving homelessness across the city of London.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  20. Once Build Canada Homes becomes a Crown corporation, it would also have access to a broader set of authorities and to greater operational flexibility. This would also allow it to move faster and more effectively in delivering housing at scale. Housing insecurity is rarely a stand-alone issue. We know that for many Canadians, it intersects with mental health, health care access, income stability and community supports. This is the reality that underscores the importance of wraparound services, an approach that recognizes that stable housing and personal well-being are deeply interconnected. The Build Canada Homes act would allow us to think about housing in a more holistic way.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  21. It is the onus of every single level of government to make sure we can meet that dream. The legislation would define the mandate, governance structure, powers and funding of Build Canada Homes. It would also provide the transitional provisions necessary to move it from an existing special operating agency to a Crown corporation. I want to clarify that this is something we ran on, and Canadians, on April 28, 2025, gave this side of the House the mandate to meet their most important and most dire needs across the country. We are not doing something that we were hiding from Canadians; we have talked about it. We talked about Build Canada Homes, and now we finally see the life of Build Canada Homes as a Crown corporation.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  22. Mr. Speaker, I am happy to rise today to speak to the Build Canada Homes act, the legislation that would address one of the most urgent and deeply felt challenges facing Canadians, particularly young Canadians: housing. I would like to address the impact the legislation would have on Canada Lands Company Limited. As we know, Canada is in a housing crisis. The cost of housing is up, supply is not keeping pace with demand, and productivity in the construction sector is low. We need to build more homes, and we need to build them fast. This is exactly what we ran on in April 2025. It is what Canadians wanted us to do. Consistently for the last couple of years, we have heard from Canadians that they need more homes. The dream of being a homeowner for young Canadians has not died; it is still alive and well.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  23. Mr. Speaker, there have been discussions among the parties, and if you seek it, I believe you will find unanimous consent for the following motion: Motion That, in accordance with subsection 49(1) of the Official Languages Act, R.S.C., 1985, c. 31, and pursuant to Standing Order 111.1(2), the House approve the appointment of Kelly Burke as Commissioner of Official Languages, for a term of seven years.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  24. Madam Speaker, I would like to thank the hon. minister for laying out exactly what Canadians have been talking about for quite some time. He talked about the wraparound services and cities like London, Ontario, where we have benefited from funding through the national housing strategy. I was recently at a location where we had funded wraparound services. I want to share with the minister the dignity I saw in the people who lived there. An event had been created and I was invited to speak to them. I am thinking about where they were five years ago and where they are today, with the dignity and the humanity to now be able to think past their problems. I think about cities like Vancouver and London, where we see a lot of homelessness and people experiencing addiction because they do not have wraparound services.

    SITTING 87 · 2026-02-23 · READ IN HANSARD

  25. Mr. Speaker, that is interesting. I think the Conservatives nitpick what they want to talk about. I talked about St. Thomas and the investments we made in St. Thomas even prior to today. I invite the member opposite to actually chat with one of his colleagues, Mayor Preston, who has said that he “hasn’t stopped smiling” since we made these investments in his community.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  26. Mr. Speaker, I can actually share with the House that I support the auto sector in my region. I drive a Toyota RAV4 hybrid, and that is made right in my backyard in southwestern Ontario. I think those are the different ways that we can continue to show our support. As the Prime Minister said, Canada is a nation that builds cars, and it will continue to be. We are not going to stop.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  27. Mr. Speaker, I am listening. I would be willing to have a lengthier discussion with him. I do not have any more information at this time, but I really urge him to support it. Where I come from, this sector is affected, so I can speak for my constituents and people in this sector who are affected. We have to keep working together to do everything we can to support the people who find themselves in this very difficult situation.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  28. Mr. Speaker, I find my hon. colleague's question a bit tone-deaf, given that many people in the sector have asked us to put partisanship aside and to address the real issue. We are talking about a sector that is facing unprecedented challenges due to many issues, including tariffs that are unjustified, and people are asking policy-makers across the board to put partisanship aside and to make the right decisions that will ensure our families can put food on the table. I put it back to the member. What is he doing, instead of obstructing, to make sure that Canadian workers actually have the supports that they need?

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  29. Uncertainty in the United States, shifting trade dynamics and evolving industrial policies have created challenges for the North American supply chains. I will close by returning to the fundamental questions before us. What kind of future do we want to envision for our children? What kind of future do we want to envision for Canadians across southwestern Ontario and in other communities where the automotive sector is the backbone of the economy? I think it would be a mistake if we did not make the right decisions, the right policies to bring us forward into the future, and it held us back. I look forward to taking questions from the House.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  30. These investments we are making in charging infrastructures are therefore investments in consumer confidence, but they are also investments in regional economic integration. A robust charging network along major corridors such as Highway 401 strengthens the practical viability of EV ownership for workers, families and many businesses in the region. Canada's national charging infrastructure strategy and the Canada Infrastructure Bank's dedicated funding envelope are essential to these components of this effort. Accelerating infrastructure deployment will also help ensure that the EV transition is perceived not as a constraint but as a practical, accessible choice. We must acknowledge the broader geopolitical context we are in.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  31. For these firms, the EV transition requires significant capital investment, technological upgrading and workforce adaptation. These are policies that stimulate EV demand. They do not only benefit large automakers; they also benefit the small mom-and-pop shops. The ripple effect throughout the supply chain sustains thousands of smaller businesses that depend on a healthy, growing automotive sector. Beyond affordability, infrastructure remains a critical factor. Range confidence is especially important in regions like mine, where many residents rely on personal vehicles for commuting, intercity travel and economic activities, so we have to invest in charging infrastructure.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  32. For southwestern Ontario, this program carries particular significance. By prioritizing vehicles produced in Canada or within trusted partners, the program links consumer incentives with domestic industrial growth. Most importantly, by removing the transaction value cap for Canadian EVs, the strategy sends a powerful signal to the entire region. It tells manufacturers that Canada is serious about building demand for vehicles produced by Canadian workers, and it tells our workers that their jobs are central to Canada's climate and industrial policies. Small and medium-sized enterprises are the backbone of the automotive supply chain. These companies manufacture components, provide specialized services and drive innovation.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  33. The second pillar I want to highlight is supporting consumers in the transition to electric vehicles by making EVs more affordable and accessible. Affordability is not just a consumer issue. It is also an industrial strategy. When Canadians can afford electric vehicles, the domestic demand strengthens, and when domestic demand strengthens, Canadian manufacturing becomes more viable. The previous incentives for zero-emission vehicles program played a critical role in stimulating early adoption. It helped normalize electrical vehicles within the Canadian market and supported hundreds of thousands of purchases. However, we know that affordability remains one of the most significant barriers to broader adoption. The new electric vehicle affordability program will address these challenges head-on.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  34. They can retool their facilities and secure long-term employment. (1555) When automakers and suppliers know the rules of the game, they take the time to invest with confidence. They can predict and plan for their workers' benefit as well. The community benefits, and the entire region's economy benefits as well. Our region's auto workers are among the most skilled and productive in the world and have repeatedly demonstrated their ability to adapt to technological change, whether through automation, advanced manufacturing or electrification. What they require from policy-makers and legislators in this House and others is clarity, stability and a long-term vision. That is what we are giving them in this moment through the automotive strategy that the Prime Minister announced last week.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  35. Transportation accounts for a quarter of Canada's greenhouse gas emissions. There is no credible pathway to net zero that does not involve fundamental changes in how we design, build and power vehicles. At the same time, we have to recognize the realities of the automotive production cycle. Vehicles built today will remain on the road for well over a decade. Manufacturing decisions made today will shape employment patterns for years to come. This is precisely why regulatory certainty matters most to our workers. Canada's strengthened greenhouse gas emissions standards for light-duty vehicles provide a clear, predictable framework for manufacturers. For southwestern Ontario, predictability is the foundation upon which companies can make investment decisions. They can retool if they need to.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  36. It is the direction of travel for markets, for investments and for long-term competitiveness. We have to be at the table. For southwestern Ontario, this transition also represents both opportunity and risk: opportunity because Canada has the talent, the industrial base and the skilled workforce needed to lead the next generation of vehicle manufacturing; and risk because transitions of this magnitude create uncertainty for workers, suppliers and communities that have built their economic identity around traditional automotive production. We owe it to our children and future generations to do the heavy lifting of putting in place transformative policies that will enable Canada to lead in the low-carbon economy of tomorrow. That is why we will continue to fight climate change and why we will also be creating the strongest economy in the G7.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  37. Thomas, and of London and the entire region, this transition is about good jobs, economic revitalization and the next chapter of a proud manufacturing legacy. Canada's auto strategy rests on five pillars. Today, I am going to focus on two pillars through the lens of southwestern Ontario's automotive sector. The first pillar is the government's commitment to reducing emissions from light-duty vehicles as part of Canada's broader objective of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Climate action is often framed as an environmental necessity. It is that, but it is also an economic imperative, particularly in regions like mine. The global automotive industry is undergoing a historic transformation. Electrification is no longer optional now. It is a must.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  38. From the assembly plants to parts manufacturers, from tool and die shops to advanced technology firms, the success of Canada's auto strategy will directly influence the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of people in our ridings and thousands of workers in our region. There is no other place where this transformation is more visible than St. Thomas. This community, in London West's backyard, has long been connected to Canada's manufacturing story. It now stands at the forefront of the electric vehicle economy. The investments that have been made there represent more than just new facilities. They represent renewed confidence in our region of southwestern Ontario, in our workforce, in our industrial capacity and in Canada's ability to compete in the industries of the future. For the people of St.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  39. On behalf of London West families, I take the liberty of extending my heartfelt prayers to both communities and pray for them as they navigate the very hard days that are ahead of them. Last week, the government released its auto strategy, a plan designed to help Canada's automotive sector navigate the profound changes reshaping the global economy. These changes are already being felt in communities across the country, particularly in southwestern Ontario, where the auto sector is not just an industry but the economic backbone of our region. In southwestern Ontario, the automotive sector represents jobs, families and the stability of local businesses and communities.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  40. Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Bourassa . Before I begin my remarks, I would like to once again acknowledge the horrific mass shooting that occurred in Tumbler Ridge, British Columbia. My thoughts are with the families who have lost loved ones, with those who are injured and with the entire community that is now facing unimaginable grief. Canadians stand united in mourning, and we remain deeply grateful to the first responders who acted with courage and professionalism in the face of this tragedy. I also want to recognize, as I said earlier, the families in Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg. Two communities right now are experiencing the loss of children. As I said, I am a mom. I cannot imagine what these parents are facing right now.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  41. Mr. Speaker, I too want to extend well wishes as everyone returns to their riding. I hope this will be an opportunity to reconnect and to answer questions that many of our constituents have. I also want to extend my heartfelt feelings, thoughts and prayers to the grieving families in both communities: Tumbler Ridge and Kitigan Zibi Anishinabeg. As a parent myself, I understand how tough this time is. I wish the members of Parliament who represent those areas resolve and wisdom as they navigate the days to come. Tomorrow we will proceed with report stage and third reading of Bill C-14 , the bail and sentencing reform act. When we return from the constituency week, we will consider Bill C-20 , the Build Canada Homes act, at second reading on Monday, as well as on Wednesday if needed.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  42. Motion Mr. Speaker, there have been discussions among the parties, and if you seek it, I believe you will find unanimous consent for the following motion: That the Standing Committee on Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics be the committee designated for the purposes of section 14.1 of the Lobbying Act.

    SITTING 85 · 2026-02-12 · READ IN HANSARD

  43. Often working in difficult and uncertain conditions, they reflect the best of Canada's values: co-operation, respect and shared humanity. International development is all about partnership, dignity and long-term impact, and it remains essential to building a more stable and connected world for all of us. On behalf of the House, I want to thank them for their commitment and their service. I thank them for their work.

    SITTING 80 · 2026-02-05 · READ IN HANSARD

  44. Mr. Speaker, this week, we mark International Development Week, a time to recognize the people and partnerships that help build a safer, healthier and more prosperous world. At a time when the world is facing growing conflict, humanitarian crises, climate change and economic uncertainty, international development work is more important than ever. I want to thank Canadians working across the international development sector in NGOs, multilateral institutions, community organizations and public service, who dedicate their skills and compassion to improving the lives of those around the globe. Their work supports women and girls, strengthens health and education systems, responds to emergencies and helps communities build resilience in the face of instability and poverty.

    SITTING 80 · 2026-02-05 · READ IN HANSARD

  45. Mr. Speaker, it does sound like my hon. colleague supports this measure and she is going to support it, because this is what Canadians want in this moment. Why would we spend more time discussing a bill we know we are going to support? Canadians need it right now. She just talked about the many people in her riding, even families, who do not even qualify for this measure. She understands the environment people are in right now. Why wait instead of just voting for this bill so that it can move fast? Why are Conservatives so stuck on obstructing?

    SITTING 79 · 2026-02-04 · READ IN HANSARD

  46. I think that the national food security strategy and the national housing strategy, as well, are measures that would work together to ensure that we have a plan and that we are capable of meeting the moment when necessary with the partnerships that we have built across the country.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD

  47. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the work my hon. colleague does for her constituents. I did talk about the national food security strategy that this bill proposes. I think the quicker we can pass this bill, the faster we can have discussions around the long-term plans addressing food insecurity in Canada and supply chains across the country. We saw what happened with COVID-19, and we know that we are vulnerable when we do not have the infrastructure in place to be able to address these issues. I appreciate that my colleague is raising this really important question in the House of Commons to make sure we are all mindful of the fact that these issues can happen at any time. COVID-19 or a similar situation could happen again, and we have to put the infrastructure in place to be able to address those issues in the future.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD

  48. Mr. Speaker, I really appreciate my colleague's question and I appreciate all the work he has done. I look forward to continuing to work with him. On the matter of food banks, I just told the House that we are increasing the amount that we give to food banks across Canada by $20 million in order to respond to this issue. As my colleague said, it is an issue that is heartbreaking. This is not a topic for a light debate, given that people's lives are at stake. As I mentioned earlier, there are also measures that will help seniors in Canada as well as seniors in Quebec. I am willing to continue to work with my colleague to address issues of affordability across the country.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD

  49. Mr. Speaker, I called it a very divisive tax because the Conservatives made sure that Canadians could not get the truth about this tax. This was money that was going into Canadians' pockets and we had to respond. We will continue to respond to the needs of Canadians when they ask us to because they elected us to do so. Maybe the Conservatives can stop obstructing and actually respond to the questions that Canadians have, even in Conservative ridings.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD

  50. They want to see us move forward in making life more affordable for all Canadians, so I hope that my colleagues are going to do exactly this, that they are not going to stand in the way, that they are not going to obstruct and that they are going to support us in making sure that we can respond to what Canadians sent us here to do in April 2025.

    SITTING 77 · 2026-02-02 · READ IN HANSARD