Yasir Naqvi
Ottawa Centre, Ontario · Liberal · Canada
“They have an impact on our country, our economy and people's livelihoods. Of course, they have an impact on young people as well. That is why I think it is incumbent upon all of us, regardless of which political background we come from, to share those ideas.”
“This will create opportunities for young people in skilled trades that are so needed across the country, and it will align with Canada's housing infrastructure and defence needs, where a tremendous amount of investment is being made.”
“In particular, I want to thank him for really making clear how much he believes in this country and how much he believes in a strong Alberta within a very strong and united Canada. I thank him for that. The member is absolutely right.”
“Listening to the debates that take place in this particular House allows us to to be better champions of Canada and to better understand, love and respect this country. I look forward to that opportunity. I would like to ask the hon.”
“Mr. Speaker, let me start by wishing you a restful summer. I know it has been a very busy sitting. I want to thank the entire House of Commons staff for their remarkable work in supporting us in the important work we do on behalf of our constituents. It is a great honour for me to serve Ottawa Centre. Some hon. members: Oh, oh!”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member again for the work he is doing. I briefly want to talk about the Canada summer jobs program, because I know it benefits young people across the country in all our respective constituencies. In my riding of Ottawa Centre alone, almost 600 jobs have been created.”
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“We have gotten rid of the divisive consumer carbon tax, which is helping families save money. We are cutting taxes. There are no new taxes in this budget, which is worthy of support. In addition to that, we are not cutting any social services. We are making sure that Canadians get the help they need, whether through the Canada child benefit, the $10-a-day child care plan, the Canada disability benefit, the national school food program being made permanent, old age security or the guaranteed income supplement. All those important supports that Canadians rely on are being maintained and protected in this budget. (1310) That is an important element for me in my support for the budget, but there are four or five key points I want to raise that are important in the budget. One is the focus on trade diversification.”
“This is as opposed to how we have always done business, which is from north to south and to the United States. This is something we have to reorient. In that process, we have to open up opportunities, through our Atlantic, Pacific and Arctic coasts, to other parts of the world. The investments my Conservative colleagues continue to oppose, which are part of this budget, are not just wasted money; they are being invested to build the infrastructure necessary for the economic independence of Canada. There are a couple of other points I want to raise that I think are worth mentioning. In this budget, there are no new tax increases. In fact, we are cutting taxes for over 20 million Canadians, especially those in the middle class, by lowering an income tax bracket.”
“The big challenge we have to respond to is strengthening our economy to make sure that our country remains both politically and economically independent. It is imperative and something the Prime Minister spoke about. In fact, the most recent election was fought on that. What steps are necessary to make Canada an economically independent country so that we are less reliant on the United States, are more focused on ensuring we trade with different parts of the world and are able to build our economy? There are two big elements to make that happen that are part and parcel of this budget. One is to build one economy, as opposed to 13 in the country, and build the country east to west, which is the true axis of the country, with, of course, our northern coast and northern communities as well.”
“We are seeing serious signals toward protectionism, especially by the United States, and tariffs are being imposed on countries that have been long-time friends and allies, like Canada, for no justifiable reason. We are seeing shifting geopolitical alliances between countries, and countries like Canada are considering what they should be doing to invest in the north or the defence sector. That is the context in which this budget is being presented. The aim of this budget is to set Canada up for success in this changing economic and political environment. In fact, I would argue that it would be highly inappropriate if the government did not make bold decisions, as we see in this budget, because then we would not be responding to the challenges.”
“Mr. Speaker, thank you for recognizing me and giving me the opportunity to speak to Bill C-15 , which is the budget implementation act and the overall budgetary policy of this government. Let me start by recognizing and thanking the people of Ottawa Centre for giving me the opportunity to speak on their behalf in the House. It is an honour every time I get up. Every single budget tabled on behalf of the Government of Canada, no matter which political stripe, is shaped by the context or moment in time we are living in. This moment is quite unique. We hear different expressions, such as a hinge moment, a pivotal moment and a moment of great consequence, and I think all of them are quite appropriate descriptions of the times we are living in.”
“Mr. Speaker, I think it is a great, great day when we hear that a foreign government is deciding to invest $70 billion in our economy. We are talking about AI, infrastructure and agriculture to create those jobs. This is about making sure we can leverage its sovereign funds and our pension funds to create opportunities for our economy right here at home. There are companies like Mila, which is launching a new partnership with the U.A.E.'s Technology Innovation Institute; BlackBerry, which has signed a partnership with the U.A.E'.s Cyber Security Council to strengthen cybersecurity co-operation infrastructure; and Invest in Canada, which is working to partner with the U.A.E. and to identify and explore large-scale investments right—”
“Mr. Speaker, in mere months since this new government has been elected, we have signed a comprehensive trade agreement with Indonesia. The Prime Minister was just in the United Arab Emirates, and he has signed an agreement to protect our investors so that more investments could be made right here in Canada. In fact, we have launched a new trade agreement with the United Arab Emirates as well. Here is the result: Just yesterday, the United Arab Emirates decided to invest $70 billion in our country. That is jobs in all our communities. The Conservatives need to accept these wins, which are building Canada strong.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada's a proud trading nation, and the way we have been able to build that proud tradition of trading around the world and build prosperity in this country is by actually going to other parts of the world and building those relationships. That is precisely what the Prime Minister is doing. In fact, just yesterday, the government of the United Arab Emirates decided to invest $70 billion in Canada. That is investment in our communities, creating well-paying jobs, and that is just the beginning. That is the work the Prime Minister is doing, and we will continue to do that work.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is a good time to be a soccer fan in Ottawa. Ottawa Rapid, the women's soccer team, finished an outstanding first season, finishing second in the league and making it all the way to a heartbreaking penalty shootout in the semifinals against Vancouver. The very next day, Atlético Ottawa, the men's soccer team, finished its own exceptional season, with the now-famous final of the Canadian Premier League played in the middle of a classic Canadian snowstorm, defeating Calgary 2-1. If members have not yet googled “icicle kick by David Rodriguez”, they will want to check it out. It has gone viral. Both teams are making our city proud and are helping to put Canadian soccer on the map. Let us hear it for Ottawa Rapid and Atlético Ottawa. Go, Canada!”
“Under the law, even though she is a Canadian citizen, she could not, because she was born outside the country. These are the real-life circumstances we are trying to remedy with the proposed law. Does the member oppose ensuring that Canadians remain Canadians by making sure their children also get Canadian citizenship?”
“Madam Speaker, I just want to quickly remind the member that we are here at this moment debating this bill because the bill the Harper government brought into law was found by the courts to be unconstitutional under the charter. They have given the House until November 20 to pass a law to remedy that circumstance. As a result of the illegal law, there are many Canadians who are disenfranchised. For example, a very good friend of mine was born of two Canadian parents who were working abroad. She was born outside Canada. Of course, she returned to Canada, is a Canadian citizen, lived here her whole life, got her education and now is working in France, where she had two children of her own. She is unable to pass Canadian citizenship to them.”
“Madam Speaker, of course we are continuously working and making sure we find new opportunities for our lumber producers. I know that ministers and many members of Parliament are going to British Columbia to meet many of those forest lumber producers to ensure that we are creating new opportunities, and that is why we are so focused on ensuring that we double our non-U.S. exports in the next decade. That means building new alliances and new friendships around the world. That is why the Prime Minister is in Asia meeting with leaders to create those opportunities. We will continue to do that hard work so that our lumber producers remain the best—”
“Madam Speaker, we will always stand up for Canadian farmers, whether they are beef farmers or farmers who grow wheat. We will make sure that we will get the best deal for them all around the world. That is the work the Prime Minister is doing. He has been in Asia, meeting with various leaders from around the world to make sure we open new markets, new opportunities for Canadians, so we can double our non-U.S. exports over the next decade. We will do that for Canadian farmers, for Canadian manufacturers and for Canadian workers.”
“All of us in this Parliament have an important responsibility to always listen to each other and engage in thoughtful debates to build Canada strong.”
“Madam Speaker, we live in complicated times, when misinformation and disinformation are threatening the safety and security of our communities. I had the chance to participate in an event hosted by Carleton University, in my riding of Ottawa Centre, with Dr. Cynthia Miller-Idriss, discussing hate, conspiracy theories and challenges to democracy. It was an important discussion, reminding us of the many forces that seek to undermine everything that makes Canadian democracy and our society the envy of the world. Algorithms and echo chambers have polluted civic discourse, leading to rising disinformation, disagreement and hate in all forms. We must remember that the work of maintaining our values of democracy, rule of law and respect for rights is hard and ongoing, but it is work that we must always keep up.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to take this opportunity to remind members that 10 years ago, we were at the height of a refugee crisis during which thousands of people were coming in from Syria. My community in Ottawa Centre responded by stepping up and welcoming many refugees. Out of that anniversary comes the story of Refugee 613, an incredible organization created to help Syrian refugees settle and build better lives right here in Canada. It has done a tremendous job in helping not only Syrian refugees but many other refugees over the years. Just this week, it celebrated its 10th anniversary of building an incredible community. I want to take this opportunity to thank Louisa Taylor and all the volunteers and staff of Refugee 613 for building a thoughtful, more inclusive community here in Ottawa, which has benefited all of our country.”
“(1810) [ Translation ] By aligning our values with our economic strengths, Canada can exercise leadership in creating inclusive and sustainable development partnerships that move the world forward while creating real economic opportunities for Canadians. [ English ] Let me conclude by reaffirming our government's unwavering commitment to international assistance that is accountable, effective and results-driven, advancing both Canada's global leadership and our national interests. It is our intention to support this motion. Once again, I want to thank the member for York South—Weston—Etobicoke for the work he has done. I look forward to continuing to work with him and continuing to rely on his expertise in this area.”
“They will always provide a frame for Canada to engage internationally, whether it in our foreign policy, whether in our defence policy and, of course, in international assistance. Instead it would reflect an approach that recognizes the importance of strategic partnerships, economic inclusion, transparency and accountability, as fundamental to effective and responsible international assistance. Our new government supports the motion as a signal of a broader shift, in Canada and among other donor countries, toward ensuring that international development assistance not only supports global poverty reduction but also creates economic benefits for our partners and for Canadians at home.”
“As we look to the future, we will continue to consider how best to communicate the economic benefits created by Canada's international development assistance. There is an opportunity to strengthen the reporting of these benefits, both internationally and domestically, within our existing annual report to Parliament, thereby ensuring greater transparency and reinforcing confidence in Canada's international assistance efforts. Supporting the motion would not mean stepping back from our long-standing international development commitments, including our support for poverty reduction, gender equality, human rights and environmental sustainability. These are core Canadian values.”
“Any economic partnerships supported through official development assistance would be grounded in tangible, measurable improvements to the well-being of communities in partner countries. The concept of an economic partnership window reflects an important idea: that our programming tools can both advance economic security and better leverage Canada's strengths at home and abroad. Our government's aim is to make development partnerships more strategic, innovative and resilient, responding to partner countries' requests for stronger economic collaboration and investment. We are actively assessing the most effective mechanisms to achieve these objectives. On the issue of reporting, Global Affairs Canada currently fulfills its obligations under the Official Development Assistance Accountability Act by publishing an annual report to Parliament.”
“[ Translation ] To meet these challenges, we must mobilize all sources of financing, including domestic resources, official development assistance and private sector investment, to stimulate inclusive economic growth and build innovative partnerships around the world. [ English ] When we align development objectives with Canada's economic strengths, we amplify our impact on global poverty reduction. While the motion encourages the integration of reciprocal economic benefits into our international development assistance, I want to be clear that poverty reduction remains central to Canada's international development assistance efforts, in line with the Official Development Assistance Accountability Act.”
“[ English ] We are in the early phases of refocusing Canada's international development assistance to better support and advance mutually beneficial economic partnerships in alignment with the spirit of the motion, while continuing to advance our core values of gender equality, human rights and environmental sustainability. We recognize that a stable, equitable and prosperous world serves Canada's long-term national and strategic interest. The challenges facing developing countries today are complex and interconnected, from climate change, food insecurity and conflict to displacement, gender inequality and limited access to financing, opportunities and innovation.”
“The third is requiring the minister of international development to report to Parliament annually on the outcomes of Canadian participation in international development assistance projects, the measurable benefits for partner countries and the economic opportunities created for Canadians. [ Translation ] Our government strongly supports this motion, which proposes concrete measures to modernize our approach to international development assistance and strengthen Canada's collaboration with trusted partners around the world, so that our aid remains accountable, effective, and results-oriented.”
“[ Translation ] This motion responds to new global realities that are transforming the development landscape and highlights how Canadian aid can promote economic resilience, both here and abroad. (1805) [ English ] The motion proposes three key measures. The first is implementing new policies to ensure that Canadian international development assistance integrates opportunities for reciprocal economic benefit here at home, including through the participation of Canadian small- and medium-sized enterprises, innovators and workers. The second is establishing a dedicated economic partnership window to support projects that leverage Canadian economic strengths, such as clean energy, agriculture, digital technology and education, and that align poverty reduction abroad with economic security at home.”
“Mr. Speaker, I appreciate being recognized to speak in support of Motion No. 14, which calls upon the government to strengthen the accountability, effectiveness and mutual benefit of Canada's international development assistance. I want to first thank the member for York South—Weston—Etobicoke for bringing forward this motion. I really appreciate the work he does in his community and the work he has done over the last 10 years in Parliament in his various ministerial roles, including as minister of international development. I am proud to call him a friend and have always reached out to him for guidance. Once again, through this motion, he is demonstrating his thoughtfulness on important issues that not only set Canada up for success, but also set our stature internationally.”
“Mr. Speaker, at a time when other countries are stepping back, our government remains committed to international development. We are being deliberate in where and how we invest, focusing on security and economic partnerships that advance mutual interests, deliver benefits for both partners and Canadians and ensure that everyone in this world is prosperous. We understand that poverty, inequality and instability breed violence and that Canada's development assistance is an investment in global stability and in Canadians' own security and prosperity. As we strengthen our defence capabilities, we remain resolute in our commitment to international assistance. I will take the member's message to caucus as well.”
“This includes support for areas like humanitarian assistance, gender equality, good governance, climate action, education, global health and, of course, economic growth. We also work to ensure the transparency and accountability of international assistance to deliver measurable, optimized results. By prioritizing effectiveness and measurable results, as well as our partners' own priorities, we continue to focus on having a real and lasting impact in the places we work. Finally, our government is actively pursuing innovative partnerships and mechanisms with other countries, international organizations and the private sector to make the most of our resources. The moment we live in demands that kind of multi-faceted approach, and that is exactly what Canada is pursuing.”
“It is vital to ensure that Canada is prepared to defend our people, our values and our sovereignty and to protect our partners worldwide. This does not negate in any way our commitment to international development assistance and poverty reduction. In fact, this commitment is essential to peace and prosperity both here at home and around the world. International development assistance helps partner countries respond to global threats and strengthen their economies to contribute to a more secure and prosperous world for all. Official development assistance and our defence spending are not mutually exclusive. Our government remains responsive to global needs and continues to invest in programs that address the root causes of conflict and instability.”
“[ Translation ] At a time when democracy and human rights are under threat around the world and our partners are looking to build prosperous economies by fighting climate change, our government remains committed to international aid. We continue to promote development, support vulnerable communities and contribute to democratic governance. These commitments are critical to fostering peace and prosperity. [ English ] At the same time, we face a complex and evolving global landscape that demands a thoughtful and nuanced approach to strengthening Canada's security. Meeting the NATO defence spending target is not just a commitment; it is a necessity at this time. In an era marked by shifting global dynamics, as the member alluded to herself, and renewed threats to our sovereignty, the challenges we face are urgent.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is always an honour to rise in the House to debate and discuss some important issues of our time. I really appreciate the concern raised by the member for Saanich—Gulf Islands , whom I respect tremendously, regarding Canada's commitment to international development assistance. This is an important issue that speaks directly to Canada's role in the global community. First, let me emphasize that our government recognizes that peace is achieved in a multi-faceted way, through a combination of development, diplomacy and defence. We know that poverty, failed states and fragile governance are root causes of conflict and terrorism. Canadian development assistance helps address these issues and is an essential component of promoting global security and keeping Canadians safe. It is a key pillar of our foreign policy.”
“Mr. Speaker, this government will never let Canadian auto workers down. We will not let any workers down. We will work day and night to make sure that the Canadian auto industry remains one of the best success stories. That is why, as we speak, the Minister of Canada-U.S. relations is down in Washington working hard to negotiate a deal that is right for Canadian workers. That is why the Minister of International Trade is in Africa to make sure that we have opportunities in other parts of the world. We will continue to do this work so that Canadian workers have good-paying jobs right here in Canada.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am sure members opposite and all members of the House are well aware that we are in a major moment of transformation. The economy around the world is changing. This is why we are going to continue to work to get the best deal for Canadians, including Canadian auto workers, through the U.S. However, we are not stopping there. We are also working around the world to create new markets for Canadian auto workers to make sure we are signing new deals with countries in ASEAN and countries in Mercosur, because that is how we are going to make sure Canada remains strong and Canadian workers have good-paying jobs.”
“Mr. Speaker, even though the summer is in the rear-view, I want to share how exciting it was. Ottawa Tourism reports that from June to August, our city saw a 5% increase in hotel demand and a 7% jump in visitor spending compared to last year. July and August broke records. That is hundreds of thousands of people choosing to visit Ottawa. What brought them here? It was world-class events like Bluesfest, the inaugural Ironman Canada-Ottawa and the Canadian Track and Field Championships. Thanks to the Canada Strong Pass, our national museums, including the Agriculture and Food Museum, the Museum of Nature and the War Museum in my community of Ottawa Centre, brought in unmatched crowds. We can add in the buzz of Metcalfe Plaza by the Downtown BIA, the new Uncommon event space by the Centretown BIA and countless festivals.”
“My constituents also want to make sure that we are doing everything possible to lower the cost of essentials, speed up the construction of affordable homes and improve access to health care, including mental and dental care services. My constituents want us to have strong partnership with our allies and keep investing in our security—”
“Mr. Speaker, I really hope all members had a fantastic summer in their home communities. Mine was no different. I had some quality time with my family, especially my kids. I also had a lot of engagement with my constituents. In particular, I really took the time to listen to my constituents in terms of their views about the upcoming budget that will be tabled soon in the House. I sent a householder to all of my constituents and received hundreds of responses back. When it comes to building a strong economy for today and tomorrow, the residents of Ottawa Centre want us to break down internal trade barriers. They want us to invest in nation-building projects and expand trading relationships, not to mention supporting workers through more apprenticeships and training.”
“Mr. Speaker, this is precisely the point I was making. I thank the member for Winnipeg North for raising this point. Conservatives were trying to create two tiers of citizenship, one for those of us who are born here and one for those who have been naturalized. Somehow there are different rules for those two categories of people. Well, guess what the courts have told us: That is not constitutional. I take that very seriously from my own lived experience as somebody who came here at the age of 15. I have two children who were born in Canada. There should be no difference between the citizenship rights I have and those of my children born in Canada. We are trying to fix that through this law.”
“Mr. Speaker, that is a good question. [ English ] In my view, I wish we had solved this problem before. Even when I was not a member of this House, I advocated on this issue. As I mentioned, I ran an organization called the Institute for Canadian Citizenship. This is one of the policy ideas we worked on. Perhaps we could have done it, but the moment is here. It was delayed before, in the previous Parliament, but we have a bill. Of course, all bills need improvement. Let us get it to committee. Let us work fast at committee, make the improvements necessary, bring it back for third reading and pass it.”
“Mr. Speaker, I really appreciate the question. It may be a better solution. That is exactly what the committee process is for. We know that bills go to committee and get amended. If Conservative members feel this does not allow for a substantial connection, then let us have that conversation at committee. That is exactly what we should do. I was also responding to what I had heard, that this 1,095 days is a made-up number or that somehow we should have an American standard of five years. I disagree with that. If we can strengthen how we calculate the 1,095 days, let us have that conversation.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would also advise the member opposite to use his words carefully and not fall into the trap of using slogans provided by his House leader or his leader's office, who does not even have a seat here. That is essentially what is happening. I had never heard of the term “mass chain citizenship” until today in this House. Why? It is because somebody in Pierre Poilievre's office came up with it. Perhaps Pierre Poilievre has a lot of time on his hands nowadays, but repeating it again and again does not make it true. Let us deal with facts.”
“Canadians are proud, and one of our great virtues is that we contribute, take employment and engage in activities around the world. We are not a country that just lives within ourselves. One of the great benefits I have seen when travelling the world is meeting Canadians all over the world, but somehow the Harper government created a law that penalized Canadians for being abroad. (1255) That is why I am supportive of this bill. I think it is high time we fix a grave error made by the Harper government. I am sad that it took us this long. I hope this time around the legislation will pass so that the Canadians who have found themselves in limbo and are unable to make their children Canadian citizens will see them become Canadian citizens and contribute to the well-being of our great country.”
“This bill would essentially keep the standard consistent by giving that criteria. My time is limited, but I really want to stress that this is an important piece of legislation. This is legislation that would ensure we have only one kind of Canadian citizen, not tier A, tier B or tier C, as with the kind of effort we saw from the Harper government, to which thankfully our courts have been applying the charter in a manner ensuring that a Canadian citizen is treated equally under the law, that there are no different levels of Canadian citizens and that Canadians who live abroad are still able to pass along their Canadian citizenship when they have children. We are a small country, but one of the most incredible things about Canada and being Canadian is how many Canadians we meet around the world anytime we travel.”
“This legislation would fix the problem that was created by the Harper government. It would do so by providing for the “substantial connection” that the courts talked about. I have heard the debate about where the 1,095 days come from. That is required of any immigrant, like somebody who becomes a permanent resident when they come to Canada. Under the Citizenship Act, they have to be living in Canada for 1,095 days. By the way, they are not cumulative, those 1,095 days, for someone to become a Canadian citizen. Anybody serving in Parliament who has become a citizen knows this. My family and I had to live here 1,095 days, and we did not do it in consecutive days over a three-year period. It was done over a four-, five- or six-year period in my family's case. That is where the standard is coming from.”
“She is unable to pass on her Canadian citizenship because of the unconstitutional law the Harper government brought in. She was part of a group of people who challenged that law, which the Ontario Superior Court deemed unconstitutional. Unless and until we fix that grave error made by the Harper government, her children, who most likely will come back to Canada and who are Canadians because their mother is Canadian, will not be able to become Canadian until Bill C-3 is passed. She told me one time, so sad that she was crying, that her parents' fault was that, even though they were nationalized Canadians, they took a job somewhere else in the world and did not come back to Canada when she was born. They stayed wherever they were living at that time, and as a result, somehow under the law, that connection was broken.”
“Mr. Speaker, let me get to the crux of the matter. I am sharing a real-life example of a family that has been impacted by an unconstitutional law the Harper government brought in. I have a good friend, somebody I have known for a long time and somebody I have been trying to help, whose parents immigrated to Canada, became Canadian citizens, worked hard in this country in pursuit of their professional obligations and left the country to work elsewhere. They had a child while they were Canadian citizens abroad. That child, the person I am helping in this matter, later on came back to Canada and went to school here. That is how I met her. She became a lawyer. She lived and worked here, and now she is living in France, where she got married. She is a Canadian citizen, and now she has two beautiful daughters from that marriage.”
“Mr. Speaker, the Conservatives are rattled by me right now because I am trying to talk substantively about the bill. They would rather debate things that are fictional in nature, so they will raise a point of order that is not a point of order. Fine, that is fair enough. I will go back. I have limited time, Mr. Speaker—”
“I do want to get into the substantive element as to why this legislation is important and why it is drafted in the manner it is. The Conservatives are trying to make the argument that the floodgates will open and millions of people out of nowhere will automatically become Canadian citizens, when they do not have any data to support whether that assertion is even close to true. Let us not try to obscure this debate by making arguments that may not even have a basis. Let me give a precise example of a person I know whom I have been trying to help. This is a person I have known, personally, for a long time, who has been impacted by the unconstitutional—”
“Canadians, in the 2015 election, took care of that by saying that it is not our Canadian values to rat on our neighbours. That is the history of this bill. I am hearing my Conservative colleagues, the hon. members on the other side, try to spin this thing left, right and centre, but the fact of the matter is that Bill C-3 exists in its current incarnation because the Harper government brought an unconstitutional piece of law that now the courts right here in the province of Ontario have deemed in violation of the charter. The government is simply fixing a problem the Conservatives created. I find it a bit rich, at times, when they are trying to ascribe some sort of blame to the government side, which is just trying to clean up the mess that the Conservatives left behind.”
“This issue comes from a problem that was created by the Harper government, a problem that did not exist except for the fact that the Harper government, at a moment in time when it was all into taking away people's rights and was really interested in multiple classes of citizens, chose to bring a piece of legislation that took away the right of Canadian citizens to pass their citizenship on to their children. This was at the same time, by the way, when the Harper government was doing things like the niqab ban, which was also struck down by the Supreme Court as unconstitutional, against the charter. This was at the same time when the Harper government tried to introduce a snitch line so that people could snitch on their neighbours if they felt that their values did not meet “Canadian values”, however we define that.”
“Mr. Speaker, thank you for giving me the opportunity to speak to Bill C-3 . I will be splitting my time with the member for London West . I stand here proudly as the member for Ottawa Centre and somebody who has gone through the immigration process, somebody who is a very proud Canadian, somebody who has taken the oath of citizenship and actually has participated in hundreds of citizenship ceremonies, because I once ran an organization called the Institute for Canadian Citizenship. I come to this debate with both a personal experience on this issue, a lived experience as a proud Canadian, and also a professional and legal understanding. I think it is extremely important for Canadians, who may be listening intently to this debate, to understand what issue we are trying to resolve and how we got around to having this issue.”
“Mr. Speaker, as we all know, this weekend is Father's Day. I want to take this moment to celebrate my father, Anwar Abbas Naqvi, who will be turning 90 on July 14. What a remarkable life he has lived. He has always been a planner and a visionary, and he has immigrated twice in his life, first at the age of 19 from India to Pakistan and then later on to this beautiful country of Canada. He has always given the gift of education to my siblings, my brother and sister, and I, telling us how important it is to get a good education, work hard and give back to the community. He took part in a pro-democracy movement in his younger days, and spent nine months as a political prisoner, because he always challenged the status quo. I want to take this opportunity for members to join me in wishing him a happy 90th birthday.”