Charles Sousa
Mississauga—Lakeshore, Ontario · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, Portuguese people around the world commemorate their rich history and vibrant culture today. June 10 honours the passing of Luís de Camões, a national hero and a legend who penned Os Lusíadas , a renowned collection of epic poems that capture stories of brave explorers and the Enlightenment during the age of discoveries in th…”
“I congratulate its members and the unifying voice of the Alliance of Portuguese Clubs and Associations of Ontario, which showcases the annual Portugal Day parade in Toronto. Feliz Dia de Portugal. Feliz Dia de Camões. Feliz Dia das Comunidades Portuguesas à volta do Mundo. Happy Portugal Day.”
“The policy leverages federal investments by prioritizing Canadian domestic suppliers, content and materials to help make Canada's economy stronger, more resilient to global shocks and better able to support Canadian workers and businesses.”
“The Government of Canada, also building on the solid foundation of strong industries, will do so by promoting the buy Canadian policy. As a Crown corporation, Build Canada Homes would be funded through the initial envelope of $13 billion that was announced in budget 2025.”
“Build Canada Homes is a part of the federal government's strategic effort to invest in our modern nation, protect Canadian interests and make our economy one of the strongest in the G7.”
“This will in turn require a strong skilled trades workforce. That is why, on April 29, as part of the spring economic update, the Prime Minister announced team Canada strong. This is a $6-billion nationwide effort that will recruit, train and hire 80,000 to 100,000 new Red Seal trade workers in the next five years.”
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“The result would be a smarter, leaner government that invests ambitiously, but spends responsibly. It is about investing and, at the same time, sustaining those important social programs that Canadians and our neighbours value. Generational investment is not only about infrastructure; it is about people. The government would expand opportunities for Canadians to learn, work and succeed. Training and mobility programs would help young people and workers move into trades, clean energy and advanced manufacturing. Support for unions and apprenticeships would ensure that Canadians build the future with their own hands. Economic transformation will depend on a workforce that is adaptable, skilled and secure.”
“We are committed to balancing the operating budget by the 2028-29 fiscal year, with a steadily declining deficit-to-GDP ratio. As someone who has tabled a balanced budget, I can say it is harder than it looks, but trust us when we say the Prime Minister is the only leader in this House who has the experience and ability to get us there. This is not short-term. This goes beyond election cycles. Years ahead, many others will be doing the ribbon cutting for the initiatives taken by this government today. Over five years, we would achieve $60 billion in savings. We would protect vital social programs, like $10-a-day child care, dental care and pharmacare and redirect resources away from duplication and inefficiency. This would mean smarter government, fewer overlaps, modernized service delivery and leaner operations.”
“New incentives would encourage research and commercialization in clean technology, quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Expanded tax credits would reward business innovation and worker training, especially in high-demand sectors such as construction, advanced manufacturing and renewable energy. The government would work with unions and employers to help Canadians upgrade skills and transition into new, better-paying careers. Major investment must be matched with fiscal discipline. The government would introduce a capital budgeting framework to clearly separate everyday operating expenses from long-term growth investments. This transparency would ensure that public dollars are used strategically to strengthen productivity and prosperity.”
“Together, these measures would target the immediate cost of living pressures while larger investments take shape. A confident, sovereign nation must be able to protect itself. Budget 2025 would commit $30 billion over five years, the largest defence investment in decades, to modernize Canada’s military, reinforce Arctic security and support NATO and NORAD commitments. These funds would expand the shipbuilding, aerospace and cybersecurity industries while creating domestic jobs in technology and advanced manufacturing. This budget would invest in both protection and prosperity, building Canadian capabilities that defend our national sovereignty and drive international growth. Raising productivity is central to long-term prosperity. The budget responds with targeted measures to mobilize talent, ideas and investment.”
“A dedicated Arctic infrastructure fund and a build communities strong program would expand opportunity to northern and rural areas, creating high-paying jobs and new corridors for trade and travel. For many Canadians, home ownership feels increasingly out of reach. Under the leadership of Ana Bailão, a good friend, Build Canada Homes would tackle this crisis, together with the government, by doubling the pace of construction over the next decade, leveraging Canadian-made materials, domestic skilled trades and strategic partnerships across the country. (1100) To make daily life more affordable, the government has reduced personal income taxes for 22 million Canadians. The budget would make the national school food program permanent and ensure the automatic delivery of federal benefits to 5.5 million low-income households.”
“Marie to aluminum in Saguenay and autos from factories throughout Ontario and across the country, we are creating good jobs in our communities and supporting Canadian industry in the face of illegal and unjust tariffs, building resilient domestic supply chains that Canadians can rely on. The buy Canadian policy is how we make sure that every public dollar we spend contributes to a stronger, more secure and more prosperous Canada for everyone. These initiatives will strengthen domestic capacity, ensuring that future economic shocks can be met with made-in-Canada solutions. Strong nations build strong foundations. Budget 2025 introduces the largest wave of infrastructure investment in decades. Projects would modernize highways, ports, airstrips and energy grids to connect regions and strengthen supply chains.”
“A $5-billion strategic response fund would help support companies in retooling, designing new products and accessing new markets. A $1-billion liquidity package would support small and medium-sized businesses through uncertainty, and new retraining programs will prepare 50,000 workers for emerging industries. To build our strength at home, we need to focus on who we buy from and who buys from us. Canada’s trade diversification strategy aims to double overseas exports within a decade, unlocking $300 billion in new opportunities, while a new buy Canadian policy would ensure that federal procurement prioritizes domestic suppliers. From steel in Hamilton and Sault Ste.”
“Budget 2025 has been designed as a generational response to historic challenges. Canada enters this period from a position of fiscal strength, with the lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio in the G7 and one of the smallest deficits in comparison. Debt is a function and it is relative to wealth. This stability proves there is room for bold, strategic investments. Over the next five years, public and private initiatives are expected to generate more than $1 trillion in total investment. The past year has shown that relying heavily on a single market or supplier leaves the country vulnerable. This budget commits to helping strategic sectors, including steel, aluminum, the automotive industry, forestry and agriculture, adapt and expand.”
“This instability is creating challenges for workers, families and businesses, but it also offers opportunities for Canada to chart its own course. Global trade disruptions, tariffs and slower growth are being felt across Canada. Families are struggling with higher costs, young people are finding it harder to start careers, and small businesses are delaying plans because of unpredictability. However, the economy remains steady, with growth projected at just above 1% in 2025. This stability reflects Canadians' resilience and determination. The government rejects the path of austerity and retreat. Instead of slashing programs and waiting for recovery through trickle-down economics, Canada will invest decisively in itself, strengthening national capacity, independence and opportunity.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Marc-Aurèle-Fortin for sharing his time. I am proud to rise today in support of budget 2025. The budget would address the global challenges Canada is facing and seize the opportunity to reshape our economy and our nation’s future. I want to thank the many residents of Mississauga—Lakeshore who have spoken to me directly at town halls and constituency meetings to share their input on what they wanted to see in budget 2025. This budget reflects their priorities. It also speaks to the priorities and values of our new government: making the necessary investments to build, protect and empower Canada. Canada stands at a moment of profound transformation. Global economic systems, trade routes and alliances are shifting faster than at any point in recent memory.”
“Mr. Speaker, having visited Latvia and Estonia, having gone to our bases in the U.K. and having been recently in Petawawa during military exercises, I was able to meet and talk first-hand with some of the soldiers and men and women on the front lines. Believe me, the soldiers, officers and leaders want discipline, but they want fairness and transparency and for their troops to be cared for. They recognize the civilian system is an appropriate step forward.”
“Mr. Speaker, I wish to reflect on the very nature of why this bill is important. As noted, there have been expert independent recommendations made by two justices recognizing its importance. One of the major priorities is the civilian enablement of the justice system to have more independence and protection for our armed forces and the individuals involved. All of us agree with that. I believe the opposition agrees with it as well. Let us support Bill C-11 .”
“Mr. Speaker, a lot of filibustering was happening in the previous session, a lot of delays, a lot of activity that obstructed government from doing its job. The member opposite is now talking about some partisan issues, recognizing full well that he himself wanted an election, and he lost because people supported the Liberal Party going forward and they are supporting our actions to support our military. When the Conservatives were in power, it was under 1% of GDP. We are strengthening the forces. We are investing in our people, and we are making every effort for them to be safe in our judicial system as well.”
“The cultural changes needed within CAF will require ongoing attention, investment and accountability, but with Bill C-11 , we are taking a decisive step in the right direction, based on independent and expert recommendations. The time has come for us, and indeed all Canadians, to support transformative measures for the Canadian Armed Forces. I urge all of my colleagues to support Bill C-11 and the vision of a stronger, safer, more inclusive Canadian Armed Forces.”
“(1655) Time and time again, members of the Canadian Armed Forces have cited the need for a modern military justice system where their concerns and cases can be brought forward and evaluated in a fair and transparent manner. To our members: we have heard them, and we are acting swiftly. Bill C-11 represents an important step forward for the Canadian Armed Forces, and it is only the beginning. The reforms we are proposing today will lay the foundation for future changes. However, those changes will require continued dedication and co-operation from all levels of government, military leadership and the defence team. As we move forward with these reforms, we must remain committed to the work that still lies ahead.”
“One of the most crucial aspects of this bill is the support it provides to survivors of sexual misconduct. The introduction of the victim's liaison officer program and expanded support services would ensure that survivors are not just heard but supported at every stage of their journey. Victims and survivors can also access the Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre, SMSRC, for 24-7 free and confidential support. It does tremendous work and its staff have appeared before our committee to highlight some of the resources available to our armed forces. This bill would put a renewed focus on improving oversight and accountability in military policing and strengthen the role of military judges in ensuring fairness in the justice system. These are all tangible steps toward building a culture of respect, fairness and trust.”
“This is a direct response to Justice Arbour's recommendation that military sexual misconduct cases be handled by civilian authorities. This reform would increase public trust in the military justice system and demonstrate to the world that Canada takes sexual misconduct seriously. However, it is important to understand that this bill is not just about legal reform. It is about transforming military culture itself. Culture change is never easy, especially in an institution like the Canadian Armed Forces, but it is absolutely essential. As we move forward with Bill C-11 , we must ensure that the CAF is a place where all members, regardless of gender, rank or background, feel that they are not only safe, but also heard, respected and valued. This is about creating a safe, modern and 21st century workplace for our forces.”
“As our military faces increasing and complex challenges around the world, we must ensure that our women and men in uniform are prepared, resilient and, most importantly, supported. One of the most crucial elements of Bill C-11 is ensuring that the military justice system reflects the values we hold as Canadians. These are values of fairness, accountability and respect for human dignity. That is why Bill C-11 includes recommendations from Justice Arbour and Justice Fish to modernize the justice system, focusing on greater transparency, enhanced support for victims and a more independent framework for addressing sexual misconduct. A key provision of this bill is the removal of the Canadian Armed Forces' jurisdiction over Criminal Code sexual offences committed within Canada.”
“They represent a significant and meaningful shift in how we view military justice. It is one that underscores the importance of culture change within the Canadian Armed Forces. For those who do not know me, before I was elected to serve in this House, I had the privilege of working in many sectors of the government and public service where I have seen first-hand how important it is for systems to evolve. We cannot afford to be complacent. We must act decisively and without hesitation. That is exactly what this government has done by introducing Bill C-11 . This bill represents not just an update to legal processes, but a commitment to a new era of accountability and transparency within the Canadian Armed Forces. We are not living in an isolated, insular world. The global security environment is more volatile than it has been in decades.”
“Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Davenport . It is both a privilege and a responsibility to rise in the House today to discuss a matter that affects not only the Canadian Armed Forces, but the very fabric of our democracy: Bill C-11 , the military justice system modernization act. As chair of the national defence committee, I am acutely aware of the critical work being done to ensure that our military and our military justice system are modern, accountable and aligned with the values of Canadian society. As we make major investments in Canada's national defence, we must not lose sight of the brave men and women in the armed forces and their needs. We have heard from members that they need a modern military justice system to support them, and that is why the changes proposed in Bill C-11 are so crucial.”
“Mr. Speaker, there we go. The member opposite is making a personal attack over the fact that I balanced the books in Ontario, which did not happen under the Conservatives in the last go-around. We will continue to fight for Canadians. We will continue to fight for public safety. I will not be addressing rhetoric like that. It only causes concern and enables the heightening of people's hate, which is what the very law we are trying to put forward is for.”
“Mr. Speaker, that is another great question. We need a coordinated effort. We need to ensure that the federal government and provincial jurisdictions, which act on the law and are supposed to enforce laws, deal with matters like court delays, the collection of bail data, the funding and resources necessary, and even the justice platform by the BQ. We will continue to work in collaboration with the provincial level of judicial authority to ensure we enable those courts to act and put criminals in jail.”
“Mr. Speaker, it was important that the leader of the Liberal Party , as all of us did during the election, recognized some of the concerns that our constituents have with crime, but make no mistake that they had concerns with crime for many years prior, even during the time the Conservatives were in power. Our leader took the time and had the consideration to listen, make commitments and put forward in our platform what we should do going forward. This is unlike opposition members, who are only using slogans and fearmongering when there is an opportunity to work collaboratively with all levels of government and authorities to ensure real safety for our public.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is interesting. The Charter of Rights protects the very individual asking that question. The judicial system is there to protect individuals. If someone is a criminal, and they have committed a violent crime, they have to face the consequences by law, but the right is there to protect the victims too. We will always fight to have a fair judicial system and to ensure that criminals go to jail and stay in jail.”
“We have introduced Bill C-9 to fight hate crime; we strengthened the bail system through Bill C-48 , and we are preparing additional measures this fall to further address repeat and violent offences. That is not about political games or empty slogans; it is about real action, public safety and justice, and that is exactly the approach Canadians elected this government to take. Laws exist, and we need to enforce them.”
“Canadians deserve a bail system that protects communities while respecting rights, as well as sentencing systems that hold offenders accountable while promoting rehabilitation. This government is delivering on that promise. We are not acting in haste or based on politics; we are consulting with experts, collaborating with provincial counterparts and building laws that work in practice. We are introducing legislation to ensure that repeat offenders face appropriate consequences, that courts have the tools to protect public safety and that the justice system functions efficiently and fairly for all Canadians. In conclusion, Canadians expect a government that acts responsibly, listens to experts and delivers results. That is what we are doing with our justice reform agenda.”
“Better data always allows government to track outcomes, assess risks and ensure that measures designed to protect public safety are actually working. That is why our government continues to work closely with partners across the country to improve data collection, transparency and reporting in the criminal justice system. Public safety is built through careful policy, strong partnerships and sustained action. It is not achieved through slogans and partisan posturing. It is built when governments work together to address the root causes of crime, including poverty, trauma, mental health issues and housing insecurity, as well as individuals not being given the support they need to rebuild their lives.”
“The operation of the bail system is a shared responsibility between the federal and provincial and territorial governments, as I have already stated. While the federal government sets the legal framework, the provinces and territories manage the day-to-day operations, including court and jail administration. Strengthening the law at the federal level must therefore be complemented by effective enforcement resources and oversight at the provincial level, and without this coordination, even the best legislation would not achieve meaningful change. Data and evidence also play a crucial role. Provinces and territories collect the data necessary to evaluate how bail laws are functioning, identify gaps and implement improvements.”
“There is also a commitment to amending the Criminal Code to direct courts to give primary considerations to the principles of denunciation and deterrence when determining a fit sentence for anyone who has numerous convictions for auto thefts or home invasions. Further commitments include expanding the possibility of consecutive sentences in violent or organized crime-related auto theft cases. These are concrete measures aimed at addressing repeat and violent offending throughout the criminal justice process. They represent an approach that is strategic, evidence-based and evidence driven, and focused on protecting public safety without sacrificing the rights and fairness that are the foundational aspects of our judicial system. We also know that reform cannot happen in isolation.”
“These changes were not the result of partisan initiatives. They were reflected by broad collaboration with provinces, territories, law enforcement and legal experts. Every step was guided by data, by evidence, by consultation with those working on the front lines of criminal justice. Despite these reforms, we understand that Canadians remain concerned about repeat offences and violent offences. This is why the government will introduce legislation this fall to further strengthen bail and sentencing provisions in the Criminal Code. (1315) The federal government has committed to establishing reverse onuses for a range of serious crimes, including violent and organized crime-related auto theft, home invasions, human trafficking and human smuggling, to make bail more onerous to obtain in these circumstances.”
“For example, Bill C-48 created a reverse onus to target serious repeat offending involving weapons, and it expanded the list of firearms that trigger a reverse onus at bail. It also broadened the reverse onus targeting repeat offenders in cases of intimate partner violence. These changes made it more difficult for accused persons to obtain bail when they are charged with serious repeat offences. All of us want to keep criminals in jail. All of us— An hon. member: Oh, oh! Charles Sousa: Absolutely, I do. Mr. Speaker, I take offence to the very nature of that notion. The fact that individuals are suggesting any member of this Parliament would prefer not to put a criminal in jail is offensive in its own right. There are laws that are in place. There are laws that have been in place all along. We have to enforce the law.”
“lnstead of focusing on measures that truly improve public safety, he continues to advance reckless, politically motivated proposals, prioritizing appearances over solutions that actually protect Canadians. Canadians deserve more than slogans and political theatre. They deserve government that listens, engages with experts and acts decisively to make communities safer. That is exactly what this government is doing, through legislation that addresses urgent issues while respecting the principles of justice and fairness. This is why the federal government has taken important steps to reform the bail system in recent years. ln 2023, former Bill C-48 made meaningful changes to strengthen the bail system in response to concerns about efficiency and repeat offences.”
“This legislation successfully passed second reading yesterday, and it is now moving to committee for detailed study and consideration. Over the summer, the Minister of Justice engaged in consultations with provincial and territorial counterparts, law enforcement agencies, police chiefs and associations to ensure that any reforms are practical, evidence-based and responsive to the needs of Canadians. This is how responsible reform happens, through careful study, collaboration and expert guidance. Meanwhile, the Conservative leader , who was preoccupied with keeping his job, has torqued the rhetoric, which is very partisan in its nature. While seeking his parachute return to the House after being resoundingly rejected by his constituents, he has now been more concerned for himself than for the public safety measures we are talking about.”
“We are all responsible for ensuring that our communities are safe, at the federal level, at the provincial level and at the municipal level, and even with some of the organizations and associations that are engaged. It is appropriate for us to have this ongoing debate and discussion. I welcome the fact that it is a non-partisan issue. There is organized crime. We have been in meetings with the RCMP, border security, international agencies and the police to ensure that organized crime is addressed. Organized criminals are perpetrating some of these criminal acts; they are engaging with our young people, who are victimized themselves by being sourced in order to do these criminal acts. This is why, just last month, we introduced Bill C-9 , the combatting hate act, to address hate-motivated offences.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am a proud representative of Mississauga—Lakeshore, and I will be sharing my time with the member for Calgary Signal Hill . As I rise to debate the opposition motion before us, I want to talk particularly about its narrative and the appropriate steps moving forward. My community, like many communities, is concerned. We have a number of town halls. We have talk groups. We have ongoing discussions with Peel police. We understand the dilemmas that are before us, and we recognize the concerns our neighbours face. They are concerned about guns, home invasions and auto thefts. These things have become an issue of concern across the country. However, there is also a blame game that seems to be going on. Oftentimes, it deflects responsibility.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the following two reports of the Standing Committee on National Defence. The first report is entitled “Gaps to Fill: Housing and Other Needed Supports for Canadian Armed Forces Members and Their Families”, and the second report is entitled “Rebuilding Trust: Transparency and Accountability in the Department of National Defence and the Canadian Armed Forces”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to each of these two reports.”
“Mr. Speaker, earlier this week, Peel police announced the outcome of project outsource, an 11-month project that has led to multiple arrests connected with extortions, shootings and fraud. This affects my community and others. Can the Secretary of State for Combatting Crime speak to the actions the government is taking to crack down on organized crime, protect our streets and keep Canadians safe?”
“Mr. Speaker, it is essential that partnerships exist in anything we go forward with, on the economic front and on the social front. Those partnerships with industry, with other levels of government and with indigenous communities are essential, because that co-operation is what enables us to succeed. We were able to do some of that, some of those nation-building exercises. More importantly, there is an incentive and a desire from Canadians that we do so. The trade barriers that exist provincially have to come down. We have to enable and take advantage of the mineral deposits that exist so that we can prosper. Partnership is necessary, and they want to do it too.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for his question. [ English ] It is essential to invest in infrastructure, be it infrastructure in Via Rail or in high-speed rail throughout the corridor that is being proposed, through Windsor all the way to Quebec City, to ensure that we foster ways to be competitive. I think what we are highlighting is also the fact that the way it stands now is ineffective and is not sustainable. That is why we need to attract greater investments and enable the three Ps, to ensure that we can find feasibility in those investments, to be competitive and to serve the needs of the community, including those in Gaspé.”
“Mr. Speaker, let us be clear. We are trying to ensure that we balance the operating budget. We have done that. I did that for six budgets during my time when I was the minister of finance for the Province of Ontario. We balanced the books. We took advantage of low-cost interest to invest in infrastructure projects. We incited foreign direct investment and partnerships with the private sector, to enable some of those infrastructure programs to occur and grow the economy. That is how we were able not only to receive more funding and more receipts and more revenue, but also to control spending effectively by being more competitive as we went forward. That is how we balanced it, and I believe that is exactly how we should move forward in this Parliament as well.”
“As His Majesty said, we will ensure that we do not just survive ongoing trade wars, but emerge from them stronger than ever. Canadians can be assured that this new government will protect our social programs, strengthen Canadian culture and identity, create better jobs and make life more affordable for them. To my constituents in Mississauga—Lakeshore, I will continue to work every day to advance their interests and uphold the values we hold dear. Together, we will build a stronger, fairer and more united Canada.”
“What we heard in the throne speech reiterated why my parents immigrated to this country so many years ago: Canada has what the world needs and the values the world respects. It is our duty to protect a just society and a free democracy, one where peaceful protest is possible and individual rights are upheld. This commitment includes standing with our allies, like NATO, to ensure peace and security at home and abroad. We must always remain vigilant in protecting our country and the principles that we stand for. To conclude, the path forward is not without challenges, but the direction is clear. The throne speech charts a new course that is ambitious and achievable. We know that the economy is only truly strong when it serves everyone. The bold plan outlined will build the strongest economy in the G7.”
“More needs to be done to strengthen our national competitiveness while embracing the unique strengths in each region, from the small cap in British Columbia to natural resources in Alberta to fisheries in the Maritimes to energy in Quebec. In the north, we must ensure that the development of mineral rights is grounded in meaningful consultations and true partnership with indigenous communities. The world is also looking to Canada as peacekeepers and defenders of justice, where the rule of law prevails. My parents came to Canada from postwar Europe, fleeing fascist regimes and an oppressive dictatorship. They quite literally sought freedom and opportunity. Canada embodies those values.”
“By advancing clean technologies, the site is now home to sustainable district energy systems, at the forefront in the Great Lakes and a leader in climate innovation. More can be done. Unlocking the potential of our critical minerals and clean energy resources is essential, not only to drive the Canadian economy, but to protect our sovereignty in an ever-changing geopolitical situation. We must not allow others to divide us or exploit the wealth that lies beneath our land. Instead, we must lead with purpose, unity and vision. As we look to the future, we look to nation building. I was proud to have played a role in advancing the co-operative capital markets securities regulation, modernizing our fragmented security system from 10 jurisdictions to one. That was nation building.”
“As we eliminate consumer carbon pricing, I reflect on being part of a government that introduced cap and trade to Ontario, exempting that province from the federal carbon pricing backstop at the time. We implemented incentive-based measures to drive behavioural change, including grants for electric vehicles, home energy retrofits and other green initiatives. We took bold steps to decarbonize, including with the closure of the Lakeview coal generating plant, known as the Four Sisters in my riding of Mississauga—Lakeshore. It transformed this site into a revitalized waterfront and created new public spaces. What was once the nation's largest polluter, contributing to over 36 smog days a year, is now a symbol of conservation, clean energy and community renewal. The work was not just environmental; it was economic.”
“I am encouraged to see this new government embrace a vision grounded in putting more money back in Canadians' pockets so that they can invest more in their communities, in protecting the environment through market-driven solutions and in reinforcing our position on the world stage as a principled, engaged nation. (1720) The Speech from the Throne reinforced that the government is laser-focused on lowering costs and will continue to present serious solutions to ensure that Canadians are better off. By cutting taxes for hard-working Canadians, eliminating the GST on first-time homebuyers and removing consumer carbon pricing, we are making life more affordable for every generation. The emphasis on long-term planning beyond election cycles is the blueprint to building a country that serves everyone.”
“With our commitment to creating one Canadian economy from 13, we would help unlock Canada's full economic potential and build a stronger country. This would enable us to move forward with national child care, dental care and pharmacare, strengthening our health care and making landmark investments in housing and affordability. All of this is underpinned by an unshakable belief in the Canadian values of compassion, fairness, fiscal responsibility and opportunity for all. The Speech from the Throne outlined a renewed and forward-looking agenda. It speaks to building a fairer and more resilient economy in which everyone can succeed.”
“By investing and attracting foreign direct investments, we grow our economy with a purpose: to sustain the social programs that matter to most Canadians, such as universal health care, retirement security and public education; and to protect our environment as an economic imperative. During my previous mandate in the Ontario legislature, we navigated through global uncertainty and delicate relations with foreign trading partners with prudence and purpose. Our steady hand ensured that Canada emerged from the global financial crisis into one of the strongest fiscal positions in the G7. We also helped to expand the Canada pension plan to ensure that future generations of retirees can live with dignity. I saw first-hand how internal trade barriers undermine success.”
“These achievements were grounded in clear principles: to borrow wisely at low rates to promote capital and investment, to promote prosperity and not to borrow to cover day-to-day operating expenses. Growing up in Kensington Market, I learned this first-hand from my father, a merchant who became Canada's first Portuguese Canadian business owner. He taught me to borrow strategically to make money, to spend less than we make to live and to keep back some for retirement. These values of fiscal discipline, smart investment and long-term planning are essential not only for personal financial health but also for responsible government. We should borrow to invest in infrastructure and not to pay for operating expenses; we should invest more and spend less. These values are reflected in the Prime Minister 's approach to fiscal prudence.”
“It is a vision that aligns closely with the priorities I have consistently championed and wish to reaffirm today. They include a strong economy, robust social programs, national unity and a respected voice for Canada on the global stage. Since 2007, when I was first elected as a member of provincial Parliament, I have stood for these Canadian values. We overcome challenges when we work together. I delivered six comprehensive budgets that brought our province from the depths of the recession to a balanced book, and we achieved 1.1 million net new jobs and raised our province's credit rating. We built prosperity by working together with industry, small business and all levels of government.”