Shannon Miedema
Halifax, Nova Scotia · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the following two reports of the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development. The first is the seventh report, entitled “Protecting Canadian Residents from Extreme Weather Events”.”
“Last year, Canada hit 2% of GDP on defence for the first time since the fall of the Berlin Wall, half a decade ahead of schedule. Reaching the 2% benchmark is a foundational step in renewing Canada's defence and a clear statement of resolve in a more dangerous world.”
“Last fiscal year, we surpassed our recruitment goals, bringing in over 6,700 new regular force members. We are also investing $274.9 million in CAF recruitment and training to modernize how we attract and develop the next generation of service members.”
“That includes support for nitrocellulose production, a critical energetic material for artillery that is in high demand across allied militaries. Programs like IDEaS and MINDS continue to connect innovators, academics and industry to the defence mission, turning Canadian expertise into Canadian capability.”
“Mr. Speaker, the global security environment today is volatile and uncertain. We face real challenges, both military and non-military, that demand an equally strong and coordinated response. Canada must be prepared to defend ourselves and our allies. Our government has announced the most ambitious defence rebuild in a generation.”
“Words do not defend Canada, but capabilities do. The CAF must be ready to operate in the Arctic, across North America, through NORAD, within NATO's collective defence framework and wherever global stability demands a Canadian contribution.”
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“Our government was faced with a choice in navigating global trade disruptions. We could have just made cuts across the board and crossed our fingers that things would sort themselves out, but that is not a responsible choice and it does not position Canada to have agency over its future. Instead, we made the responsible and strategic choice to invest in Canadians. Budget 2025 is an ambitious plan to meet the moment and build a stronger, more prosperous country. Our plan includes generational investments that would propel Canada to become one of the strongest economies in the G7, because we want Canadians to thrive. Let us approve the budget and get to work on investing in a Canada that we can all be proud of.”
“We are committed to ensuring that a climate lens is applied across our initiatives because climate action is not only a moral obligation; it is an economic necessity. Stronger industrial carbon pricing and methane regulations will lead to the most effective reductions of emissions, and they will have a near negligible impact on individual household costs. We will help businesses innovate and scale through new and renewed tax credits. In Nova Scotia, residents, stakeholders and governments alike were pleased to see recognition of the potential for offshore wind development in the launch of the Major Projects Office and again in the budget. This project can propel Nova Scotia and Canada forward as a clean energy superpower and will further connect eastern Canada with a clean, renewable energy grid.”
“As Halifax is home to one of the highest per capita populations of gender-diverse individuals in Canada, many of my constituents will see a direct impact of this support. Inclusivity leads to welcoming communities, which lead to happy residents and thriving economies. Our government is stepping up to provide crucial funding to ensure that inclusivity remains a core Canadian value. We have committed more than half a billion dollars to Women and Gender Equality, with a core mandate to support women seeking leadership opportunities, the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community and those fleeing gender-based violence. As we discuss building strong communities, we must recognize that we have an obligation to ensure that these communities are sustainable and resilient to climate change.”
“Budget 2025 includes more than 400 million dollars' worth of investment in arts and culture to stabilize organizations that have been impacted by recent economic shocks, to support cultural infrastructure upgrades and to expand the production of export-ready cultural products. This funding would help drive tourism to our city and support our artists. [ Translation ] It is not just the arts. Canada is a multicultural country that is proud to be bilingual, and this is reflected in budget 2025. Our government is committed to supporting the French language. In Atlantic Canada, a clear example of our commitment is our $4‑million investment to support National Acadian Day. [ English ] Our government also remains committed to supporting under-represented communities.”
“In Halifax, this funding has the potential to assist with infrastructure upgrades to our hospitals, schools and new community developments. The build communities strong fund is a win for all Canadians, and it is one that I hope to seek cross-party support for. (1350) Cities are not just brick and mortar; they are hubs of human connection, arts and culture, natural spaces and architectural wonders. An artistic and vibrant city is one where people want to live, connect, work and visit. Halifax is this kind of city. It is home to over 65 galleries, multiple performance venues, festivals and a creative economy that support thousands of jobs.”
“With a significant increase in new housing, we need to ensure that we have the necessary infrastructure to support these communities. For this reason, the build communities strong fund is one of my favourite parts of budget 2025. This investment represents over $50 billion in funding, with $27.8 billion specifically designated for things like local roads, bridges, water systems, community centres and more. All of these represent the core foundation of community. This investment also includes $17.2 billion dedicated to housing, health care and education infrastructure. Across Canada, we feel the pressures that are placed on these sectors, and this funding would be essential to support our provincial and territorial counterparts as they work to alleviate those pressures.”
“Young professionals, students, seniors and essential workers, the very people who power our economy, are struggling to find stable and affordable places to live. That is why budget 2025 includes a $13-billion investment in Build Canada Homes. This initiative will double housing construction across the country with a focus on non-market, sustainable and affordable homes, including co-operatives and supportive housing. This program ensures that we can build the homes we need to match the need now and well into the future. It will help us to reduce homelessness and bring home ownership back into reach for Canadians. Our government also recognizes that the need for first nations, Inuit and Métis housing is acute. For this reason, $2.8 billion is included for urban, rural and northern indigenous housing.”
“Budget 2025 places a large emphasis on military spending, expanding trading relationships and building a strong economy. These are all essential pieces of the puzzle that is building Canada strong and, as I have highlighted, building Halifax strong. It is also important to highlight that, in addition to these major priorities, budget 2025 represents a well-rounded plan to build more resilient communities. From local infrastructure development to affordable housing and from environmental action to social programs, this budget would make important investments in areas that will support Canadians where they matter most. Right now, in Halifax, as in many cities across Canada, we are facing a housing crisis.”
“Halifax is home to Canada's largest military base by number of personnel. The impact that the thriving and innovative defence sector has on our city is immeasurable. An investment of over $80 billion in the Canadian Armed Forces would have a significant impact on CFB Halifax and would further boost the economy of the entire region. Of particular interest to my constituents is the River-class destroyer project, which will be built in my riding by Irving Shipbuilding. This project alone will create and maintain over 3,700 jobs through to 2027 and contribute over $719 million annually to Canada's GDP. Our government's strong commitment to supporting defence and meeting our NATO commitments will lead to economic prosperity and national security for the entire country.”
“The trade diversification corridors fund represents $5 billion of investment to improve access to new overseas markets and develop our port, airport and rail infrastructure. Halifax is already a critical trade hub. The port of Halifax is situated in a naturally deep, ice-free harbour that is operational year-round. Its location allows for direct access to global trade routes and it is uniquely positioned in close proximity to many major European ports. We have a strategic advantage to propel Canada into stronger and more resilient trade relationships. Investing in Halifax will lead to direct economic benefits for the entire country. This investment in the trade infrastructure corridors fund reflects not only potential growth for Halifax, but an increase in well-paying jobs across industries.”
“Madam Speaker, the global economy has changed, and Canada must change with it. In the face of uncertainty and the need to transition to a low-carbon economy, our government's budget is a plan to meet the moment with generational investments that will build a stronger and more resilient country. For my constituents in Halifax, these investments are not abstract promises. They include concrete opportunities to grow our city and our prosperity. Halifax's priorities are aligned with those of budget 2025, specifically in the key areas of defence, trade, infrastructure and building strong communities. I would like to take a moment to discuss Halifax's unique positioning to be a key contributor in these areas.”
“Mr. Speaker, I was pleased to see that this budget includes funding to support francophone communities across the country, including Acadians. Funding for National Acadian Day festivities has been doubled and made permanent. Could my hon. colleague talk to us about the importance of supporting the francophonie, not only in her riding, but across Canada?”
“Mr. Speaker, my riding of Halifax is home to a thriving defence sector with more than 10,000 Canadian Armed Forces members. I know that many of my constituents, including those in uniform, watched yesterday as the Minister of Finance tabled budget 2025. Can the Minister of National Defence speak to the new defence investments Canada is making?”
“Mr. Speaker, Halifax is a hub for vibrant and talented artists. We are home to a renowned art and design school, more than 65 galleries, dynamic performing artists and an industry that supports thousands of jobs. Earlier this month, much of my community came together for Nocturne, a city-wide event celebrating Halifax's art scene. Each October, Nocturne presents its Art-at-Night Festival, a free all-night celebration of visual and performing arts showcasing local, national and international talent. This incredible event is funded in part by Canadian Heritage and the Canada Council for the Arts, ensuring that artists are fairly compensated while keeping the experience open and accessible for everyone. I congratulate the Nocturne team for another successful and much-anticipated event. I cannot wait for next year.”
“Mr. Speaker, women's health has consistently been a blind spot in our health care system. We use data to make critical decisions. When research fails to account for gender differences, the results are biased, and women pay the price. From heart attacks to endometriosis, from menopause to cancers, there is a lack of focused research and a deficiency in critical data. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health tell the House how the government is ensuring that Canada's health care system is working toward adequately serving this half of the population?”
“While I am sad to miss this event, I am honoured to celebrate it with my new colleagues here in the House of Commons. Building a Canada that is resilient, net-zero and equitable is only possible when diverse voices come together and are heard, something our government recognizes and values. I commend the work of all those involved and wish them—”
“Mr. Speaker, this week, 400 community leaders from across Canada, including municipal governments, indigenous communities and community organizations, are gathered in Halifax for the Livable Cities Forum. Hosted by ICLEI Canada and the Halifax Regional Municipality, the forum’s purpose is clear: to accelerate climate action in our communities by working together through creative and ambitious partnerships. Together, delegates are exploring solutions to the challenges our communities are facing all across Canada: safeguarding against climate impacts, building long-term climate financing and building affordable housing and transformative energy infrastructure. Bringing this conference to Halifax was an initiative I was proud to be a part of in my past role.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is pretty clear from some of the details in the bill that there are not teeth like there are in a court. This is more about holding the government to account, being transparent, making sure that we are what we have committed to doing in this relationship, and progressing truth and reconciliation in this country. The bill is not intended to have those teeth, but it is intended to be a positive step forward in guiding us on this journey we are all taking together.”
“Mr. Speaker, the need for this commissioner comes from the relationship that we have now and are continuing to grow with our indigenous partners across this country. This bill was in the last Parliament and up for debate, but it did not get passed. We have been asked specifically to consider passing it without amendment, because it is a top priority. Part of a healthy relationship is listening to the people in that relationship, and this is very much wanted. It would hold the government to account and it would have a very big role in transparency.”
“The social, cultural and economic growth driven by modern treaties creates opportunities for indigenous partners and all people in Canada. It is also central to the one Canadian economy act , which would integrate indigenous leadership into national infrastructure and climate planning. I ask the members of this House to vote yes on this legislation. I ask them to vote yes on responding to 20 years of calls for greater accountability and transparency in modern treaty implementation and vote yes on living up to the promises enshrined in modern treaties in our laws and Constitution. I ask them to vote yes on a stronger and more resilient Canadian economy, underpinned by thriving indigenous communities and meaningful Crown-indigenous collaboration. I ask them to vote yes on Bill C-10 , the commissioner for modern treaty implementation act.”
“To summarize, since the beginning of the modern treaty era in Canada, the federal government has been called upon to improve accountability and oversight. Today, we have the opportunity to make history by responding to those calls, fully committing to honouring the relationships and fully meeting the obligations enshrined in modern treaties. Modern treaty partners strongly advocated for the introduction of this bill, and modern treaty partner leadership named establishing the commissioner as a top priority during the Land Claims Agreements Coalition conference that was held in February this year. It is important to remember that modern treaties are about moving the Government of Canada's relationship with indigenous peoples forward.”
“It also noted an inconsistency in the vision between the Government of Canada and claimants regarding their respective roles and responsibilities. Most striking was the recommendation from the Standing Senate Committee on Indigenous Peoples that said the Government of Canada immediately begin to establish, in collaboration with modern treaty partners, an independent commissioner for modern treaty implementation. A similar call was included in the calls for justice detailed in the final report of the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls. The report called on the Government of Canada to immediately implement and comply with the calls from international and human rights bodies to establish treaty-monitoring bodies such as the one we are discussing here today.”
“Since then, the Government of Canada has faced many calls to improve modern treaty implementation. For instance, in 2003, an Auditor General report outlined the findings of an audit that studied the department's management of and accountability in its transfer of responsibilities to the Yukon, as well as land claim agreements. The report found that there was a “lack of performance reporting” measures and “ineffective implementation”. The Auditor General published a report in 2007, four years later, on the Inuvialuit Final Agreement. The report noted the “absence of a formal structure” to oversee implementation, a “lack of a strategic approach” to implement its modern treaty obligations and a lack of monitoring of how Canada fulfilled these obligations.”
“(1245) Despite this progress, tensions and disagreements persisted. To find solutions, the Royal Commission on Aboriginal Peoples was established to find ways to rebuild the relationship. It spent five years studying the relationship between the Government of Canada and indigenous peoples and found that the federal government lacked policy oversight and needed better guidance on land claims other than through the courts. The commission proposed that an implementation office be established to oversee the government's treaty claims, self-government accords and other obligations. At the heart of these recommendations was the need for the “foundations of a new relationship”. This included calls for improved review and oversight of modern treaties.”
“Eventually, the James Bay Cree and the Inuit of northern Quebec signed a modern treaty with the Government of Canada and the Province of Quebec. The implementation of that treaty began 50 years ago, on November 11, 1975. The treaty permitted Hydro-Québec’s development of the land, and the Cree and Inuit inhabiting the territory were offered an acknowledgement of their rights to the land. This first modern treaty was a landmark for indigenous peoples across Canada, setting a new precedent in treaty-making. In 1982, there was another landmark that proclaimed and affirmed the rights of indigenous peoples in Canada: the Constitution Act of 1982. Notably, it was forward-looking, acknowledging that additional rights and freedoms could be defined by indigenous peoples in the future through land claims settlement.”
“Although the Nishga Tribal Council did not reach the outcome it sought, the decision led to the Government of Canada’s first land claims policy concerning the settlement of land claims by groups seeking title rights to land. This new policy would be important when Canada entered into the first modern treaty with the James Bay Cree. Around the same time as the Nishga and the Calder case, Hydro-Québec sought to develop land claimed by the James Bay Cree without consulting the indigenous people inhabiting it. In response, the first nation partnered with the Indians of Quebec Association to negotiate with the Province of Quebec, though without success. Later, with the help of the Northern Quebec Inuit Association, the case was escalated to the Superior Court of Québec.”
“This case centred around the Nishga Tribal Council in British Columbia, which sought recognition of the title to lands its people had historically inhabited. Until 1951, the Indian Act made it illegal for indigenous communities to use band funds to support any litigation or claim, making it difficult to pursue the title to the land. Nishga Chief Frank Calder brought the case to the courts. The case was first rejected by the Supreme Court of British Columbia and then by the Court of Appeal of British Columbia. The Nishga Tribal Council escalated the case to the Supreme Court of Canada, where, at trial, it lost the case by one vote based on a technicality in the judicial process.”
“In Nova Scotia, we had a flag-raising at the lieutenant-governor's house, which was very well attended. I saw the framed document, which is now 300 years old, in that house. It was a truly special moment. As members know, during the historic treaty period, Canada adopted colonial, paternalistic policies that inflicted harm on indigenous peoples. These are painful truths that we now acknowledge as part of our ongoing journey of reconciliation. Decades later, Canada entered the modern treaty era of treaty-making. While modern treaties are distinct from historic treaties, they remain a foundational part of the relationship between the Crown and indigenous peoples. I am now going to explain some of this history. The modern treaty era began in 1973 with the Supreme Court decision of Calder et al. v. Attorney-General of British Columbia.”
“I will also discuss what a modern treaty is and why we have faced calls to improve their implementation, accountability and oversight for more than 20 years. Treaties have long been the foundation of the relationship between the Crown and indigenous peoples. For example, in the 18th century, the peace and friendship treaties were intended to re-establish peace and trade after conflicts. Meanwhile, the treaties signed after 1763 over first nations territories opened up much of Canada to non-indigenous settlement in return for recognition of specific rights, annuities and goods, among other benefits. The treaties from this period and into the 1920s are referred to as historic treaties. I would like to take a moment and say that last Wednesday was Treaty Day for all of Mi'kma'ki.”
“Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Yellowhead . Kwe . Ullukkut . Taanshi . Hello. I would like to begin by honouring the Algonquin Anishinabe nation, on whose traditional, unceded and unsurrendered territory Canada’s Parliament is established. I am honoured to rise and speak today in support of Bill C-10 , which would establish a commissioner for modern treaty implementation. The bill has strong support from modern treaty partners, and its introduction is an important step forward on the path of reconciliation. At its core, it is an opportunity to turn shared priorities into shared progress. To better understand this opportunity, I will speak about how we got to where we are today. That means looking back at the history that shaped our present reality and the history of treaties in Canada.”
“They are strengthening our communities and ensuring Canada remains competitive on the world stage. Canada has always been a nation of builders. With the dedication of our unionized workforce, I am confident we will continue building a stronger and more prosperous future for all Canadians.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the contributions of Canada's skilled tradespeople, who build our homes, our infrastructure and our future. From ironworkers and welders to electricians and painters, along with all the apprentices starting their careers, tradespeople are the backbone of our economy. Through our government's focus on major projects, we are creating more opportunities for Canadians to train, to work and to build lasting careers in the trades. Our government knows that investing in training is investing in Canadians' future. By investing in apprenticeships and training, we are ensuring young people can enter these professions and experienced workers can keep their skills sharp. These investments are not just strengthening our workforce.”
“This is a clear example of trade diversification through innovation, and it is a bold reminder of the value we create when Canadians lead with impact. The Discovery Centre is not just exporting exhibits; it is also exporting Canadian vision, values and talent in what is sure to be the first chapter in a much bigger story.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the Discovery Centre, a pillar of the Halifax community, which has evolved into a flagship Canadian export and global success. The Discovery Centre model, designed and engineered in Halifax, provides an accessible way for youth and community members to experience science and technology up close through immersive Canadian-made exhibits. Under the leadership of Dov Bercovici and his incredible team, this initiative is now scaling globally, with eight new centres under way in Brazil and South America, and a national science centre in Sri Lanka. When complete, these new facilities will generate tens of millions of dollars in annual revenue and support new Canadian jobs.”
“Mr. Speaker, more than ever, Canadians are feeling a deep sense of pride in who we are. We are united by our shared history, rich cultures and breathtaking landscapes. In my riding of Halifax, we have the Citadel National Historic Site, which stands as a powerful symbol of our past. Nova Scotia has three world-renowned gems in Sable Island, Kejimkujik and Cape Breton Highlands national parks. Could the minister tell us what our new government is doing to reinforce our national pride and encourage Canadians to discover all the incredible places that make Canada so special?”
“In what ways can investing in advanced port infrastructure, such as expanded capacity, improved technology and better intermodal connections, enhance our competitiveness in international trade, reduce bottlenecks and support the seamless movement of Canadian goods and resources across borders? Additionally, how can better-connected ports help businesses across all regions of the country, not just those near the coasts, take advantage of global trade opportunities? As the global economy becomes increasingly reliant on fast, resilient supply chains, what role do Canada's ports play in supporting the long-term sustainability, security and prosperity of our national economy?”
“Mr. Chair, Canada is one of the largest countries in the world, stretching from the Pacific to the Atlantic and up to the Arctic Ocean. This vast geography provides Canada with access to a wide range of global shipping routes and international markets, giving us a unique advantage in global trade. From the Port of Vancouver facilitating trade with Asia to the Port of Halifax opening access to Europe, and the increasingly strategic importance of Arctic shipping lanes, our ports serve as critical gateways to the world. Given this unique positioning, how can strong, efficient and modernized ports help ensure that Canada remains well connected to global markets now and into the future?”
“Given their central role in Canada's supply chains and economic infrastructure, how can targeted investments in port infrastructure help strengthen our trade competitiveness, create new employment opportunities and support local and regional economic development? Additionally, how can improving port capacity, efficiency and connectivity to road, rail and intermodal hubs ensure that Canadian businesses can respond to global demand more effectively, reduce bottlenecks and build more resilient and sustainable supply chains?”
“Mr. Chair, to the minister, Canada's ports are vital gateways for international trade, serving as crucial links between domestic producers and global markets. Major ports like the port of Halifax in my riding, the port of Vancouver and the port of Montreal handle millions of tonnes of cargo each year, including everything from agricultural products and natural resources to manufactured goods. These ports not only support Canada's export-driven economy, but also act as economic engines in their own right, creating thousands of direct and indirect jobs, attracting investment and driving growth in surrounding communities.”
“How do these projects not only improve physical connectivity, but also promote economic inclusivity, social cohesion and a shared sense of national purpose across provinces and territories? How can Canadians, through public engagement and support, help ensure that these transformative projects reflect our collective values and long-term vision for a stronger and more connected Canada?”
“Mr. Chair, to the minister, why is it important for Canadians to support nation-building projects like transportation infrastructure, and how do these projects help bring us closer together as a country? Throughout Canada's history, major infrastructure undertakings like the construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway, the Trans-Canada Highway and our network of airports and ports have played a vital role in uniting a geographically vast and diverse nation. In today's context, as we face new challenges related to population growth, climate change, economic competitiveness and regional disparities, how can investments in modern transportation infrastructure, like high-speed rail, expanded transit systems, improved highways and integrated ports, serve as the next generation of nation-building efforts?”
“Investing in Canada's ports is a critical step towards strengthening our national supply chains. Let us continue working together to keep Canada moving forward.”
“We are working closely with provincial and municipal governments, port operators, industry partners, unions and international allies to build a system that is both secure and efficient. Together, we will foster a culture of security and resilience that safeguards the backbone of our economy. (2130) In closing, strengthening our ports and port security is not just about protecting infrastructure; it is about protecting Canada's economic future and ensuring Canadian businesses remain competitive, Canadian consumers have access to the goods they need and Canadian workers have secure jobs. Ultimately, strong ports are the backbone of resilient supply chains that can withstand shocks and adapt to growing trade demands. By investing in safer, smarter and stronger ports, we are investing in the prosperity of every Canadian.”
“By preventing illegal goods, we protect legitimate industries and Canadian jobs from unfair competition. Investing in modernization and innovation helps our ports and our competitiveness, thus helping Canadian exporters succeed in the global marketplace. Of course, modern infrastructure is only part of the equation. Our ports must also be secure and resilient to protect supply chains and maintain the confidence of global trading partners. Our comprehensive plan includes investing in advanced inspection technologies, enhancing law enforcement and border agency coordination, strengthening cybersecurity at ports, expanding trusted worker programs and upgrading port infrastructure to handle growing volumes efficiently and safely. We recognize that port security is a shared responsibility.”
“That is why our government has committed to creating the new trade diversification corridor fund, a historic investment to build and modernize the trade infrastructure that connects Canada's ports, railways, airports, highways and other key facilities. This fund is about developing economic corridors, strategic routes that can unlock the greatest opportunities for interprovincial and international trade. We are prioritizing areas where jobs and growth are being held back by infrastructure constraints, making targeted investments to remove bottlenecks and improve capacity. Simply put, reducing disruptions means smoother trade flows, lowering costs for businesses and consumers. We know that investing in stronger security attracts investment by ensuring Canada's ports are reliable and safe.”
“Our plan focuses on investing in advanced screening and inspection technologies that allow faster, more accurate checks of cargo; enhancing coordination among law enforcement agencies, border services and port authorities to detect and disrupt illicit activities before they reach Canadian soil; strengthening cybersecurity defences at ports to protect against digital attacks that could cripple trade flows; upgrading port infrastructure to handle larger volumes efficiently while maintaining security standards; and expanding trusted worker programs to ensure that only vetted, reliable personnel have access to sensitive areas. Supporting and strengthening our ports is the key to strengthening our Canadian economy.”
“They generate billions of dollars in economic activity, directly contributing to the prosperity of communities coast to coast. However, our ports face serious challenges. Organized crime, drug smuggling, cyber-threats and aging infrastructure put our supply chains and our economy at risk. Disruptions at major ports ripple across the country, causing delays, raising costs and threatening Canada's reputation as a reliable trading partner. Our economic security depends on the security and resilience of our ports. That is why our government is committed to a comprehensive plan to modernize and secure our ports.”
“I had the pleasure of visiting the port of Halifax a couple of weeks ago, getting a tour, and understanding and learning from them about how they can contribute to the challenging times that we are facing here in Canada today. Ports do not operate in isolation. They rely on a network of infrastructure, like railways, highways and airports, which move goods seamlessly across provinces, territories and borders. Without modern, reliable infrastructure, our ports cannot reach their full potential. Our ports connect Canadian businesses to global markets and bring essential products to Canadian consumers. Ports across the country, like the port of Delta in B.C., the port of Montreal and, of course, the port of Halifax in my home riding, support hundreds of thousands of jobs, from dock workers and truckers to supply chain managers and exporters.”
“Mr. Chair, I am honoured to rise today to give my first speech in the House of Commons for the 45th Parliament. I am hugely grateful to my family, friends, colleagues and volunteers for this opportunity. We heard from Canadians, and they voted for a strong Liberal government to build and strengthen our economy under the leadership of our Prime Minister . It is a privilege to speak today about a vital pillar of Canada's economic future: our ports, the security that protects them and the infrastructure that connects them to the rest of the country and the world. Canada's ports are more than just gateways. They are the lifeblood of our supply chains and, most importantly, our economy. Every year, millions of tonnes of goods flow through our ports, supporting industries from manufacturing and agriculture to retail and technology.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge World Environment Day and join the global community in recognizing the urgent need to end plastic pollution, which is this year's theme. In Halifax, surrounded by the Atlantic Ocean, we feel the impact of plastic pollution first-hand. Our marine heritage, vibrant coastal communities, fisheries and rich ecosystems depend on a healthy environment. We do not see this work as just a necessity; we see it as an opportunity, an opportunity to innovate, lead, build a stronger economy and create a more resilient future for generations to come. [ Translation ] From tackling ocean pollution to innovating in clean technologies and restoring natural habitats, the people of Halifax are committed and determined.”