Marianne Dandurand
Compton—Stanstead, Quebec · Liberal · Canada
“The mayor of Martinville, Michel‑Henri Goyette, was the one who reminded me that this issue goes beyond cellphone call quality. He also reminded me that we should not settle for mediocrity. That is why, as my colleague said, I have tackled this issue head-on. That is why I am bringing it before the House.”
“Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 36, I rise today to present a petition signed by residents of the Eastern Townships, other parts of Quebec and even other parts of Canada regarding cellular connectivity in rural areas.”
“[ English ] Bill C‑268 proposes two practical measures. First, it would require a process to verify the accuracy of wireless coverage data. If we want to fix connectivity gaps, we need an accurate picture of where those gaps actually exist.”
“Members of Parliament from every region of the country and every party have described exactly the same reality: roads with no signal, underserved communities, and citizens who cannot rely on their phones when they need them. That is also my personal experience, as I just mentioned.”
“He gave the following example: No one would agree to buy a car that stops working as soon as they turn onto a certain road. In too many rural regions, people are paying full price for cell service that disappears once they reach a certain road or a certain village.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to rise today after my colleagues, and after speaking last month in the House, to conclude debate at second reading on Bill C‑268 . I thank all my colleagues who spoke. I am pleased to see that this is not a partisan issue.”
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“In this day and age, we need to move forward. It is a safety issue, because people do not have access to 911. It is an economic issue, because this hinders the development of certain businesses. In addition, it is simply a fairness issue, because cellular service should not depend on the postal code. In 2026, we should not have to live like this. I want to give a few examples from my riding. I was recently speaking with the chief of the intermunicipal fire safety board in the Coaticook region. In this fairly mountainous region, which is quite close to the U.S. border, firefighters responding to emergencies sometimes have no cell service and are unable to call for backup upon arriving at the scene. As a result, a firefighter, sometimes even the fire chief, has to leave the scene to call for backup.”
“For me, this may be anecdotal, but for many businesses and Canadians, it goes beyond that. These are real problems. It is a safety issue and an economic issue, and that is what I wish to address today. That is why I have decided to work with the rural caucus and several stakeholders back home on this situation to help improve it. In 2026, I think that Canadians across the country are entitled to equal cellular service. The main issue that this bill seeks to address is incomplete or even non‑existent cellular coverage in regions across Canada, including in my own. This is an issue that we talk about a lot within the rural caucus. I know that the teams of the various ministers responsible for this issue are involved in the issue, but I think that it is really important to keep it as a top government priority.”
“During the election campaign, this was an issue that many local residents brought up with me, and I promised to work on improving the situation. In my view, this is an issue that the federal government can work on with the provinces, municipalities and telecommunications companies to improve the situation. To date, it is estimated that roughly 25% of secondary roads in Quebec are not connected. In addition, it is estimated, I think incorrectly, that 97% of the population has access to a cellular network. I believe there is a problem with the way that this is measured if 97% of Canadians are said to be connected, because for many areas in my region, this is clearly not the case. I live in a city with a population of nearly 200,000, and even in my own home it is difficult to get an Internet connection.”
“With the progress we have made, we can now move on to the next step, which is improving cellular connectivity in rural areas. This issue was brought to my attention during the election. First, in my region, when someone is driving on the roads, even on highways or numbered secondary roads, it is not uncommon for them to have to tell the person on the other end of the line that they are going to lose the connection and will have to call them back a few minutes later. In my area, locals know that whenever someone drives past Mount Orford, they lose connection for a while. It is a minor inconvenience, but it is pretty annoying. We need to remember that there are people living in areas where this service is never available. There are connectivity black holes that need to be addressed, in my opinion.”
“moved that Bill C-268, An Act respecting the Spectrum Policy Framework for Canada , be read the second time and referred to a committee. Bill C‑268. Second reading She said: Mr. Speaker, it is with a sense of pride that I rise today in the House for the second reading of Bill C-268 , the spectrum policy framework for Canada act. This is an important step in the parliamentary process regarding an issue that is truly significant, not only in my rural and mountainous riding, but also for my colleagues across Canada who live in rural, remote, or isolated areas. We are talking about the issue of cellular connectivity. In recent years, a great deal of work has been done to improve Internet connectivity. I am proud to say that in Quebec, nearly 100% of the population has access to high-speed Internet.”
“Mr. Speaker, I listened carefully to my colleague from Kings—Hants. I note that we have relatively similar ridings in terms of wood, steel and aluminum manufacturing processing. We share another similarity, and that is agricultural products. My colleague provided a good outline of what we are doing for the primary sectors he mentioned. Can he also explain how we are supporting the agricultural sector given the difficult situation we are facing with the United States?”
“Mr. Speaker, I felt compelled to speak when my colleague from Mirabel mentioned South Shore Furniture, a company in my riding. I salute its employees, who unfortunately lost their jobs recently. I have worked very closely with the Laflamme family on the challenge that they are currently facing. This company has borne the consequences of Chinese dumping in recent years. Together with the Canadian Wood Products Alliance, we met with the Minister of Finance , who has asked the Canadian International Trade Tribunal to launch an investigation. I would like to know whether my colleague discussed this investigation during his meetings. What feedback has he received?”
“I want to commend their commitment to raising these issues here in the capital, and I reiterate my determination to continue raising them in the House.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to acknowledge the representatives from municipalities, communities and the business sector who have travelled to Ottawa from our regions. These include the mayor of East Hereford, the president of the Union des producteurs agricoles de l'Estrie and managers from Maison Séjour. They came to share their concerns about cellular connectivity in the regions. Whether it is for road safety, for emergency 911 calls or for our SMEs, which need reliable networks in order to provide services, the lack of coverage is a serious issue in terms of public safety and economic development. The discussions we are having here in Ottawa serve as a reminder that behind the statistics are the very real, everyday realities affecting our communities and that we need to come up with solutions.”
“Mr. Speaker, today, on April 28, 2026, one year to the day after I was elected, I sincerely thank the people of Compton—Stanstead for putting their trust in me. Representing them in Ottawa is an honour that I carry out with humility and conviction, the conviction that regions like mine have a place at the decision-making table. I want to thank our Prime Minister , who shares these same beliefs. One year ago, Canadians, Quebeckers and people in the regions made a clear choice to move forward with a team that is focused on results. One year later, the results are in: real support to address the cost of living, major projects that create opportunities in our regions, and agreements that diversify our markets. We are just getting started. [ English ] I would like to thank the people of Compton—Stanstead for placing their trust in me.”
“Mr. Speaker, I was listening to my colleague respond to his riding neighbour about measures that are not helping the people in his riding. I would like to know whether the people in his riding have benefited from or will benefit from the Canada groceries and essentials benefit or the Canadian dental care plan. These are immediate affordability measures. Have his constituents spoken to him about those programs, and are they receiving those benefits?”
“It is in that spirit that I invite all members in the House to support the motion to study the use of underused and surplus federal lands and buildings to better support our veterans.”
“These services include housing, health care, employment supports and peer networks, without unnecessary barriers or excessive distances. For communities, it means turning underused buildings into hubs for local revitalization, creating jobs, supporting vulnerable populations and strengthening community infrastructure. For taxpayers, it means better use of existing public assets, potential savings and better outcomes. For members of Parliament, regardless of party, it means one simple thing, that is, working together to come up with concrete solutions for the people we represent. There is no greater service than that provided by the men and women who have served in our armed forces. Our veterans deserve to have access to the support they need when they need it.”
“It takes time, support and resources to adapt after leaving a structured environment like the Canadian Armed Forces for a somewhat more unpredictable existence. Many veterans also face physical and mental health issues after their service, including PTSD and other physiological or psychological conditions. Adapted services delivered by Veterans Affairs Canada can help prevent difficulties from worsening and stop problems from becoming more severe. If the government can use surplus federal lands and buildings to provide more services to veterans, it should give the matter serious consideration and make it happen. As my colleague pointed out, this motion could be beneficial for everyone. For veterans, it means better coordinated services in places that are accessible and rooted in the community.”
“We are also continuing to fund the veteran homelessness program, which was launched in 2023. In November 2025, the Minister of Veterans Affairs announced an additional $22.5 million in funding to support initiatives aimed at preventing homelessness among veterans across the country. These are important measures, but we need to be honest: We have a duty to do more. This is where exploring the potential of underused federal properties comes in. It is a real opportunity to take concrete action. Veterans have unique needs and require services adapted to their reality. If the government has surplus federal lands or buildings that can be used to provide these services, it should make every possible effort to do so. The transition from military to civilian life can be hard sometimes. Veterans may need support for any number of reasons.”
“This motion invites us to reflect on how we can transform these public assets into concrete solutions that honour the past while meeting current needs. (1755) As MPs, we have a responsibility towards our veterans. For that reason, we must support the motion. Exploring the possibility of giving these properties a new lease on life also allows us to build on initiatives already in place to support veterans and improve access to housing. In September, our government launched Build Canada Homes, a federal agency dedicated to the large-scale construction of affordable housing. The initiative also makes use of public land. It offers incentives to developers. It attracts private investment and supports modern construction methods to deliver the housing Canada needs, and that includes housing for veterans.”
“In 2020, it was closed because of structural issues, and it was then closed again in 2025 for environmental reasons. The local community has rallied to try to preserve it, but without a clear vision or long-term commitment, the building is at risk of staying unused despite its obvious potential and the needs we have. As the member pointed out, the armoury could become a real resource centre for veterans. It could be a place to provide affordable housing for those transitioning to civilian life, mental health services, peer support groups, career counselling, community spaces and perhaps even a refurbished museum to showcase the Highlanders' legacy. There are other buildings like this across the country, in communities represented by many members.”
“The federal government is responsible for a large portfolio of underutilized lands and buildings that are deemed surplus to its needs. The motion proposes examining how these properties can be repurposed to support programs for veterans. These spaces could, for example, be used to provide training, education, health care, mental health services, or even affordable housing for veterans. The member for Cumberland—Colchester often cites the example of the Ralston armoury. This is a historic building that is deeply linked with Nova Scotia's military heritage and was home to the Nova Scotia Highlanders Regiment, the regiment that landed at Juno Beach on D‑Day. However, this building is now in administrative limbo. In 2016, it was declared to be surplus.”
“What that really means is that over the next decade, we need to prepare to see thousands of military personnel transition to civilian life and become veterans. The motion before us does more than just address today's significant challenges. It also aims to anticipate needs that will emerge in the future, through planning that must be thoughtful and effective, for veterans, communities and taxpayers alike. When we ask Canadians to serve their country, we commit in return to offering them support, care and guidance. These commitments do not end the day they take off their uniforms. We still have responsibilities toward them. Ultimately, the motion represents both an obligation and an opportunity: the opportunity to better care for our veterans, who have truly given so much to protect us and uphold our freedom.”
“This is also directly related to the essential work of Veterans Affairs Canada, which offers programs to support those living with significant physical or mental health problems, as well as their families. The motion comes at a particularly good time. As my colleague pointed out, the Government of Canada is making historic investments in the Canadian Armed Forces and is meeting its NATO commitments ahead of schedule, contrary to what my colleague from Saint‑Hyacinthe—Bagot—Acton was saying. This week, in fact, we announced that the Canadian Armed Forces have reported a record number of enrolments over the past year. There are 7,310 people who joined the ranks in the 2025‑26 fiscal year, which is the highest number of enrolments in three decades.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today as we come to the end of the debate on an important motion that I hope will make a real difference for veterans across the country, people who have served Canada with courage and commitment. Motion No. 16, which was introduced by my colleague, the member for Cumberland—Colchester , seeks to instruct the Standing Committee on Government Operations and Estimates to undertake a study on alternative ways to make use of underused and surplus federal lands and buildings to provide services for veterans. At the heart of the motion is a very clear objective, which is to improve access to services for our veterans. In contrast to what my colleague from Saint‑Hyacinthe—Bagot—Acton said, the federal government is indeed responsible for taking care of the veterans who fought for our country.”
“Given the issues surrounding sports betting, and given the potential impact on children, young people, older people and vulnerable groups, I believe it is essential to address the issue of sports betting advertising which, as I mentioned earlier, has become ubiquitous. This bill will enable us to put up safeguards and provide information to help protect vulnerable groups, to have funds to reinvest in our communities and to ensure that sport remains a force that continues to unite our country. We will be able to watch the 2026 FIFA World Cup together, safe in the knowledge that we are protecting our constituents.”
“Responsible sports betting can have a place in our culture alongside a framework for informed and responsible gambling. Betting can be structured so that money is reinvested in our communities, rather than being siphoned off by criminals. It can be regulated so that vulnerable individuals and their loved ones do not face the very real health risks and other harms associated with gambling. We have an opportunity here to address this issue responsibly before sports betting is normalized through advertising in a way that fails to account for the risks associated with this activity.”
“Older adults with mental health challenges or problems, such as cognitive decline, are also at increased risk of developing a gambling addiction. There is some evidence that suggests there is a link between exposure to advertising and the severity or intensity of gambling problems and other challenges. Regardless of our views on the place that sports betting should have in our society, we must recognize our responsibility to reduce the harms associated with activities like sports betting advertising, especially for vulnerable people. Bill S-211 requires the federal government to establish a national framework to regulate sports betting advertising, provide tools for the prevention and identification of problem gambling, and support those affected by the harmful effects of gambling.”
“Most of them remember a time when betting on sports was a crime, but the same cannot be said for the teenagers or children watching games with their parents. For young fans growing up in an age when their favourite athletes are appearing in ads for betting platforms, bets and contests on the sidelines of games have become a central feature of the sports experience. Research has established a correlation between gambling advertising exposure, a more positive attitude toward gambling, increased gambling intention and increased gambling behaviour. The greater the exposure, the greater the risk of harm, in terms of both frequency and severity, especially among children, young adults and vulnerable individuals. However, it is not just young people who are at risk.”
“However, despite the fact that a regulatory framework for legalized sports betting was introduced in Bill C-218, Canada ranks eighth in the world in terms of money spent on offshore gambling, totalling approximately $4 billion per year. We need to better understand how these dynamics affect public health in order to implement measures that will reduce social harm and protect the most vulnerable from problem gambling. (1840) This advertising is seen by sports fans of all ages, including children, as I mentioned earlier. Its pervasiveness during events, especially during sports broadcasts, makes it seem like a natural extension of the game. We know that most adults realize that these are sports-themed commercial ventures.”
“Ontario is currently the only province that allows private gaming operators, through an agency called iGaming Ontario. Gaming companies are aggressively purchasing advertising slots on regional and national sports broadcasts. As a result, these ads are now being seen across the country, not just in Ontario. The volume and prevalence of sports betting advertising may increase the risks for Canadians who participate in it. The role that advertising plays in influencing gambling is problematic. Studying effective measures to reduce these risks is an important issue that deserves our attention. It is estimated that viewers watching sports see roughly three gambling ads per minute. That is on television. There are more than 19.3 million active online gamblers in Canada, making it one of the fastest-growing sectors.”
“During the previous Parliament, the House passed Bill C‑218, the Safe and Regulated Sports Betting Act , which was introduced by the Conservative member for Saskatoon South . The bill amended the Criminal Code to enable the provinces and territories to manage betting on races, fights and single sport events in their jurisdiction. Prior to the passage of Bill C‑218, Canadians participated in illegal betting, with no consumer protection, on offshore betting sites or with black market bookmakers with ties to organized crime. These illegal practices funnelled money out of Canadian communities and into the pockets of criminals. That money was not reinvested in communities, as is the case with revenue from legitimate, regulated lotteries.”
“Canadians of all ages are exposed to these advertisements. When a child sees their favourite athlete associated with a betting platform, it sends a clear message: Betting is part of sport. This kind of message exacerbates or even creates gambling problems among both vulnerable groups and children. It can also seriously impact the mental health of Canadians and, ultimately, the integrity of sport in Canada. I believe it is our duty to take action to reduce these risks for the benefit of all Canadians, young and old. Bill S-211 is an excellent step towards preserving the integrity of Canada's sporting culture and Canadians' mental health in the face of sports betting advertising. It is up to us, as MPs, to ensure that this bill can bring about the positive change that lies at the heart of its objectives.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Bill S‑211 , an act respecting a national framework on sports betting advertising. This bill responds to very real concerns that have become apparent since sports betting became legalized. My colleagues will agree that sport has a unique ability to bring people together. As a Quebecker, I grew up with the fierce rivalries and historic victories of the Montreal Canadiens. Last fall, we saw Canadians from across the country rally behind the Toronto Blue Jays during their incredible playoff run. This summer, the world will gather in Canada to celebrate the love of soccer during the FIFA World Cup. Canadians know that sports betting advertising has become ubiquitous in sports broadcasts. No matter the sport, viewers are bombarded with ads encouraging them to get in on the action by placing a bet.”
“For example, a broader approach would clarify that youth courts may defer sentencing to allow a youth to participate in various types of treatment programs, rather than limiting this option solely to substance abuse treatment programs. Bill C‑231 pursues an important goal: to help young people struggling with problematic substance use access treatment programs so they can receive care rather than be punished by the justice system. It supports many of our election promises, with approaches that divert youth away from crime by providing urgent and immediate support to address the overdose crisis while protecting the public. For these reasons, the government is prepared to support this bill, while proposing certain amendments to strengthen its objectives and expand its scope.”
“On the one hand, it could lead to unintended and adverse interpretations that might limit access to other types of treatment programs, particularly those focused on mental health or on behaviour modification and skills development. One of the reasons this bill is so important is that it highlights the critical intersection between the criminal justice system and public health. However, public health issues are not limited to substance abuse. For example, in Canada, people living with mental health conditions are also overrepresented in the criminal justice system. For some of the proposed amendments, referring more broadly to treatment programs rather than solely to programs for addiction or substance abuse would allow the bill's objective to be maintained while avoiding the unintended exclusion of other important forms of treatment.”
“More specifically, they should be limited to the possession offences set out in subsection 4(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and subsection 8(1) of the Cannabis Act. This would align the proposed amendments to the YCJA with the diversion measures added to the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act in 2022. More specifically, these measures include issuing a warning or referring the person, with their consent, to a program or organization that can help them. However, these measures may only be applied to persons suspected of having committed a simple possession offence. The bill also proposes amending certain provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act to add guidelines and orders that apply exclusively to substance abuse treatment programs. This more restrictive approach carries certain risks.”
“This requirement already exists for police officers under section 6 of the Youth Criminal Justice Act. The YCJA also recognizes that diversion measures are often considered the most appropriate and effective solution for addressing youth crime. They allow for prompt and tailored interventions aimed at addressing the root causes of delinquent behaviour. Extending this requirement to the prosecutor could help further encourage the use of substance abuse treatment programs both before and after charges are laid. That said, it is important for the youth justice system to adopt a targeted approach to diversion for drug-related offences. The offences for which police officers and prosecutors should be required to consider referral to a substance use treatment program should be simple possession offences.”
“In my view, this bill would benefit from certain amendments to better achieve its objectives. For example, one of the changes proposed in Bill C‑231 would impose a new requirement for police officers to determine whether it would be appropriate to refer a young person, with their consent, to an addiction treatment program before initiating or pursuing legal proceedings. Bill C‑231 could be slightly expanded so that this requirement also applies to Crown prosecutors. This would further encourage the use of addiction treatment programs and referrals to those programs. This approach would also be consistent with Bill C-16 , the protecting victims act, which proposes to amend the Youth Criminal Justice Act to specify that prosecutors must consider extrajudicial measures before initiating or pursuing legal proceedings.”
“As we all know, the YCJA establishes a separate legal framework for young persons who have committed or are accused of committing a criminal offence, a framework that takes into account that they are more vulnerable, are still developing, and are still dependent on adults. One of the fundamental principles of the YCJA is to protect the public while promoting the rehabilitation and social reintegration of young offenders. It also emphasizes the importance of preventing crime by referring young offenders to community programs or organizations to address the underlying causes of their behaviour. (1725) Bill C-231 is consistent with these fundamental principles of the youth criminal justice system, and the government intends to support it while proposing certain amendments in committee.”
“For example, it would require police officers to consider whether it would be appropriate to refer a young person suspected of a drug offence to an addiction treatment program before initiating or pursuing legal proceedings against that individual. The bill also proposes to allow, in certain cases, the youth court to delay sentencing to give the individual the opportunity to participate in an addiction treatment program. It also proposes to amend the YCJA to authorize the youth court to include, in certain orders, an obligation to participate in such a program. Finally, it provides that a mere failure or refusal to comply with this condition shall not result in a custodial sentence.”
“In our ridings, what they represent are the effects of substances on young lives, families and communities, and some people looking for solutions. I want to salute the work of organizations in my riding, such as Virage Santé mentale, L'Éveil, Phelps Aide, Mental Health Estrie and addiction rehab centres. Despite having very few resources, these folks work miracles to help young people. This is essential work, and it is even more desperately needed in the regions, where resources are limited, everyone knows everyone and accessing available resources is not always easy. Having more legislative tools to support youth and families is, as I said, of tremendous importance. In this context, Bill C‑231 proposes to highlight and, in some cases, clarify the measures governing addiction treatment programs for teenagers.”
“Bill C-231 reflects the lived realities and daily challenges facing certain young Canadians. In Canada, youths aged 15 to 24 are more likely to experience mental health and substance-related disorders than any other age group. According to the Canadian Student Tobacco, Alcohol and Drugs Survey, 37% of students in grades 7 to 12—secondary school to residents of Quebec—reported that they had consumed alcohol in the past year. Over the same period, 18% of students had used cannabis, 6% had used prescription drugs in a manner other than prescribed, and 7% had used illegal drugs. Even more troubling was the fact that 22% of students reported having used two substances at the same time during their lifetime, while 18% had done so in the previous 12 months. Those are big numbers.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to have the opportunity to rise and speak to private member's Bill C‑231 , which would amend the Youth Criminal Justice Act. For brevity's sake, I will refer to the act by its acronym, the YCJA. I would like to salute the work of my colleague from Mégantic—L'Érable—Lotbinière, whose riding neighbours mine. Tragic circumstances led him to work on this incredibly important bill. I would like to thank him for working on it and for his remarkable dedication to our young people and to changing lives, families and communities. I would like to show that the bill's underlying goal is entirely commendable, considering that its aim is to amend the YCJA to strengthen the approach to addiction treatment program in its enforcement framework.”
“The Manoir Hovey is also in the running with Alexandre Vachon, finalist for chef of the year, and Joanie Métivier, finalist for sommelier of the year. We must continue to support and promote this farm-to-table expertise.”
“Mr. Speaker, agriculture and food are at the heart of my region's identity. Committed men and women are showcasing our farm-to-table expertise. One example is Karine Vachon and Jean‑François Bolduc of JF Bolduc farm. For 25 years, they have innovated, improved their practices and contributed to more sustainable agriculture. Their work was recently recognized by the Réseau des fermes durables de l'Estrie. The excellence of the Eastern Townships extends to our plates. My region has three finalists at the Lauriers de la gastronomie québécoise, whose awards ceremony will be held on May 4. The Routier-Bolduc family from the La Station cheese factory is one of the finalists in the artisan of the year category.”
“[ Translation ] This bill will improve our tools to help us better understand the gaps and promote fairer network development across Canada. I sincerely hope that all parties will work together to move this file forward, as it is essential for our rural communities. (Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)”
“Bill C‑268. Introduction and first reading moved for leave to introduce Bill C‑268 , an act respecting the spectrum policy framework for Canada. She said: Mr. Speaker, today I am introducing a bill to improve cellular connectivity in rural areas and on numbered roads. For me, connecting rural areas is a matter of public safety, economic development and fairness, quite simply. Contrary to what some official maps might say, many areas in Canada still need to be connected. My bill aims to accomplish three things: make coverage data more reliable, update the spectrum framework, and prioritize rural areas and numbered roads in developing cellphone service. [ English ] Cellular connectivity is not a luxury. It is about safety, economic development and fairness between regions. People outside major urban centres deserve reliable service too.”
“I also want to mention Caroline Sage, who has been instrumental in promoting tourism in the Eastern Townships. Her idea for Foresta Lumina has attracted a lot of attention to our area from all over. Finally, Andrée‑Anne Fisette is the owner of Ferme St-Élie. She took over a farm that did not have a successor and turned it into a fun and welcoming place to learn about farming. Today, I want to thank them for their commitment and for serving as an inspiration for our younger generations.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am really proud of the many women in the Eastern Townships who are making a difference in many areas of their community. In honour of International Women's Day, I would like to share some of their contributions. The first person who comes to mind is Annie Faucher, a city councillor in Sherbrooke. Annie is an accomplished entrepreneur who became an elected municipal official and continues to serve our community with remarkable courage while undergoing treatment for cancer. The next woman I want to pay tribute to is Chantal Ramsay from the Centre local de développement du Haut-Saint-François. She supports local businesses with her outstanding knack for finding solutions and her unwavering commitment to economic development.”
“In the eastern townships and across the country, farmers and food producers are a source of strength and pride. On Canada's Agriculture Day, I want to recognize the essential work of those who feed us.”
“Mr. Speaker, agriculture is a highly strategic sector in Canada. It feeds our communities, supports the economy and helps Canada feed the world. Now more than ever, we need to see the agriculture and agri-food industry as a pillar of our national security. Our farms are among the most productive in the world, despite the fact that we have a harsh climate and a shorter growing season. Since today is Canada's Agriculture Day, I want to thank farmers in the Eastern Townships and across the country. Feeding our nation is no small matter. It is crucial. [ English ] Canadian agriculture is a strategic sector. It feeds our communities, strengthens our economy and allows Canada to help feed the world. Food production and security are also matters of national security.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am always really happy to hear about food and food prices, including talking about farmers. There are many farmers in my riding. We think it is really important to have transparency. Just briefly, what is the need for food transparency? The member was alluding to the fact that Quebec already has some regulations. Could he also elaborate on the regulations we have in Quebec?”
“Madam Speaker, I thank my colleague for his speech and for his outstanding collaboration on issues that we are working on together. He is a tremendous partner. As members know, I come from a region of Quebec. In the regions, we rely a lot on natural resources. We also rely a lot on energy. I would like my colleague to tell us more about ways that the regions are key partners in our government's new energy policy.”