Marie-Gabrielle Ménard
Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est, Quebec · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, believe me, there are many reasons to go to Hochelaga—Rosemont‑Est this summer. There are balcony concerts. There is the one-of-a-kind mobility scooter race—and, no, I am not making that up. There is also “Hochlag”, an outdoor wrestling event, where wrestling is a tradition that endures.”
“Mr. Speaker, I do not know where you were last Friday, but I was at the Cercle de fermières Hochelaga‑Maisonneuve. I wish everyone could share that experience. In fact, what I heard the most about was the Canada groceries and essentials benefit.”
“Mr. Speaker, Hochelaga has grown around a core value: solidarity. In this regard, the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community kitchen, or CCHM, which works to promote food security and social and occupational integration, is a shining example of the group's strength. The CCHM is celebrating its 40th anniversary.”
“This project brings together urban agriculture, seedling greenhouses and a professional kitchen for food processing. I wish this wonderful organization a happy anniversary. I will close with a word of warning: the CCHM's pickled carrots can be highly addictive.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have a great deal of respect for my colleague. We sit together on a committee and always have lively discussions. What perplexes me about her speeches in the House is that I get the impression there is a disconnect between what she advocates for in committee and what she calls for in the House.”
“Mr. Speaker, we take this very seriously, particularly the housing crisis. We have established a federal agency called Build Canada Homes. It is rare for federal agencies to be created. Under this agency, the government's priority is affordable housing. We understand that. A large portion of people's income goes toward housing.”
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“The cherry on top is that, yes, the queen of the Montreal Games herself has confirmed she will be attending. I look forward to seeing our beloved Nadia soon. I will be holding a perfect score card of 10 when I get to greet her.”
“Mr. Speaker, believe me, there are many reasons to go to Hochelaga—Rosemont‑Est this summer. There are balcony concerts. There is the one-of-a-kind mobility scooter race—and, no, I am not making that up. There is also “Hochlag”, an outdoor wrestling event, where wrestling is a tradition that endures. Today, I especially want to invite everyone to join in the celebrations of an iconic structure, not only for eastern Montreal, but also for Canada. I am referring to our magnificent Olympic Stadium, which is celebrating its 50th anniversary this summer. In 1976, Montrealers, Canadians and the world discovered this engineering feat, designed by Roger Taillibert, during the Montreal Olympic Games. Over the summer, visitors will enjoy tours, exhibits and a large commemorative show.”
“Mr. Speaker, I do not know where you were last Friday, but I was at the Cercle de fermières Hochelaga‑Maisonneuve. I wish everyone could share that experience. In fact, what I heard the most about was the Canada groceries and essentials benefit. The Cercle de fermières Hochelaga‑Maisonneuve is made up of dozens and dozens of women, including many seniors, most of whom are in a somewhat more vulnerable situation. They told me that it was a real help. That is what Canadians expect right now. These are concrete measures.”
“This project brings together urban agriculture, seedling greenhouses and a professional kitchen for food processing. I wish this wonderful organization a happy anniversary. I will close with a word of warning: the CCHM's pickled carrots can be highly addictive.”
“Mr. Speaker, Hochelaga has grown around a core value: solidarity. In this regard, the Hochelaga-Maisonneuve community kitchen, or CCHM, which works to promote food security and social and occupational integration, is a shining example of the group's strength. The CCHM is celebrating its 40th anniversary. I know the people at this organization. They have probably baked the cake themselves. For four decades, this organization has been bringing together, feeding, empowering and training thousands of people by focusing on dignity, confidence and kindness. For the past 10 years, the food hub on Hochelaga Street has been under the direction of Benoist de Peyrelongue, an innovative, ambitious and persuasive man with boundless energy and a big heart, who is here with us today.”
“Mr. Speaker, we take this very seriously, particularly the housing crisis. We have established a federal agency called Build Canada Homes. It is rare for federal agencies to be created. Under this agency, the government's priority is affordable housing. We understand that. A large portion of people's income goes toward housing. This is especially true in the riding I represent, Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est. This is the government's top priority.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have a great deal of respect for my colleague. We sit together on a committee and always have lively discussions. What perplexes me about her speeches in the House is that I get the impression there is a disconnect between what she advocates for in committee and what she calls for in the House. She is always very keen to support community organizations, prioritizing support for families and women, yet that is not what I hear once we are in this chamber.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour of representing some 110,000 people in Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est. On June 5, 39,500 people will benefit from the Canada groceries and essentials benefit. When it comes to the cost of living, nearly a third of the constituency I represent will be supported by this measure. The Conservatives voted against the national school food program. In Hochelaga, that program is essential for young people's success.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have the great privilege of serving with some very dedicated colleagues on the Standing Committee on the Status of Women. We are currently studying the vulnerability of senior women. What we are being told is that we need to continue to focus on the living conditions of seniors. We have put various measures in place. My colleague mentioned the Canadian dental care plan. Senior women can receive direct support through this plan. There are other measures, but what we are saying right now is that we remain committed to providing the best possible support to Canadian seniors.”
“Mr. Speaker, we have been clear. That is part of the strategy to support small business. Part of our approach involves reducing red tape for businesses. Obviously, I do not entirely agree with my colleague's statement. I consult with small business owners every week to understand what they are going through. My sense is that the transformation that we are currently undertaking is helpful and gives our small businesses hope for a bright future.”
“Mr. Speaker, of course, I share my colleague's concern for our small businesses. Canada is home to one million businesses employing six million Canadians. I have just finished a series of round-table discussions, and we are working with SMEs to help them get export-ready. Small businesses will have their place in Canada's defence industrial strategy. The Canadian Federation of Independent Business welcomed the suspension of the excise tax. That also supports small businesses in Canada.”
“There is nothing quite like sports to stoke the flames of our Canadian pride, particularly in a match against the United States. Go, Team Canada, go!”
“Madam Speaker, in less than three hours, the opening ceremonies of the Milano Cortina Olympic Games may steal the show. We know how talented the Italians are at putting on a show. I want to congratulate the athletes of the Canadian delegation, who will soon be bringing us many emotional moments. Do my colleagues know that, since December, people have been able to watch women's sports in Hochelaga? In recognition of that, I am awarding a double gold medal to two female entrepreneurs, Catherine D. Lapointe and Caroline Côté. Together, they created a unique place, Le Nadia, in honour of Olympic champion Nadia Comaneci. Le Nadia is a space dedicated to broadcasting and celebrating women's sports. I am delighted to hear people call out the names Ann-Renée Desbiens, Marie-Philip Poulin, Valérie Maltais and Laurie Blouin.”
“Mr. Speaker, that is music to my ears. The Conservatives are willing to co-operate with the government. This is a good day. We have all just spent a few weeks in our ridings and what we heard is that people need support. We are transforming the Canadian economy, which is being hit hard by U.S. tariffs. What the government is currently proposing is to provide different solutions to support all Canadians during this period of adjustment.”
“Mr. Speaker, yesterday, we were stunned and saddened to hear the news of the passing of a grande dame of the theatre, television and cinema. A truly unique woman, Béatrice Picard had us all fooled. Indeed, over the past few years and until very recently, although we knew she was 96 years old, she managed to convince us that she was immortal. That is how we can appreciate the extent of her talent as an actress. Throughout her career, Ms. Picard touched us with the faithfulness of her acting and surprised us with her passion and the ease with which she was able to make all of the roles she played her own. Of course, she also had an enchanting way about her. She could make us laugh ourselves hoarse—yes, I went there—with her unforgettable portrayal of Marge Simpson, which, unsurprisingly, touched so many generations.”
“Mr. Speaker, on December 6, 1989, time stood still. Our society still bears the scars of this mass femicide, 36 years later. As a government, there is no doubt that we need to invest in the fight to end gender-based violence. Certainly, one of the tools is to strengthen the Criminal Code, which we are working on. Prevention is another. Through Canada's national action plan on women, peace and security, we have invested up to $500 million, and we will continue to do so. The dignity and safety of women in this country are a priority.”
“Madam Speaker, it is very nice to address a woman Speaker. I salute you. I want to thank my colleague, who is truly a leader in advancing and promoting gender equality. Together with my colleague, the Minister of Finance , my colleague, the Minister of Women and Gender Equality , as well as my colleague from indigenous services, earlier this week we were thrilled to announce a $660-million investment to continue advancing gender equality. We travelled across the country this summer. We listened to representatives from community organizations and advocacy groups. We will be there. They want predictability and stability. We will be there.”
“Mr. Speaker, it may not often be presented this way, but the reason we are so focused on the economy right now is that it is actually a feminist vision of the future. When the economy is doing well, women are better off. They are safer and can actively participate in building our society. Our government has invested more than any other government in protecting women and LGBTQ+ communities. We will continue doing so, and that is a promise we will always keep.”
“By sharing Marie-Reine's story during this month-long celebration, I am honouring all of the creative, generous women who are involved in their communities.”
“Mr. Speaker, as this is Women's History Month in Canada, I would like to pay tribute to Marie-Reine Larivière. Hers may not be a household name, but she has led a noteworthy life. Who among us can celebrate 58 years of service? I met Ms. Larivière at the Barilla plant in Hochelaga. In among the impressive machinery, I spotted a tiny woman with bright eyes and a mischievous smile. I walked up to her to say hello. She proudly shook my hand and said that she had been there since 1967. The real history of the Barilla plant, formerly Catelli, resides not in computers, but in this woman: Marie-Reine Larivière, who refuses to even think about retirement. Marie-Reine is the epitome of quiet perseverance, never loud but always commanding respect. Her commitment to passing on her knowledge is commendable.”
“Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the country lost more than a voice. René Homier‑Roy, a broadcaster, cultural critic and, as he liked to say, professional spectator, has died at age 85. He had just hung up his microphone and retired. René, today, I am listening to my gut, as you taught me to do. I will not talk about you, René. Instead, I will talk directly to you. René, my dear mentor, I spent 10 years by your side and 43 years listening to you, appreciating your quick wit, your uniqueness and the depth of your knowledge and experience. René, you had the strength to resist complacency. You never believed in objectivity. You took the path of honesty. René, you are a great communicator. The capacity to listen is a talent that you certainly had, coupled with your curiosity. René, I hope that wherever you are, it is very entertaining. Farewell, René.”
“Mr. Speaker, let us go beyond the very existence of CBC/Radio-Canada. In Canada, we are privileged to live in a democracy. We just went through an election. Canadians had a chance to have their say. Democracies are protected by strong journalism, verified information and non-partisan news, among other things. CBC/Radio-Canada is part of that landscape. However, it is not the only institution, and I hope that, as a society, we will continue to implement safeguards that help us continue to move forward as a democracy.”
“Mr. Speaker, during the election campaign and since I took office, I have had the opportunity to speak many times with community organizations, the people with real expertise on the ground. Obviously, everyone would like to see their concerns reflected in a throne speech. The Speech from the Throne is a choice. It is still a road map. What reassures me is not the homelessness crisis, but knowing that there are capable organizations inspired by the idea of working, particularly with the federal government, to manage this crisis, which is rampant across the country but especially dire in the riding of Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est.”
“Mr. Speaker, there is only so much time in a speech. I lived in Winnipeg for three years, and I worked there in French. That gave me the opportunity to learn about francophone realities outside Quebec. My colleague is absolutely right. The use of French depends on more than just robust and ongoing support for Radio-Canada. The use of French depends on its promotion, especially here in the House. Promoting a language means making it resonate. My government is rather uncompromising on that. There are two official languages in Canada. In any case, I will be a strong defender of French.”
“I would like to thank my parents, Michel Ménard and Doris Grenier, who always encouraged me by making me believe, rightly I hope, that yes, we can stand tall, have convictions, and try to make even the smallest changes to create a better future for everyone. I apologize in advance to my family, as I will often be late for dinner. I want to thank my partner, Michel, who believes in me and whom I love. I want to wish everyone a good legislative session.”
“There is a major housing crisis across the country, but it is particularly bad in Hochelaga—Rosemont‑Est. My riding is intimately acquainted with the homelessness crisis. For the past several years, I have been speaking out against the comments of the Conservative Party, which is trying to equate homelessness with crime. It is hurtful and insulting, and it is no doubt the result of a lack of understanding of a very complex issue. I hope that we will move beyond partisanship to provide all Canadians with a safe and decent life, no matter where they live. That is especially true in my riding. In closing, I would like to thank my two grandmothers, who are no longer with us. They are probably looking down on me from above. They were two women who never minced words and who probably gave me that drive without even knowing it.”
“I will follow in her footsteps and be there to support those who want to help the area thrive. On May 27, His Majesty King Charles III read the Speech from the Throne. It is a speech that I support. It is a speech that conveys a clear vision and a plan that is ambitious and, most of all, unifying. When I was door knocking, Canadians told me that they want greater unity. Together we are stronger. I did not write that, but I very much believe in it. That is what I heard people saying during the election campaign. We are proposing all sorts of measures, but the ones that are most important to me for the people of Hochelaga—Rosemont‑Est are those that strengthen our social safety net. In Hochelaga—Rosemont‑Est, that is crucial. We need measures to ensure that no one is left behind.”
“I want to hear the concerns of everyone, regardless of their political stripe. To me, the verb “to serve”, as in “to serve the people”, is a noble term. It is an action verb that suggests listening, empathy, and dedication. I see politics as a team sport, but also a relay. I would like to pay tribute to my predecessor, Soraya Martinez Ferrada, the former Liberal member for Hochelaga. The riding was not called Hochelaga—Rosemont-Est at the time. She was ambitious and had a vision for the riding during her last two terms. She left many legacies, but I will name one: the creation of the Sommet de l'Est. She did not do it alone, but she did an incredible job on it. The Sommet de l'Est puts wind in the sails of business owners, organizations and people who want to use their mission to contribute to the vitality of Hochelaga—Rosemont‑Est.”
“Still, I want to thank them again, and it is especially meaningful to do so today within these walls. My dedicated volunteers have been a strong and flexible link between the passionate, cheerful, and curious woman I am and the people of Hochelaga-Rosemont‑Est. Thanks to their political convictions and their confidence in the Liberal Party, I am here to proudly to represent more than 110,000 Montrealers, Quebeckers and Canadians from seat 150. Among them are people who voted for me, and I am touched by that. Many people chose to place their trust in candidates from other parties. I respect their choice. However, I would like to say today that the door to my office on Pie‑IX Boulevard in Montreal will always be open to everyone. I invite people to come and see me.”
“I would like to commend the tremendous amount of work that was done by Pascale St‑Onge, a former Liberal minister. She had an insightful vision for the future of Radio-Canada. Radio-Canada is us, not just because it bears the name “Canada”, but because it tells our stories, shapes us and helps us stand out. The throne speech clearly mentions the future of CBC/Radio-Canada. Our government's position on that is unwavering. As members know, there is a team behind every major undertaking. I would like to take this opportunity today to express my sincere gratitude to my campaign co-managers. We were very progressive in Hochelaga-Rosemont‑Est. Simon Boucher and Béatrice Lavallée encouraged and supported me. (1715) Yianni Papadatos, Malia Chenaoui and Alexandre Devaux already know how much I value them.”
“People in the House have all sorts of resumés, all sorts of past experience. I urge everyone to see that as an asset. I am proud to say that I have a degree in dance. In a country like Canada, an artist, a child of the public education system and a renter who does not own a car can make the leap into active politics. There is something about that idea that makes me happy, reassures me and inspires me. After a 20-plus-year career in arts and culture as an artist, dancer and producer, I had a second career. This is the beginning of my third career. I was a Radio-Canada host for over 10 years. I hosted news programs, and it is very funny seeing my former colleagues in the corridors. We are all in this dance together. Obviously, I will be a proud advocate for the long-term future of CBC/Radio-Canada.”
“I can say that their expectations of me are high but, more generally speaking, their expectations of the political class as a whole are immense. I know that all parliamentarians in the House today did as as I did in recent weeks and laced up their most comfortable shoes to knock on hundreds of thousands of doors in an attempt to win the confidence of voters. Sometimes people made bad choices about footwear and regretted it. In my case, I am quite proud of my results: I knocked on 8,000 doors. From these discussions, I learned about the diverse realities of Hochelaga-Rosemont‑Est. The needs are many, but above all, they are varied. It is my duty to receive all of these requests, as varied as they may be. These requests, aspirations and dreams must be heard in this place.”
“I have done it myself. It is also where hundreds of children play in the back alleys that have been a feature of the neighbourhood for decades, and where young and old alike shop in the many flea markets and bring Ontario Street to life. I am asking the question here. I do not know if anyone has ever been to a race involving not Formula 1 cars or horses, but scooters. Yes, there is a scooter race in “Hochelag”. To experience it, one has to be there in July. It is both unique and memorable. The people of Hochelaga-Rosemont‑Est chose to put their trust me in the last election. As this parliamentary session begins, I would like to tell them that I aspire to be as persistent, resourceful, sensitive and ambitious as they are. They were very upfront during the election campaign.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to say that I will be sharing my time with my colleague from Whitby . I join my colleagues in congratulating you on your appointment. We all know that the Assistant Deputy Speaker is an important role that sets the tone in the House. Like many of my colleagues have done today and in recent days, I rise for the very first time in this 45th Parliament. It is an honour and a privilege that comes with great responsibility. I owe my being here to the people of Hochelaga-Rosemont‑Est, whom I would like to acknowledge right off the bat. They are proud, supportive, and creative Montrealers. Hochelaga-Rosemont‑Est is where families greet each other at Place Simon‑Valois and meet at the Maisonneuve market. It is where friends get together at Morgan, Lalancette, and Louis-Riel parks to picnic and solve the world's problems.”