Eric St-Pierre
Honoré-Mercier, Quebec · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize five colleagues who collectively have given more than 50 years of service to Canadians and are now moving on from federal politics. First, I recognize the member for Laurier—Sainte-Marie for his unmatched environmental and climate advocacy.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Yorkton—Melville for her nearly 11 years of service. Earlier today, I made a member statement where I acknowledged five departing members of Parliament. I learned shortly after about her departure. If I could, I would revise my member statement to include six departing members.”
“Mr. Speaker, happy Friday. One in four young Canadians between 12 and 17 years of age has been the victim of cyberbullying. Not only that, youths who are victimized online are three times more likely to have suicidal thoughts. Stakeholders nationwide are sounding the alarm.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am thankful for the opportunity to talk about an issue that matters to Canadians in every region of our country, which is how we can better support seniors and ensure they can live and age with dignity, security and independence. Seniors have helped build the Canada that we know today.”
“When our government increased old age security by 10% for seniors aged 75 and older, that decision was informed by evidence showing that older seniors generally face greater financial vulnerability.”
“Measures such as pausing the federal fuel excise tax, cutting income tax for middle-class Canadians and investing in housing, infrastructure and the economy are helping Canadians across the country no matter their age. It is important to acknowledge the intent behind Bill C-261 .”
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“Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Yorkton—Melville for her nearly 11 years of service. Earlier today, I made a member statement where I acknowledged five departing members of Parliament. I learned shortly after about her departure. If I could, I would revise my member statement to include six departing members. I got to spend a brief moment of time with the member on the veterans affairs committee for a few months and really appreciated her insights. My understanding is that she has nine grandchildren— An hon. member: She has 10. Eric St-Pierre: Mr. Speaker, she has 10 grandchildren. I am hoping the member will spend a lot of time with her 10 grandchildren.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize five colleagues who collectively have given more than 50 years of service to Canadians and are now moving on from federal politics. First, I recognize the member for Laurier—Sainte-Marie for his unmatched environmental and climate advocacy. (1420) [ Translation ] I also commend the member for Saint-Hyacinthe—Bagot—Acton for his work as an opposition member and, if I may, for his great taste in ties. I also want to thank the member for Rosemont—La Petite-Patrie for his work as an opposition member and for his impressive commitment to his riding. [ English ] I also recognize the member for Beaches—East York for his thoughtful and powerful voice in this House. Finally, I recognize the member for North Vancouver—Capilano for his steadfast commitment to climate, natural resources and the environment.”
“Mr. Speaker, happy Friday. One in four young Canadians between 12 and 17 years of age has been the victim of cyberbullying. Not only that, youths who are victimized online are three times more likely to have suicidal thoughts. Stakeholders nationwide are sounding the alarm. Can the Secretary of State for Children and Youth tell the House what the government is doing to protect our children from the dangers they are exposed to online?”
“That is why we have supported measures such as strengthening and protecting retirement benefits for seniors while also investing in housing, skills training, education and affordability measures that help younger Canadians build secure futures and grow the economy. Every member of the House wants seniors to live with dignity and financial security. We all share a commitment to ensuring that older Canadians receive the support they need. For the generations that built this country, that commitment remains unwavering.”
“That is why in 2019, the federal government increased the GIS work exemption to $5,000, allowing seniors to keep receiving their full pensions without being penalized for taking up some time to supplement their income. Canada's population is aging. The number of seniors is growing rapidly, including in my own riding, and expenditures on the retirement income program continue to increase. This reality requires thoughtful policy decisions that balance the importance of our public pension system with the current workforce, which supports it and expects it to be there for them when they retire. Our government knows that supporting seniors and investing in younger Canadians are not competing priorities. We can and must do both.”
“When our government increased old age security by 10% for seniors aged 75 and older, that decision was informed by evidence showing that older seniors generally face greater financial vulnerability. As Canadians age, they are more likely to experience declining health, increasing health care-related expenses and reduced opportunities to supplement their income through employment. They are also more likely to outlive their savings and other retirement resources. This is a sound decision supported by data. With respect to the proposal to increase the guaranteed income supplement earnings exemption, we recognize the value of helping seniors who choose to remain in the workforce. Many older Canadians continue to work part-time, whether to supplement their income, remain active or just maintain social connections.”
“Measures such as pausing the federal fuel excise tax, cutting income tax for middle-class Canadians and investing in housing, infrastructure and the economy are helping Canadians across the country no matter their age. It is important to acknowledge the intent behind Bill C-261 . All members of the House share the goal of improving the well-being of seniors. For example, I think of my colleague from Winnipeg North , who is probably one of the strongest advocates for seniors and inspires us all here today. We recognize that many seniors face financial pressures and that income security remains a critical issue. However, it is also important to ensure a balanced and sustainable approach to the Canadian pension system so that it continues to benefit generations to come.”
“Over the past several years, the federal government has taken steps to strengthen Canada's retirement income system and improve the financial security of older Canadians. We increased the old age security pension by 10% for seniors aged 75 and over, responding to data that showed that the older people get, the more expenses they have. We have also strengthened the Canada pension plan, helping future retirees receive higher pension benefits. In fact, in the recent spring economic update, our government signalled our plans to reduce Canada pension plan contributions to 9.5%. Additionally, recognizing the rising cost of living, we provided targeted support to Canadians.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am thankful for the opportunity to talk about an issue that matters to Canadians in every region of our country, which is how we can better support seniors and ensure they can live and age with dignity, security and independence. Seniors have helped build the Canada that we know today. They have raised families, built businesses, contributed to their communities, volunteered their time and strengthened our economy through decades of hard work. For example, in my riding of Honoré-Mercier, Italian Canadians helped build Rivière des Prairies decades ago, and with their hard work, built a strong community. While I am here, I would also like to wish Italian seniors in my riding a happy Italian Heritage Month. Seniors deserve a retirement that is secure, dignified and supported by strong public programs.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the sixth report of the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development entitled, “Main Estimates 2026-27: Votes 1 and 5 under Canada Water Agency, Votes 1, 5 and 10 under Department of the Environment, Votes 1 and 5 under Impact Assessment Agency of Canada and Votes 1, 5 and 10 under Parks Canada Agency”.”
“To everyone who lives, works or contributes at these residences, I offer my thanks and congratulations on these momentous anniversaries.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise today to honour two residences that are a credit to Honoré‑Mercier: La Seigneurie d'Anjou, a residence celebrating its 25th year of operation, and Fil de l'Eau, a residence in Rivière‑des‑Prairies—Pointe‑aux‑Trembles that is celebrating its 40th year of operation. These anniversaries remind us that seniors are the beating heart of our neighbourhoods, the keepers of our memories and the builders of our collective history. Whether in Anjou or Rivière‑des‑Prairies—Pointe‑aux‑Trembles, their journey, diversity and resilience profoundly enrich our social fabric. I also want to commend the Filippin family and the team at La Seigneurie d'Anjou, as well as Salvatore Migliara and the team at Fil de l'Eau, for their outstanding dedication.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present a petition brought forth by many residents of Saskatchewan, as well as across the country, with the purpose of seeking the enforcement of the federal government's coal phase-out regulations in Saskatchewan. The petitioners would like to bring to the attention of the House that they have submitted a request to have the Minister of the Environment, Climate Change and Nature take the necessary measures within federal jurisdiction to prevent the continued operation of coal-fired electricity generation. They seek clarity on the specific steps being undertaken to ensure compliance with federal regulations.”
“Let us honour the people who show up when times are tough, who represent the best of what we are and who remind us that compassion is one of this country's greatest strengths for good. The time has come to honour the people who give the gift of life.”
“It is kicking off a national conversation on how to honour the many donors who are saving lives. It will raise public awareness, support donor recruitment efforts and ultimately increase the number of Canadians who decide to donate organs. This bill is a tribute to the people who voluntarily make organ donations to help others when they need help the most. It shows that Parliament and all Canadians value the contributions of living donors. Through non-partisan collaboration, we can ensure that this bill passes and that the important role of so many Canadians who choose to make organ donations gets recognition. In conclusion, I support the objectives of Bill C‑234, and I encourage all members of the House to do the same.”
“The Canadian Blood Services also acknowledges this altruistic commitment. However, the bill would go further by making this recognition official at the national level, affirming that these acts are not only appreciated but are also essential to our society. These donors are also unsung heroes. Their contributions may be quieter, occurring many times over many years. Some people choose to donate plasma or platelets on a schedule that requires ongoing commitment and sacrifice. While blood donors do not face the same medical risks as organ donors, the cumulative impact on regular blood and plasma donors is immeasurable. [ Translation ] I recognize the non-partisan spirit that animates the sponsor of Bill C‑234 , and I am glad that we were able to make the bill stronger together.”
“This speech goes out to Damon Hartung and to all other victims of leukemia. Finding a match is often extraordinarily difficult. Canadians who step forward are volunteering to help a stranger survive. Those donors also give the gift of life, yet awareness remains very low. Many Canadians do not realize how pressing the need for bone marrow donors truly is, nor do they realize how straightforward the process of registering as a potential donor can be. Similarly, blood donation, especially regular, repeat donation, is essential to the health of Canadians. We think of the Canadian Blood Services, which recognizes the selfless act of donation through the donor recognition medal, which is offered upon request and highlights the generosity and sacrifice of donors while also creating an opportunity to celebrate life-saving contributions.”
“This definition explicitly includes all human tissue and encourages us to think more broadly about the spectrum of donation in Canada. Today, living donors provide not only organs, but also blood and bone marrow. That is why I am pleased that this committee review has also expanded the pool of eligible recipients for this medal to include bone marrow donors as well as blood donors who have demonstrated a significant and long-standing commitment to blood donation. [ English ] Consider bone marrow donation for a Canadian diagnosed with leukemia or other blood cancer. I must give a shout-out to my old best friend from undergrad, who passed away from leukemia at the young age of 25 and should have been in the House of Commons. We were studying political science together.”
“It served not only as a recognition of service but also as a unifying symbol, bringing together individuals from different regions, backgrounds and professions under a shared sense of national appreciation. These honours create a shared moment of pride, not just for recipients but also for their families, their communities and the country as a whole. They reinforce a collective identity grounded in generosity, service and compassion, and they remind us that acts of selflessness are not only worthy of recognition but are also foundational to who we are as a society. (1900) [ Translation ] I support the objectives of this bill, and I am pleased with the amendments that were drafted in collaboration with the bill's sponsor and adopted by the Standing Committee on Health. The bill uses a very broad definition of “organ”.”
“[ Translation ] This is a thoughtful and meaningful initiative. I want to thank the sponsor for bringing forward a bill that shines a light on the silent heroes among us. Medals play an important role in our society. They are not merely symbolic objects. They represent incredible stories, sacrifices and contributions. They unite people by creating a shared sense of recognition and pride. They also shine a spotlight on actions that often take place in the shadows. By publicly honouring these contributions, they promote a sense of collective belonging. They inspire other Canadians to get involved, showing that every action, no matter how humble, can have a profound and lasting impact. [ English ] The King Charles III Coronation Medal was worn with pride by many Canadians. I even received a King Charles III Coronation Medal.”
“Their actions save lives and strengthen our communities by reminding us of the compassion and solidarity that define Canada at its best. These are not small virtues, but the very qualities that strengthen our social fabric. When a Canadian chooses to donate an organ, they are saving a life. They are also helping families stay whole. They remind us and communities across the country of what is possible when people act with extraordinary kindness. Their actions really inspire us. They set an example for all of us in this House and for all Canadians. Canadians are rightly proud of those who perform these acts of extraordinary generosity. To better demonstrate this pride, Bill C-234 proposes a formal mechanism, a national honour, to ensure their contributions are publicly recognized and celebrated.”
“Every year, thousands of Canadians who are dealing with a potentially life-threatening illness are waiting for an organ transplant. Too many of them will not get one in time. The preamble of Bill C‑234 clearly describes this reality. It says that “thousands of Canadians are currently awaiting life-saving organ transplants” and that living donors make these transplants possible. [ English ] Organ and tissue donation is one of the most selfless acts a person can undertake. It is not compelled, does not offer material reward and often carries medical risk. Living donors step forward not for recognition, not for reward, but because they believe in the value of another human life. As the bill notes, they often do so at personal risk and with no expectation of reward.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise tonight in support of Bill C‑234 , the living donor recognition medal act. This bill recognizes the courage, generosity and profound humanity of Canadians who choose to donate an organ during their lifetime. It is truly the gift of life. I would like to begin by thanking the member for Edmonton Manning for his bill. Among other things, it is an important example of MPs working together across party lines. It shows that, when we set partisanship aside, we can work together to honour the best of Canada. I was particularly touched by this bill on a personal level. It reminds us that behind every donation lies a human story; a decision marked by courage, altruism and a deep commitment to others.”
“Mr. Speaker, as co-chair of the environment and climate change caucus and as a member of the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development, I want to wish everyone a very good Earth Day. I want to commend the remarkable work of businesses, environmental organizations, financial institutions, our young people, our seniors and indigenous groups who are working tirelessly to protect our climate and biodiversity. Our government has taken meaningful action to protect the environment: a new strategy to protect nature, a strategy for a clean and competitive automobile industry and regulations to reduce methane emissions, while strengthening industrial carbon pricing. Building a greener Canada also means building a stronger Canada. [ English ] I wish everyone happy Earth Day.”
“The petitioners are also calling for transitional measures to be put in place in collaboration with the provincial and municipal governments, such as the expansion of the bus rapid transit service, among other things. I also want to thank Darlene Jean Jacques for her leadership in presenting this petition and for helping ensure that the voices of the residents of Honoré‑Mercier and all of Montreal's east end are heard here in the House.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to present my first petition as a member of Parliament on behalf of the residents of Honoré-Mercier. The petitioners would like to draw to the attention of the House the urgent need for safe, reliable, accessible and efficient public transit in Montreal's east end, where persistent gaps are creating significant barriers in how residents get to school and are hindering employment opportunities for people in the region. This petition, which is signed by 1,270 people, calls on the government to allocate additional funding to strengthen public transit services in Montreal's east end, including in Rivière‑des‑Prairies and Anjou.”
“Mr. Speaker, with less than two months to go before the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup kicks off, Canadians from coast to coast to coast are feeling the excitement. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Secretary of State for Sport tell the House how our government is helping communities across the country take part in this historic moment?”
“Mr. Speaker, Bill C-22 is being debated again in the House today. This is a vital bill that will help combat serious crimes such as extortion and that will move police investigations forward. Law enforcement agencies across the country are calling for this measure, as is the member for Medicine Hat—Cardston—Warner . Can the Minister of Justice explain to the House why Bill C-22 is important for the safety of all Canadians?”
“Mr. Speaker, today it gives me great pleasure to welcome to the Hill some incredible organizations from Honoré-Mercier, including SARA d'Anjou, 1,2,3 GO! Rivière‑des‑Prairies, the Rivière‑des‑Prairies youth employment centre, the Anjou—Saint‑Justin youth employment centre, Aîné‑es J'écoute en actions, the Pointe‑de‑l'île de Montréal chapter of the AQDR, La Maison des jeunes de Rivière‑des‑Prairies, the CFHI, Regroupement Jeunesse en Action, the CDC de RDP, Le Phare, SAC Anjou, the RDP soccer club, ASEC Montréal, AIEM and the Anjou women's centre, along with members of several seniors' clubs, including Il Faro, Parc Cipriani, Le Fiamme d'Oro, the Rivière‑des‑Prairies Abruzzese folklore group, Résidence la Seigueurie d'Anjou, Résidence Au Fil de l'Eau and the A.I.A.P.A.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canadians elected a new government with a mandate to build Canada strong, keep our country safe and expand our international partnerships. In a rapidly changing world, our government is focused on what we can control. Can the Minister of National Defence tell the House about the progress we are making in our defence partnerships around the world?”
“Mr. Speaker, I also have good news today. Bill C-14 , the bail and sentencing reform act, after months of Conservative obstruction, is finally making its way through. Premiers, mayors and law enforcement from across the country have called on Parliament to quickly pass the bill so it could soon become the law of the land. Can the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice please share with Canadians the progress made on the bail and sentencing reform act?”
“Mr. Speaker, recent aggression by major powers toward the Arctic region have underlined the importance of Greenland's and Denmark's sovereignty. This rhetoric is not happening in a vacuum. Indeed, if left unchecked, it threatens our NATO alliance and Canada's own Arctic sovereignty. Can the Minister of Foreign Affairs share with the House how the government is working with our allies to protect the territorial integrity of Greenland and defend Canada's sovereignty?”
“Canada will always remain a proud independent nation because, as the Prime Minister reminded us, we have the capacity “to build our strength at home and to act together.” Canada thrives because we are Canadian. I call on all members of the House to act together to defend Canada's sovereignty.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to welcome members back to the House and to mark the beginning of the new year. We are living in a time of profound global uncertainty. International rules are being challenged, long-standing institutions are under strain, and we are witnessing the emergence of power vacuums and growing instability across regions. In moments like these, Canada must be clear about who we are and what we stand for. The House must come together, above partisanship, to defend the sovereignty and independence of nations. Residents in my riding of Honoré-Mercier have been clear that Canada or Greenland or Denmark belong to them and to them alone. We must stand firm in defence of our sovereignty.”
“Organizations such as the Kidney Foundation of Canada and countless individuals with lived experience have told us that recognition really matters. It validates their sacrifice and encourages others to follow their example. (1605) [ Translation ] Too many Canadians are in urgent need of life-saving organ transplants. Every week, about four people die waiting for a transplant. Increasing the number of living donations is a key step in saving lives and improving quality of life. Recognizing living donors can have a significant impact. I urge all members to consider the profound impact of living donors. Together, we can build a system that not only saves lives but also celebrates the generosity of living donors.”
“It works closely with provincial and territorial partners; national organizations such as the Canadian Blood Services and the Canadian Society of Transplantation; clinicians; researchers; and also indigenous communities, all with a patient-centred approach. In 2024, Health Canada launched the pan-Canadian governance framework for organ donation and transplantation. As part of this, Health Canada advocated for the creation of a patient advocate advisory committee, providing an independent platform for people with lived experience to inform policy and improve systems. These efforts ensure that the voices of patients, families and donors are heard and respected. Stakeholders consistently emphasize the importance of recognizing living donors.”
“[ Translation ] Recognition matters. It is not merely symbolic. It is transformative. When we celebrate donors' stories, we dispel the myths and fears surrounding organ donation. We make it accessible and tangible. Inspiration leads to action. Sharing donors' journeys creates a powerful narrative that encourages others to consider donating. Encouragement also leads to change. As awareness increases, participation follows. Expanding the donor pool means saving more lives. Recognition, whether in the form of honours, public acknowledgements or personal gratitude, is also a profound affirmation of a donor's generosity. It shows them, as well as our country, that their act of kindness matters. [ English ] Health Canada remains committed to supporting patients, families and donors.”
“Demand continues to grow, and every person on a wait-list represents a life on hold, a family in distress and a community affected. Living donations often offer better outcomes and reduce pressure on dialysis programs. In 2023, the average wait time for a living donor kidney was 1.5 years, compared to 3.9 years for a deceased donor kidney, but there is another dimension we must address: equity. Health Canada reports that access to living donor kidney transplants among South Asian, African, Caribbean and Black populations is 50% to 75% lower than the national average. This disparity underscores the need for targeted awareness and culturally sensitive outreach. Living donation is not a complete solution; however, where we can recognize the impact of living donors, we can help catalyze change by raising awareness and inspiring action.”
“Every year, hundreds of patients waiting for a life-saving organ transplant are removed from waiting lists due to declining health or due to the development of other health issues. Unfortunately, many Canadians also die while waiting for a transplant. It is a sad reality. Every one of those lives lost is a stark reminder of the urgency of this issue. Dialysis, while life-sustaining, is not a long-term solution. The five-year survival rate for dialysis patients is only 45%, compared to 92% for kidney transplant recipients. A transplant not only doubles life expectancy but also dramatically improves quality of life. For patients, a successful transplant often means returning to work, regaining independence and reclaiming a sense of normalcy. The case for increasing living organ donation is clear.”
“I would like to thank the sponsor of this bill for introducing legislation that shines a light on the unsung heroes among us. According to the Canadian Organ Replacement Register of the Canadian Institute for Health Information, in 2023, nearly 50,000 Canadians were living with end-stage renal disease. Of these, approximately 30,000 were on dialysis, while 20,000 had received a functional kidney transplant. As of December 31, 2024, more than 4,000 Canadians were waiting for a solid organ transplant, and 71% of them needed a kidney. These are not just statistics; these are real people. They are our neighbours, our friends and our loved ones. (1600) [ English ] Tragically, in 2024, 691 Canadians were removed from the transplant wait-lists.”
“These are not small virtues; they are the very qualities that strengthen our social fabric. When a Canadian chooses to donate an organ, they are saving a life. They are also helping families stay whole and reminding communities across the country of what is possible when people act with kindness. Their actions inspire us. They, especially my colleague from Edmonton Manning , set an example for all of us in the House and for all Canadians. [ Translation ] Canadians are rightly proud of those who perform acts of extraordinary generosity. However, pride alone is not enough. Bill C-234 proposes a formal mechanism, a national honour, to ensure that their contributions are publicly recognized and celebrated. This is a thoughtful and meaningful initiative.”
“This bill recognizes the courage, generosity and profound humanity of Canadians who choose to donate an organ during their lifetime. It creates a national honour for those who have made what the preamble rightly calls the “gift of life”. [ English ] Organ and tissue donation is one of the most selfless acts a person can undertake. It is not compelled, offers no material reward and often carries medical risk. Living donors step forward not for recognition and not for reward, but because they believe in the value of another human life. As the bill notes, they often do so at personal risk and with no expectation of reward. Their actions save lives and strengthen our communities by reminding us of the compassion and solidarity that define Canada at its best.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate my colleague on her wonderful speech. Yesterday, Quebec lost one of its greatest photojournalists, Jacques Nadeau. A leading figure at Le Devoir and La Presse, he devoted more than 30 years to chronicling our society through his camera with rare humanity and admirable sensitivity. Personally, I have lost a friend. For years, Jacques and I would chat when we went to the gym in the morning. Through our conversations about politics and current events, I discovered a warm human side to him that I will miss. I offer my sincere condolences to his family, his wife, his loved ones and the entire journalistic community. I thank Jacques for everything he has done. I am also rising to speak in support of Bill C-234 , an act respecting the establishment and award of a living donor recognition medal.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Edmonton Manning for introducing Bill C-234 , as well as to commend him for his passion for this topic and also for his work for his son. My question to you is, are you aware of any living donor holidays? Are there any national days that would be in addition to the potential medal?”
“Mr. Speaker, we know that there was some support in the budget for the youth climate corps, support that will help youth advance work on important issues in protecting the environment. As I mentioned, there is also a sustainable bond framework, which is helping to advance green bonds. There is also advancement on climate disclosure. There are a lot of measures that are going to benefit the folks in my riding. Last week in Montreal, there was an announcement of the REM extension, increasing public transportation and some further work. As I mentioned, there is $51 billion being invested in infrastructure projects across the country. We are very happy and excited to continue this great work.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague from Repentigny for his question and his commitment, but I must correct some of his comments. He mentioned an environmental committee. I think my colleague is referring to the caucus within the Liberal Party. All parties have caucuses, and this caucus was created to fuel discussion. It gives us an opportunity to discuss climate change. My colleague's remarks are not accurate. As I mentioned in my speech, our government is working on measures that my colleague supported. These include taxonomy and methane regulations, which is truly one of the most effective ways to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions. Then there is industrial carbon pricing, another measure that my colleague also supported. We know that this measure is very effective in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank my colleague for asking such an excellent question during our first exchange in the House. I thank him for the outstanding work he does in his riding. To answer my colleague's question, our budget includes operating costs and investments. We are making significant investments in projects. We talked a little earlier about transformative projects like the Alto project. Last week, there was also an announcement about the Crawford mine in Timmins, in northern Ontario. The idea really is to invest and think about our children's future. I have two young daughters, aged six and 10. We really need to think about their future.”
“The Canadian dental care plan, which was strengthened by the budget, now covers more than five million Canadians, including 23,000 residents of Honoré-Mercier, representing nearly one-quarter of the population of my riding. That is why budget 2025 invests heavily in the future, including in the RCMP. These resources will help keep our neighbourhoods safe, whether in Anjou, Rivière‑des‑Prairies or elsewhere in the country. Budget 2025 is a generational budget. It is modern, grounded in reality and, above all, compassionate. It will enable Canada to take control of our economy, our sovereignty and our future. We will have a Canada that is ready to face an unstable and rapidly changing world, as well as a fairer, more prosperous Canada.”
“Budget 2025 proposes several critical measures to make life more affordable. It starts with something simple, something fundamental, like automatic access to benefits for millions of Canadians. Automatic tax filing for low-income families will give hundreds of thousands of people automatic access to the credits and benefits they are entitled to receive. Though humble in appearance, it has a mighty impact. Speaking of impact, let us turn the discussion back to our kids. The national school food program now receives permanent annual funding of $216 million. No, this program is not garbage. A child who gets better nutrition is able to learn better. A child who learns better is more likely to succeed. This program is an investment in the human future of the country. Since we are talking about human dignity, let us also talk about health.”
“Montreal is home to one of the flagship projects: the metro's blue line extension, which includes a station in Anjou. This project will improve mobility, make the east end of Montreal more attractive, reduce commuting time and contribute to a better quality of life for thousands of families. I hope to eventually improve transportation in the east, especially for people in Rivière‑des‑Prairies. Last week, young people in my riding told us that it takes about an hour and a half to get from Rivière‑des‑Prairies to the Université du Québec à Montréal, McGill University or Concordia University. We are going to keep fighting to improve transportation in Rivière‑des‑Prairies and in Anjou. A budget that builds for the future also has to address the immediate needs of Canadians.”