Tatiana Auguste
Terrebonne, Quebec · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, Terrebonne, the most beautiful riding in Lanaudière, is full of organizations that carry out vital work for our community. I have had the privilege of marking several milestone anniversaries: the 10th anniversary of the Orchestre classique de Terrebonne, which enriches our cultural life; the 15th anniversary of the visual art…”
“They are left in factory locker rooms, on construction sites and in police stations. They are found on doors, on desks and on social media. Black Canadians are showing up to work in the morning, doing their job and trying to live normal lives, but then they see one. When that happens, there can be no confusion about the message.”
“By explicitly naming the noose, the law states that this symbol, which is used to promote hate or to intimidate, is a clear violation of Canadian law, unambiguously and without room for doubt. For Black communities in Canada, this matters. The law does not erase history, but it does bear witness.”
“It is the foundation of Bill C-9 and its importance is far from merely symbolic. Today, under the existing system, hate is considered an aggravating factor for sentencing purposes. Someone is convicted of assault, mischief or threats.”
“It was staged violence whose specific purpose was to send a message to all members of a community that they were not protected, that they had no recourse and that their lives did not matter. The noose, on its own, became the bearer of that message. No words were needed. It was enough. It was enough to instill terror.”
“When taken individually, these actions may seem difficult to pin down legally, but they fit into a pattern that is easy to recognize for those who experience them. The stand-alone offence gives prosecutors, police and judges the tools they need to address the whole scope of this situation. It sends a message.”
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“Mr. Speaker, of Madam Arbour's 48 recommendations, 34 have been implemented. The aim is to have all of them implemented by the end of the year. I would like to mention that Bill C‑11 is the response to recommendation 5, which will truly enable all of these measures and recommendations to be implemented.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his concern about the length of my speeches, but it is unnecessary. The civilian police already has the necessary jurisdiction in these matters. Once this legislation is passed, they will have exclusive jurisdiction over this information. We expect all police forces in Canada to act within their jurisdiction and enforce the law.”
“In closing, I want to reaffirm our commitment to those who have served our nation. MST is a serious problem, but by passing Bill C‑11, we will take an essential step toward tackling it with the seriousness it deserves. I want to thank all the members of the Canadian Armed Forces and the veterans who have served our country and sacrificed so much to protect Canada, our democracy and our values. It is our turn to support them, and Bill C‑11 is part of our crucial measures for improving the culture in the Canadian Armed Forces.”
“There was an urgent need to undertake this reform of the military justice system and put in place the legislative changes needed to effectively address the issue of MST. This government's commitment to improving the military justice system, strengthening support for survivors and fostering a culture of respect and accountability remains unwavering. It is a collective responsibility that requires the co-operation, understanding and action of all stakeholders concerned. Our government recognizes the unique needs of the women and men who have experienced sexual trauma while serving in the Canadian Armed Forces. That is why we are taking action by introducing this essential bill. I hope that all of my colleagues in the House will support this bill, which is important for our country's military community and veterans.”
“That is why the department offers a whole host of programs and supports for individuals who become ill or injured in the line of duty, including victims of military sexual trauma. Veterans Affairs Canada ensures access to specialized services and to the supports needed to appropriately address impacts on their personal health and well-being. We are committed to meeting their needs. (1325) The collaboration between the Department of National Defence and Veterans Affairs Canada will help ensure the well-being of those who serve and have served our country in uniform. I would like to acknowledge the government's determination to implement this important bill, which will change the lives of many members of the armed forces, as well as veterans.”
“As I mentioned earlier, this bill will also have a significant impact on veterans. The trauma resulting from these experiences can often lead to a range of challenges, such as PTSD, depression, anxiety and other mental health issues. These challenges often arise years after their service has ended. It is therefore the responsibility of Veterans Affairs Canada to support veterans. This department will continue to play a crucial role in supporting individuals who have experienced sexual violence in the military, by ensuring that they have access to the resources they need to recover from their trauma and by advocating for their needs. Veterans Affairs Canada places the highest priority on ensuring that veterans and their families have access to the services they need when and where they need them.”
“In doing so, it not only supports survivors in their quest for justice, but also sends a strong message that this kind of behaviour will not be tolerated in the Canadian Armed Forces. Through this legislation, we are proposing transformative measures to transfer the investigation and prosecution of sexual offences alleged to have been committed in Canada by members of the Canadian Armed Forces to the civilian system. Another pivotal element of Bill C‑11 is its emphasis on culture change within the military and veteran communities. Addressing MST effectively requires a shift in attitudes and behaviours at all levels of the military establishment. Ultimately, this legislation will help us create a safer, more inclusive and more respectful workplace where CAF members can thrive.”
“Bill C-11 is an historic piece of legislation that recognizes and responds to the unique needs of survivors of military sexual trauma. For too long, MST survivors have faced insurmountable barriers to obtaining justice and holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. Bill C‑11 introduces measures that enhance transparency and accountability within the military justice system. This bill implements recommendations made by former justices Fish and Arbour to strengthen the military justice system. It provides a mechanism that will allow survivors to file complaints in a way that respects their dignity and ensures that their voices are heard. This bill establishes a clear framework for investigating and responding to allegations of sexual misconduct while also promoting an environment of accountability and justice.”
“It encompasses experiences of sexual harassment, assault and other forms of sexual violence that occur during military service. This type of trauma can have lasting and devastating effects on the lives of those who experience it, as it can impact their mental health, emotional well-being, personal relationships and overall quality of life. The effects of this type of trauma extend beyond the individual and are felt in families, personal relationships and communities. It is a systemic problem that affects many people who have dedicated their lives to serving our country. The Sexual Misconduct Support and Resource Centre provides support services for current members of the CAF, as well as for veterans. However, it can be difficult for victims to seek help and request the services they need.”
“Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Sudbury . We are here today to debate an important bill: Bill C-11 , the military justice system modernization act. This bill addresses the long-standing concerns raised by victims and survivors in the Canadian Armed Forces and veteran community. This bill is a crucial step in responding to sexual trauma in the military. As a government and as elected members, we have a duty to ensure that veterans and those currently serving in the Canadian Armed Forces receive the support and justice they deserve. Bill C-11 marks a turning point in this journey. No one can fully understand the relevance of Bill C-11 without grasping the scope of military sexual trauma and its repercussions. Military sexual trauma, also known as MST, is a serious problem that affects a large number of veterans.”
“Mr. Speaker, the Canadian dental care plan is a great success. This morning, the Minister of Health announced that more than five million Canadians are now benefiting from coverage under the program. In my riding, people have told me that this program has allowed them to see a dentist for the first time in decades, which has saved them from having to go to the emergency room for dental problems. Could the minister tell us more about how important this program is for Canadians?”
“Bill C‑241. Introduction and first reading moved for leave to introduce Bill C-241, An Act to establish a national strategy respecting flood and drought forecasting . She said: Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to introduce this bill again. It proposes a national strategy to improve flood and drought forecasting. I would like to start by thanking the hon. member for Lac-Saint-Louis for the work he did. This bill reflects the Government of Canada's priorities, which are to protect our communities, build climate resilience and build a sustainable economy. In Terrebonne, where the Rivière des Mille Îles serves as a reminder of how beautiful and fragile our environment is, this bill is particularly meaningful. It seeks to protect families, support the local economy and preserve our natural heritage.”
“Mr. Speaker, Gender Equality Week starts today. It is a time to recognize the progress we have made and to stand firm in our commitment to promote gender equality for all Canadians. It is clear that, to build the strongest economy in the G7, we need the full and active participation of women. Can the Minister of Women and Gender Equality tell us about the measures that the government is taking to promote gender equality?”
“Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Société du patrimoine et de l'histoire de Terrebonne, or PHT, a heritage and historical society founded in 1975 by Aimé Despatis and his associates. For decades, PHT has been stewarding Terrebonne's collective memory and heritage. I want to thank president Raymond Paquin and executive director Cassandra Smith for their exemplary commitment. Through their efforts, PHT connects generations and celebrates our history through exhibitions, research, educational activities and publications. I sincerely wish the entire team a happy 50th anniversary and continued success for many years to come.”
“Madam Speaker, electric vehicles have significantly lower operating costs than gas- and diesel-powered vehicles. Consumers will save between 40% and 50% on maintenance costs compared to gas-powered vehicles. That is good news for everyone.”
“Madam Speaker, it is very important to make the energy transition. One of the best ways to do that is through electric vehicles. In addition, EVs have lower operating costs that are going to help all Canadians with affordability.”
“This strategy aims to strengthen recycling capacity, develop secondary markets and maximize the use of resources from industrial waste and post-consumer waste. EV batteries are designed to last several hundred thousand kilometres, but as the EV fleet grows, the volume of end-of-life batteries will increase significantly over the next decade. The—”
“The government will also support the auto industry's competitiveness and transition by investing up to $8 billion from the strategic innovation fund and the net-zero accelerator initiative. The Government of Canada recognizes that EV battery recycling is essential to ensuring a clean and sustainable transition to a clean economy. This process not only prevents these batteries from ending up in landfills, but also recovers critical minerals such as lithium, cobalt and nickel, which are vital to the growth of clean technology and Canada's competitiveness. While end-of-life battery management is the responsibility of the provinces and territories, which are responsible for regulating and monitoring waste treatment operations, the federal government actively supports circular solutions through its critical minerals strategy.”
“Many Canadians are increasingly eager to switch to cleaner, more affordable and more stable modes of transportation. However, the Government of Canada is well aware that some people are still hesitant due to the lack of nearby charging stations and the higher initial outlay. That is why the government helped over 559,000 drivers make the switch to electric vehicles. The government is also supporting the country's economy on the global electric vehicle market through measures that include allocating an additional $900 million under the 2030 emissions reduction plan to build 50,000 additional charging stations. This funding is on top of the $280 million that the Government of Canada has invested since 2016. A total of nearly 85,000 charging stations will be installed across the country by 2029.”
“This guarantees the environmental sustainability of the value chain. In the decades to come, the transition to zero-emission vehicles will significantly reduce the pollution from millions of light-duty vehicles in Canada. Even though increasingly stringent greenhouse gas emission standards have been put in place for new vehicles since 2011, total emissions have continued to rise due to Canada's growing population and the increased number of vehicles on the road. What that means is that the electrification of transportation is essential to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. With over 100 new zero-emission vehicle models currently available in Canada, rapid improvements in battery life and performance, and a growing charging station network, this year is the ideal time to choose a zero-emission vehicle.”
“When the lithium-ion batteries are at the end of their useful life, the materials and metals they contain are, as much as possible, recovered and processed to be recycled and reused. Currently, between 95% and 98% of the components of electric vehicle batteries are recyclable. Recycling presents its own challenges and is an evolving sector. Given the inherent value of the essential materials in the batteries, this industry is highly incentivized to innovate to conserve these precious materials in the battery value chain. It is essential to reduce the need to extract new materials for the batteries. We are exploring several options to recover materials from electric vehicle batteries in order to improve their sustainability and manage their cost and impact on the environment.”
“(1735) The Government of Canada will continue to monitor developments in the electric vehicle sector to ensure that targets are achievable. It is clear that Canada has everything it needs to be a global leader in EV assembly and battery manufacturing, with projects across the battery value chain. The battery value chain for automotive and transportation captures the step-by-step process to produce batteries that are needed in the industrial transformation and the electrification of the automotive and transportation sectors. It guides a “mines to mobility” approach to developing a sustainable Canadian battery ecosystem for transport and electric vehicles. This allows Canada to lead in designing and building the vehicles of the future.”
“The Government of Canada is committed to spending $4.7 billion to support the rollout of electric vehicles and charging infrastructure. We are also helping the auto and critical minerals industries manufacture electric vehicles and become part of the EV supply chain in Canada. The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the jobs of auto workers. It is also committed to supporting innovation and investment in the EV supply chain, which is especially crucial for making Canada the fastest-growing economy in the G7. The Government of Canada is working closely with the Canadian auto industry and provinces such as Ontario to ensure that the Canadian auto industry remains competitive. It is worth noting that the new vehicle sales standard is flexible in that some sales objectives take into account hybrid vehicles.”
“Buying an EV in Canada has many advantages, both for consumers and for the environment. Electric vehicles have lower operating costs than gas-powered and diesel vehicles. In other words, they represent significantly lower ownership costs over the life of the vehicle. First, battery charging costs are lower because electricity is significantly cheaper than fuel at the pump. Second, CAA estimates that the average owner of a battery-powered electric vehicle saves between 40% and 50% on maintenance costs compared to a gas-powered vehicle, as EVs require less frequent and less complicated maintenance. Third, the purchase price of some models has fallen, making it possible to break even within a few years. After 10 years, the savings can be considerable. All levels of government and the industry have a role to play in the transition.”
“We know that rapid advances in global electric vehicle manufacturing and improvements in technology have narrowed the price gap between electric vehicles and internal combustion engine vehicles, even as the performance of electric vehicles continues to improve. Despite an upward trend in electric vehicle sales in Canada in recent years, the beginning of 2025 saw a notable slowdown. However, it is worth mentioning that one in seven vehicles sold in 2024 was electric. Quebec continues to dominate EV sales with almost half of all EV registrations in Canada. Ontario follows with almost 23%, and British Columbia with 21%. This shows a positive trend in terms of accessibility. Let us move on to the affordability of electric vehicles. This is a key issue for many consumers.”
“Putting more electric vehicles on the road is an essential part of Canada's approach to fighting climate change. Electric vehicles will allow consumers to save money in the long run. Everyone wins. Making electric vehicles more affordable and easier to access is one of the most important steps we can take to support a healthy environment and a healthy economy. As we know, the electric vehicle availability standard increases access to affordable electric vehicles and improves air quality. In fact, the Parliamentary Budget Officer's August 2024 report confirms the need for the electric vehicle availability standard. According to forecasts, the Canadian market will not be able to keep pace with the demand for electric vehicles in Canada nor will it be in a position to help us quickly met our climate targets.”
“Madam Speaker, I rise today not only as the representative of my constituents, but also as the spokesperson for all Canadians who believe in a cleaner, more prosperous and more inclusive future for our country, I want to acknowledge that we are gathered on the traditional, unceded territory of the Algonquin Anishinabe people. I am pleased to speak today to a topic that is critical to our future and that of our planet: the transition to electric vehicles. We all see it and a report published by the International Energy Agency last month confirms it: Global sales of electric vehicles are booming and will continue to grow every year. Some time ago, Canada decided to become a world leader in the transition to zero-emission vehicles, committing to 100% new electric vehicle sales by 2035.”
“Madam Speaker, I feel very honoured and humbled as I rise today to thank the people of Terrebonne for putting their trust in me and allowing me to represent them in the House of Commons. Throughout this memorable election campaign, I had the privilege of meeting hundreds of people at shopping centres, seniors' residences, places of worship and their own front doors. These frank conversations gave me the opportunity to hear their concerns, their aspirations and their desire for change. Now, here we are. I want to thank my parents for their unconditional support throughout this adventure. I also thank my team of volunteers and all those who believed in me all the way. I promise to listen to my constituents, vigorously stand up for their interests and work tirelessly with the other levels of government to improve their daily lives. Together—”
“Mr. Speaker, trade barriers have been stifling the development of one Canadian economy for far too long. Given the threats to our economic sovereignty, it is more important than ever to promote free trade within our borders. Will the Minister responsible for Intergovernmental Affairs and One Canadian Economy tell the House about the steps our government is taking to protect our economic sovereignty and build one Canadian economy?”