John-Paul Danko
Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas, Ontario · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the member opposite. I think she did a great job of highlighting and reiterating a number of government announcements, so I want to thank her for reannouncing that good news here in the House. She mentioned new announcements and new commitments every few weeks, and I concur. That is exactly what we are doing.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is good to hear from the member opposite and to see him back here in Ottawa. Our government is working collaboratively with the Province of Ontario to cut the HST on new homes and cut development charges. We are working with Premier Ford, municipalities and affordable housing providers.”
“Mr. Speaker, I really appreciate the hon. secretary of state bringing forth closure on this very important legislation, it being a key campaign promise.”
“Mr. Speaker, I tremendously respect the member opposite's experience here, and she said something really interesting. She said that she has never seen anything like the current government for moving fast.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am absolutely beside myself right now. I heard the member opposite defending the use of the noose as a symbol of hatred. It is absolutely disgusting. Withdraw those comments. That is beyond the pale, sir.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada led the invention of modern artificial intelligence, and now AI is used by millions of Canadians every day. Canadians want AI to strengthen our economy, to enhance job opportunities, to deliver new research and innovation, to protect our communities and our national sovereignty and to always prioritize people.”
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“Mr. Speaker, this week, a Hamilton steel mill permanently shut down, putting 153 people out of work. Donald Trump's 50% tariffs on steel and aluminum are unjustified and illegal, and are now impacting the livelihoods of Canadian families. Everyone in Hamilton knows somebody who works in the steel industry. There are 10,000 Hamilton workers who are directly employed in steelmaking and another 40,000 who are employed in associated industries. These are good-paying, Canadian jobs that are supporting hard-working Canadian families, and they are now at risk because of Donald Trump's misguided, illegal trade war with Canada. While discussions with the U.S. are ongoing, all retaliatory measures are on the table. We are taking steps to stop the dumping of cheap foreign steel, and we are investing in new Canadian markets.”
“Mr. Speaker, sometimes we seem to have convenient amnesia about the level of emergency the COVID-19 pandemic caused, when governments of all levels were putting in emergency measures to protect Canadians. My question to the hon. member is this: Does he agree that the COVID-19 pandemic was the most severe public health emergency of the past century?”
“Madam Speaker, the industrial carbon tax is part of a global carbon pricing system. Steel producers in Hamilton and across Canada do pay the industrial carbon tax. It is traded, and it is an important incentive to reducing emissions. As I spoke about, switching over to electric steel production to reduce the reliance on coal, reduce emissions—”
“Madam Speaker, everyone in Hamilton knows somebody who works in the steel industry. It employs over 10,000 workers directly and another 40,000 people in indirect jobs. The tariffs are an existential threat to steelmaking in Canada, and Hamilton is the heart of steelmaking. I know from speaking with workers that there are generational workers, second- and third-generation steelworkers, who are proud of what they do. They are proud of the job they hold, and they are literally building the foundation of Canada. Having the Minister of Industry there shows the steelworkers that we care and that we stand up for Canadian jobs in the steel industry and in aluminum. All measures are on the table, and we, as the federal government, are showing leadership to support Canadians, to support workers and do everything that is necessary.”
“Madam Speaker, I thank the hon. member for the question. I am sorry that my French is not very good, but I am learning. [ English ] I do agree with the hon. member. Down payments are a significant challenge for many people, especially young families that are trying to enter the housing market and might not have access to generational wealth and to the credit they would need to pay for a down payment. We want to avoid a situation where young families have to save and work really hard for 10 or 20 years just to afford a down payment if they do not have access to generational wealth, so I would absolutely be very happy to work with our Bloc colleagues on suggestions for options to help young families with a down payment.”
“Madam Speaker, steelmaking is one of the largest industries in Hamilton. It is also one of the largest emitters. Our government is making significant investments in the steel industry in Hamilton. Hundreds of millions of dollars are being invested in an electric arc furnace to convert steelmaking from a polluting fossil fuel-dependent, coal-dependent industry, reducing emissions. It will not only reduce emissions but also reduce the carbon footprint, and, most importantly reduce cancer-causing emissions, soot and particulates in the environment. This is a win-win situation. By investing in a cleaner future, we are investing in a better future for all Canadians.”
“It builds on the Canada child benefit, which has lifted hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty, and it complements our investments in $10-a-day child care, which is already saving Canadian families thousands of dollars. This is a strong step forward. Affordability is not a Liberal issue, a Conservative issue, a Bloc issue nor an NDP issue; it is a Canadian issue. I have heard the exact same concerns about affordability consistently from members of every political party, and I think Canadians expect us to work together. I have had constructive conversations with members from all parties who share a deep concern for their constituents, and I believe that we all share a common goal: to make life better for the people we serve. That is why I urge all members of the House to support the making life more affordable for Canadians act.”
“I listened to stories that were both difficult and inspiring, from, for example, a mother who works night shifts and still finds time to volunteer at her child's school, recent immigrants working multiple jobs to pay rent while studying in post-secondary education, retired residents on a fixed income who have lived in the same home for 40 years but are now struggling to pay property taxes and heating bills, and especially young families working hard but struggling to provide their children with the lifestyle they deserve. These stories have stayed with me, and they guide my work. The making life more affordable for Canadians act is our new government's first step to reduce cost of living across Canada.”
“I spoke about the parents who told me they are worried about putting food on the table, about young people who fear they will never own a home and about seniors who felt left behind by the rapidly changing economy. These are not abstract policy issues; these are real people with real struggles, and that is why the making life more affordable for Canadians act matters. The bill recognizes the urgency of the moment and responds with tangible solutions. During the campaign, I knocked on thousands of doors.”
“I am proud to stand with my colleagues, with our government and with the people of Hamilton, and I am proud to say that the making life more affordable for Canadians act would deliver on the promises we made during the election. In Hamilton, we are already seeing the impact of federal investments in housing projects that use Canadian steel and lumber and create good-paying local jobs. Let us pass the bill. Let us deliver for our constituents. Let us build a stronger, fairer, more resilient Canada. When I previously stood in the chamber, I spoke about the challenges facing families in Hamilton and across Canada. I spoke about affordability, not as a political slogan but as a lived experience for so many of our constituents.”
“While we invest in affordability and housing at home, we are also stepping up to meet our global commitments. These are not competing priorities; they are mutually reinforcing pillars of a strong, secure and prosperous Canada. The making life more affordable for Canadians act is not just a budgetary measure; it is a statement of values. It says that we believe in a Canada where hard work is rewarded, where families can thrive and where no one is left behind. It says that we are willing to make tough decisions to support Canadians in the face of global uncertainty. As the member of Parliament for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas, I am proud to support the bill.”
“This historic investment in our national defence is not only a reaffirmation of our global responsibilities but also a strategic move to bolster our domestic economy. Defence spending will create thousands of high-quality jobs, stimulate innovation in Canadian industries and strengthen our supply chains. Hamilton is home to one of the largest shipbuilders in Canada, for shipbuilding that employs thousands of workers in the skilled trades and uses Canadian steel. Increasing defence spending would complement the affordability measures in the making life more affordable for Canadians act by reinforcing economic security and resilience. The announcement sends a clear message: our government can make bold, forward-looking decisions on both domestic and international fronts.”
“We repealed the consumer carbon tax because our government is listening to Canadians. We are adapting our policies to meet their needs without abandoning our environmental sustainability goals. (1710) Cutting the GST on homes up to $1 million would save the average Hamilton first-time homebuyer more than $40,000, and this is just one piece of a broader housing affordability strategy. Our government is working with provinces and with municipalities to unlock stalled developments, invest in affordable housing, support renters and get builders building again. I also want to acknowledge our government's commitment to meeting NATO's defence spending target of 2% of GDP years ahead of schedule.”
“The conversations we had at ArcelorMittal Dofasco were powerful. Workers expressed pride in their work and concern about the future and what this means for their families. The CEO emphasized the importance of stable trade relationships. The chamber of commerce called for coordinated action. The mayor of the city of Hamilton underscored the need for federal assistance and federal leadership. The making life more affordable for Canadians act is part of that leadership. By supporting Canadian families and industries, we are building resilience against external shocks like these tariffs. The income tax cut is a meaningful first step, especially when combined with the cost-saving programs already in place, such as $10-a-day child care, dental care and the Canada child benefit.”
“On June 6, I had the honour of joining the Minister of Industry , the CEO of ArcelorMittal Dofasco, Hamilton members of Parliament, the mayor of the city of Hamilton, and the Hamilton Chamber of Commerce president and CEO for a visit to one of our local Hamilton steel mills. ArcelorMittal Dofasco and Hamilton's steel producers are the heart of the steel industry in Canada. The visit by the Minister of Industry was in direct response to the imposition of the Trump administration's 50% tariff on Canadian steel and aluminum. These latest Trump tariffs are illegal, unjustified, harmful and a threat to the entire North American steel industry. Our government is taking this extremely seriously. The minister's visit was a demonstration of our commitment to defending Canadian jobs and industries and retaliating as needed.”
“In Hamilton, housing affordability is a daily concern, and this policy will make a real difference for young families. We have already repealed the consumer carbon tax, which will save Canadians an average of 18¢ per litre off the cost of gas. However, our government remains committed to climate action. By maintaining the output-based carbon pricing system for large emitters, continuing to invest in green energy such as nuclear, hydro and renewables, and supporting green housing and public transit, we are helping to ensure a smooth transition to an electric future and reduce Canada's dependence on fossil fuels. This is a balanced approach, one that supports both affordability and environmental sustainability. I want to speak about economic resilience and the importance of standing up for Canadian workers.”
“Let us begin with the tax relief measures in this bill. We are cutting the lowest personal income tax rate to 14.5% in 2025, then cutting it again down to 14% in 2026 and beyond. This is an immediate tax cut for 22 million Canadians. For a typical family, that is up to $840 in annual savings. These savings would help pay for groceries, a child's school supplies, utility bills and more. We are also making housing more affordable. The making life more affordable for Canadians act introduces a GST rebate for first-time homebuyers purchasing new homes up to $1 million. This tax cut for first-time homebuyers is essential for young families, and it will help to stimulate new construction, enabling jobs and increasing housing supply.”
“Bill C-4 , the making life more affordable for Canadians act, is our new government's immediate response to the rising cost of living in Canada. It is a comprehensive, targeted and responsible plan to deliver real relief and make life more affordable for Canadians. We promised immediate action during the campaign, and today we are delivering tax relief. In this House, I previously spoke about the challenges facing people in Hamilton: the cost of housing, gas, groceries and daily essentials. I also spoke about the pride we take in our local industries, especially Hamilton's steel sector, and the resilience of our workers. The making life more affordable for Canadians act addresses both realities. It puts money back into the pockets of Canadians while strengthening our economic foundations.”
“Madam Speaker, I rise today in full support of Bill C-4 , a cornerstone of our government's promise to make life more affordable for hard-working Canadians. As the member of Parliament for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas, I have heard first-hand from families, workers and small business owners who are feeling the pressure of rising costs. These challenges are compounded by the economic and political uncertainty caused by the Trump government in the United States. As Canadians, it is impossible to ignore the troubling and increasingly chaotic actions of the Trump White House as we confront the new reality that we can no longer rely on the United States as a stable and reliable trading partner. However, we must take immediate action to control our own future here in Canada.”
“Mr. Speaker, congratulations to my colleague across the floor for his election in Calgary McKnight. I appreciate a speech that I think he mainly wrote himself, which is refreshing. The member mentioned cutting red tape and also the energy sector. Does the member consider other portions of the energy sector that do not include pipelines? In Ontario specifically, we talk about growing nuclear, carbon-free energy, and also, in Quebec, there is the hydro sector. How would the member suggest growing the entire energy sector in Canada?”
“Mr. Speaker, there is quite a bit of misinformation and disinformation online. We have seen the impact here in the House, with the members opposite, yesterday, repeating some pretty wild conspiracy theories here in the House of Commons, nonsense in this chamber, protected by parliamentary privilege. I am not going to mention the never-ending tide of propaganda from south of the border. Based on the member's background, can she tell us how important it is to have a strong media and a common frame of reference for all Canadians?”
“Madam Speaker, this is definitely a significant concern for municipalities, especially in Ontario, where they are required to cover development charges in the annual levy budget. The federal government is committed to working with municipalities collaboratively to invest directly in infrastructure as required to reduce development charges.”
“Madam Speaker, there is no question that there is an opioid crisis in this country. In my time on Hamilton city council, we did declare an opioid crisis. We were looking at taking positive steps to address it. I have had many discussions with Hamilton police on the impacts of opioids on the streets, along with crime in general. It is something that residents contact our office about daily, when they see people with addictions issues on the street openly using drugs. It is a huge problem throughout Canada. I think there is a way forward that is compassionate and would address the actual root cause of the opioid crisis, which would be to focus more on addiction supports. At the end of the day, we cannot arrest ourselves out of an addictions and health care crisis.”
“Conservatives are fixated on legacy fossil fuels, and I think Ontario and Quebec are more interested in clean next-generation electricity, mass timber construction and climate mitigation.”
“Madam Speaker, I thank my hon. colleague for her question. I apologize for the quality of my French. It is not very good, but I am learning. [ English ] So far in this chamber, I have been very impressed with the Bloc's position on a number of issues: the environment, energy, development, health care and education. I think that, except for the whole leaving-the-country thing, we actually have quite a bit in common. It makes sense, because Ontario is quite similar to Quebec in many ways. The member talked about timber resources, aerospace and lumber. We also have many of the largest and strongest vibrant municipalities in Canada. We share common interests, so there are three things that come to mind that Ontario and Quebec could work together on. The first is expanding the definition of the energy sector.”
“Let us rise above division and let us work together across the aisle for the good of all Canadians. I am honoured to stand for a strong and prosperous Canada, and I invite every member of the House to stand with me to work together to keep the true north strong and free.”
“We need to hold provincial governments accountable for their investments in health care, because addictions and mental health are health care issues, and we need real action from our provincial partners to get people the help they need. I firmly believe that every member of the House is here to advocate for Canada and Canadians. Canadian voters have spoken; they have elected a government that is capable, collaborative and constructive. Since arriving in the House, I have noticed something: Despite our differences, we agree on much more than we disagree on. We agree that Canadians need opportunity, that they deserve safety and that they need homes, jobs and opportunities for a better future. The people of Canada have shown us the way in their optimism, their resolve and their determination to come together, so let us follow their example.”
“Gun violence, auto theft, organized crime and drug trafficking are on the rise across Canada. In fact, my own car was stolen right from my driveway while my family and I were home asleep. Our government is responding with a serious plan: bail reform to keep violent offenders in jail, tougher sentencing for drug trafficking and gun crime, cracking down on illegal firearms and fentanyl imported from the United States, and strengthening the criminal justice system. We also know that homelessness and addiction are public safety and public health challenges. Homeless tent encampments in city parks are not a compassionate solution. The federal government is responsible for over $200 billion a year in transfer payments to the provinces for health care.”
“In recent years, municipalities like Hamilton have been working hard to eliminate barriers to construction of market housing and reduce costs. Right now, there is 10 years of housing supply already approved and ready to be built within the city of Hamilton, but market housing builders are not building. There are tens of thousands of housing projects across Canada on hold due to economic uncertainty in the housing market. Our government is working collaboratively with provincial and municipal governments while investing billions of dollars across the country to get Canadian homebuilders building again. We are implementing real solutions to housing affordability so that every Canadian who works hard can afford a safe and affordable place to call home. Of course, none of this matters if Canadians are not safe in their own home.”
“By investing slightly more during construction, they are able to deliver homes where low-income tenants never have to worry about paying utility bills. They are easing the financial burden while contributing to environmental sustainability. Equally important, these new developments include wraparound supports like on-site health care and mental health and addiction services. This integrated approach ensures that people have not only a roof over their head but also the resources they need to stay housed, healthy and supported. The housing affordability crisis was created over decades through successive governments. Record-low interest rates, the ongoing financialization of housing, provincial rent deregulation and an unprecedented increase in material prices during the pandemic all contributed.”
“I was recently at the groundbreaking ceremony for a major new affordable home project in Hamilton. This project would not have been possible without the support of the federal government in collaboration with the City of Hamilton and local affordable homebuilders. Hamilton's community housing providers, including Indwell, Victoria Park, Kiwanis, Good Shepherd, Habitat for Humanity and CityHousing Hamilton are setting a national example of best practices. They are doing more than just building homes; they are redefining what sustainable, affordable housing looks like in Canada. These organizations are committed to high-performance building standards such as Passive House and LEED platinum to build net-zero carbon housing at scale. They are not just planning on doing this; they are doing this right now in Hamilton.”
“Even with economic progress, Canadians cannot prosper if they cannot afford to live. Hamilton’s housing market is out of reach for far too many. Our government is taking immediate action. We cancelled the consumer carbon tax, reducing the cost of gas by 18¢ per litre. The new middle-class tax cut will help over 22 million Canadians save up to $840 per year. We removed the GST on new homes under $1 million for first-time homebuyers. (1305) We introduced affordable child care, now $10 a day, saving Canadian families thousands of dollars. On housing, our government is working collaboratively with all levels of government and our industry partners to invest billions of dollars to double the rate of homebuilding in Canada for new homes for Canadians, homes that will use Canadian lumber, Canadian steel and Canadian skilled workers.”
“They threaten Canadian workers, disrupt communities and undermine cross-border supply chains that have taken generations to establish. I have been in direct contact with the Minister of Industry and local partners in the steel industry, and I want to assure steelworkers in Hamilton that our government is fighting back with strong retaliatory measures and targeted domestic support to defend our industries and protect the thousands of Canadian jobs at stake. Our government will fight for every worker, every job and every business. Tariffs on steel harm workers and businesses on both sides of the border. We have an opportunity to work with the American steel industry to achieve a common goal: to grow the entire North American steel industry and protect against low-cost steel imports from overseas.”
“At McMaster University, where I studied engineering, the McMaster Automotive Resource Centre is developing EV technologies that do not use rare earth metals. Hamilton is also a growing hub for pharmaceutical research, biotech and life sciences, and our government is investing hundreds of millions of dollars to modernize steelmaking and drastically reduce emissions. We are also prioritizing Canadian steel, aluminum and timber in major new infrastructure projects. Of course, everyone in Hamilton knows someone who works in the steel industry. Hamilton’s steel industry directly employs over 10,000 workers and another in 40,000 indirect jobs. Uncertainty over U.S. tariffs on steel are causing immense stress and anxiety for Hamilton families. These tariffs are unjustified, unlawful and deeply damaging.”
“Canadians are tired of politicians who foster division instead of delivering solutions. Now more than ever, we need leadership that is capable, collaborative and constructive. A strong economy is the foundation of everything we do. It is how we fund health care and housing and defend our sovereignty. It is how we give our children a future. I have two teenagers at home, Sadie and Isaac, and I want to make sure their generation has access to meaningful jobs, affordable homes and the promise that all Canadians who work hard can achieve the lifestyle they deserve. That is why our government is committed to building the strongest economy in the G7 by leveraging Canadian resources such as timber, minerals, and research and innovation, and by investing in the skilled trades. Hamilton is already poised to lead in economic growth.”
“The Trump administration threatens not only our economy but also the principles of collaboration and international partnership that Canadians value so deeply. Tariffs and protectionist threats create uncertainty in key sectors like steel and manufacturing, which matter profoundly to Hamilton. Canadians are facing a real affordability crisis. The cost of housing, groceries and daily essentials has stretched household budgets past the breaking point. During the campaign, I heard these concerns again and again, but what struck me most was not just the worry; it was the determination. Homes across Hamilton are again proudly flying the Canadian flag. It is a powerful act of hope, a signal that we are proud of our shared values and that we will face these challenges together.”
“Filomena Tassi for her many years of dedicated service to our community and country, and for her guidance and friendship. I often say that I am not a politician; I am an engineer who finds himself in a political role. After nearly two terms on Hamilton city council, I am excited and deeply humbled to serve our community in this new capacity. Today I will address several important issues and opportunities in my riding of Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas: economic development, protecting our national sovereignty, U.S. tariffs on steel, affordability and housing, public safety and the need for collaboration. There is no question that we are at a difficult time in Canada’s history. We face external pressures and internal challenges.”
“Madam Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Milton East—Halton Hills South . It is a great honour to rise for the first time as the elected member of Parliament for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas. I am speaking today in support of our government’s mandate as laid out by His Majesty King Charles III in the Speech from the Throne. I stand here with deep gratitude. I thank my wife, Dawn; and our children, Sadie and Isaac, for their love, patience and support. I thank my parents, John and Dianne; and my in-laws, Mike and Bev, for the values and work ethic that brought me here. To the people on my incredible campaign team who worked tirelessly to connect with our community, I say that this is their victory as well. I would like to sincerely thank the Hon.”
“Mr. Speaker, today I rise with deep sorrow to honour Harsimrat Randhawa, a bright, kind and ambitious 21-year-old Mohawk College student from India. On April 17, 2025, Harsimrat's life was tragically cut short by a senseless act of violence. She was an innocent bystander taken from us while waiting for a bus on her way to work. In our grief, our community came together to mourn, to support one another and to remember Harsimrat. That strength in community reflects the very core of what Canada stands for. As a father, I can only begin to imagine the grief that her family is enduring, and the heartbreak of sending their child across the world to pursue her dreams, only to receive the devastating news that she had been killed. Harsimrat's story is a stark reminder that public safety must be a priority.”
“Mr. Speaker, it was inspiring to hear the story from the member opposite about her experience immigrating to Canada. It is a story that is so familiar to so many families throughout this great country. I congratulate the member on her election to Parliament. I have had the pleasure of serving with her husband in my capacity as a board member for the Art Gallery of Hamilton. My question is about what I heard when I was campaigning at doors, which is a renewed passion and pride in Canada and in being Canadian. I heard it most clearly from new immigrants and immigrant families, newcomers to Canada who are so proud to be part of our great country. My question is this: If the member's parents are still with us, what do they think about her election to Parliament and the amazing contributions she is making?”