Fares Al Soud
Mississauga Centre, Ontario · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, young Canadians are eager to work, gain experience and build their careers. Whether it is a summer position, an internship or their first step into the workforce, landing that first job can make all the difference.”
“Madam Speaker, climate change is the reason I first joined the world of politics. It is one of the defining challenges of our time and hits the world's most vulnerable the hardest.”
“Mr. Speaker, our economic future depends on the people building it. One of the greatest privileges of my role is getting to speak with young people across our country. I hear every day that they want to be involved, and they know they can be central to building Canada's future.”
“Mr. Speaker, today perhaps more than ever, Canada has what the world wants. This past year, we welcomed a record number of visitors, with last summer alone generating over $60 billion in tourism revenue.”
“Mr. Speaker, as Canadians, we take pride in the role we play on the international stage, committed to international law and to the principle that power must be constrained by rules, not exempt from them. Today, that commitment matters more than ever before.”
“[ Translation ] As Canadians, we know that these rights, which stem from struggles against injustice, are rooted in the belief that every person has the right to dignity, freedom and security. [ English ] Human rights are not conditional. They are not selective. They are universal, or they are meaningless.”
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“Mr. Speaker, young Canadians are eager to work, gain experience and build their careers. Whether it is a summer position, an internship or their first step into the workforce, landing that first job can make all the difference. Can the Minister of Jobs and Families update the House on how our government is connecting young Canadians with employers and creating opportunities for them to succeed?”
“Madam Speaker, climate change is the reason I first joined the world of politics. It is one of the defining challenges of our time and hits the world's most vulnerable the hardest. As the global economy transitions to low-carbon pathways to respond, developing countries are seeking partnerships to reduce emissions, build resilience and drive sustainable growth. Could the parliamentary secretary for international development tell the House how Canada's international climate finance is finding solutions and delivering results for those most affected by climate change?”
“Mr. Speaker, our economic future depends on the people building it. One of the greatest privileges of my role is getting to speak with young people across our country. I hear every day that they want to be involved, and they know they can be central to building Canada's future. As we move forward with major infrastructure projects, can my good friend, the Minister of Jobs and Families, update the House on how our government is ensuring young Canadians are positioned to take advantage of these opportunities and help drive our ambitious economic agenda at a time when others just want to cut supports?”
“Mr. Speaker, today perhaps more than ever, Canada has what the world wants. This past year, we welcomed a record number of visitors, with last summer alone generating over $60 billion in tourism revenue. In Mississauga, we see that potential first-hand, from Square One to Celebration Square, from the Riverwood Conservancy to Port Credit, and from Streetsville and the Egyptian Museum to, of course, Ridgeway Plaza. As we mark the start of National Tourism Week, can Mississauga's own, the Minister of Women and Gender Equality and Secretary of State for Small Business and Tourism, share how our government will continue to support our tourism sector, create good jobs and strengthen our economy?”
“[ Translation ] As Canadians, we know that these rights, which stem from struggles against injustice, are rooted in the belief that every person has the right to dignity, freedom and security. [ English ] Human rights are not conditional. They are not selective. They are universal, or they are meaningless.”
“Mr. Speaker, as Canadians, we take pride in the role we play on the international stage, committed to international law and to the principle that power must be constrained by rules, not exempt from them. Today, that commitment matters more than ever before. There are too many places, such as Lebanon, Ukraine, Sudan, Iran, Yemen and Palestine, where civilians bear the weight of conflict, instability and the erosion of rights that should never be negotiable. Many in Mississauga Centre have lived that reality first-hand. On April 17, we mark its inverse, the anniversary of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, a declaration not only of who we are but of who we must continually choose to be.”
“Mr. Speaker, the global landscape is changing, and countries around the world are looking for ways to attract talent in critical and emerging industries. Canada has delivered globally impactful scientific breakthroughs, is home to world-class institutions and now has one of the world's largest international research attraction programs: $1.7 billion to bring the best and the brightest from across the world to Canada. Can the Minister of Industry please tell the House how the talent attraction strategy will solidify Canada as the best country in the world for research, science and discovery?”
“I rise proudly on behalf of many in my community and across this country to send a message to the people of Palestine. They have not been forgotten and they are not alone. We stand with them.”
“Madam Speaker, since 1978, every year on November 29, we commemorate the International Day of Solidarity with the Palestinian People, but the solidarity did not begin in 1978. For over 75 years, millions of Canadians and hundreds of millions around the world have stood in recognition of a reality defined by displacement, loss and enduring hardship. It is also a day that reminds us of the extraordinary resilience of a people who have endured far more than any ever should. [ Translation ] The perseverance of the Palestinian people in the face of decades of hardship reminds the entire world of the power of hope and human dignity. [ English ] Canada's proud role on the international stage carries a collective responsibility that we owe to all who face injustice. It is one that demands not only our sympathy, but our humanity in action.”
“Mr. Speaker, young Canadians are ambitious and ready to build Canada's future. Budget 2025 makes generational investments in youth, from Canada summer jobs and the student work experience program to expanded training and apprenticeship opportunities. These are not short-term fixes; they are building blocks for a lifetime of success. While the opposition talks about cuts, this government is investing in the next generation. Could my good friend and colleague, the Minister of Jobs and Families, tell us how these programs turn ambition into opportunity for youth across Canada?”
“Mr. Speaker, every day, Canadians rely on strong, reliable infrastructure, from safe roads and bridges to clean drinking water and modern, public facilities. They expect the government to build, protect and strengthen communities through historic investments. Can the minister inform the House of the generational infrastructure investment planned in budget 2025?”
“Mr. Speaker, there are now fewer than 100 days until the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. Our government recognizes that athlete health and well-being are foundational to performance, and we want all of team Canada to know that when they are representing the country we all love, we have their backs. Could my good friend and colleague, the Secretary of State for Sport , share how our government is supporting team Canada Olympic and Paralympic athletes and their coaches? While I have the opportunity, go Blue Jays.”
“Too often, we see politics take precedence over real priorities. This bill is non-partisan. It is an opportunity to truly demonstrate a cross-party, collaborative understanding of the priorities that matter most to young Canadians in all of our ridings. When young Canadians are secure, when they have a place to call home, they are not just surviving, they are living. They are contributing to their communities, to our economy and to the Canada we all envision. This is why we are here. This is why this bill matters.”
“We often talk about the future, but the future is not some distant concept. The future is being written today in dorm rooms, first apartments, shared homes, traditional housing, and yes, sometimes shelters. Every decision we make here shapes that future, and every young person whose life is stabilized by this strategy would become a testimony to what is possible when government, regardless of parties, listens, acts and cares. This is why this bill matters. It is a promise, a promise to recognize and support young Canadians, to address hidden and transitional homelessness, and to invest in affordable housing solutions that meet their unique needs. It is a commitment that housing is not a privilege reserved for a few, but a foundation available to all. I propose that we act now.”
“During my first year, I lived right on the Credit Woodlands with three incredible people who have become lifelong friends. They were a year above in a similar program, which, needless to say, came in clutch. We lived 10 minutes from campus, so I had the privilege of being able to go to class, learn and then have lunch at home. It was while I was in that apartment that I found my first job and my first extensive volunteering opportunity. Needless to say, I would not be me without that room. As small as it may have been, it was home. This is why this bill is about more than mere bricks and mortar. It is an opportunity. It is about hope. It is about equity. It is about telling every young Canadian that they matter, their potential matters, and this country will not leave them behind.”
“They are not asking for charity, they are asking for hope, they are asking for stability. They are asking for the freedom to pursue an education, build a career and contribute fully to society. [ English ] Let us consider the cost of inaction. A young Canadian who cannot find stable housing may delay finishing their education, miss working opportunities or be forced into unsafe living conditions. They may experience anxiety, depression or a loss of confidence in their future. These are not abstract outcomes. They are the consequences of a system that has not yet caught up with the rapidly evolving realities of today's youth. Here, we have the power to change that. University is a distant memory for many in the House. For me, it was merely a few years ago. I proudly studied and graduated from the University of Toronto Mississauga.”
“Housing is security. Housing is dignity. Housing is the foundation on which young Canadians can build their lives. Imagine how difficult it is for them to study for exams, start a new job or even sleep well at night when they do not know if they will have a bed tomorrow. That is the reality for many young Canadians today. I would like everyone here to take a moment to imagine something simple: a room of their own, four walls, a door that locks, a quiet space where they can dream, focus and plan for their future. For millions of Canadians, that is not a given. It is a privilege. That is precisely what this strategy seeks to provide. (1815) Across the country, from Vancouver to Halifax, from Montreal to Mississauga, young Canadians have been clear: They want a fair chance at affordable housing.”
“Housing policy must be people-centred, grounded in lived experience and adaptable to the changing realities of today's youth. When we listen to those directly affected, we create solutions that last, that restore hope and that build stronger, more resilient communities. Far too many young Canadians experience homelessness. What is perhaps most tragic is that their struggles are often hidden. They couch surf with friends or relatives, stay temporarily with family, or sleep in cars. These are young people whose lives are disrupted, whose education and work opportunities are impacted, and whose sense of security is fragile. This bill recognizes them. As a young Canadian, I stand proud today in support of Bill C-227 , the national strategy on housing for young Canadians act. [ Translation ] Housing is not just a roof over one's head.”
“It also recognizes that when young people cannot find stable housing, it affects their ability to pursue education, build careers and contribute fully to their communities. With this mind, over the past few months, time and time again, I have heard from organizations from across the country and in my riding, housing advocates, youth groups and local service providers. They have made one thing abundantly clear: Young people need solutions that are exclusively and explicitly geared towards them. They need policies that reflect their realities, from rising rent costs to barriers in home ownership, and they need to know that their government is listening and responding. I have heard this from high school students, university students and young Canadians entering the workforce.”
“By focusing on both immediate needs and long-term sustainability, the strategy seeks to break cycles of poverty and housing insecurity that have held too many Canadians back. At its core, the national housing strategy is about partnership. It brings together all levels of government, indigenous partners, the private sector and community organizations to tackle Canada's housing crisis from every angle. For young Canadians, the strategy acknowledges the unique challenges of entering today's housing market. It also aims to create pathways to enable youth to find secure, affordable places to live, whether through rental assistance, community housing or programs that encourage innovative and sustainable housing design.”
“For decades, Canada faced deepening challenges in ensuring access to safe, suitable and affordable homes, challenges that were felt most acutely by young people, low-income families, indigenous communities and newcomers. [ Translation ] The national housing strategy addresses the needs of Canadians, whether they are seniors looking to downsize, young families wanting to move into a larger home, or young Canadians entering the housing market. All Canadians deserve housing that meets their needs. Young Canadians need housing that is right for them. [ English ] The strategy represents a commitment to housing as a human right, anchored in the belief that access to adequate housing is essential to health, security and dignity.”
“They are watching, and they are counting on us to do the right thing. This is the case for public safety; our role on the international stage; Canadian language, culture and heritage; affordability; and most certainly housing. The member for Sackville—Bedford—Preston explained the bill perfectly, but I think it is important to contextualize it and its potential relative to the national housing strategy. Introduced in 2017, the national housing strategy was Canada's first-ever long-term plan to make sure that everyone in this country has a place to call home. It was created in response to growing concerns about affordability, rising homelessness and the lack of coordinated national leadership on housing.”
“Mr. Speaker, once again, it is a privilege to rise in the House on behalf of the fine people of Mississauga Centre. It is also always a privilege to rise alongside my colleague and good friend, the member for Sackville—Bedford—Preston , particularly on a topic as important as this one. I said it already, but I proudly seconded this bill because, at the end of the day, politics is not just about policies; it is about people. Bill C-227 , the national strategy on housing for young Canadians act, acknowledges this reality. This past weekend in my riding, I spent some time speaking to neighbours, joined by over 30 young Canadians from Mississauga. While the conversations at the doors were, as always, delightful and informative, my conversations with those young Canadians served as a firm reminder that young people care.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is always a privilege to rise in the House on behalf of the fine people of Mississauga Centre. It is also always a privilege to rise alongside my colleague and good friend, the member for Sackville—Bedford—Preston, particularly on a topic as important as this one. I proudly jointly seconded this bill, because at the end of the day, politics is not just about policies; it is about people. Bill C-227 , the national strategy on housing for young Canadians act, acknowledges this reality. I would like to hear from the member how he believes this policy is ultimately going to benefit Canadians, particularly in tandem with other policies we currently have in place.”
“Recognition is not the end of the road, but it is an important affirmation that all peoples deserve to live freely with dignity, self-determination and, above all else, hope. This is Canada.”
“Mr. Speaker, as parliamentarians, we carry the voices of our communities while carrying our own. Mine is that of a Palestinian Canadian. I am the son of parents who never had a country they could truly call their own until they became Canadian. Growing up, my parents would speak of the immense suffering our people endure, fearing it would be forgotten, but they also spoke of their immense pride in being Canadian. Only days ago, my parents were once again reminded of that pride. Canada's recognition of Palestine is historic. It affirms that we lead not only in words but in action. [ Translation ] While recognition is not an end in itself, the moment for which generations of Canadians have worked so hard has finally arrived. [ English ] A genocide continues to unfold in Gaza.”
“Mr. Speaker, the new government is working to build new economic and security relationships. One of the most important sectors of economic and export potential is defence. Earlier this week, the Prime Minister announced a $9.3-billion investment. This is a generational investment that will create thousands of jobs. As part of the new government's plan to expand into new export markets, can the Minister of International Trade tell the House how he plans to help diversify defence and trade?”
“Mr. Speaker, the truth is, we did hear from constituents and we did hear from Canadians this past election about the work that our government has been doing. Here we stand, re-elected as government, because Canadians have faith in the work that we will continue to do. In addressing this question, I will reiterate that our government is committed to following due process, and we will do exactly that to deliver for Canadians.”
“Mr. Speaker, my thanks to my dear colleague for the very kind words and the condolences provided. I completely agree. Due process is a fundamental part of the system in which we operate. It is extremely important to bear in mind that earlier today we heard from the opposition that they are committed to fighting government overreach, yet while we stand here willing and committed to fight for the system that very much defines what we are as a country, they have a problem with it. We are committed to continuing to do things in the way that we have, because we know it is the right way to serve Canadians.”
“Mr. Speaker, with regard to ArriveCAN, where specific allegations of misconduct have been made, CBSA has launched an investigation that is still in process and has referred allegations to the RCMP. Additionally, on March 15, 2024, Public Services and Procurement Canada terminated all contracts and supply arrangements awarded to GC Strategies and suspended its security clearances, rendering GC Strategies ineligible to participate in Public Services and Procurement tenders. In June, the office of supplier integrity and compliance, OSIC, issued a seven-year ban on GC Strategies participating in government contracts. The OSIC process is independent and free from political interference. We will ensure that we hold all who break the law accountable.”
“Mr. Speaker, as this is only my second time rising in this House, I will take a moment to once again thank my constituents out in Mississauga Centre for putting their trust in me. This past election, I heard from constituents day in, day out about a lot of issues and about their biggest priorities, things like affordability, health care and public safety. I also heard a lot about the confidence they have in this government to deliver. We are on the same page. This is problematic, which is exactly why we are acting, only we are doing it within the perimeters of the law. The way our government has responded—”
“We are continuing to improve the procurement system to make sure that errors such as those reported by the Auditor General cannot happen again. This new government is committed to delivering for Canadians. I implore the opposition to end the political games and focus on the mission at hand, which is to build Canada strong.”
“This means not only improving productivity, but also focusing on maintaining service delivery standards. That will require us to look at new technologies, such as artificial intelligence, to change the way we manage many of our processes. (1730) Right now, the government is transforming and modernizing how the federal government procures professional services by streamlining and simplifying existing mandatory procurement mechanisms. This modernization is in lockstep with our commitment to integrity as the work includes reducing risks in our buying processes, improving how we manage contracts and doing more to promote solution-based procurement approaches that ensure we are getting the best value for Canadians.”
“This new government will not let up when it comes to taking action to strengthen the integrity of the procurement process and making sure we are not conducting business with buyers of concern. It has a renewed focus on making government work better, and this work is very much part of that commitment. It is essential that we make sure that the government is not only working more efficiently, but following the rules. Following the rules leads to efficiency, which means savings for Canadians. It means getting the very best value for money for Canadians. More needs to be done to transform how government operates right across the board. That is why we have a new Minister of Government Transformation . To build the kind of Canada we need now, we must change the way we deliver for Canadians.”
“As my colleagues have stated, in March of last year, the company's security status was revoked, meaning it became ineligible for all federal procurement that had a security requirement. It was also removed from the Public Services and Procurement Canada's procurement instruments. Just last week, following a thorough assessment of the supplier's conduct, the office of supplier integrity and compliance deemed GC Strategies ineligible for any contracts or real property agreements with the Government of Canada for seven years. If the company were indeed convicted of fraud against the Crown in court, the company could lose its capacity to contract with it permanently. When it comes to recovering funds that we have identified as fraudulent billing or overbilling, we are pursuing GC Strategies in court right now.”
“We know it is essential to have a clear line of sight on the work that is being done on behalf of hard-working Canadians to be sure we are getting the best value for money. That is why we now require suppliers to show greater transparency when it comes to their prices, as well as providing clear information on any subcontractors they may be using. We are also improving our own documentation when awarding contracts and authorizing tasks. We are adding greater precision when specifying and documenting what needs to be done, as well as what projects and tasks contractors are working on. As mentioned, the Auditor General took a close look at a number of contracts with GC Strategies.”
“Canadians elected our new government to move forward with an ambitious agenda, including tackling crime, strengthening the border and making life more affordable. I suggest that the opposition should also be focused on those things. Moving on, the government is in agreement with the Auditor General that this is not about creating new rules and regulations, but about making sure that rules are followed and frameworks are adhered to so that we are providing the best value for money for Canadians. The rules are there. They must be followed. This government has taken action to make sure that happens. We are enhancing the evaluation requirements so that we can make sure the individuals who will be doing the work are properly qualified for the job.”
“I will note that the Auditor General's report did not make any new recommendations for the government when it comes to the procurement of professional services. The government is in complete agreement with the Auditor General when she encourages federal organizations to implement the recommendations from recent procurement audits. Allow me to assure the House that, when these concerns were first discovered, this government took action to make sure unacceptable practices do not occur again. It put in place a number of measures to improve the oversight of federal procurement, including of professional services. The reason there are no new recommendations is because we have taken action, and continue to take action, to address earlier findings. This motion is simply another round of political games by the opposition.”
“This is not the first audit or investigation into the procurement of professional services, generally, or into GC Strategies, in particular. The government, and certainly the House, is well aware of the wholly unacceptable past issues that have been uncovered through these reports and investigations, and those bad actors have been held to account. The latest report from the Auditor General addressed contracts awarded and payments made to GC Strategies and other companies incorporated by its co-founders. These contracts, which were awarded by numerous departments and agencies, did not provide value for money. That is not acceptable to all of us here who work to serve Canadians collectively.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to first take a moment to express my deepest condolences to all victims of the Air India tragedy. I want to notably offer my condolences to Dr. Patel, a member of our Mississauga community. To all those mourning this heartbreaking loss, our community grieves with them. I am pleased to have the opportunity to rise in the House today to address the important motion put forward by the opposition. First, I would like to echo the words of my colleagues here in the House that the government welcomes the Auditor General's findings in her report on professional services contracts and is committed to procuring professional services in a fair, open and transparent manner. Let us be clear.”
“As Canadians, we know that solutions can only begin when we come together with the courage to name injustice for what it is: unacceptable, undeniable and unequivocal. I take pride in elevating the voices of marginalized communities, the oppressed and others whose stories deserve to be heard, as well as youth across the country. I thank Mississauga Centre for that privilege.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise in this House for the first time, deeply honoured by the trust the people of Mississauga Centre have placed in me. I thank my family, friends, team, volunteers and dear constituents. I also want to acknowledge the Hon. Omar Alghabra for serving our beautiful riding for over 19 years, whether as MP or community member. I pledge to serve Mississauga Centre with purpose and humility, knowing we must never lose sight of those among us who struggle. [ Translation ] If one Canadian is struggling, we are all struggling. [ English ] As the first Palestinian Canadian elected to this House since Pierre De Bané, I understand the weight of the responsibility I hold and want to remind every member to put humanity above politics, always and in any context.”