Ernie Klassen
South Surrey—White Rock, British Columbia · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, as we celebrate Pride season across Canada, we are reminded that the rights and freedoms many enjoy today should never be taken for granted. Around the world, identifying as 2SLGBTQIA+ remains illegal in 65 countries, and in 12 jurisdictions, individuals still face the death penalty simply for being who they are.”
“I invite all colleagues from all parties to join us tomorrow at noon on Parliament Hill for the Pride flag raising. Let us come together to celebrate Pride season and reaffirm Canada's commitment to equality, inclusion and protecting human rights for all. I wish everyone a happy Pride.”
“Mr. Speaker, this week we celebrate National AccessAbility Week, which began in 1988. Inspired by Rick Hansen's Man in Motion World Tour, this week honours the contributions of Canadians with disabilities and reminds us that we can always build a more inclusive and accessible society.”
“This week, we celebrate the progress we have made so far and acknowledge the work of advocates whose leadership continues to break down barriers and inspire positive change. Together, we can continue building communities where everyone can participate and thrive. Let us create a fair and welcoming society for everyone.”
“DFO believes in transparency of fisheries data and is actively working to improve data transparency for the benefit of active harvesters, new fishery participants and all Canadians.”
“Madam Speaker, I welcome the opportunity to address the issues raised by my colleague, the hon. member for Courtenay—Alberni . Fisheries and Oceans Canada is aware that many fish harvesters on the west coast are facing economic challenges.”
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“People who took the plunge this year should remember that they did not just brave the cold but also helped to create a more inclusive world where every athlete is celebrated.”
“Mr. Speaker, last Sunday I was joined by the Surrey police and fire departments to deliver a speech and to cheer on everyone at the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics BC. The Polar Plunge is about the belief that everyone deserves a place to belong. This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Polar Plunge for Special Olympics BC, which has raised more than $2 million to support athletes. In August, Alberta hosts the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games. As a father of a child with a disability, I have seen first-hand how sport builds confidence, friendships and joy. It opens doors for athletes, families and entire communities. Through Special Olympics, people are defined not by their challenges but by their courage, their determination and their incredible abilities.”
“Mr. Speaker, on March 8, our Prime Minister convened the incident response group with ministers and senior officials to discuss the ongoing hostilities in Iran and the Middle East and continued vigilance to ensure the safety and security of all Canadians. Based on Canada's recent discussions with leaders in the region and the G7, could the minister update the House on the efforts to de-escalate the situation and could she assure Canadians that Canada will not engage in the military actions in Iran?”
“Mr. Speaker, small craft harbours are fixtures of coastal communities and our economy. That is exactly why our government is investing hundreds of millions of dollars into our small craft harbours. We are building the infrastructure that allows our harvesters to do their jobs and support their families and their communities.”
“Mr. Speaker, fisheries management decisions must be rooted in science for the long-term economic prosperity of coastal communities. Our government will continue to make evidence-based decisions through meaningful consultations.”
“Simply register to walk, start a team, or donate to my team. This weekend, send a simple but powerful message: in Canada, we care about each other.”
“Mr. Speaker, in Canadian communities, Coldest Night of the Year 2026, to support the hurting, hungry and homeless, is on the final stretch of its annual campaign. On Saturday, I will be walking alongside community members in support of Sources, an organization that has been providing help, encouragement and hope to people who are experiencing hurt, hunger and homelessness. For me, this walk is about showing up. It is about reminding people that they are not invisible and that their community cares. I have been honoured to be the top fundraiser for two years and the leading fundraiser in the region for six years, thanks to the generosity and dedication of my teammates and donors. I encourage all colleagues in the House to take part in the Coldest Night of the Year. It is free to join.”
“In doing so, we will not only honour the legacy of Ukrainian Canadians but also strengthen the bonds that unite us all as Canadians.”
“Cultural recognition initiatives like these acknowledge the fundamental contributions of immigrant communities to Canada and provide an opportunity for all Canadians to learn about and celebrate our inclusive society. Such recognitions also resonate deeply with Canadians because they reflect who we are, which is a country of many cultures, histories and traditions united in a common identity. Declaring September as Ukrainian heritage month is not a symbolic pat on the back; it is a powerful statement of Canadian identity and global leadership. It tells the world that Canada stands with Ukraine, Canada honours its Ukrainian citizens, Canada remembers its history and Canada will never waver in its defence of freedom. I urge all members to support this bill and join Canadians in celebrating Ukrainian heritage month each September.”
“It commemorates the arrival of the first Ukrainian immigrants in September 1891, and it is a time when communities across Canada already gather to celebrate Ukrainian culture and heritage. By designating September as Ukrainian heritage month, Parliament would be aligning with existing provincial designations in Manitoba and Ontario, further strengthening the recognition across the country. (1415) Support for Bill S-210 is expected to be broad and positive beyond the Ukrainian community in Canada. Similar heritage month bills, including those for Italian, Lebanese, Jewish, Sikh, Hindu, Tamil, German and Latin American communities, have passed with widespread approval in the House.”
“The Canadian Multiculturalism Act calls upon us to recognize communities who share common origins and historic contributions to our society and to ensure that all Canadians can participate fully in our economic, social, cultural and political life. Formal recognition of September as Ukrainian heritage month would give meaning to these principles. This designation is also consistent with our government's broader priorities, building a country where everyone feels a sense of belonging and strengthening social cohesion. Multiculturalism is not just a policy. It is a unifying symbol of Canadian identity and a source of national pride. Why should Ukrainian heritage month be in September? It is because the month of September is particularly special.”
“It will inspire young Canadians of all backgrounds to learn about the Holodomor, the struggle for Ukrainian independence, the legacy of immigration and the contemporary challenges facing Ukraine. As we educate, we fortify our national character. We inspire empathy, understanding and unity, values that are essential to the health of any democracy. This recognition also reflects our broader commitments under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the Canadian Multiculturalism Act. Section 27 of the charter reminds us that preserving and enhancing our multicultural heritage is a fundamental principle of Canadian democracy.”
“In agriculture, Ukrainian Canadians played an essential role in developing Canada's prairie provinces into the breadbasket of the nation. In our armed forces, they served with distinction in both world wars and continue to do so today. Designating Ukrainian heritage month would give all Canadians an annual opportunity to reflect on these contributions and to learn about the resilience, perseverance and achievements of this community. Declaring September as Ukrainian heritage month would also serve as an invaluable educational opportunity. It would encourage schools, libraries, museums, cultural organizations and community groups to host programs and events that deepen our understanding of Ukrainian history, language, art and traditions.”
“In turn, they helped build our country, opened businesses, enriched our cultural landscape and contributed to our democratic institutions. Canada is now home to over 1.5 million people of Ukrainian descent. They live and work in every province and territory. They are leaders in government, the arts, academia, agriculture, sports and the armed forces. They have brought with them a rich cultural heritage of food, music, dance, language, folklore and faith traditions that have become woven into the fabric of Canada itself. We only need to look across the country to see their legacy: thriving community centres, churches, cultural associations, annual festivals that draw thousands of Canadians of all backgrounds and academic contributions that have deepened our understanding of Ukrainian history, language and literature.”
“Madam Speaker, I am pleased to speak to Bill S-210 , an act respecting Ukrainian heritage month. By adopting this bill, Parliament would designate September as Ukrainian heritage month across Canada, offering Canadians a chance each year to reflect upon and celebrate the significant contributions of the Ukrainian community to our shared history, culture and identity. I am pleased to inform the House that the government supports the bill. In doing so, let me start by saying that Canada's story cannot be told without the story of Ukrainian Canadians. From the first arrivals in September 1891 to the vibrant diaspora that exists today, Ukrainian Canadians have shaped this country in fundamental ways. They came to Canada seeking opportunity, freedom and stability.”
“Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize the newly formed Surrey & White Rock Board of Trade, created through the merger of the Surrey Board of Trade and the South Surrey & White Rock Chamber of Commerce. It is now one of the largest and most influential business organizations in Canada. I also want to congratulate Joslyn Young, the CEO. Her leadership comes at a pivotal moment as this rapidly growing region continues to play a major role in B.C.'s economic future. They are a vital advocate for small businesses and the tourism sector, industries that create jobs, support families and showcase our communities to the world. By working collaboratively with the government, these organizations help ensure local entrepreneurs have the certainty, support and opportunities they need to grow and succeed.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canadians in my riding have never been prouder to be Canadians. We are more willing than ever to work together to make our country stronger. We care about one another, help one another and look out for one another. These are Canadian values. That is why earlier this week, the Prime Minister announced the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. This new benefit will provide meaningful support to more than 12 million Canadians with low and modest incomes. As long as we stand up for our country and refuse to weaken ourselves from within through division and quarrels, we remain unbreakable. Unity is not just about kilometres of territory; it is a shared vision for our future. We stand in solidarity with the world in defence of human rights and sovereignty, and we draw a clear red line when it comes to protecting our country.”
“Today and every day, let us lead by protecting these essentials in our homes, our communities, our country and around the world.”
“Mr. Speaker, December 10 is International Human Rights Day. Human rights are the backbone of freedom and democracy. It serves as a reminder that rights are not privileges. They are the foundation of dignity, equality and inclusion. This year's theme, “Human Rights, Our Everyday Essentials”, speaks to the truth that these principles are not just ideas on paper; they shape how we live, work and treat one another. Canada is seen as a global leader in advancing human rights. For me, human rights are deeply personal. Strong communities are built on fairness, respect and the courage to stand up when something is not right. These values guide me every day as a member of Parliament and as a Canadian. They mean ensuring every person can live without fear or discrimination, speak freely and be treated with dignity.”
“I have had the privilege of working alongside these outstanding young leaders in my riding. With a program like White Rock Youth Ambassadors in Canada, the future is optimistic and bright.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the White Rock Youth Ambassadors, a youth program in my community that predates the city of White Rock, British Columbia, itself. Launched in 1952 as the Miss White Rock pageant, a beauty contest, this initiative has evolved into a youth mentorship program benefiting hundreds of young people within the community. In the midst of the pandemic, the program threatened to shut down right when youth needed it most. Fortunately, new leaders Suzanne Smith and Dionne Archer-Smith revived the program, ensuring that this 73-year-old tradition continues. Today, Miss White Rock Wenshu Ding and her eight fellow young men and women ambassadors are inspiring their generation to lead through volunteerism and a love of community.”
“Mr. Speaker, on November 21, we mark World Fisheries Day, and recognize the vital role sustainable fisheries and healthy oceans play in our local economies and in our shared future. Coastal communities across our country rely on the ocean for their livelihoods. For generations, it has defined our culture and our identity. Canada is known around the globe for our world-class seafood and our healthy oceans. Budget 2025 strengthens Canada's capacity to safeguard our coastlines and grow our fisheries through supporting small craft harbours and strong measures to grow our economy and expand our markets. These investments will build a more resilient industry, healthier oceans and stronger fishing communities. On this World Fisheries Day, let us recognize how important they are to all Canadians.”
“Central to the budget 2025 plan is building major infrastructure, more homes and stronger communities, one community at a time.”
“Mr. Speaker, our new budget is about empowering Canadians and strengthening our economic future. It invests in our resilience, our competitiveness and our confidence in the future, not just through big, national projects, but through meaningful investments in smaller communities, where local projects have a tremendous impact on people's daily lives. This is why I am so proud of the build communities strong fund, which would ensure that communities of every size receive the support they need to grow and prosper. I am thrilled that the White Rock Pier is one of the projects supported in this budget. The pier is more than a landmark; it is the focal point of my community, a gathering place and the main driver for tourism. I have been advocating for its restoration since the day I began campaigning.”
“Madam Speaker, I rise today to recognize an extraordinary achievement by my constituent, Mr. Sachin Latti. This year, Sachin, the first South Asian to run across Canada, covered over 3,700 kilometres in 82 days, with only nine rest days, averaging more than 50 kilometres daily. As a retired law enforcement officer with 20 years of service at the Canada Border Services Agency, Sachin understands the mental health challenges facing those who serve our communities. He channelled this into action, running 100 kilometres in 15 hours, completing nine ultra-marathons in nine months and running 22 marathons in 22 consecutive days. Sachin has raised $300,000 for mental health initiatives across Canada supporting veterans, first responders, individuals struggling with addiction and youth in communities from coast to coast.”
“I thank the business owners in our communities for their dedication and for everything they do to make Canada stronger, more vibrant and more connected. I ask everyone to please support their local businesses.”
“Mr. Speaker, across Canada, we celebrate Small Business Week. I rise to recognize the entrepreneurs who form the backbone of my riding of South Surrey—White Rock. Before entering public life, I spent over 30 years as a small business owner. First it was Imagemakers photography, then Ashberry & Logan, The Art of Flowers. I understand small business. There are long hours, financial risks, pressures of making payroll and the personal sacrifices families make. I also know the pride that comes from serving someone's own community and building something lasting. I have had the privilege of visiting many local businesses owners, listening to their stories, and learning about their successes and the challenges they face. Small businesses are pillars in our communities. They deserve our recognition throughout the year.”
“I thank all parliamentarians for their support of our Canadian egg farmers and ask them to join me in wishing our farmers a happy World Egg Day.”
“Mr. Speaker, tomorrow, egg farmers across Canada will celebrate World Egg Day, recognizing the critical role that eggs play for Canadian families and recognizing the contributions of egg farmers to Canada’s resilient domestic food system. More than 1,200 egg farmers support businesses and communities in this country on an ambitious growth agenda to increase production and consumption in alignment with the government's vision for sustainable growth. I know this, as I grew up on an egg farm collecting roughly 3,000 eggs daily as a child. Egg farmers are proud partners in regional economies and food security. Egg farmers sustain thousands of local jobs, strengthen rural economies and provide Canadians with a reliable, high-quality source of protein.”
“I would also like to thank the City of White Rock for its continued partnership and support and all the volunteers and dedicated supporters who show up not just today but every day for our veterans. This year, over 20 Canadian cities from coast to coast to coast hosted events, raising over $100,000. I thank all veterans for their service and sacrifice.”
“Mr. Speaker, the community of South Surrey—White Rock came together for the eighth annual Canadian Walk for Veterans, a tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country. This walk is not only a moment of reflection and appreciation but also a commitment to ongoing support for our veterans and their families. I would like to take this moment to sincerely thank Marc Burchell, whose vision and leadership continue to inspire this walk, and Dr. Matthew Kane, co-founder of the walk and a Royal Canadian Navy veteran who understands the challenges of transitioning to civilian life, for their dedication and tireless work in supporting veterans.”
“I thank the Prime Minister for his leadership in advancing peace. We should not and cannot rest until Ukraine’s children are home.”
“Mr. Speaker, this Tuesday, the Prime Minister and the President of Ukraine co-chaired the high-level meeting of the international coalition for the return of Ukrainian children, which was held during the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly. Thousands of Ukrainian children are victims of Russia’s crimes, where some of the most vulnerable populations are being targeted. Russia first abducted and deported them, and now it seeks to erase their culture, identity and their bond with family. As a parent and grandparent and a child of Ukrainian refugees, I cannot imagine the horror these families are experiencing. We have to ensure they are returned as soon possible. Canada is intensifying its work, together with Ukraine, our European partners and the U.S., to secure the immediate return of Ukrainian children.”
“Minister of Industry , for attending, throwing the first pitch and proudly sharing her own connection to the sport as a former softball player.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize one of the many successful events held this summer in South Surrey—White Rock. It was a true privilege for our community to once again host the Canada Cup. Over the past three decades, the Canada Cup has grown into a celebrated international event that showcases the talent, dedication and sportsmanship of female athletes from around the world. This event is a celebration of the strength, passion and unity that define the sport of softball. We honour the players, coaches and volunteers who make it all possible and the fans who bring the energy. I would like to recognize the outstanding leadership of Greg Timm and the board of directors. I would also like to extend a special thanks to my colleague and friend, the hon.”
“Mr. Speaker, last week, I lost a friend, and my community lost one of our true leaders. Today, I would like to honour and pay respect to the memory of Sandee Butterley. Sandee was a one-of-a-kind woman who would help out and champion every cause that would benefit our entire community. She generously donated to organizations such as the hospice society, the White Rock Pride Society, the local community Christmas dinners, Coldest Night of the Year and Uniti, generously contributing to a housing project for people with intellectual disabilities in an inclusive environment. Sandee believed in supporting the local business community. She would frequently stop in and visit and encourage the business owners. She even had an omelette named after her at the locally owned diner that she was seen at most mornings.”
“Madam Speaker, it is indeed a pleasure to be sitting near my colleague. I have admired her stance on all of the environmental issues she has brought to the table over many years. I look forward to working together with her on many of the issues. The issue of thermal coal has been brought to my attention, especially during the campaign. It has been an issue that many others who have occupied the seat before me have dealt with. At this point, we are not yet at a place where many people in my riding would like to see, which is to reroute the coal trains, if possible. Perhaps with the new tariffs the U.S. has put into place, we can look at putting tariffs on the U.S. for coal.”
“Madam Speaker, I congratulate my colleague on his election as well. I look forward to serving with all members of the House of Commons and to working collaboratively with everyone, especially when there are solutions being brought forward that we can deliver on for all Canadians for the betterment of our society and for the betterment of everyone's well-being in our country. As I said during my campaign many times, I believe that policies within the government are to be reviewed. I would suggest that we wait until our budget is brought forward, and it will be brought forward by very responsible and well-informed people, and that we take a look at all of the policies there to work toward improving the economic stability of our country, especially as it deals with small businesses.”
“To protect our neighbourhoods and ensure the safety of residents, our government will hire more RCMP officers and toughen the Criminal Code to make bail harder and to get tougher laws for repeat offenders charged with crimes, along with human trafficking and drug smuggling. As our Prime Minister said in his opening address, “I will make mistakes.” It is an admirable admission and, to me, the mark of a true leader, one who can recognize when the ship is off course and has the resolve to steer it back. I say to this House, my constituents and my colleagues that I pledge to serve with integrity, dedication and unwavering commitment to my constituents and all Canadians. Today, I would like to recognize one of Canada's strengths, which is inclusivity for all. As it is the beginning of Pride Month, I wish everyone a happy Pride.”
“The government will preserve essential programs like universal health care, child care programs, pharmacare and the Canadian dental care program, which is now covering eight million Canadians, saving the average person more than $800 per year. I have lived and operated my business in White Rock for over three decades. The vibrant and iconic city of White Rock is known for its beautiful beachfront; the famous White Rock Pier, the longest wooden pier in the country; and its cultural significance to indigenous peoples. South Surrey is the largest town centre in Surrey by land area, offering agricultural richness, industrial and urban residential neighbourhoods and historical sites. My riding is home to young families, newcomers and retirees, which reflects our strength as a community.”
“Madam Speaker, since occupying this chair, I see the opposition members criticizing but not bringing forward solutions. I hear them accusing us of copying and plagiarizing their platform. If indeed this is the case, is that not the greatest form of flattery? If the platforms are the same, let us work toward the common goal of achieving them for the success of all Canadians. We are a country with many people struggling to survive. The cost of living and affordability are top of mind for many Canadian families. Like many, my constituents are also struggling to get ahead. Our government is listening and acting by reducing middle-class taxes, saving two-income families up to $840 a year. It will cut the GST on homes at or under $1 million for first-time homebuyers and lower the GST on homes.”
“As a small business owner for over 30 years, I understand first-hand the challenges and pressures on a business to remain open and thrive. Pivoting one's business has become the new way of modern business. I support our government's core mission to build the strongest economy by removing internal trade barriers and working closely with all the provinces and territories. At the doorsteps, I heard loudly and clearly that Canadians want the government to stabilize and focus on strengthening the economy for all Canadians, regardless of their political affiliations. Since occupying this chair, I see the opposition members criticizing but not bringing forward solutions. I hear them accusing us of copying and plagiarizing their platform. If indeed this is the case, is that not the greatest form of—”
“These core values guide us nationally but also align with my personal priorities for South Surrey—White Rock. Already, our Prime Minister is renegotiating Canada's relationship with the United States, our neighbour and one of our many economic partners of the future. This relationship is vital to my riding, which is home to two of Canada's 32 land border crossings, the Peace Arch and the Pacific Highway border crossings. These crossings are more than that; they support trade, tourism and jobs. The land border duty-free shops contribute over $400 million annually to our economy and provide local employment. (1220) The tariffs imposed by the United States, which have put pressure on businesses, including more than 500 small businesses in my riding, are unjustified.”
“It was a privilege indeed to be present in Ottawa during the historic royal visit of King Charles III and Queen Camilla and to witness the King deliver the Speech from the Throne in the Senate chamber. I heard a strong message of hope and renewal, a call to restore the values and dreams that define Canada. The 45th Parliament has a responsibility to identify and build on the strengths that have earned Canada admiration around the world, while also acknowledging the failures and injustices of the past and correcting our course when needed. While our country faces challenges, our core Canadian values that define us, democracy, freedom, the rule of law and the right to self-determination, are laid out clearly throughout the throne speech.”
“Due to a freeze of immigration policy in Canada, my grandmother, together with several unmarried children, left Ukraine for Paraguay, but ultimately also came to Canada through the efforts of my parents. Although my parents had seven children of their own, they always strove to help their family who ended up in various countries after the Second World War, from Siberia to East Germany and Paraguay. I thank all those who struggled so their children and future generations could prosper in freedom. To the indigenous and aboriginal peoples, the original stewards of this land, I offer my thanks, my respect and my gratitude. From them, we continue to learn the sacredness of the land we are honoured to live on.”
“I never imagined I would have the opportunity to publicly, in front of all Canadians, thank my parents for the profound gift they gave their children, the privilege of becoming Canadians. My grandfather was arrested and executed for teaching his children about a god, an act considered treasonous under a regime that denied faith. My grandmother was left with eight children. As a child, I often heard how my parents survived by eating field mice and taking whatever was left in the fields after they had harvested the produce they had to give to the Communist Party. Fortunately, after the Second World War, my father, through the Red Cross, reconnected with an aunt in Canada who sponsored my parents to come to Canada.”
“I am truly fortunate to stand here, not through my efforts alone but because of the hard work, dedication and belief of many. Volunteers, friends, family and strangers who became friends, people of all backgrounds, colours, faiths, languages, abilities, sexual identities and socio-economic statuses, believed in the values and vision that this party represents. These are the friends and neighbours of South Surrey—White Rock whose voices I am privileged to represent in this House. To my husband, my children and grandchildren, and my family and friends who encouraged me at every step of what was an intense and deeply rewarding campaign, I offer my deepest thanks. This seat also belongs to the many who came to this country as immigrants seeking a better life.”
“Madam Speaker, it is with the greatest sense of honour and pride that I stand today in this chamber giving my maiden speech, where countless Canadians before me have given of themselves to help shape the landscape of this great country we all call home, which is the envy of people around the world. I congratulate all my colleagues on their election or re-election. It is truly an honour to serve alongside each of them. I am the first MP in this riding elected for this party in a general election in more than 70 years. I would like to begin by acknowledging that my riding of South Surrey—White Rock is situated on the traditional, unceded territories of several Coast Salish nations, including the Semiahmoo, Kwantlen and Katzie First Nations.”
“I would like to recognize this week as being National AccessAbility Week, which is a time to celebrate the contributions of persons with disabilities and build more inclusive and accessible communities. I wish to thank Stephanie Cadieux, my dear friend and Canada's first-ever chief accessibility officer, for her continued leadership and—”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today for the first time in the 45th Parliament with gratitude and humility. I am the first member of the Liberal Party to win my riding in 70 years. I thank the people of South Surrey—White Rock for placing their trust in me. It is an honour to serve as their representative. To my family, the incredible volunteers and supporters, I thank them very much for their time, energy and unwavering dedication. I could not have done this without them. My work in the House has already begun. My priorities for South Surrey—White Rock include protecting our border community, addressing the urgent pressures on housing and affordability, and building safer and more secure neighbourhoods.”