Dominic LeBlanc
Beauséjour, New Brunswick · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, we are deeply involved at every level with Canadian companies, with representatives of Canadian workers, and with our colleagues in the provinces and territories. We hold regular, weekly consultations and round tables with various sectors of the economy. We will be holding them next week.”
“Mr. Speaker, as my colleague just said, we are facing a tariff situation that is unfair and unjustified in light of our free trade agreement with the United States. We have another opportunity this week to discuss this agreement with U.S. representatives. However, at the same time, we are not sitting idly by.”
“Mr. Speaker, as my colleagues clearly explained, our government is working to protect the industries and workers who are facing unjustified tariffs from the United States. We are, of course, doing this with our partners in the provinces and territories.”
“Mr. Speaker, every parliamentarian can help the government and Canadians support industries and workers and come together to counter the tariffs imposed by the U.S. government. We are always looking for positive contributions from members of Parliament across the House of Commons and at the other place.”
“Mr. Speaker, our colleague from the Bloc Québécois talks about respect for democracy. We in the government will start by waiting for Quebeckers to have their say in the upcoming provincial election this fall. We understand that the members of the Bloc Québécois are engaging in hypotheticals.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my colleague from Beauport—Limoilou for his important work on this critical issue. As everyone knows, the government is committed to continuing to negotiate with our American and Mexican partners as we head into the CUSMA review.”
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“Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend from Louis-Saint-Laurent—Akiawenhrahk for his question. He just put his finger on exactly what we want to do with this bill. We have been very clear. The Prime Minister was very clear during the election campaign. Within six months at the most, we would like to have exactly the kind of agreement that my colleague just described to avoid duplication and to minimize costs for businesses, provinces and Crown corporations that are proposing major projects. We also want to use the expertise that provincial and territorial authorities often have and ensure that the federal government's expertise is complementary, that it adds value and that it does not create obstacles that would duplicate or extend the project.”
“Mr. Speaker, my colleague often speaks about her son, who is an example of exactly the kind of worker and skilled professional the country and, frankly, this government want to support. I was encouraged by conversations with labour leaders representing not only the skilled trades but a series of other professions that would benefit from exactly this kind of nation-building exercise. Provincial premiers speak to labour leaders about the importance of creating economic opportunity at a time when our economy is threatened, and we are doing this for people exactly like my colleague's son.”
“Mr. Speaker, I obviously understand the political aspect of my colleague's question. I think we need to be careful before defining the responsibility that the bill can assign to a minister. We have to be careful not to exaggerate those circumstances. As I have said, environmental standards and regulations will obviously be at the forefront, as will consultation with indigenous peoples. I would have thought my friend would be happy that the Government of Canada wants to work with BAPE in Quebec or with the Quebec process so that major projects in Quebec get approved more quickly, as a result of that partnership.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for the question, and I absolute appreciate the challenge he has just identified. One of my friends for the last couple of decades is also a physician, Andrew Furey, and he was the premier of Newfoundland and Labrador until recently. He worked with Atlantic premiers because, as my colleague has correctly identified, the actual certification of physicians and other health care professionals is properly within the provincial domain. Atlantic Canada got together and created an Atlantic physicians registry, led by the four provinces, which we think is an example to the rest of the country. The Government of Canada wants to encourage exactly that kind of work.”
“Mr. Speaker, I know that colleagues in the House will be disappointed. I arrived at the last minute to give this speech. I am told that the first speech has unlimited time. If I had not arrived in time, colleagues could have heard the member for Winnipeg North for possibly a few weeks on this bill. My colleague from Winnipeg North is absolutely right. This commitment to one Canadian economy, to getting big projects in the national interest built quickly, was on page 1 of the Liberal platform. This should not surprise any parliamentarian. The government is in fact moving quickly on an obligation we have to Canadians.”
“Mr. Speaker, I agree with the member for Abitibi—Témiscamingue that we need to fulfill our obligations with regard to consultation and partnership. I know how committed my colleague is to indigenous peoples, and I really appreciate that. That is something we have in common. The five-day consultation he referred to is a consultation process in a bill that is before Parliament and that would enable the government to designate projects as being in the national interest. The government and private companies would then be able to conduct extensive consultations. We are building something, but these consultations obviously have to happen before a project can be designated and approved.”
“Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister , of course, did not mislead Canadians. Our colleague will know that it is only within the jurisdiction of this Parliament or the Government of Canada to remove barriers that are properly federal barriers to free trade within Canada. The provinces also have a series of measures that they are working on removing. In fact, I have been very encouraged by provinces signing agreements with each other and by provinces trying to lead each other in who can move the fastest. Conservative premiers, New Democratic premiers and Liberal premiers are doing this work with the Government of Canada.”
“Let us capture this moment, one where trade flourishes, dreams of workers and business owners can grow, and hope will abound in every part of our country as we look to greater economic prosperity together. We have a real opportunity now, across political parties and regions, to unite behind the idea of delivering, not delaying. Let us remove the barriers that keep us locked in 13 separate economies instead of one growing, sustainable Canadian economy. Let us turn the page and move forward with purpose, to get big things built in this country once again.”
“This bill is driven by and focused on Canadians. It is for young apprentices in Lethbridge considering a career in biofuels, for power line technicians in Thunder Bay and for health care professionals in Moncton. We are delivering what Canadians have always asked for: an economy that rewards people who work hard and innovate, no matter where they live. There has never been a better time for the world to choose to do business with Canada. We offer a stable and predictable political environment and a skilled and diverse workforce, making us the best place in the world for investment and collaboration. [ English ] Where our allies seek certainty, reliable timelines or climate leadership, Canada is ready to answer that call with our brightest and our best.”
“Canada will not simply participate in the global resource economy; we will help define it. I would like to assure the House that this commitment to acceleration does not mean exclusion or diminution of environmental standards or, obviously, our constitutionally enshrined obligations to indigenous peoples. Every major project advanced through the changes proposed in Bill C-5 will require real partnerships with indigenous peoples. We have already announced that we are setting up an indigenous advisory council. We will ensure that self-determination, inclusion and respect are at the heart of this process. (1020) [ Translation ] Environmental protection measures are essential too. Projects of national interest must facilitate clean, responsible growth, meeting today's needs while leaving a healthy legacy for future generations.”
“Every barrier we lift is a door opened to higher wages, broader horizons and greater economic momentum. With this legislation, Canada positions itself firmly to become a clean and conventional energy superpower. Fort McMurray oil sands will lead on both production and emissions reductions. Edmonton and Sarnia are primed for leadership in hydrogen. New transmission infrastructure will ferry Labrador's clean hydro to Montreal and beyond. We will mine, refine and finish uranium from Saskatchewan, lithium in northern Quebec and cobalt from Nunavut, delivering resources the world needs from a reliable, sustainable partner. Pipelines and port expansions will be built faster and smarter with climate and community in mind, showing that economic and environmental progress are not at odds but intertwined.”
“A good or service produced in line with provincial or territorial regulations will be recognized as meeting comparable federal standards for interprovincial trade. [ English ] Labour mobility is also part of this bill. People in too many professions, like nurses, engineers, land surveyors and skilled trades people, find their skills underutilized due to conflicting or duplicate certification requirements. Where federal and provincial regulations overlap, this legislation guarantees swift mutual recognition of provincial and territorial credentials for federally regulated workers. This is about leveraging Canada's full talent pool, ensuring that skilled workers can answer opportunity's call everywhere in the country without bureaucratic delay. It is also about Canadians trusting each other.”
“(1015) [ Translation ] The results of that are clear: unnecessary costs, regulatory confusion and a missed economic opportunity. Bill C‑5 is designed to ensure that a product that meets provincial or territorial energy efficiency standards would meet comparable federal standards. Under this bill, if a good is produced, used or sold in accordance with a province's rules, it can move across the country without having to meet federal standards as long as it serves the same purpose. Think about a Manitoba truck driver who has to deal not only with provincial requirements, but also with additional federal rules when crossing the border into Saskatchewan or Ontario. Paperwork, fees and compliance reviews are all barriers that slow down our most ambitious workers and businesses. This bill will remove those federal barriers.”
“Let us say someone makes kitchen appliances right here in Ontario. They might be investing in new refrigeration or dishwasher technology that saves Canadians money on their electricity bills, but even though they meet Ontario's stringent energy efficiency requirements, they cannot say their product meets federal standards for energy efficiency unless they have met all the federal testing, labelling and compliance procedures. As a result, they would not be able to sell their appliances across the border into Quebec or Manitoba. It might take months or more to navigate the federal process to prove their product is really as energy efficient as they say or as the Ontario standards have confirmed. That can slow things down and obviously adds cost.”
“Whether in Inuvik, the Métis heartland of Manitoba or the Mi'kmaq territory in Atlantic Canada, nation building is only real if it is shared. That is why equity partnerships for indigenous peoples will be supported and prioritized. Environmental stewardship will also remain paramount. This bill would not weaken any of Canada's core environmental statutes. Instead, it is about considering whether major projects drive clean growth and forge a sustainable legacy for the next generations. The work of building a modern one Canadian economy does not stop with flagship projects. Our prosperity also depends on removing barriers that hobble Canadians' ability to trade, connect and work wherever opportunity calls across our country. Let us talk about the reality facing thousands of small business owners everyday.”
“Only projects that strengthen Canada's resilience, provide measurable economic benefits and are in line with our environmental, social and indigenous reconciliation values will receive this designation. Our goal is to put “Canada” and “achievement”, not “Canada” and “delay”, in the same sentence. [ English ] Just as vital is the continued commitment by this government that indigenous governments, partners and indeed indigenous peoples and communities must be engaged from the outset. Respect for constitutionally protected indigenous rights, knowledge and priorities is obviously non-negotiable and is clearly enunciated in the bill currently before the House. When we say partnership is the foundation, we mean exactly that.”
“To support this new process, the government plans to create a new federal major projects office to coordinate, problem-solve and fast-track projects of national interest, transitioning from a fragmented approach to approval to unified, decisive action. For projects of national interest like these, we are committed to making decisions within a maximum time frame of two years, not five years or more. The Prime Minister has been very clear. Moving forward, we will commit to a “one project, one review” approach. The days of duplication and cost overruns are over. Federal, provincial and territorial authorities will all work on a single assessment to move quickly, while remaining just as thorough and maintaining public trust. Standards will be high.”
“For far too long, major projects, whether energy transmission lines, critical mineral developments, pipelines or clean technology projects, have been stalled by assessments, challenges, and overlapping and duplicative regulations. Investors, provinces and territories, and the business community have said that it is too difficult and takes too long to build important economically feasible projects in Canada. This has led to potential missed investment opportunities, lost jobs and a lack of competitiveness vis-à-vis our international counterparts. Our shared prosperity requires quick action. [ Translation ] This bill would introduce a new tool, a process for identifying, prioritizing and advancing transformative infrastructure and development projects.”
“[ Translation ] In the same spirit, I am honoured to speak to Bill C‑5 , the one Canadian economy act, a plan designed to remove barriers, redefine our vision and open a new chapter in our national history. The time for action is now. From fishers in the Northumberland Strait to mine workers in Whitehorse and innovators in Montreal, let this be the moment where we come together and choose to build and achieve great things. In the face of these new uncertainties, it is up to us to forge our economic destiny. (1010) [ English ] One of the central pillars of this legislation is a new framework for what we call projects of national interest, initiatives that will move our country forward, reinforce our economic sovereignty and drive prosperity in every region of the country.”
“There was a clear recognition that this hinge moment is an opportunity to reunite with the can-do spirit that envisioned and built, for example, the Confederation Bridge or the St. Lawrence Seaway. In that spirit, I hope colleagues will join us and recognize that this is an important moment to accelerate the adoption of this legislation. Canada stands at a crossroads. Global shifts and internal obstacles demand a clear and rapid response. The United States, our closest trade and security partner, has become unpredictable and undependable. It has imposed unjustified and illegal tariffs, reminding us that our prosperity cannot rely disproportionately on the status quo. However, in challenge lies opportunity. Canada's unity, resolve and resourcefulness are obviously our greatest assets.”
“(1005) He said: Mr. Speaker, this is the first chance I have had to speak in the House since you became a chair occupant. Let me congratulate you on this important honour. I rise today to speak to Bill C-5 , the one Canadian economy act, which I had the honour of tabling in this House last week. This House is a place where, for generations, Canadians have placed their hopes, confronted adversity together and shaped the future of our country. Today, we do so again, facing challenges both new and familiar. The time for resolute action is now. At the first ministers' meeting last week in Saskatoon, premiers unanimously expressed their spirited support for decisive movement on nation-building projects.”
“on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, all remaining amendments submitted to the committee shall be deemed moved, the Chair shall put the question, forthwith and successively, without further debate, on all remaining clauses and amendments submitted to the committee, as well as each and every question necessary to dispose of the clause-by-clause consideration of the bill, and the committee shall not adjourn the meeting until it has disposed of the bill, (G) a member of the committee may report the bill to the House by depositing it with the Clerk of the House, who shall notify the House leaders of the recognized parties and independent members, provided that if the report is presented on Thursday, June 19, 2025, the bill shall be taken up at report stage on the next sitting day; (c) the bill be ordered for consideration at report stage on Friday, June 20, 2025, provided that, (i) two members from each recognized party, one member from the New Democratic Party and the member from the Green Party may each speak on report stage motions for not more than 10 minutes, followed by five minutes for questions and comments, (ii) at the conclusion of the time provided for the debate or when no member wishes to speak, whichever is earlier, any proceedings before the House shall be interrupted, and in turn every question necessary for the disposal of the said stage of the bill shall be put forthwith and successively, without further debate or amendment, and, if a recorded division is requested, the vote shall not be deferred, except pursuant to Standing Order 76.1(8), (iii) the bill be ordered for consideration at the third reading stage immediately after concurrence of the bill at report stage; (d) when the bill is taken up at the third reading stage, pursuant to subparagraph (c)(iii) of this order, (i) two members from each recognized party, one member from the New Democratic Party and the member from the Green Party may each speak at the said stage for not more than 10 minutes, followed by five minutes for questions and comments, (ii) at the conclusion of the time provided for the debate or when no member wishes to speak, whichever is earlier, all questions necessary to dispose of the third reading stage of the bill shall be put forthwith and successively, without further debate or amendment, and, if a recorded division is requested, the vote shall not be deferred; (e) on Friday, June 20, 2025, the House shall not adjourn until the proceedings on the bill have been completed, except pursuant to a motion moved by a minister of the Crown, provided that once proceedings have been completed, the House may then proceed to consider other business or, if it has already passed the ordinary hour of daily adjournment, the House shall adjourn to the next sitting day; and (f) no motion to adjourn the debate at any stage of the said bill may be moved except by a minister of the Crown.”
“on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, for the election of the chair and vice-chairs, the consideration of routine motions governing its proceedings, and to gather evidence from witnesses, (C) the committee meet until 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, to gather evidence from witnesses and undertake clause-by-clause consideration of the bill, (D) all amendments be submitted to the clerk of the committee by noon on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, (E) amendments filed by independent members shall be deemed to have been proposed during the clause-by-clause consideration of the bill, (F) if the committee has not completed the clause-by-clause consideration of the bill by 11:59 p.m.”
“moved: Motion That, notwithstanding any standing order, special order or usual practice of the House, Bill C-5, An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act, be disposed of as follows: (a) the bill be ordered for consideration at the second reading stage immediately after the adoption of this order, provided that, (i) two members from each recognized party, one member from the New Democratic Party and the member from the Green Party may each speak at the said stage for not more than 10 minutes, followed by five minutes for questions and comments, (ii) during consideration of the bill at second reading, the House shall not adjourn, except pursuant to a motion moved by a minister of the Crown, (iii) at the conclusion of the time provided for the debate or when no member wishes to speak, whichever is earlier, all questions necessary to dispose of the second reading stage of the bill shall be put forthwith and successively, without further debate or amendment and, if a recorded division is requested, the vote shall not be deferred; (b) if the bill is adopted at the second reading stage and referred to the Standing Committee on Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, (i) if the report on the striking of membership of Standing and Standing Joint Committees of the Standing Committee on Procedure and House Affairs has not yet been concurred in by the House, the whip of each recognized party shall deposit with the Clerk of the House a list of their party's members of the committee no later than the adjournment of the House on the day of the adoption of this order, (ii) the committee shall meet on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, and on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at 3:30 p.m., provided that, (A) the committee shall have the first priority for the use of House resources for committee meetings, (B) the committee shall meet until 5:30 p.m.”
“Bill C-5. Introduction and first reading moved for leave to introduce Bill C-5, An Act to enact the Free Trade and Labour Mobility in Canada Act and the Building Canada Act . (Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)”
“Madam Speaker, on the contrary, we are not waiting. Yesterday, my colleague the Minister of Finance and I met with people from the steel industry and others. We talked about the importance of supplying liquidity to support the aluminum sector in Quebec and across Canada. The Department of Finance has a mechanism specifically designed to provide that support. We already adapted EI measures before the election to guarantee that workers would be eligible. We will continue to collaborate with workers and industry to ensure that we are there for industry while standing up to—”
“Mr. Speaker, once again, I can assure my colleague that we fully share the concerns of all Canadians about the negative consequences the American tariffs are having. As I said in a response a few moments ago, with regard to the aluminum industry in Quebec and the steel industry in the rest of Canada, the Americans rely on our product. We have responded very firmly. We are one of the countries that has had the courage to respond to these unjustified tariffs. We will also protect industries and workers.”
“Mr. Speaker, we fully share the concerns of our colleague from Chicoutimi—Le Fjord. Aluminum workers in Saguenay are among the best workers in Canada. The United States relies on the aluminum that Canada produces. It decided to impose 50% tariffs. That is going to hurt its economy. We understand that this is a worrisome situation for workers and the industry in Canada. That is precisely why we are going to support the workers and the industry. We are working with the Government of Quebec, and we will continue to do so.”
“Mr. Speaker, our government received a mandate from Canadians to negotiate a new security and economic partnership with the United States. We entirely share our colleague's view that the tariffs imposed, and they are not only on steel and aluminum, at a ridiculously punitive rate of 50%, are unjustified and illegal, as are all the other tariffs imposed on the Canadian economy. That is why Canada responded firmly and clearly. We also said that we will support our industries and our workers as we get through this together.”
“Mr. Speaker, on the contrary, our government took action even before the election to support workers across Canada who are affected by the illegal and unfair tariffs imposed by the Americans. As the Prime Minister said, Canadians gave us a mandate to negotiate a new economic partnership and security agreement with the United States. We also have a mandate to protect our industries and our workers. That is precisely what our government is doing.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Terrebonne for her excellent question. During the election campaign, our government promised to build one Canadian economy out of 13. By Canada Day, we will introduce a bill to eliminate all federal barriers to interprovincial trade and work with the provinces and territories to catalyze projects in the national interest. That is how we will build the strongest economy in the G7.”