Sukh Dhaliwal
Surrey Newton, British Columbia · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honour the life and legacy of Rajpaul Singh Dhillon, known as Paul Dhillon, an award-winning journalist, screenwriter, producer and film director whose contributions enriched Canada's cultural landscape and amplified the voices of diverse communities.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize Dr. Arun Garg for his lifetime of leadership, service and dedication to improving public health in British Columbia. For more than 50 years, including several decades with Fraser Health, Dr. Garg has advanced culturally informed health care.”
“Mr. Speaker, the Conservatives have spent the last week talking down Canada's economy, industries and workers. Meanwhile, our government is making historic investments to grow the economy and strengthen Canada's future, from tens of billions of dollars in infrastructure to reaching NATO's 2% target, and $6 billion for the skilled trades.”
“Mr. Speaker, demand for LNG is growing, and Canada is the cleanest supplier to help meet the demand. During the last election, we committed to making Canada an energy superpower, and we are delivering on that promise. Less than a year ago, LNG Canada delivered its first exports to Asia, and we are already expanding further.”
“Mr. Speaker, as we celebrated Africa Day yesterday, I would like to recognize the impactful work of Beyond Hoops Africa under the leadership of James Kamau. Rooted in Surrey's African diaspora, this organization represents the power of community-driven development across borders.”
“Mr. Speaker, Waheguru Ji Ka Khalsa, Waheguru Ji Ki Fateh . This month marks the seventh anniversary of Sikh Heritage Month, which allows us to celebrate and educate future generations about the contributions Sikh Canadians continue to make across our country. Vaisakhi, the founding of Khalsa, is being honoured today on Parliament Hill.”
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“It includes $110 billion to boost productivity and innovation through investments in emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and clean energy. It includes $30 billion for defence and security, ensuring that Canada can protect its sovereignty and play a leadership role in the world. It also includes $25 billion for housing through the new Build Canada Homes initiative, which is a program that will double the pace of construction, lower costs for first-time homebuyers and create good-paying jobs. Not only that, but as I have a history in this House, I can tell members that for the last decades, we have not seen a single dollar invested in health care capital investments. This budget includes $5 billion for health-related infrastructure.”
“While maintaining the lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio in the G7, our government is making historic, nation-building investments in housing, infrastructure and innovation. Budget 2025 is a plan to catalyze $1 trillion in investments over the next five years. Central to that plan is building major infrastructure, more homes and stronger communities. This $1 trillion in investments is going to change Canada and who we are. Over the next five years, budget 2025 commits nearly $280 billion in new investments to improve Canada's economy and empower Canadians to succeed. This includes $115 billion for infrastructure to modernize our cities, expand our trade corridors and ensure that every community across Canada has the tools it needs to grow.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to rise today to speak in support of budget 2025, a budget that lays out a bold, forward-looking plan to build a stronger, more resilient Canada. At its core, budget 2025 recognizes that Canada stands at a turning point. Around the world, we see shifting trade relationships, rising global uncertainty, an increasingly competitive international economy and increasing international turmoil. These challenges require a plan that strengthens our foundations and builds for the long term. That is exactly what this budget delivers. It is a plan that builds Canada strong by spending less on government operations and more on the people, industries and infrastructure that will define our future. It is a plan that balances fiscal discipline with ambition.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have been elected six times, and during every election I have been through, people have come to me and have not looked at whether a person is a provincial representative or a local one. All people care about is that the accountability for the care they need is open and transparent. As I said, the bill would not intervene in the jurisdiction of any province, including Alberta, but what we need is something about the billions of dollars we invest. I can tell members that I was recently in Abbotsford, where people were dying in the hallways of the hospital. People do not have a family doctor in Mission—Matsqui—Abbotsford, where I was travelling the other day. This is not just in Surrey Newton; everywhere I go, it is an issue.”
“Mr. Speaker, as I said earlier to the hon. members from the Bloc Québécois, the bill would not impose federal jurisdiction over the provinces. However, when I go to my constituency, or anywhere in British Columbia or elsewhere in Canada, people come to me and say they cannot find a family doctor and cannot get their elective surgeries in time; the wait times are way too long. People do not know where the billions of dollars the federal government is investing in health care is, money that would make a difference in their lives. The bill would bring accountability and transparency for all Canadians, including Quebeckers.”
“Mr. Speaker, I was recently in Edmonton, in fact, in the hon. member's riding. People there were complaining about two major issues, or actually three. The first was health care, because they are not getting the health care they deserve. The second was extortion, and the third was immigration. I can tell everyone that if this hon. member is concerned about the accountability and transparency every Canadian deserves, he should be supporting the bill instead of asking which province we asked for help.”
“I urge all members of the House, including the members from the Bloc Québécois, to support the bill, which would strengthen accountability, build public trust and demonstrate our shared commitment to improving health care for all Quebeckers and for all Canadians. Let us work together to ensure that Canadians can see the results of their investments and that our health care system continues to deliver the care people need, when they need it.”
“By strengthening transparency, the legislation gives all members of the House the tools to work together in support of Canadians’ health, while respecting provincial jurisdiction. I would encourage all members to consider the practical, collaborative and results-focused approach the bill represents. It would not dictate how provinces deliver care, but it ensures that Canadians know whether care is being delivered in a timely, efficient and accountable manner. Canadians deserve to know that every dollar invested in health care makes a difference. They deserve timely access, transparency and accountability. Bill C-239 would ensure that federal health dollars are tied to measurable outcomes while allowing provinces to maintain control over their health systems.”
“(1740) In short, the bill delivers accountability without compromising provincial autonomy, and it focuses on results Canadians care about. In my riding of Surrey Newton, in fact, across British Columbia and across Canada, constituents have expressed first-hand the challenges in accessing timely care. Seniors worry about delays for procedures. Young families struggle to find a family doctor. We hear these concerns nationwide. The bill responds directly to what Canadians have been telling their elected representatives for years: They want results, clarity and accountability. I want to emphasize that the bill is not about partisan politics. Health care is a shared responsibility.”
“This provides a structured and collaborative approach to enforcement, rather than a punitive one. Let me be clear about what this bill would accomplish for Canadians. First, it would reduce uncertainty so people can see where their health system is succeeding and where improvement is needed. Second, it would encourage timely care by setting benchmarks, which would allow provinces and territories to focus on reducing wait times for primary care, elective procedures and emergency services. Third, it would promote the efficient use of taxpayer dollars. Provinces and territories would report on how federal health dollars are spent, driving better value for Canadians. Fourth, it would increase trust, as transparency fosters confidence that investments in health care are making a real difference.”
“Transparency builds trust, and when people can see the results of public investments, they feel confident that their health system is functioning effectively. It also provides provinces with the incentive to focus on outcomes, reduce wait times and improve efficiency. Accountability requires consequences. Bill C-239 would amend sections 14, 15 and 16 of the Canada Health Act to make clear that provinces that fail to implement their frameworks or fail to report transparently may face reductions in or withholdings of federal health dollars. This ensures that accountability and transparency are treated as essential conditions for federal funding. At the same time, the bill would ensure fairness. Any continued reductions must be reviewed annually in consultation with the provincial minister responsible for health.”
“Instead, it would empower provinces, including Quebec, to design their own accountability frameworks and determine their own benchmarks that reflect their populations' needs and priorities. Bill C-239 would ensure that when federal dollars are transferred, Quebeckers and all Canadians can see transparent results. It would offer flexibility, autonomy and fairness, which are values that align closely with Quebec's long-standing commitment to managing its own health system. Transparency is at the heart of this bill. Each province and territory would have to publish its accountability framework and an annual report showing whether benchmarks have been met and how effectively health care dollars were spent.”
“Provinces still design their own frameworks, determine their own benchmarks and decide how to deliver care within their health systems. The federal government's role is limited to ensuring that when federal dollars are invested, Canadians can see results. Bill C-239 includes a permissive consultation clause. Provincial ministers may consult with the federal Minister of Health or with ministers in other provinces and territories while developing their frameworks. This encourages knowledge sharing and collaboration, but does not impose federal mandates. I also want to address our colleagues from the Bloc Québécois and the members from Quebec. This bill fully respects Quebec's jurisdiction over health care. It would not impose federal standards or dictate how care must be delivered.”
“(1735) Just last week, the Canadian Institute for Health Information published findings that included that in 2024, over one in three adults was not satisfied with how long they waited for non-urgent primary care, and over two in five adults with a diagnosed mental health disorder reported that their needs were only partially or completely unmet. By requiring provinces to set clear benchmarks and report publicly on progress, this bill would empower Canadians to hold their health systems accountable, while giving provinces and territories the flexibility to modify solutions to their unique populations. Some may ask whether this is federal overreach. Let me be very clear: This bill respects provincial jurisdiction.”
“These federal investments are intended to support timely, high-quality care, but without clear standards and reporting, Canadians cannot know whether these dollars are producing the results they expect. This is not just about numbers or statistics; this is about real people in real communities waiting for real care. In my riding of Surrey Newton, constituents frequently share stories of seniors waiting months for elective procedures, parents struggling to find a family doctor for their children and patients experiencing extended delays in emergency departments. These are not isolated incidents; they reflect a system in which accountability and transparency must be strengthened.”
“They would establish transparent reporting requirements so that Quebeckers and Canadians can see how these benchmarks are being met and would ensure the public availability of frameworks and annual performance reports on a government website. The bill would also ensure that benchmarks are regularly reviewed and updated so that health systems can evolve based on evidence, best practices and the changing needs of Canadians. Canadians often hear from politicians that health care is a priority, yet despite billions of dollars transferred annually to the provinces through the Canada health transfer, too many families still face long wait times and uncertainty.”
“As it stated, “By supporting Bill C-239 , ARNM is reaffirming our commitment to a health-care system that is transparent, accountable, and centred on the needs of patients—a system that works for nurses and for all Manitobans.” The ARNM's endorsement underscores the importance of this legislation in improving our health care system. This bill seeks to strengthen accountability under the Canada Health Act while fully respecting provincial jurisdiction over health care delivery. It is focused, practical and collaborative. Bill C-239 would require provinces and territories that receive full federal health transfers to develop and implement their own accountability frameworks. These frameworks would set benchmarks for timely access to primary care, elective procedures and emergency care.”
“I have heard directly from my constituents in Surrey Newton and from Canadians across the country who are deeply concerned about wait times for primary care, elective procedures and emergency services. Families often tell me about the anxiety of not knowing when they can see a family doctor or how long they will have to wait for critical procedures. These are real concerns, and Canadians deserve a health care system that is accountable to them. I am also grateful for the support of the Association of Regulated Nurses of Manitoba, ARNM, which has endorsed this bill.”
“moved that Bill C-239, An Act to amend the Canada Health Act (accountability) , be read the second time and referred to a committee. Bill C-239. Second reading He said: Mr. Speaker, first of all, I would like to thank the hon. member for Winnipeg North for seconding this bill and the many others who jointly seconded it. It is an honour to rise today to speak in support of my private member's bill, Bill C-239 , an act to amend the Canada Health Act to strengthen accountability. This bill is about ensuring that Canadians in every province and territory can see that the federal health dollars invested in their care are being used effectively and are improving access to timely health care services. I want to begin by acknowledging the voices that inspired this bill.”
“Mr. Speaker, I knew the member when he was part of the provincial assembly in B.C., and he was sleeping all the time while crimes were being committed. Policing is a provincial responsibility, but he did nothing then, and he is doing nothing constructive right now, just making this a political circus.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the hon. member for his support in caucus and for bringing issues forward. The major issue facing my constituents and British Columbians right now is extortion. It is the key concern in my riding and across Canada. This legislation would crack down on extortionists by making bail harder to get. Once someone commits the crime of extortion, they should stay behind bars. The second issue is consecutive sentencing. For example, if arson or a firearm is used during extortion, the sentences for those offences should be consecutive, not served side by side. Those are the two issues.”
“Mr. Speaker, I will give the hon. member two examples from British Columbia. One is the Kelowna example. It is very clear that the person was out on bail when he committed the offence of murder. The other example is an offender from Manitoba who was out on bail, went to White Rock and committed a murder there. These are the types of cases bringing people in my constituency to tell me that we have to reform bail laws to make sure that the onus is on the offender, not the Crown, to prove they should not be kept behind bars.”
“Mr. Speaker, the hon. member from Edmonton should know that when it comes to the reverse onus, this bill addresses that, and people who commit serious crimes will stay behind bars. Also, consecutive sentences will address the issues that are important in his riding. I have travelled to his riding. This is also happening in my riding and across Canada. The hon. member should not play politics and should not turn this into drama theatre. He should support this bill and make sure that Canadians across Alberta, across British Columbia and across Canada feel safe in their communities.”
“It would close loopholes, strengthen accountability and ensure that public safety is paramount. Canadians deserve a justice system that protects them, not one that leaves them vulnerable to repeat and violent offenders. Bill C-14 delivers that protection. It would make bail harder to get for those who pose the greatest risk, and it would ensure that sentences reflect the seriousness of the crimes committed. I urge all members of the House to support Bill C-14 and move it forward without delay. Every Canadian deserves to feel safe in their home, in their community and in their daily life.”
“It would do so in two ways: by tightening bail laws and by strengthening sentencing for extortion-related offences. The bill would also require consecutive sentences for extortion and arson, ensuring offenders serve one sentence after another rather than all at once. Communities across Canada have demanded action, and Bill C-14 answers that call. The legislation is not about slogans or political theatre. It is about real, enforceable tools that courts, police and prosecutors can use to keep Canadians safe. It is about restoring confidence in a justice system that too often feels disconnected from the realities of crime in our neighbourhoods. Bill C-14 was built through collaboration with provinces, territories, law enforcement and victims' advocates. It is charter-compliant and legally sound.”
“Furthermore, we are strengthening the Youth Criminal Justice Act by expanding the availability of custodial sentences. Under these reforms, offences that cause bodily harm would now be clearly recognized as violent offences, ensuring greater accountability for serious crimes and better protection for communities. Crime rates have risen over the past few years, with notable increases in homicides, sexual assaults, extortion and violent firearms offences. Offenders with multiple prior convictions remain far more likely to reoffend, and they often do so while on bail. Extortion is a major concern in my riding, and this legislation cracks down on extortion by making bail harder to get and sentences tougher, as well as by ensuring that those who use fear and intimidation face real consequences.”
“The bill clarifies sentencing objectives, directing courts to give primary consideration to denunciation and deterrence for second and subsequent convictions for violent offences, auto theft, break and enter, and organized crime-related offences. This is a clear message that serious crimes deserve serious consequences. Other important reforms include increasing the maximum penalty for contempt of court; ending house arrest for serious sexual offences, including those against children; reinstating mandatory driving prohibitions for manslaughter and criminal negligence causing death or bodily harm; modernizing enforcement of federal fines by allowing provinces to suspend licences until payment is made. These measures would strengthen the integrity of our justice system and protect Canadians from those who repeatedly disregard the law.”
“The bill delivers on that expectation. First, it introduces new aggravating factors for sentencing, including offences committed against first responders, repeat violent offenders with prior convictions within five years, organized retail theft and crimes interfering with essential infrastructure, such as copper theft. (1620) Second, Bill C-14 would allow for consecutive sentences in cases as the combination of offences demands. For example, a sentence for extortion must be served consecutively to a sentence for arson; a sentence for violent or organized crime-related auto theft must be consecutive to a sentence for breaking and entering of a home. Judges would also be required to consider imposing consecutive sentences for repeat violent offenders, ensuring accountability for those who repeatedly harm our communities.”
“This is about restoring public trust and ensuring that those who pose the greatest risk are not back on our streets. Moreover, the bill would direct courts to scrutinize bail plans more rigorously, ensuring they are credible and enforceable. It expands conditions of release, including weapons prohibitions for those accused of extortion and organized crime offences, and it encourages stricter conditions, such as curfews and geographic restrictions, for high-risk offences. These changes respond directly to what Canadians have been asking for: a bail system that prioritizes public safety and victim protection. The second pillar of Bill C-14 ensures that sentencing reflects the seriousness of the offence and strengthens deterrence. Canadians expect that those who commit violent crimes will face real consequences.”
“In plain terms, for certain serious crimes, the accused would have to demonstrate why they should be granted bail. The legislation introduces new reverse onus provisions for some of the most dangerous offences threatening our communities today: organized auto theft, break and enter of a home, human trafficking and smuggling, sexual assault and violent extortion. For repeat offenders, the reverse onus will apply between conviction and sentencing, closing a loophole that has allowed individuals to reoffend while awaiting judgment. Bill C-14 would also strengthen the grounds for detention, requiring courts to consider the number and seriousness of outstanding charges when deciding whether release would undermine confidence in the justice system.”
“It delivers over 80 targeted amendments to the Criminal Code, the Youth Criminal Justice Act and the National Defence Act, making bail harder to get for repeat and violent offenders and ensuring that sentences are tougher and more consistent with public expectations. The first pillar of the bill addresses a weakness in our justice system: bail provisions that have not kept pace with the realities of violent crime and organized criminal activity. Bill C-14 makes it clear that the principle of restraint does not mean automatic release. Courts would now have explicit direction that detention is justified when public safety is at risk. We are also clarifying the ladder principle, ensuring that it would not apply to offences subject to a reverse onus.”
“Mr. Speaker, I will be sharing my time with the member for Pickering—Brooklin . I rise today to speak in strong support of Bill C-14 , the bail and sentencing reform act, which is a landmark piece of legislation that responds to the urgent call for safer communities and a justice system that reflects the seriousness of violent and repeat offending. For too long, Canadians have been frustrated as individuals charged with serious crimes are released on bail only to reoffend. They have seen sentences that fail to match the seriousness of such offences as home invasion, human trafficking and violent assault. Bill C-14 changes that.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the hon. member for his work when it comes to protecting people in Surrey, where we both come from. An issue particularly on the rise there is extortion. How would the bill help to make people feel safe in their communities from acts of extortion?”
“Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to recognize the Nisa Foundation for its invaluable work supporting women and children in Surrey Newton and communities across Canada. Through its Nisa homes program, led by program director Syma Nehal, the organization provides safe, culturally responsive housing, counselling and wraparound supports to those fleeing violence, poverty or homelessness. The Nisa Foundation’s commitment not only restores dignity but also builds stronger, healthier families and communities. I extend my heartfelt appreciation to Syma Nehal and her dedicated team for their tireless efforts to create a brighter, more inclusive future for women and children across the country.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to commend the hon. member for the work he did as minister of immigration and minister responsible for international development. He touched on how the motion would create opportunities for Canadians. Can he expand on how Canada's international development work can create and strengthen economic opportunities for Canadians?”
“Mr. Speaker, Canadians want safe neighbourhoods in which families and businesses can thrive. Last week, I was proud to join my B.C. colleagues in Surrey for an echo announcement highlighting our government’s new steps to combat crime. These measures include tougher bail conditions for repeat violent offenders, stronger penalties for organized retail theft and the addition of 1,000 new RCMP personnel across the country. This investment will help ensure that fast-growing communities like Surrey have the resources needed to keep pace with growth and protect public safety. Our government is listening to Canadians, supporting law enforcement and taking real action to keep our streets and communities safe.”
“Mr. Speaker, these consumption sites are working in my community of Surrey. I can tell the member that, since they came in, they have made a big difference in the lives of people. We will continue to support those—”
“Mr. Speaker, last week, I, along with the parliamentary secretary , were able to announce 1,000 new police officers. Out of that, 150 police officers would be assigned to financial crime. That is a major issue that we are seeing in Surrey and other communities: cases of extortion and theft. These 150 new police officers would be able to deal with those issues effectively and make our communities safe.”
“Mr. Speaker, whether it is in Scarborough or in Surrey, people are concerned about security. Surrey is a border city when it comes to the U.S. border. This is exactly what they were asking for to strengthen our borders and make sure that CBSA officers have the tools and resources to deal with this, whether it is illegal firearms or drugs that are flowing into our country. They would be able to search those warehouses where they are stored and loaded. Giving them those powers would make it better for people in Scarborough, as well as in Surrey.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have worked with the hon. member for Saskatoon West on the immigration committee in the past. We both understand that we need immigration. At the same time, we have to curb these criminals and the people who are trying to come to our country illegally. That is why we are putting Bill C-12 together, giving our CBSA officers and RCMP officers more tools and resources to deal with the situation. That is why, last week, we announced 1,000 new RCMP officers and 1,000 new CBSA officers to deal with these situations.”
“Newcomers want to see a system that is efficient, fair and worthy of their trust. Bill C-12 delivers on all those priorities. A secure Canada is a strong Canada. This legislation keeps Canadians safe, reinforces public confidence and ensures that Canada remains a place where opportunity and safety go hand in hand. I urge all members of Parliament to support this bill. Together, let us strengthen our borders, protect our communities and build a safer, more secure future for all Canadians.”
“Bill C-12 does not cover bail reform, but the Prime Minister announced this past Thursday that our government will soon be tabling legislation to introduce amendments to the Criminal Code regarding reverse-onus bail for major crimes. This bill shows Canadians that their government is serious about security, serious about fairness and serious about protecting the values that define us. It modernizes our systems, respects privacy protections and ensures that our law enforcement and security agencies have the authority they need without compromising the rights of individuals. In Surrey Newton and communities throughout the country, these issues are deeply felt. Residents want to know that stolen vehicles are not disappearing across the border. Parents want their children to be safe from fentanyl.”
“Since the start of this year, the CBSA has seized more than 2.7 million grams of cocaine, 2,500 grams of fentanyl, 662 firearms and nearly $30 million in currency. This results in lives being saved and communities being protected. Bill C-12 is the product of listening to law enforcement, provincial partners and Canadians who want a government that is both compassionate and firm. We listened to the concerns of stakeholders and colleagues in the House on Bill C-2 . That is why we have introduced Bill C-12, which is tailored specifically to border security and combatting transnational organized crime, illegal fentanyl and illicit financing to ensure the safety of Canadians.”
“This flexibility would allow law enforcement agencies to act faster and prevent dangerous substances from entering our communities. In my home province of British Columbia, the opioid crisis has taken a devastating toll. Stopping the supply of illegal fentanyl before it reaches our streets is a crucial step in saving lives. Bill C-12 also strengthens Canada’s defences against money laundering and terrorist financing through amendments to the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act. It increases penalties for financial crimes and adds the director of FINTRAC to the Financial Institutions Supervisory Committee to improve oversight and collaboration. By cutting off the flow of dirty money, we would make it harder for organized crime to thrive. These measures would make a tangible difference in people’s lives.”
“It would streamline asylum claim processing, prevent misuse and strengthen information sharing with the provinces and territories. The new measures would help manage sudden surges in claims while ensuring that those genuinely in need of protection continue to receive it. I want to be clear that there would be no ban on asylum claims. People found ineligible under specific circumstances would still have access to a pre-removal risk assessment to ensure that they are not returned to danger. This strikes the right balance between compassion and credibility. (1110) The second pillar of Bill C-12 directly targets organized crime and the illegal drug trade. Amending the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act would allow the government to rapidly control new precursor chemicals used in the production of drugs such as fentanyl.”
“Criminals are exploiting export loopholes and shipping stolen cars overseas. Bill C-12 would close those gaps and give the CBSA the tools to act firmly. The bill would also amend the Oceans Act to grant the Canadian Coast Guard a security mandate. This would allow the Coast Guard to patrol our coastal waters, collect and share intelligence and work hand in hand with the RCMP and CBSA. For the first time, our maritime borders would be integrated into our broader national security strategy. Bill C-12 would further enable the RCMP to share information on registered sex offenders with domestic and international partners, strengthening community safety and aligning Canada with its allies. Within our immigration system, Bill C-12 would make important reforms to ensure fairness and integrity.”
“Bill C-12 would respond to these realities with a balanced approach. It would equip our law enforcement agencies with modern tools to protect Canadians, while safeguarding their rights under the Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Before I go further, I note that I will be sharing my time with the member for Pickering—Brooklin . Bill C-12 is built around two pillars. These are securing our borders and combatting organized crime, illegal fentanyl and illicit financing. Under the first pillar, amendments to the Customs Act would empower the CBSA to examine and detain goods leaving Canada. This new authority would help officers intercept stolen vehicles, firearms and narcotics before they leave our ports. Across Canada, and especially in urban regions, auto theft is fuelling transnational organized crime.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of Bill C-12 , the strengthening Canada’s immigration system and borders act. This legislation would protect Canadians, secure our borders and uphold the integrity of our immigration system. I am proud to support this legislation, which would help keep Canadians safe. There is no greater priority for our government than keeping our communities safe and our economy thriving. Our economy cannot thrive if we do not take strong measures to combat crime and ensure that our border is safe and secure. We live in a time of evolving global threats. Transnational criminal organizations, rising auto theft networks and the flow of illegal drugs continue to devastate families and our communities. We also face new migration pressures driven by conflict, climate change and economic instability.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Dr. Hakam Singh Bhullar and his new book The Underdog . In 1995, Dr. Bhullar became the first Indo-Canadian veterinarian to open a low-cost clinic in Vancouver, making quality animal care affordable for all. He worked with animal welfare groups, helped train many immigrant veterinarians and built a model of inclusion, but his success faced barriers and discrimination, leading to one of the longest human rights trials in Canadian history and a public apology from the College of Veterinarians of B.C. The Underdog is a story of struggle, resilience and courage to fight for justice. I commend Dr. Bhullar for this important contribution to our community and to Canada.”
“Mr. Speaker, out of those recommendations from Justice Arbour's report, more than 20 have been implemented. Every recommendation will be implemented by the end of 2025, including this bill, which is the last one. As the hon. member said, let us get this bill passed and get it to committee so that we can focus on the other bills that Conservatives want to talk about.”