Rachel Bendayan
Outremont, Quebec · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, since this summer, we have created more than 165,000 jobs here in Canada. In May alone, 88,000 jobs were created. If we look at the United States, for example, we see that Canada is creating jobs. The number of jobs created per capita in Canada is almost double that of the United States.”
“Mr. Speaker, summer has arrived in Outremont, Mile End and the Plateau. I would like to say thanks to all our shopkeepers, restaurant owners, cafés and everyone who brings our shopping areas to life. Bernard Avenue is once again a pedestrian zone this year.”
“Mr. Speaker, we have many programs that are helping Canadians deal with the rising cost of living. In fact, next week Canadians will start to receive Canada's new groceries and essentials benefit. For a family of four, that is $1,900 this year. That is real money that is going to help Canadians face the rising cost of living.”
“In the Plateau, the Rue Saint-Denis BIA and Pauline Béchu helped make the Montreal Comic Arts Festival a resounding success. On Mont-Royal Avenue, which is once again pedestrian only, the trade fair is in full swing until Sunday. This summer, support local businesses.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to share my time with my friend and colleague, the member for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas . I am very pleased to rise today to speak to Bill C-30 , which implements certain measures from the 2026 spring economic update. As members are well aware, we are debating this bill at a pivotal moment for our country.”
“This means accelerating investments in transmission infrastructure, clean power generation, energy storage and grid modernization, all so that Canadian businesses and workers have access to the affordable energy they need in order to compete and to grow. This is good for our environment, and it is good for our economy.”
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“Mr. Speaker, since this summer, we have created more than 165,000 jobs here in Canada. In May alone, 88,000 jobs were created. If we look at the United States, for example, we see that Canada is creating jobs. The number of jobs created per capita in Canada is almost double that of the United States. It is great to see that so many Canadians are optimistic and have a positive outlook on the future.”
“Mr. Speaker, we have many programs that are helping Canadians deal with the rising cost of living. In fact, next week Canadians will start to receive Canada's new groceries and essentials benefit. For a family of four, that is $1,900 this year. That is real money that is going to help Canadians face the rising cost of living. A few days ago, there was a poll released that shows that Canadians' optimism, their sense that Canada is moving in the right direction, is at its highest level in over a decade.”
“In the Plateau, the Rue Saint-Denis BIA and Pauline Béchu helped make the Montreal Comic Arts Festival a resounding success. On Mont-Royal Avenue, which is once again pedestrian only, the trade fair is in full swing until Sunday. This summer, support local businesses.”
“Mr. Speaker, summer has arrived in Outremont, Mile End and the Plateau. I would like to say thanks to all our shopkeepers, restaurant owners, cafés and everyone who brings our shopping areas to life. Bernard Avenue is once again a pedestrian zone this year. Children are playing in the street, parents are enjoying the patios and everyone gets ice cream. Last week, I took part in a Mile End celebration, alongside thousands of people, thanks to the incredible work of the Laurier West BIA, the Mile End Business Association and, of course, Gabriel Dallaire and his entire team. This year, I was able to count on the invaluable help of my daughter Ellie to hand out lemonade and popcorn to residents. She rose to the challenge brilliantly.”
“Mr. Speaker, that is a very important question to delve into immediately. I do not know if the time given to me will be sufficient, but I would like to make very clear that the Prime Minister has committed and recommitted to our objective of reaching net zero by 2050. That is the commitment of our government.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is true that in my speech I did not have the time to go into detail about the many housing measures in the economic update. Of course, first-time homebuyers will be able to benefit from the purchase of their first home being tax free. There are significant investments in order to create affordable housing, including rental units, right across the country. There is social housing as well. I would like to take this opportunity to recognize the incredible leadership of the member for West Vancouver—Sunshine Coast—Sea to Sky Country when it comes to the $13 billion that we are investing in international climate financing, an issue I know he cares about very deeply.”
“Mr. Speaker, we are currently working on plan to ensure food security for Canadians. I would be pleased to continue discussing this issue with my colleague outside the House. However, it is important for us, as a government, to work together to secure our food sovereignty, especially since we have such a thriving agricultural sector here in Canada.”
“Mr. Speaker, a few weeks ago, the Prime Minister announced our new electricity strategy and the beginning of consultations with stakeholders but also, importantly, with provinces and territories. We know electricity generation is done very differently from coast to coast to coast in this country. In Quebec, for example, we have incredible hydroelectricity, but that is not the case right across the country. What we have set forward is an ambitious objective. Certainly, with all of the natural resources we have in Canada, we can be the provider of clean electricity to countries around the world.”
“We are also redoubling our efforts to diversify Canada's economy. In a world where supply chains are being reshaped and global trade is becoming more fragmented, Canada must expand its economic partnerships and open new markets for Canadian businesses. Our objective is as clear as it is ambitious: to double Canada's non-U.S. trade over the next decade. I have only a little time left but a lot to say. We simply cannot rely too heavily on any single market. That is why we have concluded over 20 new trade and security agreements on four different continents. Our non-U.S. exports are now up nearly 40%. That diversification makes Canada stronger and much more resilient. As the Prime Minister said very clearly at Davos, we know that “The old order is not coming back. We should not mourn it.””
“I am not saying this just to boast about the Canadian economy, but because this fiscal strength is essential. In a world marked by instability, countries with sound and solid public finances like Canada have the ability to act, invest, and protect their citizens. (1630) [ English ] Canada is positioning itself to lead, and the world is taking notice. Foreign direct investment in Canada has reached its highest level in nearly two decades. Investors are choosing to invest here in Canada because of our skilled workforce, our stable institutions, our abundant natural resources and our responsible fiscal framework. That investment translates directly into jobs for Canadians, and it means new factories, new supply chains, new export opportunities and stronger economic sovereignty.”
“At a time when many countries, such as the United Kingdom and France, are cutting back on aid for climate protection, it is essential for all of us that Canada continue to show leadership, because climate change knows no borders, and helping the most vulnerable countries adapt and build their resilience is not only a moral responsibility for Canada, but also in our strategic interest. As we make these investments, we are fulfilling our commitment to reduce the government's operating spending. Since last fall, we have reduced the deficit by $11.5 billion. In fact, Canada continues to have the lowest net debt-to-GDP ratio in the G7. Canada has by far the strongest fiscal position of any G7 economy, as well as an AAA credit rating, the highest in the world.”
“This means accelerating investments in transmission infrastructure, clean power generation, energy storage and grid modernization, all so that Canadian businesses and workers have access to the affordable energy they need in order to compete and to grow. This is good for our environment, and it is good for our economy. Canada's electricity is some of the cleanest in the entire world, and it is key to attracting more investments in advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence and critical minerals and, of course, to ensuring the competitiveness of our economy overall. [ Translation ] In the economic update, we are providing more than $13 billion in international climate finance. Although this investment received relatively little media attention, it was very important to me. It was also important to the Prime Minister .”
“Over the past year, we have announced 15 major projects of national interest and six transformative economic strategies that will generate over $125 billion in investments and support more than 60,000 jobs across the country. That includes the expansion of the Port of Montreal back home in Contrecoeur. It also includes Nouveau Monde Graphite's Matawinie mine in the Lanaudière region and the transformative high-speed rail project between Quebec City and Toronto. [ English ] To meet this moment, we also need to ensure that Canada has the reliable and affordable electricity needed to power the economy of the future. Through our new national electricity strategy, we will double our electricity supply here in Canada while building a stronger, more interconnected electricity grid right across the country.”
“Next Friday, 12 million Canadians will receive a one-time payment as part of the new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. This means a payment of up to $267 for individuals and up to $533 for a family of four. This benefit represents nearly $1,900 this year. That is real money and a real boost for Canadians who need it most. (1625) [ Translation ] Next Friday, 12 million Canadians will receive a top-up payment as part of our new groceries and essentials benefit. That means $267 for a single person and up to $533 for a family of four. We are talking about approximately $1,900 for the year. That is very tangible support that will make a real difference.”
“In fact, inflation in Canada is now 26% lower than in the United States. Canada has the second-fastest growth rate in the G7 despite the trade war waged by the U.S. and continued global uncertainty, and according to the IMF, Canada is projected to remain the second-fastest growing economy in the G7 this year and next year. Since last summer, Canada has created over 77,000 jobs. Per capita, that is approximately two and a half times the pace of job creation in the United States. While the war in Iran and the resulting disruptions in global energy flows have significantly increased prices at the pump, our government has taken decisive action to mitigate those impacts for Canadians by suspending the federal excise taxes on fuel from now until Labour Day.”
“In fact, a recent poll released just a few days ago shows that the number of Canadians who believe that Canada, this country, is headed in the right direction is at its highest level in a decade. What Canadians expect from their federal government is seriousness, discipline and a clear economic path forward, and that is exactly what this government is delivering. The best way to ensure that Canada can weather this global wave of instability is by focusing on what we can control and building a strong economy here at home. The numbers speak for themselves. Wage growth has now outpaced inflation for more than three consecutive years, meaning Canadians are seeing sustained income growth. Inflation here in Canada has remained within the Bank of Canada's target range for two years now.”
“Global growth remains very uneven. Trade tensions are on the rise. Geopolitical conflicts in the Middle East and in Europe continue to disrupt our supply chains and to create uncertainty in international markets. Many advanced economies are struggling with sluggish productivity growth, persistent inflationary pressures and rising debt burdens, and Canadians understand these global realities. However, as I spoke with many constituents over the course of the last few weeks, and many Canadians indeed across the country, the feeling that keeps coming across is one of optimism. People see the chaos unfolding around the world, and more than ever, they are proud to be Canadian.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to share my time with my friend and colleague, the member for Hamilton West—Ancaster—Dundas . I am very pleased to rise today to speak to Bill C-30 , which implements certain measures from the 2026 spring economic update. As members are well aware, we are debating this bill at a pivotal moment for our country. Around the world, economic and geopolitical uncertainty has reached unprecedented levels. Global markets remain extremely volatile. Conflicts in the Middle East and Europe continue to disrupt supply chains. Global energy disruptions and trade tensions are on the rise. Protectionism is making a comeback. [ English ] Around the world, economies continue to face significant instability. The world uncertainty index recently surged to its highest level ever recorded in its more than 60 years of history.”
“Mr. Speaker, that is a very large question to respond to in a very short period of time. What we need to get is a good deal, and we are working with our American partners in order to get to that deal. We are in constant communication and are confident that at the end of the day Canada will get a great deal. It is important for us also, in parallel, as we are doing, to advance the major projects that will help build this country. I am very proud of the projects we are working on, including our high-speed train, including expanding the port of Montreal and including the port of Churchill. I could go on and on about this topic.”
“Mr. Speaker, respect for areas of jurisdiction is obviously very important. The Premier of Quebec met with our Prime Minister within hours of his taking office. It was very important for our Prime Minister to ensure that he was responsive to Quebec's requests. We have put forward several measures in our budget. We made it quite clear, both to the Quebec government and to the Bloc Québécois, that we would work hand in hand with Quebec on the programs it wishes to advance itself. It will receive the negotiated funds as usual. Our deputy is working with his counterpart in Quebec to that end.”
“Mr. Speaker, the member raised affordability concerns in his riding. He should let his constituents know that they will be receiving a cheque for the Canadian groceries and essentials benefit in a few weeks' time. It is an important measure by our government that will support the most vulnerable Canadians across the country. With respect to tariffs, just yesterday we announced $1.5 billion in order to support the sectors that have been hit particularly hard by these tariffs. This will ensure that companies can retain their employees to see them through this difficult time in order to continue to grow as they export to new partners.”
“The Montreal Canadiens reminded us that when Canada plays with determination, discipline and trust, we can do great things. We know how to win.”
“This investment will support conservation projects across the country and help build a more resilient, competitive and sustainable economy. Protecting nature also means building a sustainable and resilient economy. To conclude, in the face of this trade war, Canada is taking decisive action. We are supporting our workers, we are standing up for our industries, we are diversifying our trade, we are strengthening our alliances and, most importantly, we are standing united against this threat. As a proud Quebecker and proud Montrealer, I would be remiss if I did not mention the Montreal Canadiens' victory in game 7 against the Tampa Bay Lightning last Sunday. In this long-standing rivalry with our neighbour and largest trading partner, this time the result was conclusive and certainly satisfying.”
“We are investing in training and in the talent that thrives in every single Canadian. We are also investing in the beauty and in the biodiversity of our land. We are providing $4 billion for a historic nature strategy to protect and strengthen Canada's natural infrastructure. This strategy supports new protected areas while also mobilizing and protecting more money for national parks and urban green spaces, and supporting indigenous leadership in conservation. This is how we build a more resilient, competitive and sustainable economy for Canada and for our children. [ Translation ] We are putting nearly $4 billion on the table for a historic strategy to protect nature because Canada's wealth depends as much on its lands as it does on its talent.”
“Our leadership is being recognized internationally, and I am proud to state that Canada has just been chosen, through a unanimous vote, to host the new defence, security and resilience bank, reflecting the confidence of our allies in Canada's stability, credibility and economic strength. If we are fighting so hard to protect our sovereignty and to build our economy stronger, it is because we believe in Canada and in the values that define us as a country and as Canadians. That is why we introduced a climate competitiveness strategy, ensuring that Canadian industries remain leaders in low-carbon production. Canadian aluminum, for example, is among the cleanest in the world. That is a competitive advantage, and we intend to build on it. Our country's greatest riches are in its people and in its land.”
“We are already seeing a rise of nearly 40% in non‑U.S. exports. We are investing in the economy of tomorrow while supporting Canadians during this very difficult transition period. We have also strengthened our social safety net. Employment insurance is more flexible, with temporary measures to support workers impacted by these tariffs, including extended benefits and faster access. We have also enhanced the work-sharing programs to help employers retain their workforce and avoid layoffs. [ English ] We are also advancing a game-changing defence industrial strategy, one that will boost economic growth, create high-quality jobs and reinforce Canada's sovereignty in an increasingly uncertain world.”
“I believe that my colleague, the member for Burlington , will be sharing time with me, as she would also like to contribute to this debate. Let us be very clear that, as the Prime Minister has said, “We need a good deal...what we don't need is chasing a small deal that disadvantages us.” The risks of such an approach are very plain to see. Just last week, the United States announced significant new tariffs on European goods, despite the EU's having signed a tariff deal with the U.S. on July 27, 2025. That is a clear warning. A deal must be worth the paper it is written on. Canadians expect their government to stand firm and to protect their interests, and that is exactly what we are doing. (1540) [ Translation ] As we respond to this trade war, we are also building a stronger and more resilient economy at home.”
“Canadian businesses are demonstrating incredible resilience, adaptability and ambition, and our government is backing them every step of the way. We are accelerating investments in strategic sectors and strengthening Canada's economic sovereignty. As part of this work, Canada has now concluded 56 different critical mineral agreements with over 10 different countries, positioning Canada as a global leader in the economy of the future. Canada has also signed over 20 different trade and security agreements across our four continents over the last year, strengthening our ties with trusted allies and opening new markets for Canadian businesses. As we work to diversify, we continue to engage constructively with our American partners to seek a fair and sustainable agreement that benefits both our economies.”
“[ English ] We are providing $1.5 billion in targeted support for businesses affected by these tariffs. This support will help companies maintain operations, protect jobs and adapt in the face of disruptions. While we cannot control the decisions of the White House, we can control how we respond to them and how we prepare for our own future. Our approach is not only one of mitigation. It is also one of transformation. We are taking concrete steps to support those sectors most impacted, as we diversify our trade and increase our exports to reliable trading partners around the world. This work has been a major focus of our government over the last year, and we are already seeing concrete results. Canada's non‑U.S. exports are up nearly 40%. Our aluminum exports, in particular to Europe, have surged as producers pivot to new markets.”
“These tariffs have very real consequences for business owners and workers in Saguenay—Lac-Saint-Jean and the north shore, as well as in Hamilton or Sault Ste. Marie, and for manufacturers and small and medium-sized businesses across the country. From the very beginning, from day one of these unjustified tariffs, our government has been working hand in hand with the Aluminum Association of Canada and the Canadian Steel Producers Association, with business leaders, yes, but also with workers and the entire aluminum and steel sector. That is why we are providing $1.5 billion in targeted support for affected businesses. This includes a new $1-billion program from the Business Development Bank of Canada to support liquidity and investment, as well as an additional $500 million to support businesses directly on the ground.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would first like to thank the Bloc Québécois for introducing this motion on U.S. tariffs. I would especially like to thank my colleague from Joliette—Manawan , who is the sponsor of this motion. I have had the opportunity to work closely with him for many years and have always been impressed by his professionalism, pragmatism and kindness, even when we were in deep disagreement. It is clear that the unjustified tariffs imposed by the United States on Canadian metals directly affect workers, businesses and communities in Quebec and across the country. This is a very serious situation, and our government takes these measures very seriously. The imposition of tariffs on steel, aluminum and copper is not an abstract decision.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is true. As of today, we are suspending the federal excise tax on gasoline, which will give struggling Canadians a little more breathing room. We also just announced that, on June 5, Canadians will receive a one-time Canada groceries and essentials benefit payment. That is a cheque of up to $530 per family. We are there for Canadians. We know that Canadians need us, and our government is there for them.”
“Mr. Speaker, we know that Canadians are struggling right now. The Conservatives' approach since last summer has been to filibuster in the House. We are trying to move forward. This very day, we proposed a new, targeted measure to support Canadians and help consumers weather sticker shock at the pumps. This will help them directly by putting money back in their pockets.”
“Mr. Speaker, when the Prime Minister and our entire caucus was in Alberta, we heard about the need to move quicker on the construction of homebuilding, and that is what we are delivering. Our plan will double construction for homes right across this country, for rental and for purchase, and it is going to respond to the needs of the youth of Canada. Our plan is stuck because the Conservatives refuse to move it out of the finance committee. When will the Conservatives stop talking and start acting in order to help us build this country?”
“Mr. Speaker, our government has a plan to double housing construction across the country. That plan is stuck at the finance committee because Conservatives like to complain about young people not having a home to buy. However, when the solution is right in front of them, they obstruct and they block the progress of our bills. We are going to double housing construction in this country, and we will do it with or without the Conservatives.”
“Mr. Speaker, a family of four may receive over $1,800 through our new Canada groceries and essentials benefit. That will help families and households make ends meet at the end of the month. It is true. We have seen the statistics that show that one in five households has trouble paying their rent, so I am wondering why the Conservatives are blocking the work of Build Canada Homes. Why do the Conservatives want to block our new benefit for Canadians?”
“Mr. Speaker, $1,900 per family is real money that will help Canadians pay for groceries, pay for schools and pay for activities for their children. Canadians in Conservative-held ridings want to benefit from this support from our government. Why are the Conservatives systematically blocking every time we want to help Canadians?”
“Mr. Speaker, let us be clear. The Conservatives are crying crocodile tears. They complain that Canadians are struggling to make ends meet. However, they vote against Canadians' interests. We have the Canada child benefit, which is indexed to inflation, but the Conservatives do not like this program. They voted against it. We have the dental care program for children and for seniors who are struggling, but the Conservatives voted against that too. They want nothing to do with that program because it helps Canadians. Let us be frank. The Conservatives do not have Canadians' best interests at heart.”
“Mr. Speaker, I think we have said a number of times that the Conservatives are talking about imaginary taxes. Inflation is actually dropping here in Canada. We are here to meet the needs of Canadians, yet the Conservative Party has voted against all the measures in the budget that are going to help people make ends meet, including our school food program, which is going to help kids. It seems unbelievable.”
“Mr. Speaker, that Conservative member talks about food prices, yet he voted against making the national school food program permanent. That is a program that helps young people, that helps school-aged children eat food in order to learn better. This morning I made an announcement at a women's shelter in Montreal that our government has funded in order to help women find a secure and safe place to call home. The Conservatives are against supporting our frontline workers, whether it is in the food industry or whether it is our shelters—”
“Mr. Speaker, the minister has answered that question a number of times already today. What is clear to me is that the Conservative Party members do not see the need to be investing in our economy. We put forward a plan in the form of a budget, and that budget would see over $50 billion going straight into the community of each and every member of Parliament in this room. It would create community centres and recreational centres. It would create local infrastructure that would benefit Canadian families from coast to coast to coast, and the Conservatives seem to be against everything that is good for Canadians.”
“Mr. Speaker, in the short time I have, I would like to say how important that member's advocacy has been on brain injuries. I look forward to meeting with him and Brain Injury Canada later this evening. I look forward to working with him in order to create a national strategy in this country.”
“Mr. Speaker, Waterloo, in many ways, resembles a piece of my riding in the Mile End, which has enormous potential for economic growth because it contains so many small start-ups and so much new innovation. The budget really answers the call for those entrepreneurs and those individuals who want to be part of the economy of the future. The productivity superdeduction is there, of course, but there are also a lot of smaller measures that are going to help small businesses and entrepreneurs throughout the country in order to develop their ideas and in order to protect their ideas. As I mentioned and the member mentioned, Canadian intellectual property is extremely important, and we are going to build that out in order to ensure that Canadians own the ideas of the future.”
“Mr. Speaker, I think this is the first time I have heard the Bloc Québécois talk about the significant investment we have made in culture in this budget. This is very important, and it should be noted that the Quebec caucus, which now has 44 members, worked hard to secure these investments in culture. My colleague referred to local media. That is certainly something to be considered. However, let us talk about the investments in CBC/Radio-Canada, as well as those in Musicaction, which I discussed in my speech, not to mention the many theatres and live art shows that will benefit from the investments in this budget. I think we have been clear. The government has listened to Quebeckers when it comes to investments in culture.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am pleased the Conservatives have noticed we have expanded SR&ED. SR&ED is an integral part of the budget because it is going to encourage small and medium-sized businesses to do more research and development. We are going to help them invest and reinvest into their companies, because that is what we know needs to happen in order to grow this economy.”
“It is a decision to throw down the gloves and build this country; to build the housing, the high-speed rail and the infrastructure; to protect the vulnerable, our innovation through IP, our borders and our sovereignty through a new defence industrial strategy; and to empower consumers through greater choice, empower entrepreneurs to grow and innovate, empower the business community to invest here and, yes, empower young people to dream in a Canada where absolutely anything is possible.”
“It is administered in part by Musicaction, an outstanding organization based in Le Plateau-Mont-Royal, in my riding, which supports homegrown talent and propels them to reach new heights. I look forward to celebrating the tens of millions of dollars in federal government funding that Musicaction is going to receive. Our message is clear: To invest in culture is to invest in what Canada is all about. [ English ] I will end by saying that this is more than a budget or a piece of implementing legislation.”
“It is a little-known fact, but one measure that will have an impact on many vulnerable Canadians in this country is that the legislation before us would increase the amount immediately available after depositing a cheque from $100 to $150. (1325) [ Translation ] The bill before the House also reaffirms the key role that culture plays as a vital driving force behind our collective identity. Our government is there to support our artists, our creators, our authors, our musicians and all of our cultural industries so that they can keep telling our stories and be the voice of Canadians at home and abroad. What immediately comes to my mind is the power of music to bring people together, to connect regions and generations, and to remind us of everything that unites us. The Canada Music Fund plays a particularly important role in this regard.”
“That is why our federal government is extending support for Canada's entrepreneurs to secure patents, helping small businesses leverage and commercialize their intangible assets and ensuring that our businesses can protect their IP in global markets. We are also launching a comprehensive review of Canada's IP performance to strengthen our capacity to turn Canadian ideas into Canadian wealth. In short, we are making sure that when Canadians invent the future, Canadians own it and Canadians reap the benefit from it. The budget also cracks down on financial fraud and scams, and it implements open banking to give consumers more control over their financial data.”
“I also want to highlight two other measures that did not get as much airtime. First, the legislation before us would deliver a major expansion to the SR&ED tax credit, the scientific research and experimental development tax incentive. This tax credit encourages Canadian innovators to develop and commercialize cutting-edge ideas here at home. Our small and medium-sized businesses and entrepreneurs have asked us to expand this fabulous program, which they rely on, and the federal government has listened. Another piece that is critical to our economic growth in the new economy is to build Canadian intellectual property. Strong IP is essential to building Canadian innovation that competes and wins on the global stage.”