Bardish Chagger
Waterloo, Ontario · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the minister reminding us what this bill is about. It is about working with provinces and territories and providing them with the levers to help Canadians. Even on a bill so simple, we hear the opposition talking about the importance of having debate and conversation.”
“When people want us to work, when Canadians are hurting and want us to serve, the Conservatives cannot fathom the government succeeding in doing well for Canadians. They would rather keep advancing their narrative than help their own constituents, neighbours and fellow Canadians.”
“Madam Speaker, I find some of the comments from the official opposition interesting, especially when comments are made that 30 hours of debate is not enough. I agree that we want to raise different perspectives. Constituents in the riding of Waterloo have a diversity of perspectives.”
“I would like to hear the member's thoughts as to why the Conservatives are taking the approach that the federal government does not have a role to play. Why are they so concerned that the federal government will help Canadians and give them a hand?”
“Mr. Speaker, the member's comments about really being there to meet Canadians with what they need and finding out ways to do it are not lost on me. Just last month, the Government of Canada and the Government of Alberta stated in a press release that they are going to invest $323 million in affordable housing.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thought that the last exchange was interesting. We just received an example of a Conservative member's wanting more investment in housing and more affordable housing built, recognizing that his constituents need the federal government to play a role, yet rather than working with the government to ensure that we can have mor…”
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“I would like to hear the member's comments in regard to the court ruling and the importance of this government, and all parties, having a role to play respecting what the courts do and the work they provide.”
“Mr. Speaker, this is an interesting debate we are having regarding citizenship. Within the riding of Waterloo, I have had constituents tell me about their experiences. These are hard-working Canadians who have had opportunities to be abroad. I think global citizenship has some value to it. They have shared the importance of this legislation. There is also frustration within the riding of Waterloo when it comes to the Conservative Party's disregard for what Canadians decided six months ago in terms of who they sent to Parliament. The Conservative leader made despicable comments about the RCMP, without having regard for these independent, hard-working institutions. Think about the wrong-headed comments on court rulings. Courts have an independent job to do. They are not partisan entities.”
“I would love to hear from the member what she believes the opposition can do to help Canadians have a better outcome and make sure that they benefit from the purpose the government is here to serve.”
“Mr. Speaker, I appreciated the perspective the member shared. Even within the riding of Waterloo, there is a diversity of views and perspectives. Constituents recognize that the government is trying to take measures to advance the country and ensure that Canadians do well, but they are frustrated by the official opposition refusing to move forward even in inches and take concrete measures or help be constructive in that approach. The member referred to comments about important things. Constituents in the riding of Waterloo recognize that Conservatives voted against the national food program, dental care and early learning and child care, and the list goes on.”
“Madam Speaker, I rise on a point of order. I did not want to ruin the member's clip, but I think being accurate in this place is important. Applications are made to Health Canada, which can approve or deny them, but Health Canada does not pick the location. Conservatives should stop misleading Canadians.”
“I would ask the member, does she see the value in this legislation? Could it be improved at committee? Does she have some feedback that she would like the government to hear so that we can try to get it right to serve Canadians in the way we all have a desire to do?”
“Madam Speaker, I also want to offer my sincere condolences on the passing of the member's mother. I do believe it is important, when we are having debates on such important topics, that we get to hear what can make legislation better. We are at second reading. The legislation will go to committee. I think that was a little of a reaction to the comments made by the member suggesting that wearing a certain colour makes someone of a certain party and whatever the case may be. Right now, this is an important bill. We do need to try to get it right. Canadians are asking for it. We had an election. Canadians sent us, in our respective roles, in this chamber. The NDP knows that they did not even receive party status, but they do have an important role to play here. I know that I have constituents who also recognize their important work.”
“Madam Speaker, it is important, when it is a serious topic such as this, that we represent members accordingly. He said what I said, then he said what I said again, and they do not match. I would just ask the member to stay focused on the topic and have a debate, and sometimes— Some hon. members: Oh, oh!”
“They voted against early learning and child care. They voted against the national action plan to end gender-based violence. Constituents in the riding of Waterloo are asking when Conservatives will recognize that victims should have the opportunity to exist and that the federal government has a role to play. If this budget supports organizations serving women, will they stand with women or continue to play the partisan politics they are playing with the bill?”
“Madam Speaker, it is always a pleasure to be in the House and to be able to represent the good people of the riding of Waterloo. I agree with the hon. member that we need to represent the people on the ground. We need to know that Canadians are watching. We need to represent the very people who sent us here. The constituents within the riding of Waterloo have diverse views. Several are asking how Conservatives are coming to this moment when they voted against capacity funding for organizations serving women, and they feel right now that Conservatives want to see the books balanced rather than supporting the organizations needing that support. Conservatives voted against pay equity, which could give those very individuals the member is referring to the opportunity to exist and be able to succeed.”
“Mr. Speaker, the member made some really interesting comments, especially when it comes to the recommendations of Justice Arbour and the fact that this Parliament could achieve advancing all 48 of them. I find that interesting because we come here to work and to represent our constituents. The constituents of the riding of Waterloo expect me to show up to work, and it seems that the Conservatives are almost irked that the government could accomplish satisfying those recommendations. I would like to hear from the member what his thoughts are when it comes to the men and women in uniform, the fact that this should be a non-partisan issue and the ability to call the question and get this to committee, so that the committee can spend the time it needs to do the scrutiny to ensure that we do get it right. I agree that we need to get it right.”
“Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the member actually following the lead of my colleague from Terrebonne in not using the entire amount of allotted time that he had to speak. We know there are many members who want to speak to the bill, but we also recognize that there is some agreement that the bill needs to go to committee so that we can get it right, so that we would be serving the very people who take so much time to serve us. First, I appreciate that the member was very concise in providing some constructive feedback. I would like to hear from the member on whether he agrees that the work to advance the bill and to make any amendments to it should be done at committee and that we should do it in a timely manner so that we can actually get to all the recommendations by Madam Arbour.”
“Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the way the member finished his speech and the comments he shared. I also want to thank him for his service. It is important that we give regard and respect to our men and women in uniform. Hearing the comments provided to me, and I would say to the constituents in the riding of Waterloo, about some assurance that we can actually move the bill to committee rather quickly, I would like to hear from the member how quickly he believes it could progress so we could get to scrutinizing it and making sure we get it right at committee.”
“Mr. Speaker, I first want to express my appreciation for the minister 's and the government's approach to the legislation and for taking very seriously what they have been hearing from citizens. The approach of taking it outside the CAF, as the minister explained, is a very reasonable one to ensure that there is transparency and consequences for unfortunate circumstances. I recognize that the bill deals with CAF members on CAF members. Constituents within the riding of Waterloo have shared concerns regarding CAF members on civilians. I would like to hear the minister's comments as to whether the bill would address this or what the approach is on that situation.”
“Mr. Speaker, on a point of order, we have to respect that within this chamber there are rules, and opposition parties are able to raise their opposition day motion. However, the Conservatives are not giving value to the debate on the floor of the House of Commons, so I would ask for relevance on this matter.”
“Mr. Speaker, I recognize that the member is newer, but it is important that we maintain the Standing Orders in this place, and the member should not be referring to the Prime Minister or any member by their name.”
“Mr. Speaker, there is a diversity of views and perspectives, and it is essential that we do grow the economy. People in my riding of Waterloo share that, but I also hear from many constituents who are saying it is important that we take the environment seriously. They have been noticing that premiers from coast to coast to coast are really onside with this new government's vision and recognizing the importance of getting it right, to ensure there is safety, security and energy security for generations to come. I know the government stands with energy workers. I would like to hear the member's comments in regard to the importance of ensuring that the environment is considered as we grow the economy and as we secure and procure Canadian energy spaces for Canadians and around the world.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise on a point of order. I know you are newer to the chair, but the hon. member for Regina—Qu'Appelle has occupied it and even has a portrait on these walls. To use terminology such as “deliberately misleading” is him doing indirectly what he cannot do directly. I think we should have much more professionalism and order in such an important debate today.”
“If a second-generation, not-born–Canadian person is abroad and gives birth to a baby, that baby would not have any reason to have securities done. The opposition is talking about securities. Could the member just elaborate on the importance of recognizing that a child of a Canadian citizen is a citizen?”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my friend and colleague for sharing with us about his time in uniform. I am really grateful to our men and women in uniform for the rights and freedoms that we have and, as has been mentioned numerous times today, with rights and freedoms come responsibilities. I recognize that citizenship is definitely a privilege. It is an honour. My family immigrated to Canada, and I was born and raised here, but what I find interesting is that many individuals who are my age also immigrated to Canada when they were very young; they have been in Canada their whole life and they work for Canadian businesses. When they go abroad and perhaps expand their family, those children do not have the right to citizenship. Today, there is a lot of conversation in regard to security.”
“Mr. Speaker, it was fascinating to hear about the member's family. We heard a little bit of emotion when she talked about her parents and her children, and just how much people who have come to Canada can give. Unless one is indigenous, everyone immigrated here at some point, and it is important that we value what people come to give and contribute. Within the riding of Waterloo, I have a constituent who was born abroad, but came to Canada right away. Her family is from Canada, and she contributes in Canada and pays taxes in Canada. She works for a Canadian company, but was travelling abroad when she delivered her baby earlier than expected. Because she was born abroad, and now her baby was born abroad, her baby was not eligible for citizenship. I would like to hear the members' comments on that issue.”
“Mr. Speaker, could the member perhaps just bring it back to the legislation? The fact is that with Canadian citizenship, rights and privileges do come with responsibilities, which I agree with. Does the member agree that the right way to provide suggestions and amendments to the legislation would be at committee?”
“I understand that the legislation would be actually dealing with Canadian citizens, and once someone has earned the privilege, the right to be a Canadian citizen, they are a Canadian citizen, and this is in regard to people having children abroad, the second generation abroad, but who are proud Canadian citizens. I would just like the member to reiterate what the legislation is, why it needs to advance and the importance of it.”
“Mr. Speaker, I believe it is good legislation, and it is very similar to the legislation that was in the previous Parliament. It is actually better legislation than two times ago, so we have made improvements, and the process at committees is working. We need to move forward to committee so we can call the question and consider any amendments. I would like the member to reiterate whom the legislation would impact. We are hearing from the opposition side about the number of days and whether it should be similar to obtaining Canadian citizenship.”
“The second question is in regard to advancing the bill to committee. Does the member agree that we cannot pass amendments at second reading? The committee would have to study that legislation and send it back with improvements or suggestions, which would be the right course of action to get some work done around here.”
“Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the speech that was shared. I listened to it on my way to the House. I have a twofold question. The first is with respect to the constituents of the riding of Waterloo. I was able to interact with a constituent who was born to Canadian tax-paying citizens abroad. Her mother was travelling abroad for a Canadian company and had to have an emergency delivery, so because her child was born abroad, without that intention, the child did not have the right to Canadian citizenship. Once again, her parents were living in Canada and were Canadian taxpayers, so there is a bit of a discrepancy. My first question would be this: Does the member agree with or respect the ruling of the courts? Does he want to ensure that the legislation is compliant with the laws and the charter of our country?”
“Mr. Speaker, I appreciated the member's speech and the comments in regard to Canada's new government and the vision that our new Prime Minister has. On April 28, Canadians sent us here with a strong mandate, and I hope members in this House can all work together to advance the vision of Canada's new government. As the member of Parliament for the riding of Waterloo, I am hearing from constituents who are concerned in regard to this legislation. They are wanting to understand the process and how we can assure them that their rights and freedoms will not be infringed upon. I would love to hear the member's comments, just to provide some relief and reassurance to constituents within the riding of Waterloo and across Canada.”
“I would like to hear from the member why the Conservatives refuse to accept that climate change is real. Why is it that they always attack the government and Canadian jobs rather than actually looking at where the issues are?”
“Mr. Speaker, I recognize there are a diversity of views and perspectives within this chamber. We know there is no bad seat in this chamber, and it is always an honour and privilege to represent the good people of the riding of Waterloo. Something that the parliamentary secretary mentioned was in regard to the approach of the official opposition members and the fact that they are not recognizing the importance of growing our economy, growing opportunity. Electric vehicles are one of those opportunities. I come from southwestern Ontario. The automotive sector is a really important part of our economy and the jobs and the well-being of communities. What is interesting is that the official opposition chooses to attack electric vehicles rather than challenge the U.S. tariffs being imposed on Canada.”
“Will the member be working with the provincial government, especially with his provincial experience, to ensure there are no barriers in Canada by Canada Day?”
“Mr. Speaker, the member and I have worked together, so I am glad to see him in this place. I know he has served at the provincial level, and it is exciting to be able to work with him at the federal level. We were on the tourism file together, so I know he is a champion for his province, and I try to fight for Ontario as the proud member of Parliament for the riding of Waterloo. As I listen to the member's speech, I hear his concerns. I think it is important we get this legislation advanced, even if it is only a step, as the Conservatives are saying, in the right direction. I do think another step will be to ensure provinces are doing their part to ensure each of our provinces is able to showcase the best of our products across the country. I know there is stuff in Saskatchewan that Ontario would love, and I am sure vice versa.”
“Mr. Speaker, I hear some of the hon. member's concerns. It is interesting. The member referred to the same product needing to be looked at twice when it is coming out of a province and going into a province and so forth. I think sometimes things happen, and when it comes to the security of the country and its people, it is important that we take all measures. Does the member recognize that the federal government is advancing this legislation to get rid of barriers to interprovincial trade at the federal level and that provinces also have work to do? Will he be working with the provincial government to ensure that Ontario products can make it across this country?”
“Mr. Speaker, the election was not that long ago. Canadians, including those in the riding of Waterloo, were really concerned and commented about the one Canadian economy. It was a message that was quite well received. We know that premiers are onside. Today we are having this debate, and the NDP is basically not even present while the Bloc is choosing to oppose the legislation but is not providing any amendments. The Conservatives are supporting it, yet are giving speeches as if they oppose it. Could the member tell us what the benefits of this legislation are, and could he also reiterate the difference between federal interprovincial trade barriers and provincial ones?”
“Madam Speaker, we can definitely always innovate more. As the representative for the riding of Waterloo, I can say that we believe in innovation and in competition. There have been other members within the Conservative Party trying to understand what would happen once the legislation passes. They have been kind of misquoting the Prime Minister as saying that the legislation would actually be removing any federal barriers to interprovincial trade. Does the member agree we are a federation and that all levels of government would have a role to play to ensure that we have interprovincial trade within Canada that is barrier-free, that all levels would have to pass legislation and that this is the federal aspect?”
“How can we as the government, and all members elected to this place, work together to ensure that we are delivering results for more Canadians, rather than just the same old spiel from the Conservatives?”
“Mr. Speaker, I know the member wanted to hear from one of my dear colleagues, and hopefully there will be enough time. I listened to the member's comments, and I hear what he is saying. I really do appreciate the fact that he recognizes that Canadians made a decision on April 28 and that he accepts the decision they made. What is interesting to me is that we do have a new government; there is a new government transformation, new processes in place and a desire to do better, to ensure that we have one Canadian economy and that we are fighting for Canadians. What I hear from the member is really a professional opposition member with 10 years' experience. I doubt he has had any other job that he has done for 10 years. I would like to hear from the member.”
“With the member's experience and his background in law, as we are spending more on defence and as we are building one economy in Canada, what advice and guidance can we hear from him so that we can ensure the success—”
“Mr. Speaker, I am one who oftentimes provides a lot of commentary from this little corner here, but I did appreciate the member's talking through and bringing to light some of the details that should be shared. I would say that constituents in the riding of Waterloo would want to hear them as well. I do hear the concerns and the comments that were raised in the report. I appreciate that this new government has committed to following all the recommendations. The member made a comment in regard to how, oftentimes, a comment is made, yet there is not enough follow-through. That issue really did bring to light a bit more attention, because we have a new Minister of Government Transformation . I hear the two points that people want raised the most.”
“Mr. Speaker, I would first say that I appreciate the member's recognizing— Some hon. members: Oh, oh! Hon. Bardish Chagger: Mr. Speaker, it sounds like there is a little bit of excitement from the other side. It was actually the member who finally did admit today that when it came to the situation with WE Charity, not a single taxpayer dollar was consumed and that, actually, all the money was here. Today the Conservatives are talking about how they stopped it. First of all, I want to thank the member for recognizing that the Filipino flag was raised today. I thank him for his work. There is a very active Filipino community in Waterloo. I have a question, and I would like to hear an answer. The Conservatives refuse to recognize that it is a new administration. The fact is that the election just happened on April 28. What I am—”
“Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the deputy House leader sharing such good comments today. I know that the member opposite did stand up on relevance, but I do believe that Bill C-4 is very relevant to this conversation. In the riding of Waterloo, constituents want to be reassured that the government will continue to fight climate change, because we know that climate change is real. As I said yesterday, all members in the House seem to believe it, except for the official opposition, for whom I guess the jury is still out. They have not seen that the environment is changing and that we need to do something about it. I would ask the member to share, because we both come from southwest Ontario, the benefits of ensuring that we take the environment seriously.”
“Parties recognize the merits of climate change, and even the line of questioning going back and forth. I will always say that there is definitely more work to do. We have to work across levels of government. There are many young people watching. There are many families watching. What words or comments can the minister provide to reassure us that the government will continue to take the environment seriously, recognizes the economic opportunities and will continue to fight climate change because it is the right thing to do and we must do it?”
“Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the minister for those comments, and I find it really fascinating. The minister and I have had exchanges since we were both elected in 2015. It is a file that is really important to constituents within the riding of Waterloo. There is clearly a diversity of voices and a diversity of perspectives as to what the best approach is, but what I have noticed is that, more and more, people are recognizing the importance of having to act on the environment, accepting the realities of climate change. I would say that all parties in this House, except for the Conservative Party of Canada, would recognize the merits— Some hon. members: Oh, oh! Hon. Bardish Chagger: Mr. Speaker, they make noise as if they are surprised.”
“In my opportunity to exchange with the minister today, I would like to emphasize that we must continue to make decisions based on evidence, not ideology. Waterloo deserves and expects that. I am proud of the leadership we are showing as a government and the concrete steps the government is taking. Our community in Waterloo is home to some of Canada's most innovative research institutions, and local scientists are doing incredible work to fight climate change, protect biodiversity and improve air and water quality. I would like to know if the Minister of Environment and Climate Change can share how the federal government has supported these efforts in Waterloo through recent investments.”
“Recent funding for flood mitigation projects and stormwater management systems exemplifies a proactive approach that protects both people and property, reducing costs over the long term and ensuring that Waterloo remains a safe and vibrant community. In closing, we have more work to do. The federal government's targeted investments in Waterloo exemplify our commitment to tackling climate change through practical, local solutions. These initiatives demonstrate that environmental stewardship and economic growth go together. By building cleaner transit, supporting innovation, protecting natural ecosystems and enhancing resilience, we are ensuring that Waterloo and all of Canada can thrive in a sustainable future.”
“These ecosystems act as carbon sinks, improve biodiversity and mitigate flooding risks, which are issues that are becoming more urgent as our climate changes. Programs such as the natural infrastructure fund and the Great Lakes protection initiative have supported local projects and enhanced water quality and habitat resilience, helping safeguard our environment for future generations. Fourth is climate adaptation and resilience. Waterloo is experiencing the impacts of climate change first-hand, from extreme weather events to shifting seasonal patterns. The government's investments in climate adaptation through infrastructure upgrades and community resilience programs are helping our riding better prepare for and withstand these challenges.”
“Our government has partnered with local institutions and businesses through initiatives such as Sustainable Development Technology Canada and the innovation superclusters initiative to fund cutting-edge projects in renewable energy, energy storage and smart grid technologies. These investments are creating good, well-paying green jobs right here at home, while positioning Canada as a leader in the global clean economy. This is exactly the kind of forward-thinking approach we need, tackling climate change while building economic prosperity. Third is enhancing natural climate solutions through conservation and green infrastructure. Federal funding has been allocated to protect and restore vital natural areas in and around Waterloo, including river corridors, wetlands and urban green spaces.”
“The Government of Canada has committed millions through programs like the public transit infrastructure fund, supporting the expansion of the Ion light rail transit system, a vital link, reducing traffic congestion and cutting emissions. This investment not only helps to lower our carbon footprint but also improves accessibility and connectivity for all residents, fostering inclusive and sustainable urban growth. It is an investment in cleaner air, less traffic and stronger communities. Second is support for clean energy innovation and green jobs. Waterloo's tech ecosystem is a hub for clean energy and environmental innovation.”
“We work together with like-minded and not-so-like-minded people, because we know that everyone must be part of the solution. (1945) However, to fully realize this potential, we require targeted investments. The federal government has been there for Waterloo with support that addresses the environmental challenges we face and leverages our local expertise. First is investment in public transit and sustainable transportation. We know transportation is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions. In Waterloo, we have seen significant federal funding directed toward expanding and electrifying public transit infrastructure.”
“Constituents within the region of Waterloo can contact Reep, and Reep will help inform them of any tax credits, grants or programs available across all levels of government. Today, the minister referenced several programs that are available to Canadians. Our community in Waterloo is poised to be a leader in the green economy. The blue box recycling system, a precursor to the modern recycling bin, was first developed and tested in the Waterloo region in 1981. In 1983, it was Kitchener, Ontario, that became the first community in Canada to include curbside recycling with blue bins in its waste management practices. I often say that as much as the world needs more Canada, Canada needs more Waterloo. We are part of the solution. We are a barn-raising community.”
“It incorporates energy-efficient design features, including high-performance envelopes, solar arrays and geothermal systems. In Waterloo region alone, there are over 15,000 homes that were built prior to 1940, presenting a huge opportunity to take action. In Waterloo, we are part of the solution, and we turned a century home into a modern net-zero house, known as the Reep House. It has achieved an 86% reduction in energy use and a LEED for homes Canada platinum rating. At Reep Green Solutions, they believe that, acting today, we can leave our children a community that is more resilient, vibrant, caring and sustainable. Their mission is to empower the community with the practical tools, knowledge and capacity for action to make sustainable living the norm.”