Marie-France Lalonde
Orléans, Ontario · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, recently Canada was selected to host the Defence, Security and Resilience Bank following negotiations among allied countries. [ Translation ] This decision reflects the confidence of our allies and will lead to the creation of a defence-funding institution, providing affordable loans and facilitating strategic investments.”
“Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the following reports of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, or APF.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the seventh report of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, entitled “Removing Barriers to Entrepreneurship Among Veterans”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to this report.”
“The fourth report concerns its participation in the meeting of the APF Parliamentary Affairs Committee held in Port Louis, Mauritius, from April 8 to 10, 2026. The fifth report concerns its participation in the meeting of the APF Network of Women Parliamentarians held in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, from April 22 to 24, 2026.”
“Madam Speaker, from June 17 to 25, exactly 1,871 students from eight high schools in Orléans will be celebrating their graduation, one of the most important milestones in their academic journey. This journey is marked by perseverance, growth and success. They have acquired the tools they need for the next stage of their lives.”
“Mr. Speaker, from May 17 to May 23, we mark Paramedic Services Week, a time to honour the dedicated professionals who respond with compassion during Canadians' most difficult moments. In Orléans and across Ottawa, paramedics serve our community every day with courage, professionalism and care.”
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“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the seventh report of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, entitled “Removing Barriers to Entrepreneurship Among Veterans”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to this report. While I am on my feet, I move: Motion That the House do now proceed to orders of the day.”
“The fourth report concerns its participation in the meeting of the APF Parliamentary Affairs Committee held in Port Louis, Mauritius, from April 8 to 10, 2026. The fifth report concerns its participation in the meeting of the APF Network of Women Parliamentarians held in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, from April 22 to 24, 2026.”
“Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the following reports of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, or APF. The first report concerns its participation in the electoral observation mission in Chisinău, Moldova, from September 22 to 30, 2025. The second report concerns its participation in the Bureau meeting of the APF and the Working Group on Reforming the APF Constitution held in Podgorica, Montenegro, from January 27 to February 1, 2026. The third report concerns its participation in the meeting of the APF Young Parliamentarians Network held in Monaco from March 1 to 3, 2026.”
“[ English ] I join my NCR colleagues and the mayors of Ottawa and Gatineau in strongly supporting Ottawa-Gatineau as the ideal home for the DSRB.”
“Mr. Speaker, recently Canada was selected to host the Defence, Security and Resilience Bank following negotiations among allied countries. [ Translation ] This decision reflects the confidence of our allies and will lead to the creation of a defence-funding institution, providing affordable loans and facilitating strategic investments. [ English ] As Canada's national capital region, Ottawa-Gatineau is uniquely positioned to host the DSRB. Home to more than 130 missions, it is a recognized defence and security innovation hub with world-class research institutions, cutting-edge laboratories and a rare ecosystem where government, industry, academia and the security sector work together. [ Translation ] Ottawa and Gatineau have the largest pool of specialized defence talent in the country, supported by a highly bilingual workforce.”
“Through her leadership, she has advanced student support, equity and inclusion and strong clinical care across Canada. I congratulate Sara and thank her for inspiring us all.”
“Madam Speaker, from June 17 to 25, exactly 1,871 students from eight high schools in Orléans will be celebrating their graduation, one of the most important milestones in their academic journey. This journey is marked by perseverance, growth and success. They have acquired the tools they need for the next stage of their lives. [ English ] It is always quite inspiring to personally sign each of their certificates. I want to congratulate each of them. They did it. [ Translation ] I want to congratulate all of them on their success. [ English ] Additionally, I would like to recognize Orléans resident Sara Siddiqi, a Ph.D. candidate at the University of Ottawa and recipient of the 2026 Learner Changemaker Award from the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada.”
“(1410) [ English ] Paramedics deserve recognition equal to their dedication. Their service inspires unity and gratitude in communities across Canada.”
“Mr. Speaker, from May 17 to May 23, we mark Paramedic Services Week, a time to honour the dedicated professionals who respond with compassion during Canadians' most difficult moments. In Orléans and across Ottawa, paramedics serve our community every day with courage, professionalism and care. To all those who answer the calls, I thank them. [ Translation ] It was very important for me to recognize their work and fully support the project to build a national paramedic monument in Ottawa. This monument will be a lasting symbol of our gratitude and will pay tribute to paramedics' dedication and sacrifice. I also want to acknowledge the leadership of Norm Robillard, a retired paramedic from Ottawa, and the vital work that has been done by the Canadian Paramedic Memorial Foundation.”
“Mr. Speaker, Orléans is a community with a vibrant cultural scene. I would like to congratulate the Mouvement d'implication francophone d'Orléans, which has launched its 2026-27 artistic program, featuring shows, comedy, theatre and, new for this year, a youth component, all of which will help promote francophone culture. [ English ] Orleans is also home to a vibrant local economy, where we see new small businesses choosing Orleans to thrive. I was pleased to join two owners, Kanwar Hazrah and Chris Lanthier, for the ribbon cutting of their new A&W location on Trim Road. This location is their second in Orleans and the fifth across our national capital region. What was most fun was to meet their iconic mascot, Rooty, or the Great Root Bear, as we celebrated this milestone. I send them my congratulations.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada's mission in Afghanistan was the largest deployment of Canadian troops since World War II. From 2001 to 2014, more than 40,000 Canadians served with courage and sacrifice. We honour the memory of the 158 service members and seven civilians who lost their lives. [ English ] We must make sure this legacy lives on. Can the Minister of Veterans Affairs explain why today's groundbreaking ceremony for the national monument to Canada's mission in Afghanistan is important, and what she hopes this day will mean to CAF members, veterans, families and Canadians?”
“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the fifth report of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs, which relates to the motion adopted on April 20, 2026, regarding the creation of an independent Canadian military honours review board.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the fourth report of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs entitled “Suicide Prevention Among Canadian Veterans”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to this report.”
“Mr. Speaker, as chair of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs and the MP proudly representing Orléans, I often hear about the need to strengthen the Canadian Armed Forces to meet the challenges ahead. Our new government has embarked on an ambitious plan to rebuild, reinvest in and re-equip our armed forces. Can the Minister of National Defence provide an update on this important plan?”
“Mr. Speaker, on March 19, I had the privilege of attending Rideau Hall, where two Orléans residents received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers. Eileen McCauhey was honoured for her remarkable work with Busy Fingers, a group of 120 women who crochet thousands of items for organizations in the region. [ English ] Fourteen-year-old Hana Fatima was also recognized for her exceptional leadership, becoming the youngest person in Canada to receive the Meritorious Service Medal. Orleans is also proud of Roy Allen. He celebrated his 100th birthday on April 5, but that is not all. He will be running in the Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend 5K on May 23, showing that age is no barrier. Additionally, he will become the first Canadian to complete an official five-kilometre race at age 100 or more. Congratulations, Mr. Allen.”
“This month highlights the presence and contributions of members of the francophone community in the national capital region and beyond. I wish everyone an enjoyable Francophonie Month.”
“Mr. Speaker, on March 20, we celebrated the International Day of La Francophonie, a perfect opportunity to highlight the vitality and impact of the French language and the richness of our linguistic duality, which strengthens our identity and unites us. All month long, francophone communities have been actively celebrating our heritage. The theme of the 28th Rendez-vous de la Francophonie was “Activate your Francophonie”, and there were plenty of exciting things on the agenda. I had the privilege of attending several events, including the FrancoFun party at École secondaire catholique Béatrice‑Desloges, Ottawa's 2026 Gala de la francophonie plurielle and the reception on Parliament Hill. To close out the month, I will be attending the mayor's 19th annual Francophone RendezVous tomorrow morning.”
“Mr. Speaker, Ontario is home to a vibrant francophone community. Now more than ever, I am proud to rise in the House to celebrate the wealth of the French language. The International Day of La Francophonie is an important time to strengthen the francophone presence and attract and retain francophone talent in Ontario and across Canada. Can the Minister of Immigration tell us what our government is doing to better support francophone communities across the country?”
“This reminds us that generation after generation, remarkable women and girls continue to inspire, lead and make a lasting difference.”
“Mr. Speaker, March 8 was International Women's Day. This day gives us an opportunity to highlight the progress made in advancing women's rights, while also recognizing the work that remains to be done. (1115) [ English ] On March 6, I had the honour of hosting my 12th annual International Women's Day breakfast, followed by the Orléans Leading Women and Girls Recognition Awards, celebrating outstanding women and girls. [ Translation ] At that event, 31 inspiring women and girls were honoured for their remarkable contributions to the vitality of our community, as well as their resilience, leadership and ability to inspire others. [ English ] It was especially inspiring that the youngest recipient was just 10 years old. Julianna Labelle delivered a rendition of O Canada that received a standing ovation.”
“Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the following reports of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, or APF. The first report concerns its participation in the 40th session of the APF America Regional Assembly, held in Quebec City, Canada, from September 9 to 11, 2025. The second report concerns its participation in the eighth Leadership Workshop for Parliamentarians Women of the APF, held in Paris, France, from November 3 to 7, 2025.”
“Mr. Speaker, the new defence industrial strategy is a testament to our confidence in Canada's industrial capabilities and our strength on the international stage. We are allocating $81 billion to rebuild, rearm and reinvest in our Canadian Armed Forces. The government has taken meaningful action, including a $900-million investment in innovative dual-use technologies. Can the Minister of Industry explain how the defence industrial strategy will increase Canada's presence on the world stage and support our industries?”
“Mr. Speaker, last week, from February 16 to 22, we celebrated scouting week 2026 with the theme “Proud and United in Scouting”. In Canada, the francophone scouting movement brings together some 10,000 youths and 3,700 volunteers in an active community that brings adventure to life. In my riding, the 24th Orléans scout troop includes 104 outstanding youths who are known for their bravery, team spirit and exemplary commitment. I want to thank everyone who is keeping this francophone movement alive. I cannot close without applauding the Canadian athletes who proudly represented us in Milan and Cortina, Italy, from February 6 to 22. I congratulate our national capital region athletes, especially Ivanie Blondin, the pride of Orléans, who took home two speed skating medals.”
“Mr. Speaker, on Friday, February 6, the 2026 Olympic Winter Games will officially open in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. I want to extend my best wishes to all Canadian athletes competing, with a special cheer for those representing the national capital region: Zachary Connelly, Mike Evelyn O’Higgins, Antoine Cyr, Paul Poirier, Kayle Osborne, Isabelle Weidemann, Katherine Stewart-Jones, Rachel Homan, Emma Miskew, Cédrick Brunet, Jared Schmidt, Hannah Schmidt and Valérie Grenier. [ Translation ] I cannot help but express my pride by recognizing our local hero, Ivanie Blondin from Orléans, who will be defending her title as a speed skating champion. [ English ] I wish the very best of luck to every Canadian athlete. Canada is behind them all the way. Go, Canada, go!”
“[ Translation ] May this season bring us peace, warmth and meaningful moments with our families, friends and loved ones. I wish everyone a happy 2026.”
“Mr. Speaker, on November 29, our community came alive as thousands of residents, including families, children and even a few pets, all gathered along St. Joseph Boulevard to witness the magical Orléans Santa's parade of lights. More than 60 beautifully designed floats made their way down our main street, each meticulously crafted and decorated, and sprinkled with that special Orléans charm. The parade is more than just a tradition; it is a testament to the Ottawa Professional Firefighters Association, the volunteers and the partners whose dedication brings our community together year after year. [ Translation ] In closing, I want to wish the community of Orléans and everyone a happy holiday. [ English ] Merry Christmas, happy holidays and happy Hanukkah.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to present, in both official languages, the third report of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs entitled “The Experience of Indigenous Veterans”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to the report.”
“These meetings were held in the city of Québec, in the beautiful province of Quebec, from May 20 to 21, 2025. The fourth report concerns the Bureau meeting and the 50th annual session of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie. This meeting was held in Paris, France, from July 9 to 13, 2025. The fifth report concerns the parliamentary diplomacy mission to Costa Rica, which took place in San José, Costa Rica, from October 1 to 3, 2025.”
“Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 34(1), I have the honour to present to the House, in both official languages, the following reports of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, or APF. The first report concerns the Bureau meeting of the APF and the Parliamentary Conference on Francophone Cooperation in the Areas of Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security and Climate Change. This meeting was held in Can Tho, Vietnam, from January 21 to 24, 2025. The second report concerns the meeting of the APF Political Committee. This meeting was held in Dakar, Senegal, from April 28 to 30, 2025. The third report concerns the meetings of the APF Network of Women Parliamentarians and the Network of Young Parliamentarians.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am proud to answer this question because we have increased funding over the past few years for transfer payments. I was previously a member of a provincial cabinet. I can assure the member that funding was increased by more than $200 billion, which the provinces have been able to benefit from in recent years. We will continue to be there for the health of Canadians.”
“Mr. Speaker, I know how much of an advocate this member has been on the subject of mental health, and I want to commend him for his advocacy. As a former social worker who has first-hand experience on the impacts on mental health, I have to say it is most important that we continue. I was actually quite pleased to see, in the past few years, our federal government, while doing its accord on health care, increase the capacity of transfers specifically on mental health services to local communities.”
“Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for his question, because I think 343 members have been able to take advantage of this program over the past few years. I know it has been useful to me in Orléans. I have always been well aware of the significant benefits of this program, which is making a difference. We have been asking for this program to be enhanced for several years now, and that is what this government is going to do. Not only will more young people be able to take advantage of it, but more non-profit organizations and small and medium-sized businesses in my community will benefit from having young people there to help them next summer.”
“Mr. Speaker, of all the questions my colleague could have asked, I am glad he chose that one. With all due respect to him, what I will say to Canadians and to the people of Orleans that I represent is that our government is there for them. Our government will protect the necessary investments that are important to them while allowing for responsible budgetary expenditures. We are in an era of modernization, with artificial intelligence and everything that goes with it. Again, I say to our young people that we are there for them.”
“As Remembrance Day draws near, we pause to honour the brave Canadians who answered the call to service to defend our freedom, our democracy and our way of life. (1040) [ Translation ] We remember those who gave their lives so that we could live in peace. We thank them for their service and sacrifice. Lest we forget.”
“This budget delivers for Canadians today and builds a stronger, more prosperous Canada for tomorrow. [ English ] I invite all members of the House to take a close look at what this budget offers, because it is, without a doubt, the right plan for Canada today. Finally, as we mark Veterans' Week, I want to take a moment to thank the Minister of Veterans Affairs and Veterans Affairs Canada for hosting a beautiful candlelight tribute at the Canadian War Museum to reflect on the service of all the men and women who have served in the defence of Canada. Furthermore, I want to congratulate the Royal Canadian Mint for the beautiful coin it unveiled at the event, which pays tribute to the Unknown Soldier, a beautiful dedication of remembrance. It was truly touching.”
“Together, these initiatives will create approximately 175,000 new opportunities for young Canadians and, I hope, for young people in Orleans. [ English ] We are also helping young Canadians achieve the dream of home ownership by eliminating the GST for first-time homebuyers on homes valued at $1 million or less through our first-time homebuyers GST tax credit. Through building Canada homes, we will double the pace of home construction over the next decade, building the affordable homes Canadians need. [ Translation ] I am really excited about this budget and the bold path it charts for our country. Under the Prime Minister 's leadership, Canada's new government is positioning the country as a global leader by making smart investments, by launching ambitious construction projects and by planning responsibly for the future.”
“We have come a long way since 2013 when defence spending was below 1% of our GDP. The government has committed to reach 5% by 2035, a clear statement of Canada's commitment to global security and national readiness. [ Translation ] I also want to speak directly to young Canadians, including the youth of Orleans. This budget charts a path to a more affordable and brighter future. The Canada summer jobs program has been a huge success in Orleans. It has helped young people gain valuable work experience while supporting local employers. This budget proposes additional funding for youth employment of $1.5 billion over three years through the Canada summer jobs program, the youth employment and skills strategy and the student work placement program.”
“That is why this budget includes historic investments in defence. By committing $81.8 billion over the next five years, we are demonstrating to our allies and our men and women in uniform that Canada takes its national and collective security seriously. [ English ] These investments will strengthen recruitment and retention, deliver well-deserved pay raises and expand access to health care for serving members. They will also repair and sustain existing capabilities while investing new and modern infrastructure, including advanced technologies to protect Canada's digital networks. I am especially proud that the government is investing in next-generation military capabilities from armoured vehicles and counter-drone systems to long-range precision strike capabilities and submarines.”
“For over over four decades, the Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex has been a pillar of our community, a place where residents of all ages come together to stay active, learn new skills and connect. As a former figure skater, I have had the pleasure of using the ice rink at that arena. I am very thrilled to share that, as highlighted in the budget, Bob MacQuarrie Recreation Complex is one of the 23 highlighted projects that will receive funding through the direct delivery stream to modernize and expand this vital facility. This investment is a testament to the government's commitment to building a stronger Canada. I could not be more excited to help build a stronger Orléans. (1035) [ Translation ] As we face a more uncertain global environment, Canada must also be prepared to defend its territory, its people and its sovereignty.”
“[ Translation ] As Canada's new government, our goal is clear: to make Canada the strongest economy in the G7. We will do that by boosting productivity, competitiveness and innovation, and by creating new opportunities that will benefit all Canadians. For my community of Orleans, this budget includes key investments that will make a real difference in the lives of its residents. As one of the fastest-growing ridings in the National Capital Region, Orleans needs strong local infrastructure and services to keep pace with its growth and improve quality of life. [ English ] Through the building community strong fund, the government is committing $51 billion over 10 years, starting in 2026-27, to support infrastructure projects in communities across the country. I have to say that in our budget there was a mention of Orléans.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to rise in the House today to speak about budget 2025, the “Canada Strong” budget. I will be sharing my time with my great colleague, the hon. member for Kanata . On Tuesday, the government presented a plan that makes a generational investment to build the foundation of a stronger, more resilient Canada. It is a plan to build more homes for Canadians, to deliver major infrastructure projects across the country and to support our industries from coast to coast to coast. Canadians understand that we are living in a rapidly changing and increasingly uncertain world. This budget is our plan of action to navigate those realities. The government is focused on what it can control: building an economy that is bigger, faster and stronger than ever before.”
“As she begins a new chapter with her family and her grandson, Beau, we sincerely thank her for being so dedicated and such an inspiration. We congratulate Juliette. She will be missed.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to rise today to pay tribute to Juliette Trudeau, who is retiring after 39 years of devoted service to Parliament. Originally from Charlo, New Brunswick, Juliette began her career as a legal secretary before moving to Ottawa in 1986. That same year, she came to work for the House of Commons, where she served as a parliamentary assistant and then a ministerial assistant. Since 2006, she has worked in the office of the Sergeant-at-Arms, holding various positions, including that of liaison officer at the time of her retirement. Throughout her career, Juliette demonstrated discretion, impartiality and exceptional judgment. Her superior, the Sergeant-at-Arms, often says she has a “Ph.D. in service to MPs”. Juliette supported generations of parliamentarians with professionalism, kindness and rigour.”
“Mr. Speaker, in my role as chair of the Canadian Branch of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie, I had the privilege of presenting the insignia of the Ordre de la Pléiade to five extraordinary Canadians at a ceremony held on September 23. These leaders of the French fact were recognized for their ongoing commitment and dedication to promoting the French language in the arts, business, community and politics. Édith Butler was promoted to the rank of Commander of the Ordre de la Pléiade, while René Arseneault, Karl Blackburn, André Gagnon and Agnès Mbome Moume received the knight's medal. I want to thank all my parliamentary colleagues who joined me at this ceremony. I would also like to congratulate the recipients and thank them for all that they have done and continue to do for the French language in Canada.”
“This unnecessary barrier impacts the lives of Canadians in many ways and in many different sectors, particularly our health and mental health, public safety and the agriculture sector, as well as shift workers and the lives of children, parents and seniors. That is why, in the bill, I am asking the federal government to lead the charge by holding a pan-Canadian conference alongside our provincial and territorial partners and indigenous leaders, to listen to the experts, find a consensus to end the practice of time change and establish one fixed time in Canada. (Motions deemed adopted, bill read the first time and printed)”
“Bill C-248. Introduction and first reading moved for leave to introduce Bill C-248, An Act respecting the holding of a pan-Canadian conference on time change . She said: Mr. Speaker, as the Government of Canada focuses on building one economy that works for everyone, by removing federal barriers, expediting nation-building projects and making things more affordable, we must look at all avenues that can supplement this effort. That is why today I am presenting the private member's bill entitled an act respecting the holding of a Canadian conference on time change, to start the conversation and hopefully end the outdated practice of changing our clocks twice a year.”
“Mr. Speaker, 50 years ago today, our magnificent green and white flag, a symbol of Franco-Ontarians, was raised for the first time in Sudbury. This morning, together with the Minister of Canadian Identity and Culture and Minister responsible for Official Languages and colleagues from across Canada, we proudly raised the flag on Parliament Hill. Ontario is home to the largest francophone population outside Quebec. As the proud member for Orléans, a vibrant francophone community enriched by its linguistic diversity and home to the Mouvement d'implication francophone d'Orléans, I see every day how proud people are to live, work, learn and thrive in French. On this historic day, I join Franco-Ontarians from across the province in celebrating our beautiful language. May our flag continue to fly proudly for another 50 years.”
“Although Vaughan's journey has ended, his stories and adventures live on. I offer my heartfelt condolences to his wife, Audrey; his son, Patrick; his beloved grandchildren; and all his family and friends.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to rise today to pay tribute to a remarkable man and a dear friend our Orléans community has lost, Vaughan Patrick Martin. A proud Canadian and a devoted public servant, Vaughan served as director of protocol at Global Affairs Canada, a role he called the best job in government. He played a key role in organizing major international events, including G7, NATO and Commonwealth summits, trade missions and state visits. Vaughan was also an active member of the Orleans Lions Club, always bringing his warmth and good humour to community events. All who knew Vaughan could count on him to share an incredible story. Having known him personally for over 10 years, I can say that he had a different story for every occasion, and he never ceased to amaze.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the following two reports of the Standing Committee on Veterans Affairs. The first report is entitled “The Persian Gulf War Was a War”. The second report is entitled “Reforming Transition from Military to Civilian Life”. Pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee requests that the government table a comprehensive response to each of those two reports.”