Mona Fortier
Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester, Ontario · Liberal · Canada
“Mr. Speaker, I am sure you are one who appreciates a great shawarma. On June 7, the second edition of the shawarma festival was held in my riding in the Byward Market. More than 20,000 people attended. It was a massive success and a very tasty one.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have some good news for the national capital region and eastern Ontario. Collège La Cité has received an investment of over $1.6 million to improve access to oral health care.”
“Mr. Speaker, today, I want to share the fact that Canada is taking concrete steps to support a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. We have joined forces with Australia and the United Kingdom to establish a new International Peace Fund.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada has been taking concrete action to combat forced labour through the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act, which the Liberal government passed in 2024.”
“Mr. Speaker, let me be clear, Canada and the United States share the goal of keeping goods produced through forced labour out of our supply chains. Canada already has strong protections in place, and we will take further action to strengthen them through new legislation.”
“Mr. Speaker, let me be clear. Canada and the United States share the goal of keeping goods produced through forced labour out of our supply chains. Canada, right now, already has strong protections in place. We will take further action to strengthen them through new legislation.”
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“[ English ] I want to thank Moe Mosalam and the Giza Entertainment team for hosting an incredible event. This is proof that when our community comes together, we do not just break records. We build a stronger, more caring city for everyone.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am sure you are one who appreciates a great shawarma. On June 7, the second edition of the shawarma festival was held in my riding in the Byward Market. More than 20,000 people attended. It was a massive success and a very tasty one. A major highlight was the successful attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for the longest shawarma wrap in the world, which reached an impressive length of 373.53 metres. Imagine that. This remarkable effort resulted in a total of 2,451 sandwiches that were donated to the Shepherds of Good Hope. [ Translation ] What is more, I had the privilege of serving as a judge to crown the best shawarma in Ottawa. After tasting nine shawarmas, Boustan took first prize, with 3 Brothers and Shawarma Palace coming in second and third, respectively.”
“Mr. Speaker, today, I want to share the fact that Canada is taking concrete steps to support a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians. We have joined forces with Australia and the United Kingdom to establish a new International Peace Fund. Canada will contribute $2 million over three years alongside its partners, and the funding will be provided to recognized and trusted civil society organizations. This initiative demonstrates our firm commitment to a two-state solution in which Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada has been taking concrete action to combat forced labour through the Fighting Against Forced Labour and Child Labour in Supply Chains Act, which the Liberal government passed in 2024. Under this act, government institutions and businesses must report on the risks of forced and child labour in their supply chains, and outline the steps they are taking to address them. This is about increasing transparency, strengthening accountability and ensuring Canadian supply chains reflect Canadian values.”
“Mr. Speaker, let me be clear, Canada and the United States share the goal of keeping goods produced through forced labour out of our supply chains. Canada already has strong protections in place, and we will take further action to strengthen them through new legislation. We will continue to work closely with our partners to uphold high labour standards and ensure fair rules-based trade.”
“[ English ] The investment shows the engagement of the Government of Canada to make health care more accessible and equitable for all. [ Translation ] That is how we are building Canada strong.”
“Mr. Speaker, I have some good news for the national capital region and eastern Ontario. Collège La Cité has received an investment of over $1.6 million to improve access to oral health care. This funding will be used to establish a mobile dental clinic providing services directly in our communities, including services for seniors and children, to reduce barriers to care. (1105) [ English ] Each outreach visit will be staffed with two dental technologists and two to four students, for whom this initiative will provide a valuable, hands-on internship experience. [ Translation ] The Collège La Cité clinic will also get a treatment room adapted for neurodivergent young people or those with other special needs. Through this initiative, families will be able to get care close to home in a welcoming, inclusive environment adapted to their needs.”
“Mr. Speaker, let me be clear. Canada and the United States share the goal of keeping goods produced through forced labour out of our supply chains. Canada, right now, already has strong protections in place. We will take further action to strengthen them through new legislation. We will continue working closely with our partners to uphold high labour standards and ensure fair, rules-based trade.”
“Mr. Speaker, as I was saying, Canada's new government is hiring 1,000 new CBSA officers and investing over $670 million in the CBSA to keep our borders secure. We will continue to protect Canada's interests while upholding labour standards for all workers.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada has some of the most rigorous forced labour laws in the world, and we have been clear that we condemn forced labour everywhere it exists. Every good that enters the country is subject to rigorous import controls and screening. For example, Canada's new government is— Some hon. members: Oh, oh!”
“Through these initiatives and the Government of Canada's commitment to official languages and accessibility, we are building a more inclusive Canada where everyone has full access to learning opportunities, regardless of their circumstances or background.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to call attention to the tabling of a white paper by the Réseau d'enseignement francophone à distance, or REFAD, on inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility in distance education. This document is the product of a collective effort. It highlights concrete issues facing francophone learners and institutions, especially in a minority context. In today's digital age, we have to ensure that no one is left behind. This white paper contains practical recommendations for building a more inclusive, equitable and accessible education system for all of Canada's francophones. I congratulate REFAD, its partners and the working group for their efforts and contributions to this analysis of a topic of vital importance to Canada's francophonie.”
“Today, we deeply feel his absence, but his legacy remains very much alive. It will continue to inspire future generations. [ Translation ] We offer our deepest condolences to his family, his friends and the entire community. We thank Gérard for everything he did.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to take a moment to pay tribute to Gérard Lévesque, who passed away recently. He was a committed Franco-Ontarian and active member of the community in my riding of Etobicoke—Lakeshore. Gérard dedicated his life to defending and promoting Ontario's francophone community. As a seasoned lawyer, he was a strong advocate for access to justice in French and for French-language education in Ontario. We owe him a debt of gratitude. Gérard was a man of courage and conviction who never hesitated to take decisive action to advance language rights. His commitment has had a real and lasting impact on our community. I had the privilege of working with him, and he really believed in advancing the cause of the francophonie. [ English ] Beyond his career, Gérard also was a brilliant writer whose words inspired reflection and dialogue.”
“[ Translation ] Through this collective effort, we have helped over 160 families. Together, we are making a real difference for our community.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is tax season time, and this weekend we are once again supporting families in Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester through our free tax clinic, by helping them complete their income tax returns. [ Translation ] This is an opportunity to support people who need some help filing their tax returns, because filing a return is essential for accessing important benefits like the Canadian dental care plan, the Canada child benefit, the Canada groceries and essentials benefit and the GST/HST credit, to help with the cost of living. [ English ] I thank Lucille Collard, MPP for Ottawa—Vanier; our teams; and all the volunteers for their time and commitment during the four tax clinics that were held this month. Thanks to them, we are making it easier to access essential programs to improve quality of life.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada does not support Iran for positions of influence in the United Nations. Iran was nominated to the UN Committee for Programme and Coordination by acclamation. As the position was uncontested, there was no opportunity for a vote. The vote to elect nominated candidates will take place in the UN General Assembly in November. Canada works closely with partners to actively counter Iran's candidacies in UN bodies and will continue to do so on all occasions.”
“Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister has been very clear. We are currently supporting and making sure that civilians and civilian infrastructure are protected and that international law is respected, and we will stand for the safety and security of Canadians wherever they may be around the world. We will continue to monitor the efforts that are being made in Iran.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada is deeply concerned by the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, which is threatening global energy security and economic stability. As we have emphasized, Canada's focus is on ensuring the safe and unimpeded flow of energy and commerce in line with the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea. We urge all parties to de-escalate the conflict, and we will continue to work alongside our G7 and like-minded allies to ensure the Strait of Hormuz remains open and secure.”
“On behalf of our community, we wish to express our deep gratitude for his exceptional dedication and invaluable contributions. [ Translation ] We welcome the new director, Ms. Jephtée, and I reaffirm my commitment and willingness to collaborate with her in her new role.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am truly honoured to rise in the House to recognize the remarkable career of Saint‑Phard Désir. Mr. Désir served for 14 years as the executive director of the Centre d'établissement, de soutien et d'orientation communautaire, the CESOC. As he embarks on his well-deserved retirement, he leaves behind a legacy deeply rooted in service, engagement and compassion. Under his leadership, the CESOC experienced significant growth, expanded its services and strengthened its vital role in supporting thousands of francophone newcomer families in the area. Thanks to his vision, unifying leadership and integrity, Mr. Désir transformed complex challenges into opportunities to build a more inclusive, more united and stronger society. [ English ] Saint-Phard Désir's departure marks the end of an era, but his legacy remains indelible.”
“Mr. Speaker, I believe the Prime Minister has been very clear: International law must be respected. There is a situation unfolding. I am not sure if we are talking about the sanctions lifted by the Americans on Russian oil, but we obviously condemn the strikes carried out by Iran against civilians and civilian infrastructure, specifically energy and maritime infrastructure in the Middle East. We know that Russia is attempting to capitalize on these price increases, and Canada is opposed to that.”
“Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister was clear. First of all, Canada was not consulted, did not participate, and has no plans to participate in the offensive actions against Iran. We support efforts to end Iran's nuclear program and decades of state-sponsored terrorism. Canada's priorities are clear. As the Prime Minister said, civilians and civilian infrastructure must be protected, international law must be respected, and we will stand for the safety and security of Canadians wherever they may be in the world.”
“On March 8, we honour the women who built, the women who resisted, the women who innovated, the women who make a difference in their community and the women who, every day in their personal and professional lives, create a more humane, more united and more courageous world. [ Translation ] When women succeed, everyone succeeds.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am truly honoured to rise today in the House of Commons to mark International Women's Day, which took place on March 8. On Saturday, in my riding, we had the honour of celebrating and recognizing, for the fourth consecutive year, 19 exceptional women from Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester who actively contribute to our community. Through their commitment, leadership and dedication, they strengthen our communities and inspire us all to continue to take meaningful action. (1415) [ English ] International Women's Day reminds us of the importance of recognizing women's achievements and continuing our efforts to promote gender equality and equity.”
“Mr. Chair, from what I have observed this week, responses have been provided in both official languages. If my colleague has specific examples to share with me, I am more than willing to take a look at them. We are capable of providing our services in both official languages, and we must do so. If there is one thing I will do, it is ensure that this is the case. Now, if my hon. colleague has any examples to offer me in order to improve consular services, we are always open to hearing them. The important thing is protecting Canadians and keeping them safe when they are abroad.”
“Mr. Chair, I thought I was clear. The Prime Minister wants to ensure that Canadians are safe when they are deployed or when they are in the Middle East. We also want to make sure that this regime does not have the capacity to carry out the terrorist acts it is currently committing. That is why Canada listed the IRGC as a terrorist organization, among other things, to support efforts to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear weapons. In addition, if I am not mistaken, we imposed more than 200 sanctions against Iranian individuals. Our position is clear and we will maintain it.”
“Mr. Chair, the government is always ready to ensure that consular services are deployed in times of crisis. In this case, the Government of Canada was clearly ready to assess how many Canadians had questions and how many were asking for support to leave the region. Obviously, it has to be done safely. We also sent a number of officials to help those who were already working on the ground. The work of our officials is important, as is the work of the consular services team, both on the ground and in Canada, who are working 24 hours a day to repatriate Canadians who want to return to Canada.”
“Mr. Chair, the Prime Minister has been clear. At a time when Canadians are scattered across the region, we want to make sure they are safe. Obviously, we want to ensure an end to the regime, and we want to ensure that all regions of the country are secure. This evening, I had an opportunity to speak with Canadians about the importance of protecting Canadians currently in the region and of finding ways to bring them back to Canada if they so wish.”
“These are the responsibilities of a country that takes its international role seriously, and they are responsibilities that Canada will continue to perform with determination, diligence and resolve.”
“Canadian officials have been deployed to countries such as Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan and Turkmenistan to get Canadians across borders and provide them with immediate support, assistance with their documents and, of course, help arranging travel back to Canada. This is complex work that requires dedicated public servants working tirelessly to make it happen. Airspace closures, flight cancellations and rapidly changing security conditions prevent evacuation operations from following a single, predictable path. However, the guiding objective remains clear: to ensure that Canadians who want to leave the region have access to safe departure options, provided that leaving is possible and safe. We will continue to do everything in our power to keep Canadians safe, and that includes bringing them home.”
“These efforts have already produced results: Over 900 Canadians have left the region thanks to flights and buses organized or facilitated by the Government of Canada. One particular chartered flight transported some 180 Canadians out of Dubai, and hundreds more seats on commercial flights have been reserved to enable Canadians to depart in the days to come. In areas where no flights are available, Canada has worked with partners to support departures by land. That includes helping Canadians who crossed borders by ground transportation to reach neighbouring countries where Canadian consular officials are ready to assist them on the next leg of their journey.”
“Consular officers throughout the region are working tirelessly to assist Canadians seeking information, advice and support. Global Affairs Canada has launched a major consular operation. Additional staff have been deployed throughout the region. Our diplomatic missions have strengthened their consular capacity, and the 24-hour Emergency Response and Watch Centre has been actively co-ordinating assistance for Canadians seeking to leave the affected areas. This effort is based on several departure options. Where airspace remains open, Canada has secured seats for Canadians on commercial flights and has also arranged charter flights to ensure safe departures. For example, the Government of Canada has chartered flights from Dubai and secured seats on flights out of Lebanon to help Canadians leave the region.”
“The regime has supported armed proxy groups throughout the Middle East, advanced its ballistic missile capabilities and continued activities related to uranium enrichment that raise serious concerns for the international community. In recent days, those destabilizing patterns have been on full display. [ Translation ] Although the geopolitical dimensions of this crisis are considerable, we must also acknowledge its deeply human dimension. Tens of thousands of Canadians live, work and travel throughout the Middle East every year. Many of them now find themselves in a rapidly changing security situation. For our government, protecting Canadians abroad is the most urgent priority. As soon as tensions began to escalate, we activated our crisis response mechanisms.”
“Mr. Chair, I will be sharing my time with the member for Saanich—Gulf Islands . Tonight's debate comes at a time of profound uncertainty in the Middle East. Canada's position on the current situation is clear: We are calling for de-escalation, we urge all parties to exercise restraint, and we reaffirm that the security and sovereignty of partners in the region must be protected. [ English ] At the same time, Canada has long been clear-eyed about one of the central drivers of instability in the Middle East: the actions of the Iranian regime. For decades, Iran's leadership has pursued policies that undermine regional security.”
“Let us honour the legacy of Black Canadians by advancing the work still before us and by ensuring that every person in every community can thrive.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise to mark Black History Month, a time when we come together to recognize the powerful contributions, resilience and legacy of Black communities across Canada and throughout the world. On Monday, in my riding of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester, we took some time to discuss, reflect on and honour Black brilliance across generations, from today's nation builders to tomorrow's visionaries. [ English ] This month, schools, organizations and communities are coming together to share stories, highlight achievements and deepen our understanding of Black history in Canada. These celebrations are not only about the past. They are about building a future rooted in dignity, opportunity and shared progress. Let this month be more than a commemoration. Let it inspire us to listen, to learn and to act.”
“This historic achievement reflects the generosity of Canadians and their unwavering commitment to a future without cancer. Let this day be more than just a moment. Let it inspire us to keep on moving. Let us honour those fighting cancer by supporting progress wherever we can. Let us carry forward the journey that Terry Fox began. Let us finish it.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to acknowledge World Cancer Day, which took place last Wednesday. It is a time when the entire world comes together in the spirit of awareness, solidarity and hope. It is a day to honour those who have lost their lives and those who are still fighting and to recognize the caregivers who show extraordinary courage every day. In particular, we remember Terry Fox. His perseverance united a nation, his courage inspired the world and his determination continues to guide us and unite us. [ English ] Last Wednesday, the Terry Fox Foundation announced that it has surpassed the milestone of $1 billion raised in support of life-saving cancer research, thanks to the contributions of millions of volunteers, partners and supporters from coast to coast to coast.”
“[ English ] With Canada's place in the world more important than ever, our government is committed to working with our civil society partners to build a strong and prosperous Canada. We know that when we work together, Canadians deliver for the world. By investing in overseas development assistance, our government is implementing a pragmatic approach—”
“Mr. Speaker, it is an honour to rise today to recognize the important work that Canadian civil society organizations are doing around the world in these difficult times. During this International Development Week, I want to recognize the critical contributions of hundreds of workers from these organizations across Canada and especially those from Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester. [ Translation ] Canadian international assistance has long been a beacon of hope around the world. The assistance that we provide supports the development of clean water and sanitation facilities, trains health care professionals on reducing infant mortality and ensures universal access to basic education for children, especially young girls.”
“On behalf of the residents of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester, I want to thank Joanne for her remarkable dedication and exemplary service. Her work is inspiring, essential and deeply appreciated.”
“Mr. Speaker, today I want to recognize Joanne Andrews for her 32 years of outstanding leadership at the Snowsuit Fund of Ottawa, an organization that, for 44 years, has been helping thousands of vulnerable children have access to warm snowsuits to weather our winters. Under her leadership, the fund has been giving out 16,000 snowsuits every year to children in need, bringing warmth, dignity and hope to families. For three decades, Joanne has been an example of generosity, solidarity and unwavering commitment, which has changed lives and strengthened our community. [ English ] Thanks to Joanne and to volunteers, The Snowsuit Fund has become a true pillar of solidarity in Ottawa, providing warmth and dignity to thousands of families. Its impact is immense and deserves to be recognized.”
“Her courage and bold vision paved the way for cultural and educational initiatives, including a Franco-Ontarian cultural centre known as the Mouvement d'implication francophone d'Orléans, the implementation of francophone school governance, the francophone theatre centre La Nouvelle Scène, and the grassroots campaign to save Montfort Hospital. She was a friend, a confidante, an ally and an exceptional Franco-Ontarian. She leaves behind a lasting legacy that ensures our francophone community will continue to shine. May Rolande watch over us all, especially her children Luc, Anne-Chantal, and Alain, as well as her entire family and all her loved ones.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is with deep sadness that I pay tribute to Rolande Faucher, a strong, dependable and passionate woman who was not afraid to speak her mind. A tireless activist, sociologist and researcher, she devoted her life to defending francophone interests and promoting education and culture in Ontario. Rolande was more than just a community builder and leader. She was an inspiring female role model who had a huge influence on me and everyone else who had the good fortune to know her and work alongside her.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am really trying to be clear. I want to be clear. Canada has an unwavering commitment to empowering women and girls, achieving gender equality, condemning all forms of discrimination and eliminating gender-based violence. That will never change. The minister emphasized that point at the United Nations, and I mentioned it earlier: Canada's foreign policy will be guided by three principles, including values. Speaking of values, as I said, feminism is a fundamental value of this foreign policy.”
“Mr. Speaker, I just talked about values. Feminism is a core value of our government and an important part of our foreign policy. As we work to diversify our trade relationships and create opportunities for our workers, the Prime Minister has also been clear that Canada is strengthening its commitment to addressing gender-based violence and inequality at home and abroad.”
“Mr. Speaker, give me a break. I want to be clear. Canada's commitment to empowering women and girls, achieving gender equality, condemning all forms of discrimination and eliminating gender-based violence is unwavering and will never change. As the minister pointed out in her speech to the United Nations, Canada's foreign policy will be guided by three principles: defence and security, economic sovereignty and our values. Speaking of values, feminism is a core value of our government and an important part of our foreign policy.”
“Mr. Speaker, we are investing in major projects. We are also making many investments in budget 2025, including a 15% clean electricity investment tax credit available to Crown corporations like Hydro-Québec, as well as $17.2 billion over 10 years for housing- and health-related infrastructure, such as hospitals, universities and CEGEPs. We will continue to build strong communities by investing $51 billion over 10 years in projects like the Espace Hubert-Reeves in Charlevoix, the shipyard—”
“Mr. Speaker, as we did this week, Canada continues to play a constructive and collaborative role. The Canadian delegation attended COP30 with its international counterparts, indigenous communities, other levels of government, civil society, labour groups and other stakeholders to ensure that we move forward from commitment to implementation. We are therefore going to continue advancing toward our Paris Agreement targets and continue building a low-carbon future that is resilient to climate change.”