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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Every one of 99 lines we hold for Mona Fortier, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 2 of 2.
“Mr. Speaker, Canada remains committed to the Paris Agreement and the goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Domestically, the Canadian economy has grown while becoming significantly less carbon-intensive thanks to cleaner energy, better technologies and innovation. Our climate competitiveness strategy builds on this progress and positions Canadian businesses to play a leading role in the global transition to net-zero emissions. We are moving forward.”
“[ Translation ] Let us keep up the momentum from October. Let us break the silence so that menopause is no longer minimized or misunderstood, but instead addressed with the education, support and respect women deserve.”
“Mr. Speaker, since October was World Menopause Month, I would like to draw attention to this important issue that affects the health, well-being and financial security of millions of women across the country. [ English ] The conversation about menopause gained real momentum last month. Menopause is a natural life phase that affects the body, the mind and our emotional well-being, yet many women still go through it without realizing their symptoms are linked to it. According to the Menopause Foundation of Canada, unmanaged symptoms carry an estimated annual cost of $3.5 billion to the Canadian economy. With women aged 45 to 55 now the fastest-growing segment of the Canadian workforce, supporting them is not just the right thing to do; it strengthens families, workspaces, communities and our economy.”
“Mr. Speaker, Canada condemns the civil war and violence currently ravaging Sudan. It needs to stop. We are horrified by the recent attacks in El Fasher and condemn the alleged massacre of more than 2,000 civilians. We urge all parties to respect international law, protect civilians and immediately allow humanitarian aid to have unimpeded access. Canada will continue to support the Sudanese people, as it has done since the beginning of the conflict.”
“This bill would end the current system that allows most military goods and technology to be exported to the United States without the need for individual permits, which would harm an important trade and defence relationship. In fact, this bill goes beyond what it claims to do in this area. It would cancel all existing export permits, including long-standing general export and brokering permits. This means that Canadian companies, many of which have already undergone rigorous review, would be forced to start from scratch and re-apply for permits, affecting hard-working Canadian companies that already have very limited resources. As a result, I wish to inform the House that we are unable to support this bill as it stands, but I think it is important to thank the member for Vancouver East for bringing it before the House.”
“Like many of our allies, Canada uses expedited licensing in specific circumstances for lower-risk military and dual-use items to countries with similarly robust approaches to export controls. This is a standard international practice that enables defence trade to move quickly and securely without compromising oversight and the agility it requires in a rapidly divided world, at a time when we are trying to increase our defence capacity, not decrease it. [ Translation ] This bill would disrupt the balance we have worked so hard to achieve. It proposes restrictions that would increase costs for both the government and Canadian businesses, without improving the quality of decisions.”
“These may include end-use certificates issued by a government when it imports items itself, or other assurances provided by reputable private parties for private exports. Canada assesses destination countries based on factors such as the strength of their export control systems and the risk of diversion, consistent with how our allies operate. The proposed addition to our assessment criteria would not make the world a safer place. Rather, it would hurt Canadian businesses and their customers, including the Canadian Armed Forces and our NATO allies at a time when we need them most, and undermine Canada's role as a trusted partner. (1825) [ English ] Third, Bill C-233 would impose costs and burdens on ordinary Canadians.”
“[ Translation ] Second, this bill seeks to prescribe how export applications are assessed by adding new mandatory requirements for governments to certify the end use of items purchased by private companies in their countries. Not only does this go well beyond what is required by the Arms Trade Treaty, but it would be virtually impossible to implement. Most countries simply do not issue official end-use certificates to private entities. Canada would have neither the authority nor the influence to enforce this provision, and imposing it would only block legitimate exports, including potentially those destined for our allies in Ukraine. What is more, Canada already conducts thorough end-use and destination risk assessments. End use is verified using a variety of reliable methods.”
“First, Bill C-233 seeks to create a statutory definition of arms that could potentially include items that are not weapons at all, such as navigation systems, software and even basic mechanical parts. The bill's proposed definition could have Canada needlessly regulating thousands of products, from nuts and bolts to steel and aluminum. This would put Canada out of step with allies, whose focus is rightly on high-risk technologies and high-risk destinations. Further, this would overwhelm our export control system, require staggering increases in government resources, slow legitimate trade and hurt Canada's reputation and Canadian businesses, especially small and medium-sized manufacturers, which rely on predictable rules.”
“Our process is designed to take into account intelligence, diplomatic information and human rights considerations. We work closely with Canada's missions abroad, our allies and partners, to make informed decisions that reflect the realities on the ground. [ English ] As parliamentarians and Canadians are aware, Canada has suspended or revoked permits when credible evidence of misuse has emerged. Any violations of the Export and Import Permits Act are taken extremely seriously. Those who are found to have breached the law face consequences, including fines, seizures and criminal prosecutions. That is how we help to protect lives and uphold our values. We will always work to do so. Bill C-233 would hinder our ability to continue with this risk-based approach in three significant ways.”
“Our risk-managed framework provides the tools needed to act swiftly, doing so, for example, by adding items to the export control list to prevent sensitive technologies from being misused. Decisions on export permits are taken carefully after a rigorous process that involves a range of experts from across government. This includes evaluating permit applications against the criteria drawn from the Arms Trade Treaty and embedded in Canadian law through the Export and Import Permits Act. [ Translation ] Our system is flexible, but that flexibility does not mean that we are cutting corners. We have a carefully designed risk management framework that balances our national security, international obligations and defence partnerships with the commercial ties that support economic growth in Canada.”
“While Bill C‑233 means well, its overly broad scope would create obstacles for Canadian businesses, slow trade and limit Canada's ability to respond effectively to global challenges. When we debated Bill C‑47 , we discussed many of the measures in the bill before us today that concern exemptions. What was true then remains true today in terms of the need to include these measures in our system. In short, the proposals in Bill C‑233 would disrupt a balance that we are able to achieve through existing legislation, regulations and policies. (1820) [ English ] Let me explain further. The world is changing. Conflicts are evolving and new threats are emerging. Canada must stay agile and ready to respond. Canada's export control regime was built to keep pace with this changing world.”
“However, Bill C-233 rests upon a false premise. Canada has one of the world's strongest export control regimes in the world and has updated it over the years accordingly. That is why Canada joined the Arms Trade Treaty in 2019 and updated our laws to ensure full compliance through Bill C-47 , a bill that many members, including the member for Vancouver East , should remember well. [ Translation ] Canada's export control system aims to limit the illicit arms trade by preventing weapons from falling into the hands of terrorists, criminals or groups that foment conflict, and to reduce human suffering around the world. Oversight is essential, but it must be balanced and practical.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to begin by thanking the member for Vancouver East for introducing Bill C‑233 , an act to amend the Export and Import Permits Act, as part of Private Members' Business. I have heard many comments about this bill from people in my riding of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester. It is clear that Canadians are deeply concerned about our country's role in global security and the responsible export of military equipment. The debate surrounding this bill touches on core Canadian values: our commitment to democracy, human rights, responsible trade and our contribution to making the world a safer place. These are not abstract ideals, but the very foundations of our foreign policy. [ English ] No one here disagrees with this bill in principle. Canada must maintain strong export controls to prevent the misuse of weapons.”
“As Canada stabilizes its immigration levels, our government is choosing to protect and strengthen francophone immigration.”
“Mr. Speaker, ensuring the vitality of francophone minority communities remains a priority for our government, and francophone immigration is an essential part of achieving this goal. As we celebrate National Francophone Immigration Week, it is important to remember the progress that has been made and the next steps to be taken. Thanks to the 2026-28 immigration levels plan announced in the 2025 budget, we are aiming for a steady increase in francophone admissions outside Quebec: 9% in 2026, 9.5% in 2027, and 10.5% in 2028. Since 2022, we have consistently exceeded our admission targets and are on track to reach a new historic high of 8.5%. I would also like to highlight the francophone community immigration pilot, which helps skilled workers settle in rural francophone regions.”
“Mr. Speaker, the people of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester have started a petition. [ English ] I am pleased to present a petition signed by 1,765 Canadians regarding the eligibility rules for the GST new housing rebate for first-time homebuyers. The petitioners note that the rebate is based on the purchase agreement date rather than the closing date, which unfairly excludes many first-time homebuyers of preconstruction homes, who will pay GST upon closing. [ Translation ] They are calling on the Minister of Finance and National Revenue to base eligibility on the closing or possession date to ensure fairness and consistency for all first-time homebuyers.”
“His unwavering commitment to Ontario's francophonie continues to inspire us and guide our actions. My thoughts are with his family, his friends and the entire francophone community. May he rest in peace.”
“Mr. Speaker, I am very honoured to rise to pay tribute to the late Hon. Bernard Grandmaître, the guardian of the French language and the father of Ontario's French Language Services Act. This great Franco-Ontarian recently passed away at the age of 92. Born in Vanier, he dedicated over 30 years of his life to serving in public office, first as mayor and then as a provincial MPP. His greatest legacy is Bill 8, which was passed in 1986 and which gives Franco-Ontarians the right to receive government services in their own language. It is thanks to him that institutions like the Montfort Hospital were able to survive and grow. He was a pillar of quiet strength, a builder, a man of conviction. His love for the French-speaking community was evident in his actions, and he inspired generations of leaders.”
“Desjardins is known across North America for financial solidarity, high capitalization and an unwavering commitment to its 7.8 million members and customers across the country. I also want to give a nod to Denis Dubois, the new president and CEO of Desjardins Group, and wish Desjardins another 125 years of building for the future.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise in tribute to a remarkable Canadian who once worked right here in the House of Commons as a stenographer. As he listened to debates in the House, Alphonse Desjardins grew aware of the problem of access to credit and the devastating impact of usurious loans. He undertook a vast study on the co-operative model. Over the course of his research and discussions with numerous European co-operatives, he adapted this model to the context of the day and opened the first credit union in Lévis. Over the past 125 years, Desjardins Group has evolved into the largest financial co-operative in North America, and we owe it a huge debt of gratitude. I would like to thank Alphonse and Dorimène Desjardins, who left us an essential institution.”
“This system is robust, it provides for appropriate consultation and it allows for parliamentary participation through the tabling period. I understand and share the concerns raised by my Bloc Québécois colleague. We are operating in a complex global environment, and Canada's international relations decisions carry more weight than ever. (1800) [ English ] I thank my colleague for his thoughtful contributions and for highlighting the vital role Parliament plays in shaping our foreign policy, and I look forward to continuing our collaboration. [ Translation ] As we continue to consider Bill C‑228, it is critical that we reflect not only on the transparency and oversight mechanisms already in place in Canada, but also on the constitutional principles that define the roles of the executive and Parliament in the treaty process.”
“Other Westminster democracies, such as the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand, offer useful examples. In the U.K., treaties are laid before Parliament prior to ratification under the Ponsonby rule, allowing scrutiny while preserving executive discretion. Australia and New Zealand follow similar practices, where parliamentary review occurs after negotiations. In short, when one considers the extensive transparency measures that have been in place for over two decades, the notion that treaty-making in Canada lacks transparency is not borne out. [ Translation ] In conclusion, I have outlined key steps in Canada's treaty process, a process that ensures that each negotiated agreement is guided by the principles of democracy, transparency and respect for the constitutional framework.”
“[ English ] However, we should be cautious about any changes to our ratification process, particularly when they may introduce delays and uncertainties that could hinder Canada's ability to negotiate effectively and respond swiftly to evolving global circumstances. [ Translation ] This year alone, nearly 20 treaties have been tabled in Parliament. Under the process outlined in this bill, each of these treaties would have had to spend months in committee and months more awaiting the drafting of a government report, meaning several years' delay in the implementation of international agreements that have earned our country a global reputation as a reliable partner. [ English ] This balance between executive flexibility and parliamentary oversight is complex.”
“Furthermore, Parliament's approval is required before implementation legislation can be enacted, ensuring legislative scrutiny before these treaties take full effect domestically. In summation, the current parliamentary review process for treaties has seen over 450 treaties brought before this House since 2008, providing members with opportunities for examination, debate and, if desired, votes. When treaties require amendments to federal laws, such changes must pass through the normal legislative process, offering further opportunities for parliamentary review. [ Translation ] It is true that Bill C‑228 seeks to strengthen parliamentary participation by requiring prior approval of treaties. That is an honourable goal shared by every member of the House.”
“This again provides significant opportunities for review, examination, debate and approval by parliamentarians. [ Translation ] Finally, the commitment to public transparency is also reflected in the publication and registration of treaties. Once in force, they become publicly available, they are registered with the United Nations and they are kept in the public domain, ensuring their visibility both in Canada and internationally. [ English ] For treaties with significant economic implications, such as free trade agreements, the government introduced enhanced transparency measures in 2020. These include the requirement to table a notice of intent to negotiate and the negotiation objectives in this House before talks begin.”
“These additional measures require that the government table in Parliament a notice of intent to negotiate at least 90 days before the discussions begin and that negotiation objectives be tabled 30 days before. (1755) Fourth, the requirement to table the text of international treaties in Parliament before taking any action intended to bind Canada is an essential component of our commitment to accountability. [ English ] During these treaty-tabling periods, opposition parties have the option to seek a vote and pursue a debate in the House regarding the treaty in question. Fifth, where the fulfillment of the obligations in a treaty requires amendments to federal legislation, a bill to implement those obligations is presented to this House and follows the standard procedures for the adoption of law.”
“This process involves not only federal departments, but also, depending on the subject of the treaty, the provinces and territories, indigenous peoples, as well as civil society in the form of non-governmental organizations, academia and industry. Second, these consultations continue throughout the negotiation phase. Stakeholders are consulted, including provincial and territorial governments where certain provisions of the treaty fall within their constitutional jurisdiction. In the case of multilateral negotiations, representatives of these groups are often part of Canadian delegations. Third, for agreements of major economic importance, including trade agreements, additional transparency measures were put in place in 2020.”
“This process is not a mere formality; it embodies the philosophy that underpins our system of government. [ English ] As we begin the debate on Canada's current treaty-making process, it is important that we all understand what exactly our current policy is and what level of openness, input and transparency it affords to Parliament. [ Translation ] First, a government's accountability in the treaty process begins well before signing or ratifying a treaty. It begins with the planning stage. As the policy states, when a negotiating mandate is developed, public servants must demonstrate that they have conducted a comprehensive consultation process.”
“As with many of our allies who share this system, the executive branch is tasked with negotiating, signing and ratifying treaties on behalf of all Canadians. [ Translation ] At the same time, parliamentary control and transparency are central to our democratic governance. The current policy framework offers a number of opportunities for parliamentary participation by the provinces, territories, indigenous groups and relevant stakeholders, from preliminary consultations during treaty planning and negotiations, right up to tabling of the treaties prior to their ratification. For nearly 20 years, since 2008, successive governments have tabled treaties in Parliament in accordance with the requirements of the policy on tabling treaties in Parliament.”
“As we endeavour to diversify our relationships abroad, we agree that there can be no compromise on transparency to Parliament. [ English ] We agree that as we focus on diversifying our relationships and treaty relations abroad, there must be no sacrifice on openness with Parliament. [ Translation ] As members of the House know, the authority to enter into international treaties on behalf of Canada belongs to the elected government. Like many of our allies who also follow the Westminster model, our government has a mandate to negotiate, sign and ratify treaties on behalf of Canada for all Canadians. [ English ] It is important to recognize that the constitutional authority to enter into treaties rests with the elected government of the day, consistent with the Westminster parliamentary tradition.”
“This step is a more recent addition to our tradition, but it has been respected and supported by Canadian governments of all political stripes since the January 2008 announcement of the policy on tabling treaties in Parliament. [ English ] Since the introduction of the policy on the tabling of treaties in Parliament in 2008, successive governments have maintained a strong commitment to transparency by regularly tabling treaty texts before the House. These documents, along with negotiating positions and impact assessments, are made available to parliamentary committees, allowing Parliament to exercise oversight. [ Translation ] Our government will always take a strong stand for transparency in Canada's international agreements and partnerships.”
“Madam Speaker, I would first like to thank the member for Jonquière for introducing Bill C‑228 , which is a private member's bill. I am grateful for his work on this important and timely issue. The debate on this bill touches on fundamental principles of our democracy and our constitutional framework. In a global context marked by geopolitical uncertainty, it is essential to ensure that Canada's treaty-making system reflects today's reality. First, I rise today to reaffirm the integrity, transparency, and accountability that are already built into Canada's treaty-making process. This includes the essential step of tabling treaties in Parliament.”
“Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister is focused on protecting Canadian jobs, workers and businesses. We have stabilized supply chains through initiatives like our strategic response fund. We have provided direct support to affected industries like steel, aluminum, manufacturing, auto and agriculture. We are doing this all while maintaining Canada's enviable fiscal position and AAA rating. We are Canada strong.”
“Thérèse was also well liked and well respected for her dedication to Franco-Ontarian heritage and culture. She received many awards and distinctions. Most notably, she was appointed a knight of the Ordre de la Pléiade. On behalf of the community, I offer my sincere condolences to her family and friends. May she rest in peace.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Thérèse Frère, a proud Franco-Ontarian from Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester who passed away recently at the age of 98. Her courage and resourcefulness were put to the test when her husband passed away suddenly, leaving her to support six young children under the age of 13 alone. This strong and resilient woman worked in education before moving to the field of visual arts in 1974, where pastels were her medium of choice. She studied at the Ottawa School of Art and the Banff School of Fine Arts and captured the landscapes of Quebec, Europe, the United States and especially Newfoundland and Labrador, a place that she dearly loved. She donated 150 works to Patro d'Ottawa to support young people and another 83 to Fogo Island.”
“Mr. Speaker, I want to dig in a little more on prevention. My colleague mentioned how important prevention is, and how it has to be part of this bill and other bills the government brings forth. I have been meeting with many national organizations representing women in different spaces, and they are also advocating not only for prevention but also support. I would like to hear my hon. colleague on those two points.”
“Mr. Speaker, Glory to my fair flag, the flag of Ontario's francophones I raise my flag high So all can see That I am Franco-Ontarian! Today we are celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Franco-Ontarian flag, a powerful symbol of our identity, our pride, and our contribution to Ontario's rich culture. As a proud Franco-Ontarian, I wish to pay tribute to all the communities and francophiles who contribute to enriching our culture and showcasing our identity. To put the focus where it belongs We need to stand up and celebrate Our Place Today and tomorrow. Long live the Franco-Ontarian community, long live the francophonie, and happy Franco-Ontarian Day.”
“Mr. Speaker, pursuant to Standing Order 32(2) and consistent with the policy on the tabling of treaties in Parliament, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the treaties entitled “Agreement on the Establishment of the International Vaccine Institute”, done at New York on October 28, 1996, as amended as of November 16, 2022; “Agreement between Canada and the Republic of Poland for Co-operation in the Peaceful Uses of Nuclear Energy”, done at Warsaw on January 28, 2025; and “Agreement between the Government of Canada and the Government of Japan on the Security of Information”, done at Tokyo on July 8, 2025.”
“[ English ] Finally, I want to recognize the leadership of Brian Burgess, chair of the board, and Peter Tzanetakis, president and CEO of the National Payroll Institute, who are both here today. Their guidance supports employee well-being and organizational success.”
“Mr. Speaker, each year, during the third week in September, we celebrate National Payroll Week, which is a moment to recognize the professionals who ensure Canadian workers are paid accurately and on time. [ Translation ] The pay cycle is more than just an administrative process; it is a cornerstone of employee well-being. It guarantees accuracy, transparency and trust, enabling workers to meet their daily needs, plan for the future and build their financial security. [ English ] I thank all designated payroll professionals for their integrity and the essential work they do to keep Canada paid and to strengthen financial confidence. [ Translation ] I would also like to thank the volunteers at the National Payroll Institute, who support these efforts through their activities and services.”
“On behalf of this House, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, his loved ones and all those whose lives he touched. May he rest in peace.”
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay tribute to Ken Dryden, whose passing is a profound loss for Canada. I had the privilege of working with Ken and witnessed first-hand his thoughtfulness, intellect and dedication. He was deeply committed to improving sport culture and advancing efforts to better protect athletes from concussions. While many will remember him as a Hall of Fame goaltender and six-time Stanley Cup champion with the Montreal Canadiens, he was so much more. He was a scholar, an author, a parliamentarian and a leader whose influence extended far beyond the ice. Ken's life left an indelible mark both in sport and in public life. His vision, generosity and commitment to excellence continue to inspire Canadians across generations.”
“Mr. Speaker, as the school year ends, I rise to congratulate the graduates in Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester. Earning one's diploma is something to be very proud of. They worked hard, overcame challenges and continued to persevere. Today they are celebrating much more than a diploma. They are celebrating the efforts, growth and discoveries that brought them to this point. It is also the beginning of a new chapter. Whether they are entering the workforce, continuing their studies or exploring new horizons, there are great things ahead for them. I am very proud to say that my daughter is part of that cohort this year. Congratulations to Isabelle and all the graduates. To the families, teaching staff, support staff and mentors, I say thank you for being there for them every step of the way.”
“[ Translation ] I extend my sincere condolences to Chantal and their four children, as well as to all those who knew and loved him. [ English ] Ottawa is better because of AJ. May he rest in peace.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is with a deep sadness and a heavy heart that I rise in the House today to mark the passing of a dear friend, A Plant: a respected entrepreneur and realtor, a community builder, a generous mentor and a tireless force for good in the national capital region. [ Translation ] AJ, a servant of God, dedicated his life to helping others by supporting local food banks and charities, helping families find a place to call home and always being there for his community. AJ was a huge hockey fan. As a coach and the proud owner of the Gatineau Flames, he provided countless young athletes with opportunities to grow and succeed. [ English ] Alongside his wife, Chantal, AJ gave back in countless ways, most recently through the ongoing support of organizations like the Eastern Ottawa Resource Centre.”
“I once again thank residents, my family, volunteers and my team. It is a privilege to represent them in the House of Commons.”
“Mr. Speaker, it is with great humility that I rise today for my first statement in this 45th Parliament. I am very grateful to the voters of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester for placing their trust in me for a fourth term. None of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of hundreds of volunteers, my campaign team and my family. I welcome the community of Blackburn Hamlet, which is now part of the riding. [ English ] I remain committed to advancing the issues that matter to our citizens. We are addressing affordability with a middle-class tax cut and building one strong, fair and united Canadian economy for everyone. From affordable housing to the revitalization of our downtown core, including the ByWard Market, to protecting the public service, I am committed to strengthening the vibrancy of our neighbourhoods.”
“Mr. Speaker, congratulations on your new mandate. I want to take this opportunity to thank the people of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester for putting their trust in me. I will work very hard these next few years. Over the past few weeks, Canadians across the country and in the riding of Ottawa—Vanier—Gloucester that I represent sent a clear message. We need to be united, sovereign and responsible. We need to protect and create new jobs and new careers to make Canada more competitive and innovative. We need to create a single economy, not 13, if we want to build a stronger G7 economy. Can the member for Thérèse-De Blainville elaborate on the measures we will be taking to improve the quality of life of Canadians?”