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Debates of the Senate (Hansard)

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1st Session, 41st Parliament,
Volume 150, Issue 8

Thursday, June 16, 2011
The Honourable Noël A. Kinsella, Speaker

 

THE SENATE

Thursday, June 16, 2011

The Senate met at 1:30 p.m., the Speaker in the chair.

Prayers.

Business of the Senate

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, is it agreed to allow a photographer on the floor of the Senate this afternoon, with the least possible disruption of business when we will have a special guest below the bar?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

The Hon. the Speaker: For greater clarity, honourable senators, we will have the great honour of welcoming Rick Hansen here as our guest below the bar.

SENATORS' STATEMENTS

Stanley Cup Playoffs 2011

Congratulations to Finalists—Riots in Vancouver

Hon. Mobina S. B. Jaffer: Honourable senators, I rise today to congratulate the Boston Bruins for winning the Stanley Cup. I also congratulate the Vancouver Canucks for having had a great season and for making it all the way to the Stanley Cup finals.

Honourable senators, as the downtown streets flooded with spectators these past few months, all Vancouverites were reminded of the Olympics. I am sure my colleagues Senator St. Germain, Senator Campbell, Senator Raine, Senator Martin and Senator Neufeld will agree that the glory of the Olympic Games is something we will continue to bask in, as it was a time that will go down in our city's history.

Unfortunately, the events that followed last night's hockey game will also go down in our city's history. These events, however, reflect poorly on our great city.

Yesterday, I received several phone calls from my five-year-old grandson Ayaan, who pleaded with me to come home and watch the game with the rest of my family. He tried to convince me that it was my responsibility to cheer for the Canucks as I am a senator who represents British Columbia.

My family watched the games outside the CBC building in Vancouver and I watched them here in Ottawa. After the hockey game, I spoke to Ayaan once again. He informed me that his mom was in tears because the Canucks had been defeated but that he could not understand why she could get so upset over a game. He told me that he had assured his mother that it is only a game and that there is always next year.

Unfortunately, shortly after I got off the phone, I quickly learned that my five-year-old grandson was wiser than many of the young men who took to the streets of downtown Vancouver last night. Most of the riots took place outside Ayaan's daycare as well as Vancouver's main post office. I watched as young men wreaked havoc, flipping over cars, setting fires and inflicting injury upon themselves and others. I could not understand what could bring these young men to be so destructive.

Honourable senators, recently I was caught in the middle of riots that were taking place in another country. Although I was petrified, I understood these young people were protesting to improve human rights in their country. This is why I find it utterly shameful to watch so many young people in my own city protesting over losing a hockey game.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the police officers, the firefighters, the paramedics and all the city workers for all their efforts to keep our city safe.

Honourable senators, this morning when Ayaan attends his daycare, he will have many questions as to why a game caused so much damage. Unfortunately, I have no answers.

[Translation]

Global Commission on Drug Policy

Hon. Pierre Claude Nolin: Honourable senators, last week, I encouraged you to celebrate the release of the report from the Global Commission on Drug Policy on June 2.

The commission — which included former Supreme Court Justice the Honourable Louise Arbour — not only denounced the "war on drugs'' as a failure but also puts forth a series of major recommendations for political leaders worldwide to adopt evidence-based and rights-based approaches to drug policy.

The timing of the release of the commission's report could not be more opportune for our country. The Supreme Court of Canada is currently deliberating on the fate of InSite, the supervised injection site in Vancouver.

I should note that there was a major focus on InSite in the commission's report, and it was very supportive of InSite's experience.

Several published evaluations of this centre provide overwhelming and incontrovertible scientific evidence that InSite is both cost-effective and humane in meeting its objectives of preventing death and disease among some of the most vulnerable people.

Such critical health services should be expanded, not threatened with closure.

[English]

Once again, honourable senators, let us welcome the release of such a landmark report, which should undoubtedly influence drug policy-making not only in our country but also around the world.

Commemoration of Canadian Military History

Hon. Joseph A. Day: Honourable senators, every year, the spring brings two important dates in our military history. On April 9, we celebrated what many argue was the birth of our nation, the battle at Vimy Ridge. Recently, on June 6, we celebrated the landing of the Canadian Forces on Juno Beach during the D-Day invasion of Normandy.

Canada consistently ventured overseas to join our allies in the last century's greatest conflicts. It is incumbent upon us to ensure that the sacrifices for Canada in foreign lands of our men and women do not go unheeded. While it is the duty of every Canadian to pause and reflect on what our men and women in the Armed Forces have done and continue to do for us, organizations have emerged that ensure there are permanent memorials in foreign lands that let everyone know that Canadians fought and died there. Two organizations in particular — the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and the Canadian Battlefields Association — have taken on this role.

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The Commonwealth War Graves Commission was created by Royal Charter in 1917 with the objective of marking and maintaining the graves of Commonwealth members who died in World War I. To date, the Commonwealth War Graves Commission pays tribute to the 1,700,000 men and women of the Commonwealth forces who died in the two world wars, of which 113,000 were Canadian. Canada and other participating governments share the costs of maintaining these sites in proportion to their number of war dead. Canada also shares proportionately the costs of the United Nations Memorial Cemetery in Pusan, Korea, where 378 Canadians are buried.

Another organization working to keep these memories alive is the Canadian Battlefields Foundation. Founded in 1992, this organization was established for the purpose of educating and actively promoting public awareness of Canada's role in World War II, and has since broadened its mandate to teach the public about Canada's role in other conflicts of the 20th century as well.

Among the foundation's many projects is the Canadian Memorial Garden in Caen, near Normandy, opened by Prime Minister Jean Chrétien in 1995, which is meant to commemorate all Canadians who fought in the Second World War.

The foundation has also created a "Route of Honour,'' which is literally a roadmap of notable Canadian battle sites in Europe, the North Atlantic, Hong Kong and Burma. Many of these sites are identified with a commemorative plaque.

Perhaps the most important function of the foundation is not their imprint on the physical landscape but, rather, their efforts to keep the memory of Canada's contributions alive for the next generations. In that regard, delegations are led each year to the different battle sites so that young Canadians can be informed about the tremendous contributions Canada has made. In 1997, our own Senator Duffy worked in concert with the foundation to create a video to also help educate young Canadians.

Honourable senators, Canada possesses a rich military history in world events. Organizations such as the Commonwealth War Graves Commission and the Canadian Battlefields Foundation play a crucial role in keeping this history alive and in helping Canadians and others appreciate our contributions to world peace and security. We commend these organizations for their valuable contributions to Canada.

Canadian Museum for Human Rights

Hon. Vim Kochhar: Honourable senators, I am honoured to stand in this chamber to speak on Canada's human rights journey and the Canadian Museum for Human Rights. On the one hand, Canada is viewed on the international stage as a leader and true champion of human rights. On the other hand, Canada saw fit to subject Chinese immigrants to a head tax and to intern its own Ukrainian, Japanese, Hungarian, Italian and German Canadian citizens during the last two world wars.

At the same time that the Canadian government was recruiting immigrants from European countries, promising free land, it was also pushing legislation denying immigration to non-Whites; yet, it was a citizen of Canada who wrote the very first draft of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

As someone who inherited his Canadian citizenship not by birth but with the privilege of choice, I feel an abiding commitment to ensure others can know freedom and opportunity as I have come to know it as a citizen of Canada.

However, it was an event in my boyhood that made clear to me that human rights can never be taken for granted. I was 12 years old when I witnessed the tragedy of Mahatma Gandhi's assassination at a prayer meeting in New Delhi. That a beacon of peace that illuminated an entire nation could in one single moment be forever dimmed also made clear to me that human rights can never be taken for granted.

When Prime Minister Harper appointed me to the advisory council to recommend the Canadian Museum for Human Rights as the first museum outside the National Capital Region, and later as a trustee, I accepted the appointment with great pride. This museum is a shining example of how partnership between free enterprise and government can work.

Today, I can say with great confidence that when completed in two years it will be more than a museum; it will be Canada's most beautiful monument. Last week, Honourable Senator Terry Stratton suggested that we should call it a cathedral, which will stand as a beacon of hope for the future generation.

As my time as a senator comes to a close, I urge all honourable senators in this chamber to become champions of this vital institution and support it in full measure to ensure Canada's new beacon continues to shine brightly for all Canadians.

Special Olympics World Summer Games 2011

Team Canada

Hon. Jim Munson: Honourable senators, I will be in Toronto tomorrow afternoon to attend the celebratory send-off of our Canadian Special Olympics athletes to Athens, Greece, to compete in the thirteenth Special Olympics World Summer Games. These games include 22 sports, and Canada will participate in 7 of them: 10-pin bowling, athletics, powerlifting, rhythmic gymnastics, soccer, softball and swimming.

Team Canada is a 147-member group of athletes and mission staff representing every province and one territory. Hailing from Ottawa is Marianne Scharf, who has been involved with Special Olympics for 22 years. Like all her teammates, Marianne is participating in these games not only to test her abilities in international competition, but also to honour her country with her best performance.

In all, 7,500 athletes from 185 nations will take part in the World Summer Games from June 25 to July 4. It will be the world's largest sporting event this year.

Over the years, I have been involved in several Special Olympics events, small and large — from the village of Navan, just nearby, to Nagano and Shanghai — and I am excited to be going to this one in Athens. The athletes generate such positive energy through their commitment to sportsmanship and determination. There is nothing like being right there to cheer them on.

The Special Olympics is about winning at life, as Senator Demers knows. Special Olympics Canada enables athletes of all ages and abilities to enjoy opportunities to train and compete. Over 32,000 athletes are involved with the organization. Add to this their family and friends, and multiply this by all of us who benefit from our society growing more and more inclusive. The impact of Special Olympics in Canada and throughout the world is huge, and I am proud to do whatever I can to support its causes and programs.

I think it is important to say thank you — and this is a big thank you — to the Government of Canada. I am pleased to say that our government also recognizes Special Olympics Canada. My friend Finance Minister Flaherty is a very generous person. The Honourable Jim Flaherty announced in the budget a generous increase of $800,000 a year to Special Olympics Canada. The organization and supporters like me are thankful for the government's support and are powerfully encouraged to keep forging ahead. I look forward to hearing Minister Flaherty speak at tomorrow's send-off.

I extend my best wishes to all members of Team Canada 2011 as they set out to fulfill the Special Olympics oath: "Let me win. But if I cannot win, let me be brave in the attempt.''

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[Translation]

2011 Stanley Cup Final

Riots in Vancouver

Hon. Jacques Demers: Honourable senators, I was very disappointed with the behaviour of a small group of individuals who acted irresponsibly and caused personal and property damage after the Vancouver Canucks were defeated last night.

[English]

Vancouver is not a violent city.

[Translation]

When Canada won the gold medal at the Vancouver Olympics last year, I was among those walking around the city's streets after the victory, and there were no problems. Everyone was overjoyed by our win. I am sure Senator Mahovlich would also say that Vancouver is one of the most beautiful cities in North America, if not the world.

I would remind all honourable senators that following our victory in 1993 —

[English]

We had won the Cup, so I do not see any excuse last night for the violence because the team lost.

[Translation]

— riots also broke out then, as in Vancouver last night, even though we had won the Stanley Cup.

Montreal and Vancouver are beautiful, non-violent cities. We must not pass judgment on them because of a small group of people who do not respect our national sport or, more importantly, their fellow Canadians.

[English]

Universities and Community in Atlantic Canada

Hon. Catherine S. Callbeck: Honourable senators, earlier this week, the Association of Atlantic Universities released a comprehensive study called Thriving Together: Universities and Community in Atlantic Canada, which measured social and cultural contributions of universities in Atlantic Canada.

We all know that universities have an economic impact in our region. With 17 universities in Atlantic Canada, they are an important driver of economic growth and development. They contribute more than $2.6 billion directly to the gross domestic product and receive revenue of almost $2 billion. They account for more than 38,000 jobs and are sometimes the largest employer in their community. In my home province, the University of Prince Edward Island contributes $174 million to the province's GDP and employs nearly 750 full- and part-time faculty and staff.

While previous reports measured the economic impact, this one hoped to find what they called the "human meaning'' of universities; how they impact the lives of the people in their communities. The report found that more than half a million people attended cultural events like theatrical or musical performances that were held on university grounds. More than 800 charitable community service projects are undertaken by people at universities, as well as 800 recreational programs and 300 community programs that provide benefits like legal and medical services.

At UPEI, between 10,000 and 12,000 Islanders use the facilities on campus every week. Faculty, staff and students undertake more than 200 volunteer and charitable community service initiatives every year, including the Chinook Project, which provides free veterinary care to isolated communities in the Canadian Arctic. Each summer, a team from the vet college at UPEI travels to Nunavut to provide care for dogs, like spaying, neutering or vaccinating, and to educate people in basic veterinary care.

Honourable senators, this latest study clearly shows the significant social and cultural contributions of universities to their communities. Quite literally, hundreds of thousands of Atlantic Canadians participate in programs, attend events and seek out services that are offered on the campuses of universities in our region.

I would like to commend the administration, faculty, staff, students and alumni of the universities in Atlantic Canada for their many contributions to enrich the lives of the people around them.

Visitors to the Senate

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence of Mr. Rick Hansen at the bar of the Senate. Famous as the "Man in Motion,'' he is holding the Rick Hansen Medal, a symbol of hope and determination. During the course of this year's twenty-fifth anniversary relay, there will be 7,000 medal bearers, each of whom has made a difference in the lives of others, who will pass the medal all the way across Canada.

On behalf of all honourable senators, Rick, welcome to the Senate of Canada.

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, accompanying Rick Hansen, we also welcome a distinguished member of Her Majesty's Privy Council of Canada, the Honourable Don Boudria.

Welcome to the Senate of Canada.

[Translation]

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS

Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner

2010-11 Annual Report Tabled

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, pursuant to paragraph 90(1)(b) of the Parliament of Canada Act, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the 2010-11 Annual Report of the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner in relation to public office holders.

[English]

Information Commissioner

2010-11 Annual Report Tabled

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, pursuant to section 38 of the Access to Information Act, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the 2010-11 Annual Report of the Information Commissioner.

[Translation]

Canadian Human Rights Commission

June 2011 Report Tabled

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, pursuant to subsection 61(2) of the Canadian Human Rights Act, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, a special report entitled, Now a Matter of Rights: Extending Full Human Rights Protection to First Nations People.

Foreign Affairs

Canada's Engagement in Afghanistan—October 1 to December 31, 2010 and January 1 to March 31, 2011 Reports Tabled

Hon. Claude Carignan (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, Canada's Engagement in Afghanistan, the quarterly report to Parliament for the periods from October 1 to December 31, 2010, and from January 1 to March 31, 2011.

[English]

Transport, Infrastructure and Communities

Transportation in Canada—2010 Annual Report Tabled

Hon. Claude Carignan (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, pursuant to section 52 of the Canadian Transportation Act, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the Transportation in Canada 2010 Annual Report.

[Translation]

Export Development Canada

2010 Annual Report Tabled

Hon. Claude Carignan (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the 2010 Annual Report of Export Development Canada, EDC, entitled Doing Business Where Business Gets Done.

[English]

Foreign Affairs and International Trade

Report Pursuant to Rule 104 Tabled

Hon. A. Raynell Andreychuk: Honourable senators, pursuant to rule 104 of the Rules of the Senate, I have the honour to table the first report of the Standing Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, which deals with the expenses incurred by the committee during the Third Session of the Fortieth Parliament.

(For text of report, see today's Journals of the Senate, p. 72.)

[Translation]

Banking, Trade and Commerce

Report Pursuant to Rule 104 Tabled

Hon. Michael A. Meighen: Honourable senators, pursuant to rule 104, I have the honour to table the first report of the Standing Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce, which the expenses incurred by the committee during the Third Session of the Fortieth Parliament.

(For text of report, see today's Journals of the Senate, p. 73.)

Social Affairs, Science and Technology

Report Pursuant to Rule 104 Tabled

Hon. Kelvin Kenneth Ogilvie: Honourable senators, pursuant to rule 104, I have the honour to table the first report of the Standing Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology, which deals with the expenses incurred by the committee during the Third Session of the Fortieth Parliament.

(For text of report, see today's Journals of the Senate, p. 74.)

[English]

Legal and Constitutional Affairs

Report Pursuant to Rule 104 Tabled

Hon. John. D. Wallace: Honourable senators, pursuant to rule 104 of the Rules of the Senate, I have the honour to table the first report of the Standing Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs, which deals with the expenses incurred by the committee during the Third Session of the Fortieth Parliament.

(For text of report, see today's Journals of the Senate, p. 75.)

[Translation]

Adjournment

Motion Adopted

Hon. Claude Carignan (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, with leave of the Senate and notwithstanding rule 58(1)(h), I move:

That when the Senate adjourns today, it do stand adjourned until Tuesday, June 21, 2011 at 2 p.m.

The Hon. the Speaker: Is leave granted, honourable senators?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

The Hon. the Speaker: Is it your pleasure, Honourable senators, to adopt the motion?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(Motion agreed to.)

(1400)

Inter-Parliamentary Forum of the Americas

Executive Committee Meeting, February 19-20, 2011—Report Tabled

Hon. Céline Hervieux-Payette: Honourable senators, pursuant to rule 23(6), I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the report of the Canadian parliamentary Delegation of the Canadian Section of the Inter-Parliamentary Forum of the Americas to the 24th meeting of the International Executive Committee of FIPA, held in Curitiba, Brazil, from February 19 to 20, 2011.

Meeting of the Executive Committee and Plenary Assembly, November 16-19, 2010—Report Tabled

Hon. Céline Hervieux-Payette: Honourable senators, pursuant to rule 23(6), I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the report of the Canadian Parliamentary Delegation of the Canadian Section of the Inter-Parliamentary Forum of the Americas to the 23rd Meeting of the Executive Committee and 7th Plenary Assembly of the Inter-Parliamentary Forum of the Americas, held in Mexico City, Mexico, from November 16 to 19, 2010.

[English]

Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association

Joint Meeting of the Defence and Security, Economics and Security, and Political Committees, February 20-22, 2011 and Annual Economics and Security Committee Consultation, February 23-24, 2011—Report Tabled

Hon. Jane Cordy: Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the report of the Canadian parliamentary delegation of the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association to the Joint Meeting of the Defence and Security, Economics and Security, and Political Committees, held in Brussels, Belgium, from February 20 to 22, 2011; and the Annual Economics and Security Committee Consultation with the Organisation for Economic and Co-operation Development, held in Paris, France, from February 23 to 24, 2011.

[Translation]

Visit of the Defence and Security Committee, January 31 to February 4, 2011—Report Tabled

Hon. Joseph A. Day: Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the report of the Canadian Parliamentary Delegation of the Canadian NATO Parliamentary Association concerning its participation in the visit of the Defence and Security Committee, in Washington, D.C., and San Diego, California, United States of America from January 31 to February 4, 2011.

[English]

Foreign Affairs and International Trade

Notice of Motion to Authorize Committee to Study Issues Relating to Foreign Relations and International Trade Generally

Hon. A. Raynell Andreychuk: Honourable senators, I give notice that, at the next sitting of the Senate, I will move:

That the Standing Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade, in accordance with Rule 86(1)(f), be authorized to examine such issues as may arise from time to time relating to foreign relations and international trade generally; and

That the committee report to the Senate no later than March 31, 2013.

Notice of Motion to Authorize Committee to Study Political and Economic Developments in Brazil and Refer Papers and Evidence from Previous Session

Hon. A. Raynell Andreychuk: Honourable senators, I give notice that, at the next sitting of the Senate, I will move:

That the Standing Senate Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade be authorized to examine and report on the political and economic developments in Brazil and the implications for Canadian policy and interests in the region, and other related matters.

That the papers and evidence received and taken on the subject during the Third session of the Fortieth Parliament and any other relevant Parliamentary papers and evidence on the said subject be referred to the Committee; and

That the committee submit its final report to the Senate no later than December 31, 2012 and that the committee retain all powers necessary to publicize its findings until March 31, 2013.

Banking, Trade and Commerce

Notice of Motion to Authorize Committee to Study Present State of Domestic and International Financial System

Hon. Michael A. Meighen: Honourable senators, I give notice that, at the next sitting of the Senate, I will move:

That the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce be authorized to examine and report upon the present state of the domestic and international financial system; and

That the committee submit its final report no later than December 31, 2012, and that the committee retain until March 31, 2013, all powers necessary to publicize its findings.

Social Affairs, Science and Technology

Notice of Motion to Authorize Committee to Study Accessibility of Post-Secondary Education AND REFER PAPERS AND EVIDENCE FROM FORTIETH PARLIAMENT

Hon. Kelvin Kenneth Ogilvie: Honourable senators, I give notice that, at the next sitting of the Senate, I will move:

That the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology be authorized to examine and report on the accessibility of post-secondary education in Canada, including but not limited to:

(a) analysis of the current barriers in post-secondary education, such as geography, family income levels, means of financing for students, debt levels and challenges faced specifically by Aboriginal students;

(b) evaluation of the current mechanisms for students to fund post-secondary education, such as Canada Student Loans Program, Canada Student Grants Program, Canada Access Grants, funding for Aboriginal students, Canada Learning Bonds, and Registered Education Savings Plans;

(c) evaluation of the current mechanisms to fund scientific research and development in post-secondary and related institutions and the commercialization of such research;

(d) examination of the current federal/provincial transfer mechanism for post-secondary education;

(e) evaluation of the potential establishment of a dedicated transfer for post-secondary education; and

(f) any other matters related to the study;

That the papers and evidence received and taken and work accomplished by the committee on this subject during the Fortieth Parliament be referred to the committee; and

That the committee submit its final report no later than December 31, 2011, and that the committee retain until June 30, 2012, all powers necessary to publicize its findings.

Legal and Constitutional Affairs

Notice of Motion to Authorize Committee to Meet During Sittings of the Senate until June 23, 2011

Hon. John. D. Wallace: Honourable senators, with leave of the Senate, and notwithstanding rule 58(1)(a), I give notice that, later this day, I will move:

That, until June 23, 2011, for the purposes of its consideration of Bill C-2, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (mega-trials) or the subject-matter of Bill C-2, the Standing Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs have the power to sit even though the Senate may then be sitting, with the application of rule 95(4) being suspended in relation thereto.

The Hon. the Speaker: Is leave granted, honourable senators?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

Aboriginal Children in Care in Manitoba

Notice of Inquiry

Hon. Sharon Carstairs: Honourable senators, pursuant to rule 57(2), I give notice that, two days hence:

I shall call the attention of the Senate to the alarming number of aboriginal children in care in the Province of Manitoba and my concerns that the group think that brought about the residential schools and the sixties scoop may be at play again.

[Translation]

Canadian Wheat Board

Notice of Inquiry

Hon. Grant Mitchell: Honourable senators, I give notice that, two days hence:

I will call the attention of the Senate to the federal government's intention to dismantle the Canadian Wheat Board.

[English]

QUESTION PERIOD

National Defence

Closure of Pearson Peacekeeping Centre

Hon. Jane Cordy: Honourable senators, since this is my first opportunity to ask a question in this session, I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate Senator LeBreton on her reappointment as leader, and to congratulate the other leadership members on that side, Senator Carignan and Senator Marshall. I also wish to congratulate our leadership team of Senator Cowan, Senator Tardif and Senator Munson.

My question is directed to the Leader of the Government in the Senate. Last week the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre announced the closure of their training facility in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia. Twelve people there are losing their jobs. This announcement was a direct result of having their core funding cut by this government.

Why has this government cut its support for peacekeeping training at the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre in Cornwallis?

Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government): I thank the honourable senator for the question. One of the commitments the government made as we sought the support of the Canadian public was to concentrate on jobs and the economy. The government will obviously have to look at all programs and areas of government. Agencies and services will obviously be affected by this. However, honourable senators, we were elected to concentrate on jobs and the economy and to reduce the deficit, and that is exactly what we intend to do.

Senator Cordy: I guess that 12 jobs is not a lot in a major city, but 12 jobs is a lot in Cornwallis. In addition to that, we know that Canada has a fine reputation around the world for peacekeeping. As honourable senators know, the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre supports Canada's contribution to international security by providing quality research, education and training-related peacekeeping. The centre had training activities in Europe, Africa, Latin America and, of course, Canada. The centre in Cornwallis has hosted training for peacekeeping officers from around the world and it has also hosted women in peace operations round tables.

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Canadians are justifiably proud of our country's contributions made to peacekeeping efforts around the world. In order to streamline costs as a result of losing their government funding, the Pearson Centre is now being forced to consolidate its operations in Ottawa. Many people have spoken privately and said they are very much afraid that as a result of the consolidation the peacekeeping aspect will be lost.

What is this government's commitment to funding projects to keep Canada's peacekeeping operations active?

Senator LeBreton: Obviously I agree with Senator Cordy that Canada has a stellar reputation with regard to peacekeeping, as we do now with regard to our military activities in Afghanistan and Libya, to name two places.

As the government moves forward, we have to look seriously at all the operations of the government. We are mindful of the responsibilities we have, not only to our military to ensure they are properly fit but also to the peacekeeping effort with regard to Cornwallis.

My son actually trained at Cornwallis before he went into the navy and of course it was the previous government that shut down Cornwallis as a major training centre. Obviously they had their reasons.

Again, I point out that the government will keep its commitments to Canadians. Jobs and the economy, as far as this government is concerned, are our priorities. I am sure the Honourable Senator Cordy will be up on her feet many times, as will others, about decisions the government has made. Unfortunately, that is the situation the government faces. We have to reduce the deficit.

We came through a difficult economic condition around the world. We came out ahead of all of our G7 partners. We are a model for the rest of the world and we intend to keep focused, as the Prime Minister said during the election campaign and since, and we will govern for all Canadians. However, we will govern with an effort to ensure that Canada's finances are in good shape and that we reduce the deficit and thereby create more opportunities for Canadians with a better economy and more jobs.

Senator Cordy: Does the government have a commitment to peacekeeping operations? I believe that was my question.

Senator LeBreton: Actually, I believe I did acknowledge, and I answered the honourable senator, that not only do we recognize our responsibility on the military side but also on the peacekeeping side.

Hon. Terry M. Mercer: Honourable senators, my question is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate and follows up on Senator Cordy's line of questioning.

Twelve jobs in Cornwallis, Nova Scotia, in that region of the province, has a tremendous effect particularly in view of the economic suffering because of decisions made by the provincial government not to support the ferry in Yarmouth that brought thousands of tourists to western Nova Scotia every year. The loss of those 12 jobs is magnified significantly when the situation is viewed in that context.

I understand the government will have cuts and the leader has talked about wanting to govern fairly for all Canadians. In the last number of years the growth of the public service has been mainly in the National Capital Region, as opposed to other regions of the country where it has a much larger economic impact. I would hope that someone in the government, as these decisions are being made to make cuts, is considering the economic impact beyond the dollars being saved to the treasury by these measures. What is the effect on the community in which these people work?

I believe Senator Comeau would be concerned about this because he lives not too far down the road from this place.

Senator Comeau: When they closed the base, they cut hundreds of jobs.

Senator LeBreton: Obviously, as the government goes through the process of looking at the programs in all of the departments, including in Ottawa, there are many factors that are considered. However, at the end of the day, as I mentioned, we were given a clear mandate by the Canadian public to focus on jobs and the economy. That is what the government will do. Hopefully we will create a condition in this country whereby there will be more opportunities for Canadians to be working — not fewer — if we manage the economy properly.

Senator Mercer: The focus of jobs and the economy is admirable, but the leader is talking about jobs and we are talking about 12 jobs in Cornwallis and we are talking about the economy in Cornwallis. Yes, Cornwallis has been hit terribly hard because of the cutbacks that were made before. I am not suggesting that those cutbacks were right or wrong, but they were done. We are talking about cutbacks that are happening today and are having an economic impact today.

Jobs and the economy are worthy objectives, and we are talking about jobs in a very economically needy part of western Nova Scotia. I would ask the leader to ask the minister to give a second thought to these cutbacks.

Senator LeBreton: Again, as we go through the review of all of the government's programs and activities in our efforts to reduce the deficit and stay on our deficit reduction plan as laid out in the budget, there will be difficult decisions.

Senator Mercer mentioned a situation in regard to a decision of the provincial government in that area. Of course I cannot answer for the provincial government. However, the fact is that there will be people affected all across the country. We will do everything we can to ensure that we manage the economy of the country in a way in which jobs will be created. If we go about this in a way that does not look at the overall expenditures of the government, we must cut and make these changes where we are given advice. It is the best route to go in order to effect the changes and reduce the deficit, and to create the savings that the government has promised to create.

Hon. James S. Cowan (Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, in order to reinforce the point that Senators Mercer and Cordy have made, I suggest to the leader that there is a differential impact in a smaller community if you lose six, eight or ten jobs. The ripple effect that those job losses have on that community is much greater than they would be in a large urban centre where there are support systems. It has the same impact on the six, eight or ten people who lose their jobs, but would the leader not agree there is a difference in the impact that those job losses have in smaller communities as compared to large communities? That is the point that Senators Mercer and Cordy are making.

No one is suggesting that, when the government faces the difficult situation they are in, there will not be some cutbacks that are necessary. Whether they are caused by international factors or by previous decisions of government is not the point. The point is that the government is clearly committed to cutbacks to address the financial situation the country is in.

All we are asking is that the government recognize there are differential impacts, and a job in one small community is not the same as a job in another community. There are differential impacts.

(1420)

Senator LeBreton: One of the points that the honourable senator fails to acknowledge is that the government is working with its various agencies and has asked them to participate in identifying where savings can be realized.

In the case of the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre at Cornwallis, the decision to eliminate 12 jobs was made on the recommendation of the peacekeeping facility itself. The government did not just go in and pluck out 12 jobs. Of course, the government also made a commitment to the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre to provide core funding until the end of the year. The institute is working hard on a plan to accommodate the changes it recommended.

Senator Cowan: Honourable senators, the suggestion is that these decisions bubbled up from the bottom. The leader said they were consulted and that they were involved in this. When one cuts their budget, what does one expect?

Senator LeBreton: I just said we will provide them with core funding to the end of the year.

Senator Cowan: The government still cut the budget and, as a result of that, the jobs are gone. I am asking the leader to address exactly what my colleagues are suggesting. I am not saying that the government's cost-cutting efforts will not take place or should not take place. All I am asking is for the leader to recognize that job losses in some communities have a greater impact on those communities than job losses in others. Does the leader not accept that?

Senator LeBreton: Of course I accept that, honourable senators. I expect that when we return in September there will be more senators from other regions of the country making a similar case for some specific project, as Senator Cordy, Senator Mercer and the honourable senator have made for this facility in Nova Scotia.

I go back to the mandate that was given to the government to focus on jobs and the economy. We must live up to that mandate. It is our intention to live up to that mandate. It is our intention to find the savings to reduce the deficit and thereby create a situation where the economy is significantly healthy enough to provide new jobs for Canadians.

Treasury Board

Public Service Cuts

Hon. Percy E. Downe: Honourable senators, can the minister give any assurance to this chamber that any future cuts in the public service in Canada will not be to a disproportionate amount in Atlantic Canada or the other regions of Canada?

Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government): I thank the senator for the question. The Prime Minister has stated clearly on many occasions that the government would govern for all of Canada.

Senator Downe: The reason I raise this is that the leader correctly identified that the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre made the decision to cut, but I notice it kept its Ottawa operation open and closed the operation in the region. Could the leader ensure that that will not happen across Canada?

Senator LeBreton: I am not here to answer for the Pearson Peacekeeping Centre; I am here to answer for the government. They obviously made the recommendation based on information that they are privy to. I cannot answer that, but I will reiterate the commitment of the government to govern the country considering all Canadians in all regions, no matter whom they vote for.

Senator Downe: Could I ask a specific question about the government? According to the Public Service Commission annual reports for the last two fiscal years that are available, federal employment in Prince Edward Island has fallen at the same time it has increased anywhere from 6 to 9 per cent across Canada and over 8 per cent in the National Capital Region. That is a concern that Canadians outside the National Capital Region have, that future reductions will be centred in their regions and not equally across Canada.

Can the minister, on behalf of the government, give any assurance that that will not be the case?

Senator LeBreton: Honourable senators, just to put some simple facts on the record, our economy grew by 3.9 per cent in the first quarter and we have created 560,000 new jobs since the height of the economic downturn in July 2009.

With regard to the specific question, I will seek further information with regard to these jobs. As honourable senators know, some of the growth in the public service in the National Capital Region was directly related to the extraordinary circumstances the government faced in implementing the Economic Action Plan and the stimulus package in order to keep our economy in a healthy condition throughout the world economic downturn.

I will try to get specific numbers of government employees in each region.

[Translation]

Transport, Infrastructure and Communities

Bridges in Montreal

Hon. Francis Fox: Honourable senators, today I had the opportunity to meet with the spokesperson for the Coalition pour le pont Champlain, following yesterday's measures to limit access to the Mercier Bridge between Montreal and the south shore. It goes without saying, and all senators from the greater Montreal area know this, that Montreal is experiencing a major transportation and traffic crisis. This crisis has created major inconveniences for thousands of people in Montreal and could have potentially disastrous consequences on the city's economy, thus affecting the province and the country.

This situation requires swift, aggressive intervention from all three levels of government. Can the minister tell us when the Government of Canada will acknowledge the urgency of this situation and the need for an overall solution instead of trying to stitch the bridge back together one piece at a time?

When will the Government of Canada acknowledge the need to start planning immediately for a new bridge to replace the Champlain Bridge, which, according to the most optimistic scenarios, is said to have only five to ten years left? When will the Government of Canada accept the invitation to partner with the Government of Quebec to plan for these new bridges?

[English]

Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government): As the honourable senator knows, the government did make a commitment to do our part to repair the bridge and ensure it is in a condition that is safe for use. The government intends to keep that commitment.

[Translation]

Senator Fox: Honourable senators, as the minister knows, all bridges are safe until there is a risk of them crumbling under the weight of use. The Mercier Bridge has now been closed to heavy vehicles, which must now use the Champlain Bridge. Does the minister realize that, as more time passes, more structural problems could emerge, which would require additional restrictions on the use of these bridges? This would have disastrous consequences, not only for the economy, but also for the productivity of businesses, the lives of families and individuals, and the health of people in greater Montreal.

If, as Minister Lebel confirms, all the options are on the table, when will your government look at the big picture on this issue, instead of simply doing patchwork? Will it commit to undertaking the absolutely necessary rebuilding of the Champlain Bridge, infrastructure, which is essential to the prosperity of the Montreal region? Once again, any further problems with the Champlain Bridge would spell disaster for Montreal.

[English]

Senator LeBreton: I thank the honourable senator for the question. I am well aware of the situation with regard to the Champlain Bridge. I have already stated what the government's intentions are. Through the economic downturn, many of the municipalities and provinces in the country partnered with the federal government and made major improvements in infrastructure. We realize there is a unique situation with the Champlain Bridge. I have stated the government's commitment. That is all I can say at this point.

[Translation]

Senator Fox: Honourable senators, I already know the minister's answer, for it is always the same. However, we must recognize that Montreal, being an island, is in a completely different situation than other cities in Canada. If people cannot get off the island, if the bridges continue to deteriorate at the same rate as they are right now, this will cause major problems. I am not blaming the government for the current condition of the bridges. I am simply asking the government to take immediate action to begin planning for the construction of a new bridge. All the experts agree that at least one new bridge is needed in the greater Montreal area and that we can no longer get away with patchwork repairs.

(1430)

Once again, if any bridge, whether the Mercier or the Champlain, were to show any further signs of weakening, it would push Montreal's economy into a very precarious situation. Some measures have already been put in place because, as we were told, the economic recovery was said to be fragile. The government feels it must legislate in the Air Canada and Canada Post disputes. If the economy is so fragile, imagine the economic impact of having to shut down one of these bridges.

[English]

Senator LeBreton: I hope Senator Fox read the budget. We had a budget on March 22, and we had a budget again last week after an interruption. In hindsight, I am very glad we had the interruption, by the way. I do not have the figure immediately at hand, but I believe $228 million was earmarked for bridges in Montreal, including the Champlain Bridge.

An Hon. Senator: It was not for a new bridge.

Hon. Joan Fraser: The problem, according to every expert, is that the Champlain Bridge does not need to be repaired; it needs to be replaced. There is a major difference. When Senator Fox talks about imminent disaster, he is not just talking about economic disaster, although that would be real, but he is talking about the possibility of lives being lost. Why will this government not do what all the experts are telling it to do, which is to commit to participate in the building of a new bridge?

Senator LeBreton: Not every expert said there had to be a new bridge. Many experts have indicated that the Champlain Bridge can be repaired, and that is the commitment of the government. As I indicated in response to the question of Senator Fox, I do not have the budget figure in front of me, but, if my memory serves me correctly, the budget that has passed the other place and is now here has a commitment of $228 million earmarked specifically for Montreal bridges, including the Champlain Bridge.

Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development

Matrimonial Real Property on Reserves

Hon. Mobina S. B. Jaffer: Honourable senators, my question is to the Leader of the Government. The Speech from the Throne stated that matrimonial real property on reserves is one of the government's priorities. While the Standing Senate Committee on Human Rights was studying Bill S-4, which was a piece of legislation that dealt with this matter, almost all Aboriginal witnesses that came before the committee expressed concern that there had not been proper consultations. In addition, ministerial representative Wendy Grant-John expressed similar concerns. In light of this, will the government be holding further consultations before introducing legislation to deal with the issue of matrimonial property on reserves?

Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government): I thank the honourable senator for the question. I am not in a position at this point to indicate what legislation the government will or will not be tabling. I will simply make the honourable senator's views known to my colleagues with regard to matrimonial property rights.

Senator Jaffer: May I ask the leader what steps she is aware of that the government will take to ensure that the voices and concerns of the Aboriginal people are heard on this issue?

Senator LeBreton: Honourable senators, the issue of matrimonial property rights was before the Senate. I have been occupied with other activities for the last few months. I cannot answer that definitively. I will find out for the honourable senator.

[Translation]

Official Languages

Obligations of Federal Institutions

Hon. Claudette Tardif (Deputy Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, the Conservative government's budget has confirmed what a number of groups and organizations feared — federal spending cuts of $11 billion by 2015-16.

It is critical that in the expenditure and program review of spending and programs just getting underway, the government take into account the obligations of federal institutions under the Official Languages Act.

Marie-France Kenny, president of the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne, expressed her concerns about the objectives of the federal budget cuts and stated, and I quote:

Federal institutions have very clear obligations with regard to the offer of services in both official languages and positive measures to support community development. These are quasi-constitutional obligations that must remain a priority in the review of spending and programs.

How does the leader intend to ensure that her government's budget cuts will not affect the rights of Canada's 2.5 million francophones and francophiles?

[English]

Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, the record of the government with regard to our Official Languages Act and our commitment to it is clear. We strongly support our linguistic duality. I believe I answered this question last week. We are investing $1.1 billion in the Roadmap for Canada's Linguistic Duality, the largest amount ever provided by a federal government. We are three years into the five-year commitment on the roadmap. Today, over 71 per cent of the commitments we have made in the roadmap have been confirmed and funded, which amounts to, at this point in time, $795 million.

I think the premise of the honourable senator's question is not correct. We are committed to Canada's two official languages, and we have a record to prove it.

[Translation]

Senator Tardif: First, can the minister confirm that there will not be any budget cuts to programs designed to enhance the vitality of official languages communities or to programs related to the roadmap that has been put forward? Will the minister make this commitment?

Second, if such budget cuts were to be made, would her government make a commitment to consult with the official languages organizations and communities before making those cuts?

[English]

Senator LeBreton: This is same type of question I used to get about Status of Women. There are various programs of the government. Many organizations apply for government funding. Just because a group received government funding from the year dot does not mean it will go on forever. Other people apply for funding and receive it.

There are many examples, some of which I used in the last Parliament in response to Senator Chaput with regard to official languages programs that were supposedly cut. I pointed out many examples of their funding. Groups apply for funding. Their funding ran out, and we funded other organizations.

It is an impossible question to answer. We have increased our funding under the roadmap and various organizations benefit from it. Some may get funding that never got funding before, and others may not. That is the nature of the program, so I cannot make any such guarantee.

(1440)

[Translation]

ORDERS OF THE DAY

Budget 2011

Inquiry—Debate Continued

On the Order:

Resuming debate on the inquiry of the Honourable Senator Carignan calling the attention of the Senate to the budget entitled, A Low-Tax Plan for Jobs and Growth, tabled in the House of Commons on June 6, 2011, by the Minister of Finance, the Honourable James M. Flaherty, P.C., M.P., and in the Senate on June 7, 2011.

Hon. Grant Mitchell: Honourable senators, I would like to thank you for your patience. I would like to make a number of comments about Inquiry No. 1. I will try to be brief but there are several points that I must make about climate change.

[English]

There is not a lot to talk about on the question of climate change if one was left referring simply to the Throne Speech and the budget. The Throne Speech says absolutely nothing about climate change. This is probably the biggest issue facing this country in its entire history and the Government of Canada said absolutely nothing about climate change in the Throne Speech at a point in its existence where it actually has a majority and has political credit out there, or so they keep telling us. One would think that they could actually do something and use some of that political credit to make tough decisions — they always talk about tough decisions — in one of the most important areas facing this country and, in fact, the world today.

It is not just an environmental issue. I will not try to appeal to their better nature — and I will be careful how I use that word — on the question of the environmental side of the impact of climate change. Instead, I will try to appeal to their instincts with respect to the economic impact of climate change and the economic impact, the flip side of the same coin, of not dealing with climate change.

We hear over and over again that somehow dealing with climate change will hurt the economy. I would argue, and it is evident, that not dealing with climate change can hurt the economy infinitely. Certainly, there is adequate anecdotal evidence to indicate that climate change is already hurting the Canadian economy.

I was in discussions with some agricultural people about a week ago and they pointed out that it will be five consecutive years that a significant area of Saskatchewan has been under water and has not been able to be seeded. They were referring to Interlake. That is absolutely specifically related to climate change and its impact. One cannot control those impacts. One can manage the ability and manage the programs that would begin to address the problem more fundamentally.

What bothers me, in particular — and there are a number of things, of course — is that one cannot manage a problem such as climate change if one cannot measure it. Recently, we have seen very disconcerting evidence of a government that either on purpose is not measuring climate change properly or simply is not competent to do so.

They sent a major report to the UN, required under an agreement with the UN, on our emissions over the year 2009. That report said two things, both of which are highly questionable. They did not indicate the degree to which greenhouse gas emissions have increased so significantly from the oil sands.

When I raised that question the other day, the Leader of the Government said that somehow I was not representing the interests of Albertans by pointing out that the government was at fault for the lack of integrity of information they were presenting to this international body and misleading the world. I said to her then, and I will say it again: One does not have to represent Albertans' interests by misleading the world. Albertans are quite happy to have the world know the truth about Alberta, because there are many very good things about Alberta and the oil sands. However, one does not promote the interests of the oil sands, the interests of Albertans and the interests of Canadians if one misleads or lies to the world about that important information. That is the first problem.

The second problem is that in that report they said that Canada has reduced 40 megatonnes of greenhouse gas emissions in the year 2009. Well, at face value, one would think one could believe a report like that from the Government of Canada. I remember a time when one could actually believe a report from the Government of Canada. The world would believe it. We had integrity, honour, reputation and credibility in the world. However, just days later, another report on the Kyoto Protocol Implementation Act, from the same department, said they have reduced emissions by 4 megatonnes. So they just misled the world by 10 times. That is probably within the rounding factor. It could be zero. They have misled the world by 10 times, from 4 to 40.

The Minister of the Environment's answer in the other place was, "Well, we have two sets of data.'' Oh, my God, we have two sets of data? You have had five years to figure it out, and you worked so hard that you were able to come up with two sets of data? Maybe if you had worked a bit harder, you would have been able to come up with three or four sets of data.

It is incomprehensible that he would brag about the fact that we have two sets of data or some kind of an answer to the problem that, if we cannot even measure climate change, then how could we ever begin to manage it? Clearly, they are either incompetent or they purposely do not want to measure it because they are looking for yet another way to delay action on this very important problem, but more importantly, on this very important economic opportunity for this country and to provide leadership in the world.

I want to ask the government this: If one was running a business, would one have two sets of books, one for the auditors and one in that drawer way down at the bottom with the real figures? One for the tax department and one way down there that shows what one is really making? Of course not. Of course one would not.

Just ask Tony Clement; he had no books at all. That is the other way to do it: Do not measure it at all. Have no paperwork at all. That would be so much easier. Unbelievable.

Then I went to the budget and I had some anticipation because I was thinking, "Oh, my God, there is nothing in the Throne Speech, but maybe, just maybe, there will be something in the budget.'' How thick was that budget? Not only that, but they had months and months to prepare it and then they had months to re-prepare it, because they had all that time after the first time they brought it in. There is $400 million in that budget for one single climate change initiative, the ecoENERGY Retrofit program. Great program. Fantastic program. One megatonne of reduction.

We are now at 2011, and they are saying they will drop 17 per cent by 2020. That is 178 megatonnes. One megatonne has to be less than 1 per cent. It is just over half a per cent, when we have to get to 17 per cent, to 178 megatonnes. At that rate — I figured it out — it will take 45 years, if one takes the four they have already done and add the one from the ecoENERGY Retrofit program. We will get to our 2020 objective by 2057. Wow. That is fantastic.

I have such respect for Senator St. Germain. He represents the Aboriginal people in this country so profoundly well. Do you know who will suffer in this country from climate change as much if not more than everyone else? The Aboriginal people, because they live on the land. They live in ways that many of us do not live and they depend upon the climate and the land, and that land is being hurt, if not in many cases destroyed, in its ability to deliver their food and their livelihood. We have to consider those people as well. I want to register my profound disappointment — not surprise, but my profound disappointment — about that.

The other thing I want to mention briefly is this: Several of us had an interesting dinner, including Senator Angus and I, with the British High Commissioner. One of the British ministers was there, a Liberal Democrat — enlightened, intelligent and insightful, as one might imagine — and he outlined the progress and achievement of Britain with respect to climate change.

Do honourable senators know that Britain has doubled its Kyoto objective already and it will be more than doubled by the end of 2012?

One of the things that has helped them do so — and this will be a surprise to the Conservatives, because they will not believe this — is that they used a market mechanism to help them achieve their climate change initiative. They allowed the market to price carbon and they allowed all those entrepreneurs and businesses to make that infinite number of decisions. They did not try to direct it from the top, as Mr. Kent is now doing. No, they did so in the least intrusive and least expensive way, and they doubled their objectives.

(1450)

We now have a bunch of Conservatives and public servants beavering away trying to figure out regulation — the most expensive, the most intrusive, the most socialistic way possible to begin to do this. I do not want to criticize their values, and I will not. I want to hold them to their values and standards. I stand here today trying to do them a favour, trying to do my best on their behalf by saying that if they believe in business, market and economic opportunity, then they should do something about climate change. One thing they could use is carbon markets that will drive the climate change initiative and get money into businesses and farms.

I do not know one Albertan or Canadian farmer who has enough or too much money. One can use those mechanisms and a little bit of creativity to move us forward to save the environment, to save our economy, and to fulfill our intergenerational responsibilities to our children and our grandchildren.

Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.

Hon. Sharon Carstairs: Would the honourable senator accept a question?

Senator Mitchell: Yes.

Senator Carstairs: Honourable senators, I was in Brussels in late March giving a speech to an international conference on palliative care. To reach the speech venue, I had to go through the grounds of the European Commission. To my shock and dismay, there was a huge poster board on both sides of the commission deploring the lack of Canadian response to the environmental problems with the oil sands.

I was somewhat embarrassed, as a Canadian, to be standing there. Some of the information was, frankly, not true, but some of it was. It is a bit like the seal campaign; if we do not get on it, then we are going to lose it.

Does Senator Mitchell know of other such exhibits around the world? Does he know whether the government has taken any action to counterbalance this misinformation?

Senator Mitchell: I thank the honourable senator for the question.

She is addressing something that businesses go to great extents to address all the time, and that is reputational risk. Reputational risk is hugely significant to business and is hugely significant to Canada. Let me count the ways.

First, if we have a strong reputation, then we have strong credibility and a sense of power and influence in the world. Therefore, for example, if we wanted to take a strong position, which we do, and help Israel, then we would have the influence, the credibility and the base from which to help Israel. It is one thing to talk about helping Israel, but if one has no credibility internationally, then one cannot help Israel. We are risking that because we are losing our credibility on things like climate change and the reputational risks that are inherent.

We also see it beginning to bear on our ability to have a strong trade relationship with Britain and Europe. We are trying to create trade agreements with these countries. I am sorry to have to report to the honourable senator that that is beginning to bear upon the kinds of relationships that other countries are willing to enter into with respect to Canada and its trade interests.

In addition, very significant and powerful people in the U.S. are saying that they do not want to build pipelines to bring oil sands oil — although they do not call it that — into their country, and that will start to hurt our international exports. That becomes even more significant when one considers that with shale gas finds the U.S. will be able to stop importing gas from Canada by 2030. That will kill that market for us, so we need to be thinking about our other exports.

Reputational risk is huge. If we do not do something about it, then we begin to hurt ourselves and our allies in many ways. This government is literally doing nothing to recover and build our reputation in the world.

(On motion of Senator Carignan, debate adjourned.)

Aboriginal Peoples

Committee Authorized to Study Federal Government's Responsibilities to First Nations, Inuit and Metis Peoples and Refer Papers and Evidence from Previous Session

Hon. Gerry St. Germain, pursuant to notice of June 15, 2011, moved:

That the Standing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples be authorized to examine and report on the federal government's constitutional, treaty, political and legal responsibilities to First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples and on other matters generally relating to the Aboriginal Peoples of Canada;

That the papers and evidence received and taken and work accomplished by the Committee on the subject during the Third Session of the Fortieth Parliament be referred to the Committee; and

That the Committee submit its final report no later than December 31, 2012, and that the Committee retain all powers necessary to publicize its findings until 180 days after the tabling of the final report.

Hon. Kelvin Kenneth Ogilvie (The Hon. the Acting Speaker): Is it your pleasure, honourable senators, to adopt the motion?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(Motion agreed to.)

Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources

Committee Authorized to Study Issues Related to Mandate and Refer Papers and Evidence since Beginning of Second Session of Thirty-ninth Parliament

Hon. Grant Mitchell, for Senator Angus, pursuant to notice of June 15, 2011, moved:

That the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources be authorized to examine and report on emerging issues related to its mandate:

(a) The current state and future direction of production, distribution, consumption, trade, security and sustainability of Canada's energy resources;

(b) Environmental challenges facing Canada including responses to global climate change, air pollution, biodiversity and ecological integrity;

(c) Sustainable development and management of renewable and non-renewable natural resources including but not limited to water, minerals, soils, flora and fauna; and

(d) Canada's international treaty obligations affecting energy, the environment and natural resources and their influence on Canada's economic and social development.

That the papers and evidence received and taken and work accomplished by the committee on this subject since the beginning of the Second Session of the Thirty-ninth Parliament be referred to the committee; and

That the committee submit its final report no later than June 29, 2012 and that the committee retain all powers necessary to publicize its findings until 180 days after the tabling of the final report.

The Hon. the Acting Speaker: Is it your pleasure, honourable senators, to adopt the motion?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(Motion agreed to.)

Committee Authorized to Study Current State and Future of Energy Sector and Refer Papers and Evidence since Beginning of Second Session of Fortieth Parliament

Hon. Grant Mitchell, for Senator Angus, pursuant to notice of June 15, 2011, moved:

That the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources be authorized to examine and report on the current state and future of Canada's energy sector (including alternative energy). In particular, the committee shall be authorized to:

(a) Examine the current state of the energy sector across Canada, including production, manufacturing, transportation, distribution, sales, consumption and conservation patterns;

(b) Examine the federal and provincial/territorial roles in the energy sector and system in Canada;

(c) Examine current domestic and international trends and anticipated usage patterns and market conditions, including trade and environmental measures and opportunities, likely to influence the sector's and energy system's future sustainability;

(d) Develop a national vision for the long-term positioning, competitiveness and security of Canada's energy sector; and

(e) Recommend specific measures by which the federal government could help bring that vision to fruition.

That the papers and evidence received and taken and work accomplished by the committee on this subject since the beginning of the Second Session of the Fortieth Parliament be referred to the committee; and

That the committee submit its final report no later than June 29, 2012 and that the committee retain all powers necessary to publicize its findings until 180 days after the tabling of the final report.

The Hon. the Acting Speaker: Is it your pleasure, honourable senators, to adopt the motion?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(Motion agreed to.)

[Translation]

Agriculture and Forestry

Committee Authorized to Study Research and Innovation Efforts in Agricultural Sector

Hon. Gerald J. Comeau, for Senator Mockler, pursuant to notice of June 15, 2011, moved:

That the Standing Senate Committee on Agriculture and Forestry be authorized to examine and report on research and innovation efforts in the agricultural sector. In particular, the Committee shall be authorized to examine research and development efforts in the context of:

(a) developing new markets domestically and internationally;

(b) enhancing agricultural sustainability; and

(c) improving food diversity and security.

That the Committee submit its final report to the Senate no later than December 31, 2012, and that the Committee retain until March 31, 2013, all powers necessary to publicize its findings.

The Hon. the Acting Speaker: Is it your pleasure, honourable senators, to adopt the motion?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(Motion agreed to.)

[English]

Legal and Constitutional Affairs

Committee Authorized to Meet During Sittings of the Senate until June 23, 2011

Hon. John. D. Wallace: Honourable senators, pursuant to notice of earlier this day, I move:

That, until June 23, 2011, for the purposes of its consideration of Bill C-2, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (mega-trials) or the subject-matter of Bill C-2, the Standing Senate Committee on Legal and Constitutional Affairs have the power to sit even though the Senate may then be sitting, with the application of rule 95(4) being suspended in relation thereto.

(1500)

Hon. Joseph A. Day: When Senator Wallace gave notice of the motion earlier, I believe I heard that it only provides this special right to sit until June 23. I wondered if that was a mistake or if the honourable senator felt that he could get his work done by that time.

Senator Wallace: It is our expectation that we can get the work done by June 23. If, as that dates comes closer, we feel that more time is needed, I may have to come back and ask for further time. I have discussed this with Senator Fraser, and we felt that we could complete our work by June 23.

The Hon. the Acting Speaker: Is it your pleasure, honourable senators, to adopt the motion?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(Motion agreed to.)

(The Senate adjourned until Tuesday, June 21, 2011, at 2 p.m.)

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