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1st Session, 44th Parliament
Volume 153, Issue 193

Wednesday, April 17, 2024
The Honourable Raymonde Gagné, Speaker


THE SENATE

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

The Senate met at 2 p.m., the Speaker in the chair.

Prayers.

SENATORS’ STATEMENTS

Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement

Hon. Andrew Cardozo: Honourable senators, on March 19 — along with most senators — I was honoured to vote yes on third and final reading of Bill C-57, An Act to implement the 2023 Free Trade Agreement between Canada and Ukraine, and to see the act given Royal Assent the same day.

I am pleased to inform you, colleagues, that last week I met the Ukrainian Ambassador to Canada, Yuliya Kovaliv, and she informed me that the Ukrainian Parliament had passed a counterpart act rectifying the Canada-Ukraine Free Trade Agreement on April 10 — just last Friday. This is good news, and, I hope, colleagues, you will join me in welcoming it.

The bill passed the Ukrainian legislature with its provision to promote high levels of environmental protection firmly intact. The bill advances fair, inclusive and transparent trade with Ukraine, and it supports the long-term security, stability and economic recovery in that country.

In addition to making trade easier and strengthening economic ties between our nations, this agreement is a stirring statement of support from this Parliament and from Canada for the Ukrainian people as they defend themselves against the invasion from Russia.

Thank you.

Visitors in the Gallery

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of the Professional Women’s Hockey League Ottawa. They are the guests of the Honourable Senator Pate.

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

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!

Professional Women’s Hockey League

Hon. Kim Pate: She shoots, she scores!

Honourable senators, how many other girls besides me dreamed of hearing those words as we watched Hockey Night in Canada?

Being the eldest of four girls, I had pride of place on the couch next to my father to watch the games. While Dad always told us that one day it would happen, little did I expect it would take 60 years before we would see a women’s professional hockey league in Canada.

By the time my daughter and her friends — like PWHL Ottawa staff member Rachelle Perras — had a league of their own, even girls’ hockey at the rep level was relegated to the worst times and distant rinks while boys’ hockey — or what some parents still referred to as the “real” hockey teams — always took priority. No wonder the league slogan is “Ice Time. Earned.”

The league’s advisory board includes Billie Jean King, one of the first to challenge the second-class treatment of women athletes, and Hockey Hall of Famer Jayna Hefford.

The Ottawa Professional Women’s Hockey League founders include former Olympian Guylaine Bernier, Karin Lofstrom, Shelley Coolidge, Sue MacGregor, Cathy Champion-Demers and Danika Smith. Thanks to the efforts of these women, and so many more, the Ottawa hockey community has a platform dating back to the inaugural Women’s World Championship in 1990 and built on further success in 2013. Simply put, the members of PWHL Ottawa are all game changers.

Just this past week, Ashton Bell, Emily Clark, Brianne Jenner and Emerance Maschmeyer made us all so very proud by winning the World Championship as part of Team Canada. Other teammates played for the U.S., Czechia, Germany and Japan.

Today, fresh from practice, we are pleased to be joined by 14 players and their support team. With us are Zoe Boyd, Emma Buckles, Sammy Davis, Kristin Della Rovere, Rosalie Demers, Becca Gilmore, Gabbie Hughes, Sam Isbell, Rachel McQuigge, Jincy Roese, Malia Schneider, Natalie Snodgrass, Audrey-Anne Veilette and Daryl Watts.

The support in Ottawa for girls and women in sport and leadership is what defines the community and contributes to the Ottawa team’s success. In this debut season, media coverage and attendance at every sold-out home game in Ottawa have been fabulous — Montreal and Toronto have been okay too.

As one of the founders shared:

The first game brought tears to the eyes of generations of players and organizers who came before and helped to realize the dreams of thousands of little girls.

To all of you, we say thank you for relegating to the pages of misogynistic history and elevating to new heights the call, “Play like a girl!” Go, Ottawa, go!

Thank you.

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!

Visitors in the Gallery

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of John and Kirk Armstrong, Senator Black’s cousins, who are accompanied by other members of the Armstrong family.

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

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!

National Soil Conservation Week

Hon. Robert Black: Honourable senators, I rise today with great enthusiasm to draw attention to the upcoming National Soil Conservation Week taking place next week.

It is a chance to recognize the vital importance of soil conservation and sustainable land management practices for our agricultural sector, environment and future generations. It is also a week to celebrate organizations such as the Soil Conservation Council of Canada, or SCCC, the national voice for soil conservation in Canada.

The SCCC has a rich history as the face and voice of soil conservation in Canada. It was founded in 1987 after the first Senate soil health study — conducted by this very chamber — recommended the creation of a soil conservation council for Canada.

SCCC advocates for soil conservation on a national scale, and their work has been instrumental in promoting and raising awareness of soil health while facilitating communication among stakeholders to promote sustainable land use policies.

I would like to thank SCCC’s Executive Director Jim Tokarchuk and his entire team for all their hard work over many years.

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Soil is a precious resource that sustains life on Earth. It is the foundation of our food production system, providing essential nutrients for crops and supporting biodiversity. However, soil erosion, degradation and the loss of soil health are significant challenges that threaten our agricultural productivity and environmental sustainability.

As stewards of the land, it is our responsibility to protect and conserve our soils. National Soil Conservation Week provides an opportunity to raise awareness about the importance of soil conservation and to promote best practices in soil management.

Colleagues, soil conservation is not just an agricultural issue; it is a shared responsibility that requires collaboration across all sectors and stakeholders. By implementing sustainable land management practices, such as conservation tillage, cover cropping and agroforestry, we can reduce soil erosion, improve soil health and mitigate the impacts of climate change.

I would like to emphasize the critical role that farmers, landowners and agricultural organizations play in leading soil conservation efforts. Their dedication to adopting innovative practices and conservation techniques is essential for preserving our soil resources for future generations. This cannot be understated.

In addition, government support through research, education and incentive programs is crucial for promoting sustainable soil management practices and encouraging widespread adoption across the agricultural sector.

Honourable colleagues, National Soil Conservation Week is a time to reflect on the importance of soil conservation and renew our commitment to protect this valuable resource. Let’s work together to ensure that Canada’s soils remain healthy, productive and resilient for generations to come.

Thank you. Meegwetch.

Diabetes Research

Hon. Karen Sorensen: Honourable senators, type 1 diabetes, or T1D, hits very close to home for me. My husband, Carsten, lives with the condition, and I’ve seen first-hand its impacts on his day-to-day life as well as the advances that have been made in management and treatment over the past.

Type 1 diabetes is no longer known as juvenile diabetes. Carsten developed type 1 diabetes at 66 years of age.

Research into type 1 diabetes has had huge impacts. In the last half-century, 25 years have been added to the lifespan of a person receiving the latest care. Even so, we can’t afford to be complacent. I just attended a luncheon with some of our colleagues in the Senate, co-hosted by Research Canada and Diabetes Canada. Type 1 diabetes is currently on the rise in Canada. Cases are climbing by 4.3% every year, outpacing population growth. Complications, including ketoacidosis, hypoglycemia, kidney disease and cardiovascular disease, present a costly burden on our health care system. Not to mention, it is a harrowing ordeal for patients and their families.

Even with the progress that has been made, life expectancy for a T1D patient is 10 years less than the general population. For those of us who know and love people with this condition, that’s a terrifying statistic.

That’s why I’ve joined the — type 1 — All-party Diabetes Caucus, and why I’m joining the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, or JDRF, in calling for increased investment in scientific research. As the largest charitable funder of this cause, JDRF has been part of nearly every scientific breakthrough in T1D research worldwide since 1974. The goals they’re working toward range from less intrusive diabetes management options to a potential cure.

Through the All-party Diabetes Caucus, I’ve had the opportunity to learn of JDRF’s contributions to groundbreaking research. I’ve been stunned by the progress that’s already been made and by the advances we could see in the near future.

A century ago, Canadian scientists won the Nobel Prize for the discovery of insulin. Now Canada can help bring about a future where diabetes patients don’t need to inject themselves.

I’m calling upon the government to recognize the promising results and limitless potential of diabetes research, and to also recognize the contributions of 300,000 Canadians who live with T1D, who have raised families, built businesses and served their communities — and who could have achieved even more if unburdened from this illness. By investing in a cure for type 1 diabetes, you’re investing in them.

Thank you.

Visitors in the Gallery

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Homaira Ayubi and Aeyliya Husain. They are the guests of the Honourable Senators McPhedran and Omidvar.

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

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!

Royal Canadian Air Force

Congratulations on One Hundred Years of Service

Hon. Pamela Wallin: Honourable senators, “The sky is not the limit, it’s just the beginning.” These are the words of Chuck Yeager, the pioneering test pilot who broke the sound barrier.

Flight has long been a symbol of freedom, adventure, exploration and possibility. In a world where we are constantly being knocked back by the harsh realities of life and war, the idea of taking flight — of flying away — gives us a sense of freedom. It allows us to imagine that we cannot only defy gravity, but also escape that feeling of being grounded under the weight of the world.

Since its beginning — actually, long before that, under the flags of others — our Royal Canadian Air Force, or RCAF, pilots have tested the limits and served Canadians and the world faithfully in times of peace and war. Albeit belatedly — but at my first opportunity — I stand today to pay tribute to our defenders in the sky, as April 1, 2024, marked 100 years of service for the Royal Canadian Air Force.

The centennial milestone is an opportunity to celebrate and honour their historic role, because a nation’s story is built on its past and always on the backs of those willing to serve.

Human ingenuity brought us to the moon and back only a few short decades after the flights of the Wright brothers, Alexander Graham Bell and J.A.D. McCurdy. The RCAF has long harnessed that ingenuity to help defend democracy and freedom, and we owe much to the generation that showed the way.

They showed the way during the Second World War; in Korea; with our allies throughout the Cold War; in Eastern Europe after the fall of the Berlin Wall; in support of Canada’s land forces in the Middle East — especially in Afghanistan and Iraq — and in countless peacekeeping and peacemaking operations around the world. Their stellar work also helped lead to the creation of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, or NATO, and the North American Aerospace Defense Command, or NORAD. In a world where the security landscape is dangerous and conflicts — old and new — are hot, we need to support our men and women in uniform evermore. They are entrusted with protecting our land, our people and everything we believe in, and they deserve the resources required for them to meet the call and to meet their mission.

As the government scrambles to play catch-up after decades of underfunding, we must insist that our political leaders actually follow through on their promises. A defence policy update is not enough with spending and acquisitions promised 10, 20 and 30 years out. We need a sense of urgency when it comes to equipping and supporting our military, not only during service but also afterwards.

Few of us will ever know the courage needed to face the hardships, and it is both unacceptable and embarrassing that we ask them to do so much with so little.

Despite this, the RCAF endures and soars, so despite the fact that the date has passed, please join me in marking this tremendous milestone, and say thank you to the Royal Canadian Air Force.

ParlAmericas

Hon. Peter M. Boehm: Honourable senators, I rise today to speak about ParlAmericas and its recent meetings in Washington with the Organization of American States, or OAS.

ParlAmericas is a forum of parliamentarians from the member states of the inter-American system that, for 25 years, has convened colleagues from Latin America and the Caribbean to discuss policy issues of hemispheric relevance and to compare legislative practices.

The organization has benefited from strong Canadian participation and financial backing. Senate support, in particular from our colleague Senator Rosa Galvez, has been steadfast, along with the work of Alisha Todd, the Director General of ParlAmericas.

Last month, with colleagues from the House of Commons, I joined legislators from across Latin America and the Caribbean. We came to know each other quite well, which is what parliamentary diplomacy is all about.

ParlAmericas is very important to me, as I was Canada’s ambassador and permanent representative to the OAS in Washington when ParlAmericas was established in 1999. I was a teenager then.

My team and I worked hard on the hemispheric parliamentary cooperation file, in particular, in advance of the 2001 Summit of the Americas in Quebec City.

There have been two things missing over the years: a clearer institutional link with the OAS and its agenda, and a commitment from the United States Congress to participate more meaningfully in the work of ParlAmericas.

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We made great progress on both fronts during our visit last month, including during our meetings with the OAS Secretary General and the various secretariats and inter-American commissions. We ended with a special joint session of the Committee on Juridical and Political Affairs and the Committee on Inter-American Summits Management and Civil Society Participation.

It was here that the proposal for regularized collaboration with the OAS through strengthened parliamentary collaboration was adopted. This will now go to ministers of foreign affairs of member states for adoption at the OAS General Assembly in Suriname in June. The hope and expectation is that hemispheric parliamentary cooperation will be endorsed by leaders at the next Summit of the Americas in the Dominican Republic in November 2025.

ParlAmericas, and its credibility, would benefit from greater participation by the United States Congress. We met with American senators who provided their support for increased parliamentary cooperation through ParlAmericas with the important proviso that there be greater activity in the four thematic pillars of the OAS: democracy, human rights, integral development and hemispheric security.

Within that rubric, governments in our hemisphere also need to pay more attention to the management of migratory issues, the scourge of opioids and the erosion of national democratic institutions.

Colleagues, in the great “polycrisis” global environment in which we live, it is too easy to forget our own hemisphere. Our successive governments have had an important role in supporting, nurturing and encouraging progress in the inter-American system. There is a clear legislative component to this goal as well, and we should seize the opportunity. I strongly believe that Canada has much to offer.

Thank you.

[Editor’s Note: Senator Boehm spoke in another language.]

ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS

Budget 2024

Documents Tabled

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the 2024 budget, entitled Fairness for Every Generation.

Adjournment

Notice of Motion

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, I give notice that, at the next sitting of the Senate, I will move:

That, when the Senate next adjourns after the adoption of this motion, it do stand adjourned until Tuesday, April 30, 2024, at 2 p.m.

Budget 2024

Notice of Inquiry

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, I give notice that, two days hence:

I will call the attention of the Senate to the budget entitled Fairness for Every Generation, tabled in the House of Commons on April 16, 2024, by the Minister of Finance, the Honourable Chrystia Freeland, P.C., M.P., and in the Senate on April 17, 2024.

QUESTION PERIOD

Finance

Interest Costs on Federal Debt

Hon. Donald Neil Plett (Leader of the Opposition): Leader, yesterday morning Statistics Canada reported that inflation had gone up again last month. The rise was driven by increases to the cost of gas, rent and mortgage interest payments, which went up 25.4% in just one year.

Just a few hours later, leader, instead of putting an end to the inflationary deficits and spending, the Trudeau government brought forward a budget that introduced almost $40 billion in new spending, and they had the audacity to call it “responsible.”

Leader, is it responsible to spend more this year to pay the interest on your debt than on health care? Is it responsible to create the equivalent of $2,400 of debt for every single family in new government debt and new inflationary spending?

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question. The budget that was introduced and tabled today, in the opinion of the government, represents a responsible and prudent approach to managing both our economy and investing in the future.

In that regard, there are a number of points that need to be underlined. I’m not going to run through the budget, obviously. I look forward, as I think you all do, to the Senate’s study of it, which we will undertake as we always do.

The fact remains, colleagues, that the investments that the government announced in the budget are designed to help Canadians manage well going forward with regard to housing, health care, child care and other measures that are necessary for Canadians to continue to flourish. It is also the case that our economy is doing well. In that regard, it is responsible.

Senator Plett: The NDP-Liberal budget projects they will collect $54.1 billion from the GST this fiscal year. That’s the exact same amount the Trudeau government will pay out to the banks and bond holders this year to service the interest on their debt. This isn’t responsible, leader. It’s not worth the cost, is it?

Senator Gold: The question, really, before the Senate and before Canadians is whether or not the government’s approach to managing the economy, which continues to be one of the strongest-performing economies in the G7 — only one of two countries with a AAA rating — includes measures to provide intergenerational justice, which are long overdue. In that regard, my answer is that this is a responsible budget.

Hon. Leo Housakos: Senator Gold, your government can hardly talk about generations. You have a whole generation of Canadians who are being held hostage in their parents’ basements, and that’s a reality. The truth of the matter is, Senator Gold, the only thing your government has done really well is set records when it comes to deficits and debt. That’s what you excel at. You’ve set records when it comes to creating enormous inflation.

As my colleague Senator Plett pointed out, there’s $40 billion of new spending, whereas over the last eight years you’ve struggled to balance a budget that has created the inflation we see in this country. You’re spending $54 billion alone just to service the debt that your government has created over the last eight and a half years.

The question is very simple: Why is it so difficult for the Trudeau government to understand the basic principle that millions of Canadians across the country understand; you can’t keep spending more money than you’re earning? When will you finally understand that principle and put it into action, like all the other Canadians do across this country? You can’t spend more than you make.

Senator Gold: This budget keeps the deficit within the forecast as projected in the fall economic statement. That is point 1.

Point 2: Very targeted measures to increase the tax contribution of 0.1% of Canadians will bring in sufficient revenue to offset many of the costs and additional investments that are being made to assist Canadians, whether it’s in housing, child care, health care, pharmacare or dental care — all of the programs that will benefit Canadians — because that’s the responsible thing for governments to do.

There are other ideological approaches to budgets; we hear them regularly here. I’m not going to indulge in partisanship. The government has introduced a budget that is a responsible and prudent one. We will study it. The other house will debate it and will ultimately vote on the budget, as it does, as a confidence motion.

Canada’s Inflation Rate

Hon. Leo Housakos: Senator Gold, when will you stop engaging in Justin Trudeau’s dream economics? The only thing that your government has realized is allowing the 1% of Canadians to get richer over the last eight and a half years. That is what inflation does, Senator Gold. The wealthiest 1%, 2% and 3% in this country under Justin Trudeau are having a bonanza because their real estate profits are going off the roof. The people suffering are the middle-class and poor Canadians, who are having a hard time paying their rent and meeting their mortgage obligations.

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): The fact is that inflation has come down from a high of over 8% to less than 3%. It has come down and it is within the targets set by the Bank of Canada.

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The economy is doing sufficiently well that we can expect it to strengthen further, and that there will be further relief for Canadians. That is more important than talking points and rhetoric.

Canada Disability Benefit

Hon. Chantal Petitclerc: Senator Gold, my question is about yesterday’s budget announcement on the Canada disability benefit. The community, as you know, was hopeful and now feels that promises have been broken. I personally want to join Inclusion Canada in stating that it would be an understatement to say we are disappointed.

We remember the verbal commitment to eligible persons with disabilities receiving their cheques by June 2024. Now we’re talking about July 2025. We also remember it was said time after time in committee and here in this chamber that the goal of this benefit was not to be of minor help but to lift persons with disabilities out of poverty.

I have a question, and Canadians living with disabilities deserve an answer: How is it realistic to conclude that we will actually lift persons with disabilities out of poverty with a maximum of $200 a month?

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question. I understand the disappointment of many in the disability community, and beyond, that the benefits will not begin until July 2025. The government, in the spirit of its engagement with communities and persons with disabilities, will continue to consult on the proper design of these programs. The government has made the decision that those benefits, which are significant and will be of significant benefit to those in need, will begin in July 2025.

In the interim, the decision was made and I understand the disappointment. It was thought necessary to fit it within the framework of this budget.

Senator Petitclerc: During the study of the bill, every stakeholder warned us that, in order to leave no one behind, the eligibility should not be determined through the disability tax credit. Yet this is what was announced yesterday, meaning that out of the 1.6 million Canadians with disabilities living below the poverty line, only 600,000 would qualify. Is there a reason why the government chose this path when they keep repeating “nothing about us without us”?

Senator Gold: Thank you for the question. There were serious consultations before the design, when the government made its policy choice. There will continue to be consultations going forward with regard to further designs of the program.

Environment and Climate Change

Energy Transition Program

Hon. Tony Loffreda: Senator Gold, yesterday I returned from Washington, where I attended the Global Parliamentary Forum hosted by the Parliamentary Network on the World Bank and IMF.

As you know, part of the World Bank’s mandate is to accelerate an equitable and just energy transition by promoting and supporting large-scale transformative renewable energy projects in lower-income countries.

Senator Gold, as a member country of the World Bank, what are Canada’s contributions, financial or otherwise, to the bank’s goal of increasing clean energy access and affordability in lower-income countries? As a global clean electricity powerhouse, I hope that Canada’s expertise, knowledge and goods and services are contributing to the World Bank’s energy objectives.

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question. Canada is the sixth‑largest donor to this fund. Since 1960, it has contributed over US$11 billion. From fiscal year 2012-13 to fiscal year 2019-20, Canada’s average annual contributions were $441 million. This is in addition to the $440 million in loans and $10 million in grant contributions from Canada for the Canada‑World Bank Clean Energy and Forests Climate Facility. This facility will support transformational climate actions of World Bank projects, with a focus on Asia’s clean energy transition, renewable energy in Small Island Developing States and forests and sustainable land use.

Senator Loffreda: Thank you for that answer. As you mentioned, in 2020, thanks to a $400-million loan from Canada, the Canada-World Bank Clean Energy and Forests Climate Facility was launched. Its mandate focuses on clean energy projects that seek to slow the expansion of coal in the power sector by scaling up low-carbon alternatives.

Senator Gold, can you provide an update on how Canada’s funding has been spent so far? What role, if any, does our country play in assessing and approving applications and distributing funds?

Senator Gold: Time permits me to mention only a few of the projects, senator. I will mention the Renewable Energy Sector Development Project for Saint Lucia, which is looking at the viability of its geothermal resource for power generation. There is also the Cabo Verde Renewable Energy and Improved Utility Performance Project, which seeks to increase renewable energy production and improve the performance of the electricity facility by leveraging private finance.

Plastic Waste

Hon. Robert Black: Senator Gold, as you know, plastic waste is an ongoing concern to the Canadian public, Canadian businesses and the agriculture and agri-food industry.

Next week, from April 23 to 29, the fourth session of the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on Plastic Pollution will convene to develop an internationally legally binding instrument on plastic pollution, including in the marine environment. It will happen right here in Ottawa, across the road, at the Shaw Centre.

This is a pivotal time in the process of addressing this significant issue on a global level, while ensuring the domestic and global competitiveness of our farmers, ranchers and growers, who are the stewards of our land and sea.

My question is this: Does the Government of Canada recognize the need to address plastic waste through a systems approach that considers the necessary balance of concerns for food safety, food inflation, food security and our environment?

Thank you. Meegwetch.

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question, senator. In all matters relating to our sustainable economy and moving toward a more sustainable society, all measures to address pollution need to be accommodated with the impacts on sectors. The agriculture and agri-food sector is no exception.

Plastics play an important role in the everyday lives of Canadians in plastic food packaging. Replacing single-use packaging with reuse-refill systems and ensuring that plastics, when used, are designed to be safely reused, recycled or composted can help Canadians while also respecting their use in the food and agricultural areas.

The government remains committed to advancing solutions that avoid increasing the cost of food or food waste in collaboration with grocers, other businesses and stakeholders.

Finance

Canada Disability Benefit

Hon. Andrew Cardozo: My question is for the Government Representative in the Senate.

I was initially pleased to see the Canada disability benefit plan announced in the budget pursuant to the bill that was passed by Parliament and which received Royal Assent as far back as June 2022-23. Last week, I talked about Jeffrey, who was waiting for this to go into effect as soon as possible.

I was hoping there was a typo in the budget yesterday that said it would not go into effect until July 2025. I suppose there was not.

I want to add my voice to that of Senator Petitclerc, who raised this question a few minutes ago. I’m asking whether the government would reconsider and change this to July 2024. It has already been a year since the law was passed. Canadians with disabilities needed this assistance a year ago, in 2023.

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question. I have not been advised that there is any willingness to change the date that it comes into force. Again, I do understand the disappointment. The fact remains that the government is putting forward the disability benefits in the context of an overall budget which is seeking to assist Canadians, as it does in many respects, while remaining fiscally responsible.

In that regard, as I said, the issues of maximum income thresholds, phase-out rates and all other important elements of design will be developed in close consultation with those in the disability community.

Senator Cardozo: Senator Gold, I hope you can still pass on the message to the government that, indeed, many Canadians would like to see this go into effect a lot sooner.

Infrastructure and Communities

Housing and Infrastructure

Hon. Andrew Cardozo: Senator Gold, the budget also announced that the federal government will lease federal lands and buildings for the purpose of affordable housing. This has been well received by housing advocates across the country. While this would be leased to the private sector, will the federal government consider building housing itself through CMHC, as it has done in the past?

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Senator Gold: Well, the government is doing a number of things to assist, in part through the federal Crown corporation Canada Lands Company, which aims to enable the construction of over 29,000 new homes. The government will use all tools available to convert public lands to housing, including leasing, acquiring other public lands for housing and retaining ownership wherever possible.

Finance

Cost of Living

Hon. Rose-May Poirier: My question for the Government Leader concerns the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on our military families.

The executive director of the Oromocto & Area Food Bank recently told Global News that they have seen demand for their help double in the last few years. As part of this increase, the food bank revealed that 40 to 50 military families stationed at CFB Gagetown are using their services each month.

Senator Gold, this should not be happening in Canada. Since this news was reported, what action — if any — has the Trudeau government taken to reach out to these families of serving members at CFB Gagetown?

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for the question and for underlining the challenges that our honourable men and persons in our military are facing.

I don’t have specific answers to your question, but the government is continuing to invest in our Armed Forces. Indeed, in the budget that has been tabled, there is a significant increase in government support for all aspects of our Armed Forces, and we are now in a position to predict that Canada, thanks to the investments that have been made, will be spending approximately 1.7% of our GDP on defence, and that represents a significant increase from the less than approximately 1% that was devoted to defence not so many years ago in previous governments.

Senator Poirier: Thank you. Senator Gold, does the Trudeau government even know how many other military families turn to food banks for help each month across Canada? If so, how many families, where are they located, and what is being done to help them? Could you please get that information for us?

An Hon. Senator: Good question.

Senator Gold: Thank you for your question. Indeed, it is regrettable that any Canadian, either in the military or beyond, is not able to have the resources to put adequate food on their table. Thank goodness for the resources that exist through the generosity of Canadians to help Canadians in need. I will certainly make inquiries on this matter.

Public Services and Procurement

Procurement Process

Hon. Donald Neil Plett (Leader of the Opposition): Senator Gold, as I said in my recent speech on Justin Trudeau’s corrupt government, which has now been viewed over 650,000 times, McKinsey & Company, a consulting firm, is one of the largest beneficiaries of this corruption.

Leader, you may not like it when I raise the Trudeau government’s widespread corruption, but, thankfully, the Procurement Ombud saw fit to investigate the over $100 million that McKinsey received from taxpayers. He now reports that there was a strong perception of favouritism towards McKinsey in contracting. He found that 18 contracts worth $43 million were awarded without any justification for why they were sole sourced.

Leader, will the government finally put a stop to this corruption?

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): I tire, Senator Plett, of you using words that are not founded in fact. You are perfectly free and you have the privilege, because of your position in this chamber, to continue to speak of corruption, but the facts don’t bear that out. To your question, the auditor said clearly that there could be a perception of favouritism for two Canada Border Services Agency contracts, and otherwise found insufficient information to determine whether there was anything else untoward.

The government takes concerns about McKinsey contracts seriously. The government is strengthening its policies to address the administrative issues identified in the internal review, and, indeed, those reviews have shown absolutely no evidence of political interference.

Once again, important questions can be raised, but let’s be careful about our language and that it is based on facts.

Senator Plett: What I tire of, leader, is your absolute non‑answers when we ask legitimate questions. Last year, a public servant at the immigration department said this to the media about McKinsey:

We had a few presentations on very generic, completely vapid stuff. They arrived with nice colours, nice presentations and said they would revolutionize everything. . . . In the end, we don’t have any idea what they did.

Leader, they received millions from taxpayers. Whether you like the language or not, they got millions from taxpayers. No one knew what they did in return. If that’s not corruption, leader, what is?

Senator Gold: I don’t know why I’m standing here giving lessons on the meaning of the English language. There’s a difference between corruption, Senator Plett, and a difference between allegations or even evidence that things were done either inefficiently or improperly. You’re implying motives, and serious motive, in your use of language, and that is not founded in the facts. It is your privilege to do so, and congratulations —

[Translation]

Canadian Heritage

National Acadian Day

Hon. René Cormier: My question is for the Government Representative in the Senate.

Senator Gold, since yesterday, much has been said about the news that Radio-Canada, our national television station, will not be broadcasting the big National Acadian Day concert on August 15. How can that be when the World Acadian Congress is being held in Nova Scotia this year, when French is so vulnerable in Canada and when artists need national coverage of their work now more than ever?

From what I understand, Budget 2024, which was announced yesterday, sets out $2 million over three years for Canadian Heritage to support community-based celebrations for National Acadian Day through the Celebration and Commemoration Program. However, the budget does not indicate how that money will be distributed.

Senator Gold, how does the federal government intend to use the funding announced in Budget 2024 to address this unfortunate situation arising from the decision to not broadcast the Acadian people’s big concert on August 15?

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): I am not in a position to say how specific amounts will be allocated. I look forward to the Senate’s careful review of the budget. However, honourable senator, I will also be sure to raise this issue with the minister.

Senator Cormier: Through its Celebrate Canada program, Canadian Heritage funds four major events, specifically, National Indigenous Peoples Day, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day, Canadian Multiculturalism Day and Canada Day. Couldn’t funding for National Acadian Day be included as part of the Celebrate Canada program?

In other words, how does the federal government intend to ensure ongoing funding to celebrate National Acadian Day? After all, we’re talking about a people who actively contribute to building our country.

Senator Gold: I’m not aware of any plans for ongoing funding for National Acadian Day celebrations, which are important for your community and for Canada. I’ll certainly raise your question with the minister.

[English]

Athlete Assistance Program

Hon. Chantal Petitclerc: Senator Gold, my question is still on the budget, but first allow me to join the Canadian Paralympic and Olympic Committees in congratulating the government on the new federal funds that will go directly into our athletes’ pockets via the Athlete Assistance Program. This is indeed great news.

However, yesterday’s announcement did not address the fact that support to the Canadian sports funding system is urgently needed for them to continue their core work of helping athletes, provincial associations and clubs across the country. There has been no increase for national sport organizations since 2005. The gap in funding is now huge, caused by 19 years of inflation.

How can we expect these organizations to deliver the same results today as they did in 2005? How can we ask them to do more with fewer resources?

(1450)

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): We are all proud of our athletes. The Government of Canada is pleased to be able to support them to the extent that it is possible to do so, as are other levels of government and the private sector.

Your concerns about the lack of increased funding will be something that I will communicate to the minister.

Senator Petitclerc: Thank you, senator. It is a well-known fact that an only 1% increase in physical activity can save $1 billion a year in health care.

Will you share and express to this government — and all governments, in fact — that Canada must begin to see sport as an investment, not an expense? When we choose to help our national sport organizations do their jobs, we should do it not only for the athletes but also for all Canadians.

Senator Gold: I certainly agree with that sentiment and will pass it on to the minister.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship

Visa Applications

Hon. Percy E. Downe: Senator Gold, the Canadian Hockey League has announced that they’re reversing their ban on drafting hockey players from Russia and Belarus. This ban was imposed when Russia invaded Ukraine with the support of Belarus.

What is the position of the government on giving visas to these hockey players?

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you both for your question and for bringing this to my attention. I will have to make inquiries and raise this with the minister because, as it stands, I do not have an answer to your question. I will certainly raise it with the minister.

Senator Downe: I look forward to your answer. You may know this; if not, you can get back to me: What is the current position of the Government of Canada on awarding visas to anyone from Russia or Belarus?

Senator Gold: I do not have the details of the policies on hand. Undoubtedly, they are available but they may or may not be available publicly. I will certainly make inquiries.

Public Services and Procurement

Procurement Process

Hon. Yonah Martin (Deputy Leader of the Opposition): Leader, in February 2023, I raised with you the millions of dollars in contracts given to the McKinsey consulting firm by the Trudeau government. In response, you said you didn’t accept the “. . . premise, assumption or statement . . . ” in my questions.

On Monday, the Procurement Ombud confirmed the Trudeau government had indeed favoured their friends at McKinsey in awarding lucrative contracts. In fact, his report shows instances where procurement strategies were changed to ensure McKinsey was eligible to bid. As well, bids were inappropriately re-evaluated, resulting in McKinsey being deemed the only compliant bidder.

Leader, your government ensured Liberal insiders received $112 million for work the public service could have done. Why hasn’t anyone apologized to taxpayers?

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question. The use of outside consultants — especially during times when the resources of the public service were stretched due to various issues, not limited to but dominated by the work that the public service did during the pandemic — is a necessary component of what any responsible government would do.

As I said in response to an earlier question, the government takes seriously the allegations and the reports that have been made, both internal and external, and has taken and will continue to take measures to ensure that the procurement practices conform to the highest standards.

Senator Martin: The Procurement Ombud said the Trudeau government directed contracts towards McKinsey. They also failed to establish estimated procurement costs in advance of their discussions with McKinsey. That sounds like blank cheque to me, leader.

Why was it so important to the Trudeau government to take care of McKinsey while our soldiers rely on food donations?

Senator Plett: Hear, hear.

Senator Gold: Well, again, I can only repeat what I’ve said, namely, that the allegations and the investigations into how contracts were awarded are taken seriously. Steps have been taken seriously to remedy it, and the government is committed to ensuring that its practices conform to the highest standards.

Delayed Answers to Oral Questions

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, I have the honour to table the answers to the following oral questions:

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on May 31, 2022, by the Honourable Senator Plett, concerning Canada-Iran relations — Canadian Heritage.

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on May 31, 2022, by the Honourable Senator Plett, concerning Canada-Iran relations — Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada.

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on October 17, 2022, by the Honourable Senator Carignan, P.C., concerning the Canada Emergency Response Benefit.

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on February 7, 2023, by the Honourable Senator Batters, concerning recovery of fraudulent COVID-19 support payments — Canada Revenue Agency.

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on February 7, 2023, by the Honourable Senator Batters, concerning recovery of fraudulent COVID-19 support payments — Employment and Social Development Canada.

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on April 26, 2023, by the Honourable Senator McPhedran, concerning human rights in Myanmar.

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on April 27, 2023, by the Honourable Senator Cormier, concerning the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan — Department of Justice Canada.

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on April 27, 2023, by the Honourable Senator Cormier, concerning the Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan — Health Canada.

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on May 2, 2023, by the Honourable Senator Jaffer, concerning the conflict in Sudan.

Response to the oral question asked in the Senate on September 21, 2023, by the Honourable Senator Francis, concerning the Indian Act.

Foreign Affairs

Canada-Iran Relations

(Response to question raised by the Honourable Donald Neil Plett on May 31, 2022)

Insofar as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is concerned:

No visas or work permits for the Iranian team were approved prior to the cancellation of the game.

IRCC has not allocated funds for Canada Soccer or the Iranian team.

(Response to question raised by the Honourable Donald Neil Plett on May 31, 2022)

The Government of Canada welcomed the decision by Canada Soccer to cancel this event. That being said, Canada Soccer could not use any of the funds received under the Sport Support Program to pay for potential cancellation fees related to the exhibition game against Iran as those costs are not eligible in the current funding agreement with the organization.

Finance

Canada Emergency Response Benefit

(Response to question raised by the Honourable Claude Carignan on October 17, 2022)

ESDC/Service Canada conducted a thorough review of its employees to determine whether departmental employees misrepresented their circumstances to get COVID-19 Emergency Benefits. As of November 2023, 54 employees were terminated due to the revocation of their security status.

Work is underway by ESDC and the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) to establish the debts for terminated ESDC employees who will be required to repay the amount owed. There are no results to report on at this time with respect to the volume and amount of Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and the Employment Insurance Emergency Response Benefit (EI ERB) overpayments and recoveries.

Recovery of Fraudulent COVID-19 Support Payments

(Response to question raised by the Honourable Denise Batters on February 7, 2023)

CANADA REVENUE AGENCY (CRA)

All CRA employees are expected to abide by the CRA Code of Integrity and Professional Conduct and the Values and Ethics Code for the Public Sector. As a separate agency, the CRA has its own directive on discipline which establishes standards of discipline and penalties that may be applied to its employees for misconduct, as authorized by 51(1)(f) of the CRA Act.

Any allegations or suspicions of employee misconduct are taken seriously, are thoroughly investigated, and when misconduct is founded, appropriate measures are taken.

Following a review of all CRA employees, approximately 600 employees were identified for further investigation. As of December 20, 2023, the CRA can report that 185 individuals are no longer with the CRA as a result of this internal review. The investigations and disciplinary processes continue. The specific number of referrals to law enforcement cannot be disclosed without creating a privacy risk that could lead to one or more of the individuals being identified.

(Response to question raised by the Honourable Denise Batters on February 7, 2023)

ESDC/Service Canada conducted a thorough review of its employees to determine whether departmental employees misrepresented their circumstances to get COVID-19 Emergency Benefits. As of November 2023, 54 employees were terminated due to the revocation of their security status.

Given that the Acts governing COVID-19 Emergency Benefits do not provide the department with enforcement authorities, any criminal investigations in relation to fraud against those benefits must be conducted by an external law enforcement agency.

Foreign Affairs

Human Rights in Myanmar

(Response to question raised by the Honourable Marilou McPhedran on April 26, 2023)

Canada has imposed eight rounds of sanctions against Myanmar since the military coup in 2021. The most recent round of sanctions was imposed on December 8, 2023. These measures impose an asset freeze, dealings ban and arms embargo, including a prohibition on aviation fuel, responding to the regime’s targeting of civilians in violation of international law.

All persons in Canada and Canadians abroad must comply with Canadian sanctions, including individuals and entities. Contravening sanctions is a criminal offence. Additionally, the Government of Canada expects that Canadian companies active abroad, in any market or country, respect human rights, operate lawfully, conduct their activities in a responsible manner, and adopt voluntary best practices and internationally respected guidelines. Canada has issued a commercial advisory for Myanmar which outlines the risks to doing business in the country, including the obligations and responsibilities of both Canadians and Canadian businesses. By imposing these measures, we have re‑affirmed our commitment to foster an effective rules‑based international order and to join forces with likeminded governments to uphold respect for human rights and democracy.

The Government of Canada is continually reassessing its measures and actions, in coordination with partners, in order to respond to the evolving situations in Myanmar.

Women and Gender Equality

Federal 2SLGBTQI+ Action Plan

(Response to question raised by the Honourable René Cormier on April 27, 2023)

Health Canada

Under the Safety of Human Cells, Tissues and Organs for Transplantation Regulations (CTO Regulations), all potential donors are required to undergo a donor suitability assessment, which includes donor screening, donor testing, and a physical examination. Health Canada is committed to reviewing the CTO Regulations so that they continue to reflect the latest scientific and technical advances in the field of transplantation of donated cells, tissues and organs. We are also committed to supporting donation policies in Canada that are non-discriminatory and scientifically based.

The CTO Regulations reference specific sections of the Canadian Standards Association’s (CSA) safety and quality standards on CTOs for transplantation. Part of the referenced sections contains the donor screening criteria for factors and behaviours associated with a higher risk of transmitting serious infectious diseases (e.g., HIV, hepatitis B and hepatitis C) through transplantation, including men who have had sex with another man (MSM).

The CSA is responsible for establishing the screening criteria with input from its technical committee, which consists of Health Canada regulatory experts and experts in the field of CTO donation and transplantation and uses a consensus driven process.

(Response to question raised by the Honourable René Cormier on April 27, 2023)

Department of Justice

The Government of Canada is committed to protecting the bodily integrity of all people in Canada, including members of 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Everyone in Canada has the right under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms to security of the person, which includes the right to control their bodily integrity, and to make their own informed choices.

We are aware that activists and experts have expressed concerns that intersex infants are denied the right to bodily integrity when “genital normalizing” cosmetic surgeries are performed on them, and that they have recommended that the Government of Canada consider the postponement of these surgeries until the child is old enough to meaningfully participate in the decision. We thank them for their continued work on this important topic, and remain committed to carefully considering this issue.

Foreign Affairs

Conflict in Sudan

(Response to question raised by the Honourable Mobina S. B. Jaffer on May 2, 2023)

Global Affairs Canada (GAC)

Canada continues to push for a permanent cessation of hostilities and humanitarian access in Sudan. There can be no enduring peace without respect for human rights and the full and meaningful participation of civil society in all its diversity. Canada firmly supports African-led efforts to resolve the crisis, and stands with the people of Sudan in their call for peace, justice and a return to the transition to a civilian-led government.

From the outset of the crisis, Canada has consistently engaged at the highest levels. This includes direct outreach with several Heads of State by the Prime Minister, and travel to the region by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Minister of International Development. In 2023, Canada provided over $170 million to trusted partners in Sudan and neighbouring countries impacted by the conflict, including $42 million in Sudan itself. We continue to advocate for the protection of civilians and infrastructure in Sudan and work with NGOs and international partners to ensure essential food, water and medical assistance reaches the most vulnerable. This includes maintaining regular outreach with regional and international partners, organizations, and through consultation with civilians and civil society in Sudan.

Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs

Indian Act

(Response to question raised by the Honourable Brian Francis on September 21, 2023)

In the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act Action Plan, tabled June 21, 2023, there are action items related to the civil and political rights of First Nations to address remaining inequities in the Indian Act’s registration and membership provisions.

Action Plan Measure 8 commits to co-developing a consultation process while fulfilling legal obligations for cooperation and consultation. In July 2023, the Minister began the Collaborative Process on the Second-Generation Cut-Off and Voting Thresholds, a consultation process seeking First Nations’ recommended legislative remedies. Seventeen organizations joined an Indigenous Advisory Process, marking a crucial step in co-developing the consultation process ahead. A ministerial kick-off event on November 20, 2023, formally launched this initiative. Officials continue to collaborate with partners to draft a consultation plan while Bill C-38 is in progress. Simultaneously, a rights-holders information sharing initiative began in February 2024, providing tailored information kits to each First Nation across Canada, including community-specific data on the impact of the second-generation cut-off on their registered population.

Answers to Order Paper Questions Tabled

Foreign Affairs—Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development Secretary-General

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate) tabled the reply to Question No. 69, dated November 23, 2021, appearing on the Order Paper and Notice Paper in the name of the Honourable Senator Plett, regarding Global Affairs Canada — OECD Secretary-General.

Foreign Affairs—Ambassador to the United Nations

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate) tabled the reply to Question No. 114, dated February 8, 2022, appearing on the Order Paper and Notice Paper in the name of the Honourable Senator Plett, regarding the Canadian ambassador to the United Nations.

Foreign Affairs—Hong Kong Final Court of Appeal

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate) tabled the reply to Question No. 164, dated June 2, 2022, appearing on the Order Paper and Notice Paper in the name of the Honourable Senator Plett, regarding the Hong Kong Final Court of Appeal.

Foreign Affairs—COVID-19 Emergency Loan Program

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate) tabled the reply to Question No. 248, dated September 19, 2023, appearing on the Order Paper and Notice Paper in the name of the Honourable Senator Plett, regarding the COVID-19 Emergency Loan Program.

Justice and Attorney General—Public Prosecution Service

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate) tabled the reply to Question No. 265, dated September 19, 2023, appearing on the Order Paper and Notice Paper in the name of the Honourable Senator Plett, regarding the Public Prosecution Service of Canada.

Small Business—Business Development Bank

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate) tabled the reply to Question No. 272, dated November 2, 2023, appearing on the Order Paper and Notice Paper in the name of the Honourable Senator Plett, regarding the Business Development Bank of Canada.

Agriculture and Agri-Food—Farm Credit

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate) tabled the reply to Question No. 290, dated February 6, 2024, appearing on the Order Paper and Notice Paper in the name of the Honourable Senator Plett, regarding Farm Credit Canada.

Treasury Board—Public Sector Pension Investment Board

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate) tabled the reply to Question No. 304, dated February 6, 2024, appearing on the Order Paper and Notice Paper in the name of the Honourable Senator Plett, regarding the Public Sector Pension Investment Board.

Rural Economic Development—High-speed Internet

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate) tabled the reply to Question No. 313, dated February 29, 2024, appearing on the Order Paper and Notice Paper in the name of the Honourable Senator Plett, regarding high-speed internet.

ORDERS OF THE DAY

Business of the Senate

Hon. Donald Neil Plett (Leader of the Opposition): Your Honour, with leave of the Senate, I would like to ask that Bill S-273 and Bill C-248 be brought forward so that they can be decided on today at second reading as per an agreement of all parties and groups.

The Hon. the Speaker: Is leave granted?

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(1500)

Chignecto Isthmus Dykeland System Bill

Second Reading

On the Order:

Resuming debate on the motion of the Honourable Senator Quinn, seconded by the Honourable Senator Verner, P.C., for the second reading of Bill S-273, An Act to declare the Chignecto Isthmus Dykeland System and related works to be for the general advantage of Canada.

The Hon. the Speaker: Are senators ready for the question?

Hon. Senators: Question.

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

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(Motion agreed to and bill read second time.)

Referred to Committee

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, when shall this bill be read the third time?

(On motion of Senator Quinn, bill referred to the Standing Senate Committee on Transport and Communications.)

Canada National Parks Act

Bill to Amend—Second Reading

On the Order:

Resuming debate on the motion of the Honourable Senator Boehm, seconded by the Honourable Senator Galvez, for the second reading of Bill C-248, An Act to amend the Canada National Parks Act (Ojibway National Urban Park of Canada).

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

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(Motion agreed to and bill read second time.)

Referred to Committee

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, when shall this bill be read the third time?

(On motion of Senator Clement, bill referred to the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources.)

Business of the Senate

Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, with leave of the Senate and notwithstanding rule 5-13(2), I move:

That the Senate do now adjourn.

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

Hon. Senators: Agreed.

(At 3:03 p.m., the Senate was continued until tomorrow at 2 p.m.)

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