Debates of the Senate (Hansard)
1st Session, 44th Parliament
Volume 153, Issue 202
Wednesday, May 22, 2024
The Honourable Raymonde Gagné, Speaker
- SENATORS’ STATEMENTS
- ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS
- QUESTION PERIOD
- ORDERS OF THE DAY
- Business of the Senate
- Haida Nation Recognition Bill
- Canadian Sustainable Jobs Bill
- Federal Ombudsperson for Victims of Crime Bill
- Criminal Code
- Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources
- Delivering for Canadians Now, A Supply and Confidence Agreement
- One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Anniversary of the Yukon Act
- The Senate
- International Students
- Business of the Senate
THE SENATE
Wednesday, May 22, 2024
The Senate met at 2 p.m., the Speaker in the chair.
Prayers.
SENATORS’ STATEMENTS
National Health and Fitness Day
Hon. Marty Deacon: Honourable senators, I think across Canada we can all agree that this Victoria Day weekend was one to be spent outdoors, even if it meant some snow activity in the West. I am sure that many of you got out and embraced the outdoors, and you weren’t the only ones who got moving.
Last week, I was thrilled to attend the Olympic & Paralympic Swimming Trials in Toronto. The athletes and coaches were in full force over seven days of exciting performances. What made this event even more special was the work required in the background over a very short time to keep this event alive.
A fire in the host pool venue in Montreal led to a complete and complex scramble. Eventually, hosts and sponsors moved this event to Toronto. Airlines helped our athletes and coaches with flights from around the world. Hotels worked to cancel hundreds of rooms and find new accommodation. Technical teams regrouped to produce a first-class event in a few short weeks. These trials, after all, are a must.
There were many highlights, but one that stood out was Brooklyn Douthwright becoming the first New Brunswicker to qualify for the Olympics since the great Marianne Limpert, another New Brunswicker — you would think I lived there — last did it in 2007. The icing on the cake was that Marianne Limpert, as an alumnus, was on the pool deck in Toronto when Brooklyn qualified. Their photo, taken together on Saturday, is worth a thousand words.
Senators, as we approach June and Canada Day and as we prepare to unite in supporting our athletes at the Olympic and Paralympic Games, let’s start again with our own health and well-being. This week we will start with Tamarack Ottawa Race Weekend, a great event to walk or run a variety of distances. Next week, on June 1, the first Saturday in June, is National Health and Fitness Day.
For newer senators, NHFD was established here in the Senate by way of Bill S-211, introduced by the Honourable Nancy Greene Raine as a legacy from the Vancouver 2010 Olympic Winter Games and designed to get communities healthy and active. Each of us needs to be physically and mentally well, but we should also ensure that our home communities have the infrastructure they need for all members of the community to be physically active in a safe and inclusive way.
Please get out and get moving and send us pictures, post on social media with #NHFD, and be creative.
Also and finally, to get an accurate picture on the health of our young people when going into this year’s National Health and Fitness Day, next week, on May 30, I invite you to join my Facebook session that will highlight the impact of climate change on child and youth physical activity. Dr. Mark Tremblay and Dr. Louise de Lannoy will share the results of the 2024 ParticipACTION Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth, their research and the challenges to get our young people moving more frequently.
Thank you, colleagues. I look forward to seeing how you get moving on June 1.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
Visitor in the Gallery
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Grace Kabayo, Secretary General of the Pan-African Women’s Organization. She is the guest of the Honourable Senators Gerba and Jaffer.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
[Translation]
Africa Day
Hon. Amina Gerba: Honourable senators, May 25 is Africa Day. It is an opportunity to celebrate the significant progress that is being made in Africa and the vitality of this developing continent. It is also an opportunity for us, as Canadians, to rethink our relationship with this key player on the international stage.
While our government has been hemming and hawing for two years about how to refer to its future action with Africa, waffling between the terms “strategy,” “framework,” “discussions” and, more recently, “approach,” Africa has been making progress. My guest, Grace Kabayo, can attest to the fact that Africa is slowly but surely moving forward. Today, there is even talk of the awakening of the African lion.
By way of evidence, the continent is currently benefiting from renewed cooperation with all of the world powers, including the United States, China, the European Union, India, Japan and the Gulf countries.
Clearly, all these countries seem to have understood something that Canada has not. Perhaps it is because, by 2050, one in four people on the planet will be African, because Africa is home to 60% of the world’s uncultivated arable land and 30% of the world’s critical mineral reserves, or still because 11 of the world’s 20 fastest growing economies in 2024 are in Africa.
Honourable senators, we need to take urgent action so as not to miss the boat when it comes to Africa.
Our country enjoys a great deal of goodwill throughout Africa. A 2021 IMMAR survey showed that Canada had an excellent image in Africa, but how much longer will that last?
Thank you.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
[English]
Visitors in the Gallery
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Dr. James Rourke and Dr. Leslie Rourke. They are the guests of the Honourable Senator Ravalia.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Dr. James Rourke
Dr. Leslie Rourke
Hon. Mohamed-Iqbal Ravalia: Honourable senators, I rise today to recognize the remarkable contributions of Drs. James and Leslie Rourke, who are global leaders in rural family medicine. It is also, fittingly, Paramedic Services Week, underscoring the essential principles of collaborative, interdisciplinary and team-based care in rural medicine. Thank you to our paramedics for your integral role in health care, and let me in particular acknowledge Paul Hills, President of the Saskatoon Paramedic Association, for his team’s ongoing advocacy.
The Rourkes began their career in picturesque Goderich, Ontario, where they practised for 25 years. Their practice became a primary rural family medicine teaching site at Western University. Led by Dr. Leslie Rourke, and later supported by Dr. Denis Leduc, they established the Rourke Baby Record, which many Canadian health care professionals use for well‑infant and child visits from 1 week to 5 years.
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I had the privilege of working with the Rourkes after Jim became a dean at Memorial University and Leslie joined their family medicine faculty. Together, they catalyzed significant changes in my province by establishing rural academic sites and a longitudinal curriculum, exposing students to rural and remote rotations and team-based care outside of urban centres.
Jim spearheaded a state-of-the-art expansion of the Faculty of Medicine building, expanded the undergrad curriculum and established a teaching hub in Nunavut. His rural upbringing fostered a lifelong advocacy for rural medicine and research. Both Leslie and Jim have received numerous national and international awards, and continue to influence academia, policy and generalist care.
Under Jim’s tenure as dean, Memorial University received the Society of Rural Physicians of Canada’s Keith Award three times for having the most graduates practising in rural areas and, furthermore, the Rural Medicine Award for the most postgraduates choosing family medicine — a legacy to Jim Rourke’s ideals and vision.
I will always be grateful for the opportunities the Rourkes provided me in developing an expanded rural academic program in my province. Once, at an international rural conference in Croatia, I had to step in for Jim, who was called out for an emergency. I was accidentally introduced to the large audience as Dr. Jim Rourke — to thunderous applause. While I temporarily basked in his glory, it was quite the transition returning to plain old Mohamed at the end of the day.
The Rourkes are proud parents to Patrick, Ryan, Shannon and Rosie.
Please join Senators Marshall, Wells, Petten, Manning, White and me in saluting their remarkable careers and selfless devotion to the well-being of Canadians across our nation. Thank you. Meegwetch.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
Visitor in the Gallery
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Dana McCauley, Chief Executive Officer of the Canadian Food Innovation Network. She is the guest of the Honourable Senator Black.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Canadian Food Innovation Network
Hon. Robert Black: Honourable senators, I rise today to highlight the Canadian Food Innovation Network, or CFIN, and celebrate its contributions to the food and beverage industry in Canada.
CFIN is a beacon of innovation, collaboration and progress, connecting our nation’s food ecosystems with new ideas, opportunities and technologies. Since 2021, CFIN has stood as a catalyst for change, funding transformative food tech projects that revolutionize how we manufacture, transport and consume food.
Through its initiatives, CFIN stimulates collaboration among industry players and fosters a community of over 5,000 members from across the food value chain, including multinationals, tech and ingredient companies, manufacturers and food service providers. This diverse membership base makes CFIN the most robust, active and collaborative food business community in Canada.
One of CFIN’s groundbreaking initiatives is the Youth Online Discovery Lab, or YODL. It is a first-of-its-kind online innovation playground. YODL empowers its members to find partners, source equipment, attract customers and access funding — facilitating the seamless integration of new ideas and technologies into the food sector.
The Canadian Food Innovation Network’s commitment to funding innovation is evident in their impressive track record. To date, CFIN has awarded nearly $17 million to more than 50 Canadian food tech projects and companies. These projects leverage cutting-edge technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, robotics, the internet of things and machine learning to digitize supply chains, enhance food safety and reduce carbon emissions.
By investing in innovation, CFIN is not only driving industry progress but also laying the foundation for future sustainability and competitiveness.
The impact of CFIN’s initiatives extends beyond its funding, though. Since 2021, CFIN-funded food tech projects have filed for 31 patents, created over 95 jobs and raised over $1 million in additional funding. These achievements underscore the tangible outcomes of CFIN’s support — from fostering technological breakthroughs to generating economic opportunities and job growth within the food and beverage sector.
In addition, investing in innovation has the potential to mitigate future food inflation by integrating new processes, ideas and technologies at the manufacturing level.
CFIN’s forward-thinking approach not only addresses current industry challenges but also positions this country as a global leader in food innovation. The CFIN’s impact on the Canadian food and beverage industry is profound and far-reaching. It serves as a catalyst for collaboration, a champion of innovation and a driver of economic growth.
As we look to the future, let us continue to support and celebrate the invaluable work of CFIN in shaping a more sustainable, resilient and innovative food ecosystem for generations to come.
Thank you. Meegwetch.
Visitors in the Gallery
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of the Honourable Lois Mitchell, former Lieutenant Governor of Alberta. She is the guest of the Honourable Senator Woo.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
[Translation]
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Louise Forest‑Lalande and Diane Dupont. They are the guests of the Honourable Senator Mégie.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Diane Dupont
Louise Forest-Lalande
Hon. Marie-Françoise Mégie: Honourable senators, we recently celebrated Nursing Week.
It gives me great pleasure to introduce you to two exceptional nurses, who are here today as guests.
Diane Dupont was a nurse for 35 years at the Centre hospitalier universitaire mère-enfant Sainte-Justine. She holds a master’s degree in nursing from the Université de Montréal. She served in various roles, including nurse navigator at the Cystic Fibrosis Clinic for 13 years and at the Child Development Centre Clinic for 10 years. This clinic provides care to children with autism, cystic fibrosis and pervasive developmental disorders.
She was a speaker at various conferences, where she presented topics related to her practice. Diane also worked in the field of genetic prenatal diagnosis. This is crucial for people with sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis and other genetic disorders. Her role as a nurse navigator, as well as the interdisciplinary work she did, made her a pioneer in both fields.
I would now like to highlight Louise Forest-Lalande’s career path. Louise holds a master’s degree in nursing from the Université de Montréal, with a specialization in ostomy therapy, a specialty focusing on ostomy care, incontinence care and wound care. Louise worked at Sainte-Justine Hospital for 26 years. She is the author of several book chapters on this subject.
Our career paths crossed in the field of chronic wound care. We gave talks both in the country and abroad on the importance of the physician-nurse team and a multidisciplinary team working in tandem to treat wounds.
Louise visited Latin America, Asia, and Europe, where she established the specialty of stomal therapy. She also trained of thousands of health care professionals in this field. Together, we served in the Canadian Association of Wound Care, now known as Wounds Canada. We helped ensure that training courses for professionals were available in French.
Along the way, our retirement dream was to buy a motorhome equipped to treat chronic wounds and then travel to remote regions to dispense care and deliver training. Life, however, had a different plan. Louise kept writing books and participating in conferences, while I ended up here, in the Senate, welcoming these two outstanding nurses. Thank you.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
[English]
ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS
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, May 28, 2024, at 2 p.m.
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Commonwealth Parliamentary Association
Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, September 30-October 6, 2023—Report Tabled
Hon. Rosemary Moodie: Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the report of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association concerning the Sixty‑sixth Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference, held in Accra, Ghana, from September 30 to October 6, 2023.
Bilateral Visit to Guyana, November 13-18, 2023—Report Tabled
Hon. Rosemary Moodie: Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the report of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association concerning the Bilateral Visit to Guyana, held in Georgetown, Guyana, from November 13 to 18, 2023.
QUESTION PERIOD
Finance
Cost of Living
Hon. Donald Neil Plett (Leader of the Opposition): Leader, this morning, Food Banks Canada released its 2024 Poverty Report Card which details rising hunger and poverty under this incompetent Trudeau government. The report states that people from all across Canada are facing increasing poverty, and nearly a quarter of Canadians are facing food insecurity — an unprecedented number, leader.
Food Banks Canada gave the Trudeau government a grade of D in last year’s report. This year, they got a grade of D-.
One out of every six Canadians who access a food bank is employed. How many jobs must they have to afford food under this Trudeau government, leader?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for the question and for underlining the challenges that altogether too many Canadians are facing with the continued high cost of food and the other challenges of which we are all too painfully aware.
It is not acceptable that Canadians who work hard can’t make ends meet. Far too many families — single-parent families and even those with two working partners — still find it difficult. This government continues to work hard to provide support, whether it is on the housing side, the food side or via other supports to help Canadians through these difficult times.
Senator Plett: Of course, my question was about how many jobs Canadians must have to afford food, and you didn’t even touch upon it. You ignored it completely.
Seniors represent 8% of food bank users, with a rate of increase far outpacing other groups. A third of food bank users are children, leader. Over 40% of food bank users are on social assistance or disability-related supports as their main source of income.
This Prime Minister’s out-of-control spending and inflationary taxes have made food unaffordable for the most vulnerable. Leader, do you see why Conservatives say that this man is not worth the cost?
Senator Gold: The issues you are raising are really serious ones that Canadians are facing, and I am trying to answer and express the government’s understanding of the issues as well as the steps it has taken to help Canadians. I do understand that these are serious matters that require serious responses from a serious government, not simply talking points or rhetoric that focus groups might have provided to you for partisan purposes.
Government Spending
Hon. Leo Housakos: Senator Gold, when Justin Trudeau was elected in 2015, Canada’s debt was $619 billion. In just eight and a half years of spending like drunken sailors, the debt has more than doubled to over $1.4 trillion. The end result is $54 billion a year of costs in just servicing the debts on the shoulders of taxpayers. The estimate is that it will reach $64 billion in the next few years.
What is worse is that this could have been avoided if your finance minister had the intelligence to lock more of our debt into long-term bonds when rates were as low as 0.25%. Instead, she issued two thirds of our debt in short-term bonds that are now coming due for refinancing at rates of 5%.
Senator Gold, you have to admit that it takes a special kind of incompetence on the part of this Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance to be so short-sighted. Will they accept responsibility for their negligence?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): The government takes responsibility within the scope of its actual ability to influence these things and for the fact that our economy is doing well, notwithstanding — and I underline notwithstanding — the challenges that families continue to face.
But the facts do speak for themselves more than the rhetoric: The inflation rate in Canada is down to 2.7% from 8% in July 2022. I recall in this chamber how skeptical and dismissive you were when I stood up and said that the government was on track to manage inflation and bring it down. Well, that’s what is happening. Almost a million more Canadians are employed than before the pandemic. The International Monetary Fund, or IMF — it is my turn to answer the questions, colleagues. The IMF and the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development, or OECD, project that Canada will have the strongest economic growth in the G7.
This government does not claim credit for things that are beyond its control, like worldwide inflation or supply chains, but it will take credit for managing this economy through difficult times as well as it has.
Senator Housakos: Senator Gold, an historic number of Canadians are living in their parents’ basements because the cost of living is off the charts. They are historic numbers. You are spending $54 billion a year in servicing the debt in this country. You have driven up more than you are actually putting into health care, food banks are bursting at the seams and you have the audacity to stand up and tell us how well Canadians and this country are doing. Get your heads out of the sand and join the Canadian public who are suffering. Take responsibility by firing this finance minister, and fire your Prime Minister already.
Senator LaBoucane-Benson: That’s not a question.
Senator Gold: There wasn’t a question there, but your passion is —
Senator Housakos: There was no answer on your side, either.
Senator Gold: In my previous answer to your leader, Senator Housakos, I underlined the understanding that this government and I have about the difficulties Canadians are facing. I also provided you with fact-based answers as to how this economy is actually doing under the management of this government. I stand by those answers.
Health
National Pharmacare
Hon. Rosemary Moodie: Senator Gold, the Canadian Chamber of Commerce recently released a brief in response to Bill C-64 that contained two data points of note. First, they stated that up to 2 million Canadians might have to switch treatments, and second, that 1 million diabetics might not have access to their current medication as a result of Bill C-64.
Does the government agree with this assessment of the potential impacts of this bill?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question.
The government’s view is that this legislation is an important step to improving health equity, affordability and health outcomes, and that it has the potential for long-term savings to the health care system, which will benefit all Canadians.
Colleagues, as we know, cost has been identified as the single most important barrier to access to these medications. The costs are unfairly and unevenly borne by women and gender-diverse Canadians. Bill C-64 will ensure that Canadians have access to a comprehensive suite of drugs and devices. In that regard, the government is committed to working with the provinces, territories, Indigenous peoples, partners and stakeholders to improve accessibility and affordability, and approve the appropriate use of all pharmaceutical products.
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Senator Moodie: Senator Gold, significant amounts of prescription drugs are being diverted over the border due to bulk purchasing in the United States. Earlier this year, the FDA authorized the State of Florida to import certain prescription drugs from Canada, potentially disrupting the supply of medications for Canadians.
How will the government deal with these cross-border pharmacy sales that are negatively impacting Canadians?
Senator Gold: Thank you for your question. Canadians can be assured that the government will continue to take all steps necessary to ensure that Canadians have access to a proper drug supply in Canada.
I have been informed that there are provisions under the Food and Drugs Act that prohibit certain drugs from being sold outside of the country if that sale could cause or worsen a drug shortage in Canada, including all drugs eligible for bulk importation to the U.S. My understanding is that Health Canada is actively monitoring the Canadian drug supply to continue to ensure that Canadians have access to all of the drugs they need.
Global Affairs
Economic Sanctions
Hon. Stan Kutcher: Senator Gold, there have been concerns raised publicly about how well Canada is supporting, or enforcing, the sanctions that we have levied on Russia. How many individuals or entities that Canada has sanctioned since February 2014 when Russia invaded Crimea, and since February 2022 when Russia further invaded Ukraine, have subsequently been removed or deleted from Canada’s sanctions list?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you, senator, for your question and for your continued advocacy on this issue.
Canada and its allies — the United States, the United Kingdom, the European Union and Australia — continually update their sanctions regimes against individuals and entities in both Ukraine and Russia, including as part of the process delisting persons when warranted in accordance with their respective policies and legal frameworks.
I do not have an exact number of individuals and entities that have been removed from the Special Economic Measures Regulations, but I can confirm that there have been several individuals and entities delisted since 2022.
Senator Kutcher: Senator Gold, does the government widely publicize the names of individuals or entities that it has delisted, and does it publicize the reasons for their removal?
Senator Gold: It is my understanding that the delisting recourse process is an integral part of Canada’s robust sanctions framework, and it supports the transparent and fair application of sanctions.
I understand that decisions to delist an individual or entity are published in the Canada Gazette, including the rationale, and the individual is removed from the Consolidated Canadian Autonomous Sanctions List.
[Translation]
Public Services and Procurement
Federal Justice Complex
Hon. Jean-Guy Dagenais: Leader, when I was on the Standing Senate Committee on National Finance, some senior officials tried, rather unsuccessfully, to convince me that the government was justified in spending millions of dollars to address the issue of empty federal government offices across the country. Last I heard, there was over 30 million square feet of underused or vacant federal office space, much of it located in downtown Montreal.
I was surprised to read in the newspaper recently that your government has begun building a new $160-million federal court complex in Old Montreal. There are empty offices? Let’s build more. Honestly, is the government wasting public funds again? Justin Trudeau has become the biggest champion of all time in that department. How can your government justify building this court complex when there is so much unused office space within a radius of less than one kilometre?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question. This time, I won’t question the premise of it, even though I don’t agree with everything you said.
I can’t stress enough the importance of the administration of justice, and I am speaking from experience here. These buildings are built and designed to meet all the specific needs of a court, in this case, the Federal Court. We need to take into account matters of security and access, not just for witnesses, but also for those who appear before the court and the legal officers.
In short, the decision was made to give the judiciary the building it needs to administer justice.
Senator Dagenais: Leader, I would say that your government’s spending is indefensible. Why wouldn’t I believe your former minister of finance, Bill Morneau, when he publicly commented that the latest budget only proves your government’s inclination to engage in new spending rather than reduce spending in order to improve Canada’s economy?
Who has more credibility, Mr. Morneau or Ms. Freeland?
Senator Gold: I have nothing against former Minister Morneau. However, the government has full confidence in Ms. Freeland, who is doing a very good job, as I tried to explain while answering a question from one of our colleagues about her involvement in managing our economy.
[English]
Public Safety
National Action Plan on Combatting Auto Theft
Hon. Andrew Cardozo: My question is for the Government Representative in the Senate. Car thefts have surged in Canada. From 2021 to 2023, the number of stolen vehicles increased by 48% in Ontario, and by 58% in Quebec. Seventy thousand cars were stolen in Canada in 2023. These are big numbers that affect real people.
On February 8, 2024, the Trudeau government held the National Summit on Combatting Auto Theft. On Monday, they announced new measures. Could you describe the highlights of the measures of the government’s strategy to combat the epidemic of car theft?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question. It is a question that has been asked in this chamber before. I will simply go to the answer.
First of all, the national action plan is a product of collaboration between all partners, including all levels of government, following the summit that was held some time ago, as we all know. The key measures include the following: invest in the Canada Border Services Agency and the police to intercept stolen vehicles; strengthen information sharing between police, both within Canada and internationally; and provide new Criminal Code measures to give police and prosecutors more tools to address auto theft, notably auto theft related to organized crime, as well as electronic devices and fobs used to hack and steal cars, and laundering proceeds of auto theft. This plan will be continuously updated and reviewed to respond to the evolving criminal trends in this area.
Senator Cardozo: My supplementary question is with regard to stolen cars that are being exported through the Port of Montreal. Indeed, there is the sense that many of the cars that are stolen go out of that port to other parts of the world. What measures is the government taking to deal with that point? This is certainly a point that we should be choking off in terms of the export of stolen vehicles.
Senator Gold: You are right that the export of stolen vehicles from Canada is an important piece that drives this rise in auto thefts. The government has invested $28 million to support the work of the Canada Border Services Agency and strengthen our borders against the export of stolen vehicles. Of course, it has also invested in Ontario and other places to provide greater detection to address this problem.
Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation
National Housing Strategy
Hon. Yonah Martin (Deputy Leader of the Opposition): Government leader, despite countless promises and photo ops over nine years, this NDP-Trudeau government is still failing to build the homes that Canadians need. Last year, even though a severe housing crisis was well under way across the country, housing starts dropped 7% compared to 2022. This information came from the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation. Statistics Canada recently reported that the value of residential building permits fell by over 8% in March, with multi-family dwellings falling even further by 9%.
Leader, how many houses must be built each day for the Trudeau government to meet its promise of 3.87 million new homes by 2031?
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Senator Plett: How many?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Well, we can all do the math. The important point to underline is that this government has invested seriously and significantly, and is working with partners — not only provincially, but also municipally — to unlock the barriers to the construction of new housing. In that regard, housing starts do not always follow immediately upon arrangements that are made, whether it’s with municipalities who have agreed to increase their density or streamline their bylaw approval process, or with provinces with whom the government is continuing to discuss and enter into agreements. Nonetheless, houses are being built, and the potential for more houses is being unlocked through the Housing Accelerator Fund and the work that the government is doing with partners and stakeholders.
Senator Martin: On the contrary, the NDP-Trudeau government has failed to make daily life affordable, and failed to build more houses. Last week, the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation reported that housing starts were down once again in April compared to March.
Leader, don’t you agree that housing starts should go up during a housing crisis — not down?
Senator Gold: No. Those of us who have been in either the real estate business or the construction business understand that there is a lag, and that a number of factors play into how quickly projects can get off the ground, whether that involves labour shortage issues, interest rate issues or regulatory issues. That is the proper explanation for the pace at which the projects get off the ground.
Finance
Cost of Living
Hon. Donald Neil Plett (Leader of the Opposition): Well, leader, I’ve spent my life in construction, and I don’t agree with you.
Let me give you a softball question like your government partner did just a minute ago.
Leader, on Monday, the National Post had an interview with a senior named Dorothy from the Calgary area. She lives on a mostly fixed income and wants to stay in her home. Her costs are rising, including a $600 monthly mortgage payment combined with nearly $250 in utilities — a bill that nearly doubled since the pandemic. She manages to survive on $35 worth of groceries per week. Although we can admire Dorothy for her budgeting skills, it shouldn’t be this way for seniors in Canada. This is the sad result after nine long years of this Trudeau government.
Seniors like Dorothy built our country, leader. Why does this government think that Dorothy should scrimp and save to make ends meet?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): The government doesn’t think that. I read Dorothy’s story too. It tears our hearts out. She should not have to scrimp and save and live on $35 a week in groceries. That is not acceptable.
Both this government and the provincial governments have programs in place to help those in need. However, they don’t always provide everything that we would want our seniors to have. That is the sad reality. You said it is a softball question, but it is a heartbreaking question.
Again, there are measures within the federal and provincial jurisdictions to assist those in need. Far too many of our seniors are in need. That is something that we are all — that includes citizens, this government and, I trust, the opposition as well — committed to addressing.
Senator Plett: Even during all of her hard times, Dorothy volunteers at a community centre which provides free bread to seniors each week. God love Dorothy! The centre’s CEO said, “The people we serve, they are from every economic range you can imagine.”
The CEO continued:
. . . one in every four of the seniors we serve are being forced to cut back on food, because of the high costs of everything else.
Yet, when listening to some of your answers during Question Period, leader, everything seems to be fine.
Leader, how can you and this Trudeau government be so disconnected from reality?
Senator Gold: I think that you are disconnected, with all due respect, from my answers. I have spent my life in the not-for-profit sector. I am not at all disconnected from reality, nor is this government.
When you or other colleagues make claims about the macro management of our economy, I will answer in kind. When you speak about the hardships that Canadians are facing, my heart is with them, and my answers have been sincere and honest.
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
Industry
Interprovincial Trade
Hon. Tony Loffreda: Senator Gold, I want to talk about internal trade barriers in Canada. Last month, Budget 2024 announced the government’s intention to launch the first-ever Canadian survey on interprovincial trade to engage Canadian businesses on the challenges they face when buying, selling and investing across provincial and territorial borders.
Senator Gold, is it still the government’s intention to launch these consultations next month? How long will these consultations last, and when can we expect concrete action on eliminating or reducing some of our interprovincial trade barriers?
It seems that Canadians have been discussing this issue forever. In 2016, the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Commerce and the Economy released a comprehensive report entitled Tear Down These Walls: Dismantling Canada’s Internal Trade Barriers. Even back then, the report provided policy guidance on areas to focus on. Action is required now.
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): You are quite right, senator; this is an issue. Even before the Senate debated it, this matter was much debated in the hallways of constitutional law classes across this country. Those of us who have been around can remember, even in the pre‑Charter days, that despite some of the promises of our Constitution of 1867, we still have barriers between provinces that are causing inefficiencies in our economy.
The Canadian survey on interprovincial trade is an important part of the federal action plan to strengthen internal trade. I do not have a specific date as to when the survey and consultations will begin, but an announcement will be made when they do.
This is an important step forward, but it is not the only step. The government has already taken substantial action to reduce the barriers to interprovincial trade, including the removal and streamlining of one third of all federal exemptions in the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, resulting in the removal of 14 exemptions related to procurement that will provide Canadian businesses with more opportunities.
Senator Loffreda: One specific barrier that comes to mind is in Canada’s truck transportation sector. Last week, a report from the Macdonald-Laurier Institute explained that a patchwork of provincial regulations increases the direct cost of shipping goods across provincial lines, and contributes to broader economic inefficiencies. The authors argue in favour of adopting mutual recognition agreements, or MRAs. Will the government work to adopt MRAs?
Senator Gold: The government is committed to working with the provinces and territories to ensure that goods, services and workers move seamlessly across this country by providing the mutual recognition of regulatory standards and eliminating unnecessary red tape. The government will announce further progress to align the regulatory environment across the country in due course.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship
Processing of Asylum Claims
Hon. Julie Miville-Dechêne: Senator Gold, the Iranian diaspora wonders why Canada welcomes so few refugees threatened with death by the repressive Iranian regime. The case of Shilan Mirzaee, a renowned Kurdish human rights activist, is troubling. This mother of two has been stuck in Turkey for years and is threatened with deportation to Iran, while sponsors are ready to take charge of her in Canada. Why not speed up the asylum procedure for her?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for your question, senator. The government is deeply concerned about the people affected by the situation in Iran, and is actively monitoring the situation to assess how Canada can assist and do better.
Colleagues, you should know that Iranian nationals have a variety of immigration pathways available to them. The refugee resettlement program is designed to offer protection to the world’s most vulnerable. Individuals who have fled their home country and have no other durable solution may also be referred to Canada for resettlement by the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, or identified by private sponsors.
All eligible asylum claimants are referred to the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada — an independent, quasi-judicial tribunal where the claim is decided on its merits.
Senator Miville-Dechêne: Thank you, Senator Gold. My question had more to do with the speed and efficiency of the process. The Iranian Justice Collective submitted 47 refugee candidates’ names to the Canadian government in September. It has just learned that only 10 cases will be studied and it will take two years. Is this reasonable, given the risks faced by these enemies of the brutal regime?
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Senator Gold: Thank you for your question. These numbers are indeed troubling. The government is doing what it can to streamline the processes. It has boosted processing capacity and has provided serious funds — well over $1 billion over the next five years — to improve the asylum system.
Public Services and Procurement
Purchase of Quebec Bridge
Hon. Jim Quinn: Senator Gold, my question relates to the Quebec Bridge. The Prime Minister’s office indicated there would be an investment of $1 billion for the repair and maintenance of the Quebec Bridge in part because it is “. . . a critical regional transportation link, a strategic freight corridor, and an important element of the Canadian supply chain . . . .”
Senator Gold, could you more fully explain why the Government of Canada is buying the Quebec Bridge at this time?
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you. I will attempt to add to my answer from the other day.
For those who have been to Quebec City or have travelled there, the bridge is not only an important transportation link but a heritage jewel that I would hope makes Quebec City and other Canadians proud. Repatriating this essential and historical infrastructure allows the government to assure its long-term viability.
As you may know, the purchase was for a symbolic amount of $1, although it is true that serious investments will be made by the federal government, the Canadian National Railway Company, or CN, and the Quebec government to provide the necessary repairs and ensure its long-term viability. In that regard the government is doing what it believes is appropriate to secure the long-term viability of this important infrastructure.
Senator Quinn: Thank you for that answer, Senator Gold.
As a matter of regional fairness — and given that other projects in Canada, such as the Champlain Bridge in Quebec, were fully funded by the federal government up to $4.1 billion, and considering what we’re doing with the Quebec Bridge — why is it not in the interest of Canada to look at the critical transportation link and heritage and ecological sensitivities around the Chignecto Isthmus and come back to the negotiation table?
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
Senator Gold: Thank you for your question and for your continued advocacy on this particular issue. Discussions have taken place, and I have every confidence they will continue to take place. It is the position and understanding of the Canadian government that this is an important link, and the Canadian government will continue to discuss the partnerships and sharing of costs that are appropriate in such a case.
ORDERS OF THE DAY
Business of the Senate
Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, pursuant to rule 4-12(3), I would like to inform the Senate that as we proceed with Government Business, the Senate will address the items in the following order: third reading of Bill S-16, followed by Motion No. 173, followed by all remaining items in the order that they appear on the Order Paper.
Haida Nation Recognition Bill
Third Reading
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the motion of the Honourable Senator Greenwood, seconded by the Honourable Senator Busson, for the third reading of Bill S-16, An Act respecting the recognition of the Haida Nation and the Council of the Haida Nation.
Hon. Yonah Martin (Deputy Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, I’m pleased to rise today to speak to Bill S-16, an Act respecting the recognition of the Haida Nation and the Council of the Haida Nation.
At its core, Bill S-16 is about the recognition of Indigenous self-determination. Indigenous peoples have inherent rights to self-determination as recognized in international human rights law. Acknowledging and respecting Indigenous self‑determination is essential for upholding fundamental human rights. It allows communities to govern themselves in a manner that respects and preserves their unique cultures, languages, traditions and spiritual beliefs. This autonomy is vital for safeguarding Indigenous cultural heritage and identity.
Recognizing Indigenous self-determination enables communities to pursue social and economic development initiatives that are tailored to their specific needs, priorities and aspirations. This includes initiatives aimed at addressing socio‑economic disparities and improving living conditions within Indigenous communities.
Self-determination is integral to the process of reconciliation. It respects Indigenous rights and sovereignty and fosters equitable relationships based on mutual respect and cooperation. Self-determination empowers communities to make decisions about the management and use of their traditional lands and resources. This includes practices that prioritize environmental sustainability and respect Indigenous knowledge of ecosystems.
Bill S-16 is also about the Haida Nation choosing its own form of governance, which is important and must be honoured for several reasons. It empowers the people of the Haida Nation to exercise control over their own destinies, enabling them to shape their futures according to their own values, interests and aspirations.
Indigenous communities have unique cultural traditions, languages and ways of life that are deeply intertwined with their governance structures. By choosing their own government structures, Indigenous peoples can ensure their cultural heritage is preserved and decisions are made in a manner that respects and reflects their cultural values and norms. Indigenous peoples have the right to freely determine their political status and pursue their economic, social and cultural development. Choosing their own government structures allows Indigenous communities to exercise this right and govern themselves in a manner that best meets their needs and aspirations.
Indigenous communities are best positioned to understand their own needs, priorities and challenges. By choosing their own government structures, they can establish governance systems that are responsive, accountable and effective in addressing the unique needs of their communities. This can lead to more efficient service delivery, improved decision-making processes and better outcomes for community members.
Indigenous government structures provide opportunities for meaningful participation and representation of community members in the decision-making process. By choosing their own government structures, Indigenous peoples can ensure their voices are heard, their concerns are addressed and their interests are represented at all levels of government.
Indigenous government structures provide a platform for Indigenous communities to engage with other governments and organizations at various levels. Choosing their own government structures strengthens Indigenous representation and advocacy efforts, leading to greater recognition of Indigenous rights and interests in the global arena.
The Haida Nation are an Indigenous people with a rich and complex history of resilience, cultural richness and ongoing efforts to reclaim and revitalize their heritage in the face of historical challenges and contemporary issues. As I said during my second reading speech, the Haida have inhabited the Haida Gwaii archipelago — formerly known as the Queen Charlotte Islands — for thousands of years. Their history is deeply intertwined with the rich, natural environment of the islands, which provided abundant resources for sustenance and cultural practices. The history of recognition and self-determination for Haida Gwaii is also long and complicated and best characterized as one of incremental steps, with over a century of asserting their land rights and engaging in negotiations to address historical grievances related to land dispossession, cultural suppression and colonial oppression.
Numerous pieces of legislation and agreements have preceded Bill S-16, laying out the groundwork for consultation and cooperation between the Haida Nation and the government on matters related to self-government, resource management, land use and ownership, cultural heritage and provisions for the protection and conservation of the region’s ecosystems.
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Bill S-16 and the recognition of the Council of the Haida Nation is a culmination of the work that preceded it. During the committee’s study, President Gaagwiis acknowledged the leadership that led to this moment, stating:
We’re really fortunate to have had all that leadership and all of that work of past leaders and people who are now ancestors, and I’m always in awe of what they were able to accomplish and put forward for us now and for future generations.
Bill S-16 is also the path to a new era of self-determination for the Haida Nation as Canada and British Columbia legally recognize the Haida Nation as a holder of inherent rights of governance and self-determination, and that the Council of the Haida Nation is authorized to exercise and make decisions regarding those rights.
Bill S-16 acknowledges the historical and ongoing relationship between the Haida Nation and the Canadian government, affirming the rights of the Haida people to govern their own affairs, make decisions on matters that affect their community, culture and land, and manage their resources.
Bill S-16 emphasizes the importance of reconciliation between the Haida Nation and the Canadian government, fostering a relationship based on mutual respect, cooperation and partnership as that relationship evolves over time.
Honourable senators, that evolving relationship is one of the reasons why Bill S-16 and the legal recognition of the Council of the Haida Nation are so important.
When asked by the Honourable Senator Prosper at committee how Bill S-16 would incorporate Haida law within a governance structure, President Gaagwiis responded that Bill S-16 did not touch directly on Haida legal traditions, but he provided this important insight:
. . . the relationship between the Haida Nation, the Council of the Haida Nation and Canada in the resources for supporting the continued evolution of our self-governance to look deeply and engage with our people on what’s working, what’s not working and continuing to learn from our experiences to bring more of our culture, history and values into our modern form of governance. It’s learning how that is articulated through language, culture, processes and systems.
There is a great opportunity in that to continue that growth in that evolution of combining some of the elements we have adopted from a Western sense in forming a constitution and adopting some of the systems or processes from other governments and nations. An exciting part of this is that continuing to bring more of our culture and our history into how our governance evolves to implement our laws as we move forward in this journey.
I asked President Gaagwiis about what the transition period after the successful passage of Bill S-16 might look like. He mentioned that the priority was on land governance and management, saying:
Our experience has been that provincial laws have not worked in our favour in terms of looking after the land and providing the benefits back to the Haida Nation and the people of Haida Gwaii. Therefore, we look to rectify that by having them come from our history, experience and culture in our home.
It’s going to be an ongoing process. We’ve been calling it an orderly and incremental process in terms of how we look at each of those areas of our life and society, and how we work on them among the Haida Nation, the people who live on Haida Gwaii and with the respective governments.
Honourable senators, Bill S-16 is legislation that has been over 50 years in the making. The B.C. provincial government already passed the same legislation almost a year ago, and it’s Canada’s turn to honour the will of the Indigenous peoples of Haida Gwaii.
The legislation affirms the Government of Canada’s recognition of the Haida Nation as the holder of the inherent rights of governance and self-determination.
The Constitution of the Haida Nation was formally adopted in 2003. It mandates the council to conduct the external affairs of the Haida Nation and to steward the lands and waters of Haida Gwaii on behalf of the Haida Nation.
Passing this legislation creates the opportunity for the Haida Nation to further develop and refine their laws and practices to manage the land based on Haida history, culture and values. Bill S-16, in the words of their own leadership, will not conflict with people who live on their territory. Indeed, jurisdictional responsibilities such as health, education, transportation and fire and emergency services will remain in the hands of the province and municipalities on Haida Gwaii, and the agreement won’t have an impact on current municipal boundaries or functions.
Bill S-16 honours the will of the Haida Gwaii while recognizing the cooperation and achievements of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.
I am reminded of the recent achievements of Haida Gwaii’s high school basketball team, which exceeded everyone’s expectations, winning silver at the recent Single A provincial championships a month ago, narrowly missing a three-pointer at the buzzer to win gold. To quote an article from The Province:
“Everybody loves an underdog story,” said Breakers coach Desi Collinson. “Everybody loves those small schools that come from what they recognize as relatable. Everybody has adversity in life and they understand that you have to try this much harder. They understand that.
“For me, for them to view us in that sense and relate to us in that sense, no matter who they were or where they came from, shows great character and great people.”
The team consists of both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students, united by their common love for basketball and community. Together they rose to the challenge and achieved a far greater success than anyone expected.
Honourable senators, as a senator from British Columbia, I am pleased to support Bill S-16 to recognize the Haida Nation and encourage all senators to support this important legislation.
Thank you.
Hon. Andrew Cardozo: Will the honourable senator take a question?
Senator Martin: Yes.
Senator Cardozo: I apologize if it is a soft question. I appreciated your speech. You were most articulate in outlining the need for this legislation. It meant a lot, especially coming from a B.C. senator. Given that, as you pointed out, the British Columbia government has passed a similar law, what in your view do we add to it by passing a similar federal law at this point?
Senator Martin: I can’t speak to the exact British Columbia legislation. As I stated, I think together they will be strengthened. I am from British Columbia, and Haida Gwaii is a very special part of our province. This bill provides federal support and recognition, which will really help the Haida Nation achieve and realize their full potential.
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 third time and passed.)
[Translation]
Canadian Sustainable Jobs Bill
Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources Committee Authorized to Study Subject Matter and Social Affairs, Science and Technology Committee to Consider Documents and Evidence Gathered During the Study
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate), pursuant to notice of May 21, 2024, moved:
That, notwithstanding any provision of the Rules, previous order or usual practice, if Bill C-50, An Act respecting accountability, transparency and engagement to support the creation of sustainable jobs for workers and economic growth in a net-zero economy, is adopted at second reading:
1.it stand referred to the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology;
2.the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources be authorized to examine and report on the subject matter of the bill; and
3.during its consideration of the bill, the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology be authorized to take into account any public document or evidence received by the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources during its study of the subject matter of the bill, as well as any report from that latter committee on the subject matter of the bill.
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, the Honourable Senator Gold moved, seconded by the Honourable Senator LaBoucane-Benson:
That, notwithstanding any provision of the Rules, previous order or usual practice, if Bill C-50, An Act respecting accountability, transparency and engagement to support the creation of sustainable jobs for workers and economic growth—
Some Hon. Senators: Dispense.
The Hon. the Speaker: Dispense?
Some Hon. Senators: No.
The Hon. the Speaker: That, notwithstanding any provision of the Rules, previous order or usual practice, if Bill C-50, An Act respecting accountability, transparency and engagement to support the creation of sustainable jobs for workers and economic growth in a net-zero economy, is adopted at second reading:
1.it stand referred to the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology;
2.the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources be authorized to examine and report on the subject matter of the bill; and
3.during its consideration of the bill, the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology be authorized to take into account any public document or evidence received by the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources during its study of the subject matter of the bill, as well as any report from that latter committee on the subject matter of the bill.
Is it your pleasure, honourable senators, to adopt the motion?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(Motion agreed to.)
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[English]
Federal Ombudsperson for Victims of Crime Bill
Bill to Amend—Second Reading—Debate Continued
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the motion of the Honourable Senator Boisvenu, seconded by the Honourable Senator Martin, for the second reading of Bill S-265, An Act to enact the Federal Ombudsperson for Victims of Crime Act, to amend the Canadian Victims Bill of Rights and to establish a framework for implementing the rights of victims of crime.
Hon. Bernadette Clement: Honourable senators, I note that this item is at day 15. Therefore, I move the adjournment of the debate in my name for the balance of my time.
The Hon. the Speaker: Is it your pleasure, honourable senators, to adopt the motion?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(On motion of Senator Clement, debate adjourned.)
Criminal Code
Bill to Amend—Second Reading—Debate Adjourned
On Other Business, Commons Public Bills, Second Reading, Order No. 5:
Second reading of Bill C-295, An Act to amend the Criminal Code (neglect of vulnerable adults).
Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, I note that this item is at day 15, therefore with leave of the Senate, I ask that consideration of this item be postponed to the next sitting of the Senate.
The Hon. the Speaker: Is leave granted, honourable senators?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(Debate postponed until the next sitting of the Senate.)
Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources
Motion to Authorize Committee to Study the Cumulative Impacts of Resource Extraction and Development—Debate Continued
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the motion of the Honourable Senator McCallum, seconded by the Honourable Senator LaBoucane-Benson:
That the Standing Senate Committee on Energy, the Environment and Natural Resources be authorized to examine and report on the cumulative positive and negative impacts of resource extraction and development, and their effects on environmental, economic and social considerations, when and if the committee is formed; and
That the committee submit its final report no later than December 31, 2022.
Hon. Yonah Martin (Deputy Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, with leave of the Senate, I would like to adjourn this in the name of Senator Wells.
The Hon. the Speaker: Is leave granted, honourable senators?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(Debate adjourned.)
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Delivering for Canadians Now, A Supply and Confidence Agreement
Impact of the Agreement between the New Democratic Party and the Liberal Party on Public Finances—Inquiry—Debate Continued
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the inquiry of the Honourable Senator Plett, calling the attention of the Senate to the impact on Canada’s public finances of the NDP-Liberal agreement entitled Delivering for Canadians Now, A Supply and Confidence Agreement.
Hon. Donald Neil Plett (Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, I note that this item is at day 15. I am not ready to speak at this time; therefore, with leave of the Senate and notwithstanding rule 4-14(3), I move the adjournment of the debate for the balance of my time.
The Hon. the Speaker: Is leave granted, honourable senators?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(Debate adjourned.)
One Hundred and Twenty-fifth Anniversary of the Yukon Act
Inquiry—Debate Continued
On the Order:
Resuming debate on the inquiry of the Honourable Senator Duncan, calling the attention of the Senate to the one hundred and twenty-fifth anniversary of the Yukon Act, an Act of Parliament adopted on June 13, 1898.
Hon. Bernadette Clement: Honourable senators, I note that this item is at day 15. Therefore, I move that further debate be adjourned until the next sitting of the Senate for the balance of my time.
(On motion of Senator Clement, debate adjourned.)
[Translation]
The Senate
Motion to Call Upon Government to Create a Working Group to Study Issues of Efficiency and Equity Related to Federal, Provincial and Territorial Strategies to Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the Agricultural Sector—Debate Adjourned
On Motion No. 169 by the Honourable Diane Bellemare:
That the Senate call upon the federal government to create, under the auspices of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food, a working group to examine and report on issues of efficiency and equity related to federal, provincial and territorial strategies to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the agricultural sector, including but not limited to:
(a)the federal carbon tax exemption for fuels such as diesel and gasoline for farm machinery;
(b)the broadening of this exemption to propane and natural gas for farm machinery used to heat or cool a structure for raising or housing animals or growing crops, as well as for grain drying and storage;
(c)the identification of complementary solutions for the reduction of GHG emissions emanating from the use of fossil fuels in the agricultural sector; and
(d)a proposal for the creation of a permanent round table with economic stakeholders and provincial and territorial representatives from the agricultural sector, whose mandate is to advise the federal minister to ensure the adoption of federal policies that complement those of the provinces and territories, are fair and effective, and aim for carbon neutrality;
That the Senate recommend that the working group be composed of five representatives from the provinces and territories, one representative from the federal government, three academic or other experts in the agricultural sector and GHG emissions, and one representative from the Senate and one representative from the House of Commons who will co-chair its proceedings; and
That the Minister cause the working group’s report to be tabled in the two Houses of Parliament no later than June 1, 2024.
Hon. Diane Bellemare: Honourable senators, I note that this item is at day 15. Therefore, with leave of the Senate, I ask that consideration of this item be postponed until the next sitting of the Senate.
The Hon. the Speaker: Is leave granted, honourable senators?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(Debate postponed until the next sitting of the Senate.)
[English]
International Students
Contributions and Challenges—Inquiry—Debate Adjourned
On Inquiry No. 18 by the Honourable Ratna Omidvar:
That she will call the attention of the Senate to the contributions of international students in Canada and the various challenges, such as fraud and physical, emotional, and sometimes sexual abuse, that many of them face.
Hon. Ratna Omidvar: Honourable senators, I note that this item is at day 15. Therefore, with leave of the Senate, I ask that consideration of this item be postponed until the next sitting of the Senate.
The Hon. the Speaker: Is leave granted, honourable senators?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(Debate postponed until the next sitting of the Senate.)
(At 3:22 p.m., the Senate was continued until tomorrow at 2 p.m.)