Debates of the Senate (Hansard)
Debates of the Senate (Hansard)
2nd Session, 40th Parliament,
Volume 146, Issue 51
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
The Honourable Noël A. Kinsella, Speaker
- SENATORS' STATEMENTS
- ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS
- QUESTION PERIOD
The Senate met at 2 p.m., the Speaker in the chair.
Prayers.
Afghanistan—Fallen Soldiers
Silent Tribute
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, before we proceed, I ask honourable senators to rise and observe one minute of silence in memory of Corporal Nicholas Bulger, Master Corporal Charles-Philippe Michaud, Master Corporal Pat Audet, Corporal Martin Joanette, Private Sébastien Courcy, Corporal Christian Bobbitt, Sapper Matthieu Allard, Corporal Jean-François Drouin, Major Yannick Pépin and Private Patrick Lormand whose tragic deaths occurred over the last few months while serving their country in Afghanistan.
Honourable senators then stood in silent tribute.
[Translation]
Business of the Senate
Hon. Gerald J. Comeau (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, there have been consultations among the parties and it has been agreed that photographers will be allowed on the floor of the Senate this afternoon so that they may photograph the introduction of the new senators, and tomorrow so that they photograph the introduction of the new Clerk of the Senate with as little disruption as possible.
[English]
New Senators
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I have the honour to inform the Senate that the clerk has received certificates from the Registrar General of Canada showing that the following persons, respectively, have been summoned to the Senate:
Donald Neil Plett
Michael Douglas Finley
Linda Frum
Claude Carignan
Jacques Demers
Judith G. Seidman (Ripley)
Carolyn Stewart Olsen
Kelvin Kenneth Ogilvie
Dennis Glen Patterson
Introduction
The Hon. the Speaker having informed the Senate that there were senators without, waiting to be introduced:
The following honourable senators were introduced; presented Her Majesty's writs of summons; took the oath prescribed by law, which was administered by the Law Clerk and Parliamentary Counsel; and were seated:
Hon. Donald Neil Plett, of Landmark, Manitoba, introduced between Hon. Marjory LeBreton, P.C., and Hon. Terry Stratton;
Hon. Michael Douglas Finley, of Simcoe, Ontario, introduced between Hon. Marjory LeBreton, P.C., and Hon. Irving Gerstein;
Hon. Linda Frum, of Toronto, Ontario, introduced between Hon. Marjory LeBreton, P.C., and Hon. Nicole Eaton;
Hon. Claude Carignan, of Saint-Eustache, Quebec, introduced between Hon. Marjory LeBreton, P.C., and Hon. Leo Housakos;
Hon. Jacques Demers, of Hudson, Quebec, introduced between Hon. Marjory LeBreton, P.C., and Hon. Nancy Greene Raine;
Hon. Judith G. Seidman (Ripley), of Saint-Raphaël, Quebec, introduced between Hon. Marjory LeBreton, P.C., and Hon. Michel Rivard;
Hon. Carolyn Stewart Olsen, of Sackville, New Brunswick, introduced between Hon. Marjory LeBreton, P.C., and Hon. Percy Mockler;
Hon. Kelvin Kenneth Ogilvie, of Canning, Nova Scotia, introduced between Hon. Marjory LeBreton, P.C., and Hon. Wilbert J. Keon;
Hon. Dennis Glen Patterson, of Iqaluit, Nunavut, introduced between Hon. Marjory LeBreton, P.C., and Hon. Charlie Watt.
The Hon. the Speaker informed the Senate that each of the honourable senators named above had made and subscribed the declaration of qualification required by the Constitution Act, 1867, in the presence of the Law Clerk and Parliamentary Counsel; the Commissioner appointed to receive and witness the said declaration.
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Congratulations on Appointments
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government and Minister of State (Seniors)): Honourable senators, it is a great pleasure for me to rise today to introduce nine Canadians who have been called upon to serve in the Senate of Canada.
They are becoming part of a broader group of Canadians committed to serving their country; indeed, their work prior to their appointment indicates their abiding respect for their communities, their provinces and their country.
I will now take the opportunity to give honourable senators a glimpse into the lives of each of these nine new senators in alphabetical order.
Senator Claude Carignan of Quebec is a lawyer by profession, specializing in labour and public law. He also lectured at the Université du Québec à Montréal and the Université de Montréal. A committed community activist, Senator Carignan was elected mayor of Saint-Eustache in 2000. In addition, he has served as a member and vice-president of the Union of Quebec Municipalities. He was instrumental in the creation of the Fondation Élite Saint-Eustache, which helps young people in the region.
Senator Carignan's father died when Senator Carignan and his brother Alain were quite young. He credits his mother, Colombe, with instilling in them the values of hard work, perseverance and honesty. That spirit of community service and the values with which he was raised will no doubt extend to his work in this chamber.
I extend a very warm welcome to Senator Carignan.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Senator LeBreton: Senator Jacques Demers of Quebec is well known to many as the former head coach of the Montreal Canadiens. He led that team to a Stanley Cup in 1993. As a committed Detroit Red Wings fan, before the arrival of the Ottawa Senators, I will prefer to think of Senator Demers as the coach of that great team.
In 2007 he was named one of the 100 most influential personalities in hockey by The Hockey News magazine. He won the Jack Adams Award for NHL coach of the year in 1987 and 1988 — the only person to do so in consecutive years. More recently, hockey enthusiasts have watched Senator Demers in his role as a commentator on the RDS sports network.
His courageous and strong support of literacy is well known.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Senator LeBreton: He has been active in speaking out on literacy throughout the province of Quebec. Further, Senator Demers has given much time and effort to combating poverty and physical abuse towards children, understanding these tragedies all too well from his own youth.
Senator Jacques Demers' life journey, both professionally and personally, is truly inspiring for all Canadians. Senator Jacques Demers' family is a tight-knit circle. He is proud that his wife, Deborah, sisters Claudette and Francine, and brother Michel are all here today to share in this special occasion.
I welcome them to the Senate and I particularly welcome Senator Demers.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Senator LeBreton: Senator Michael Douglas Finley of Ontario is well known for his political acumen, having served as the Conservative Party's director of political operations and national campaign director in the 2006 and 2008 general elections.
He has had a successful career in the private sector, in aviation, agriculture and energy. He began his career at Rolls-Royce Canada, rising to the position of director of production, strategic planning and new business development. Later in his career he served as general manager and chief operating officer of Fernlea Flowers in southwestern Ontario. However, Senator Finley describes himself as one of the world's worst gardeners despite this background.
He has travelled to nearly every country on earth and proudly admits to being an enthusiastic fan of British detective novels, from Agatha Christie to P.D. James. I might also add that Senator Finley has a profound love of soccer.
Senator Finley, it is great to have you here. Welcome to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Senator LeBreton: Senator Linda Frum of Ontario is a Canadian journalist, a best-selling author and a pillar of the Toronto community — indeed, the Canadian community. She has written for the National Post and is a past contributing editor to Maclean's magazine. She is currently on the board of Upper Canada College, the Canadian Club and Canada's Walk of Fame. Together, Senator Frum and her husband Howard Sokolowski are past recipients of the Human Relations Award from the Canadian Council of Christians and Jews.
Senator Frum is the proud mother and stepmother to five children who range in age from 6 to 32 years. In 2004, she became an accidental sports fan when her husband Howard became one of the co-owners of the Toronto Argonauts. Therefore, she is now an ardent CFL supporter and thinks it is only fitting that the one time the Argos won the Grey Cup during Howard's tenure happened right here in Ottawa.
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Welcome to the Senate of Canada. We look forward to working with you, Senator Frum.
Dr. Kelvin Ogilvie of Nova Scotia is well known to many of us. He is the past president of Acadia University in Wolfville. He is also an award-winning international expert in biotechnology, bio-organic chemistry and genetic engineering. He developed an automated process for the manufacturing of DNA known as the "Gene Machine." As president of Acadia University, he introduced the groundbreaking Acadia Advantage program that has been internationally acclaimed. He recently completed a term as chair of the Nova Scotia Premier's Advisory Council on Innovation and as a member of the board of Genome Canada. Senator Ogilvie was named to the Order of Canada in 1991.
To sum up his many contributions, McGill's Headway magazine described him as "this era's Henry Ford."
Honourable senators may not be aware of the senator's other achievements. In 1973, Senator Ogilvie led a team of Siberian huskies to become the freight racing champion of Manitoba awarded by the Manitoba Dog Sledding Association.
Welcome to the Senate, Senator Ogilvie.
Senator Dennis Patterson of Nunavut served as the Premier of the Northwest Territories and has dedicated his career to improving the lives of the people of Canada's North. Prior to becoming premier, he served in various cabinet portfolios including Minister of Education, Minister of Health and Social Services and Minister of Justice. He played a key role in the settlement of the Nunavut final land claim agreement. Senator Patterson was admitted to the Law Society of Nunavut in 2001, and since 2003 has been a trustee and chair of the investment committee of the Northern Property Real Estate Investment Trust.
Honourable senators, I also know that Senator Patterson is an avid cyclist. This is a diverse group with dog sledders and cyclists.
Amazingly, in 1972, after finishing law school, Senator Patterson cycled across Canada, from Vancouver to Halifax, taking 40 days for the trip; a remarkable feat. He is married to Evelyn. Together they have eight children and four grandchildren. I point out that Senator Patterson's three-year-old grandson Miles is present in the gallery today.
Welcome, Senator Patterson.
Senator Don Plett of Manitoba has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to his community and his country. He studied at Red River College and later served on its board of directors. He has coached a variety of sports and was President of the Landmark Minor Hockey Association. His interest in politics eventually led him to serve most recently as President of the Conservative Party of Canada. Having been a successful business owner, Senator Plett brings to this chamber an understanding of the issues facing Canadian entrepreneurs.
His father Archie founded Landmark Mechanical in 1957, and Senator Plett took it over 30 years later. Two years ago, his sons assumed the ownership of the family business.
Senator Plett and his wife Betty have been married for 41 years. They have four sons, two daughters-in-law and six grandchildren. Of his many achievements, Don Plett will tell you he considers his family to be the greatest of them all.
Dan Lett of the Winnipeg Free Press recently wrote:
Whether by appointment or election, we should all want the Don Pletts of the world in the Senate.
Welcome, Senator Plett.
Senator Judith Seidman of Quebec is an educator, researcher and adviser. She has worked with universities, governments and not-for-profit agencies in the field of health and social services. She is an epidemiologist and social worker by profession, and has worked as senior researcher at the University Institute of Social Gerontology of Quebec. She also served as project coordinator for the Canadian Study of Health and Aging at the University of Ottawa; a timely subject.
Her commitment to public service is profound and she has served as a member of the board of directors of the Allan Memorial Institute Advancement Fund and the McGill Society of Montreal.
Senator Seidman has always been interested in politics, but the results of the 1995 referendum led her to become active in the Conservative movement, which best represented her hopes and dreams for Canada.
Her political work over the years has been based on the following principles: a strong belief in the Conservative Party of Canada, Canadian democratic values and leadership with inspiration, integrity and vision. We extend a warm welcome to Senator Seidman.
Last, but certainly not least, is our friend — and my great friend — Senator Carolyn Stewart Olsen, who I described earlier today as my favourite travelling companion on two election campaigns. Senator Carolyn Stewart Olsen of New Brunswick has extensive experience in health care and politics. She spent over a decade as an emergency room nurse at hospitals in New Brunswick, Quebec and Ontario. In 1986, Senator Stewart Olsen was named head nurse for the ambulatory care department at Ottawa's Grace Hospital. After 20 years in the health-care field, she embarked on an entirely different career: a wonderful political journey, serving through the 1990s as communications assistant and press secretary to the Leader of the Opposition. Most recently she served as the Senior Adviser and Director of Strategic Communication in the Office of the Prime Minister.
Senator Stewart Olsen is fiercely proud of her New Brunswick roots, and notes that her ancestors are buried on both the Fundy and Northumberland shores. She has a fond and deep appreciation of the fascinating history of New Brunswick, and will be a keen advocate for its promotion. Welcome to Senator Stewart Olsen.
Honourable senators, as you can see, the senators have been taken away for a photo opportunity, but I hope you will join with me in welcoming these nine distinguished individuals to the Senate of Canada. Their experiences, enthusiasm and their love of country will guide them as they join with us to work on issues of concern to Canada.
Hon. James S. Cowan (Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, I intended to speak on behalf of the opposition to our new colleagues but unfortunately they have been called away. Perhaps, with permission of the house, I will defer my comments until they return.
SENATORS' STATEMENTS
HMCS Ville de Québec
Hon. Nicole Eaton: Honourable senators, one bright morning in early July, Ordinary Seaman Irving Gerstein and Ordinary Seaman Nicky Eaton embarked on HMCS Ville de Québec in the port of St. John's, Newfoundland, for a three-day journey to Halifax.
We were cruising in convoy with two Australian frigates that were travelling in the cold waters of the northern hemisphere for the first time.
Once dressed in black trousers and blue shirts, we were taken in hand and were shown, and experienced first-hand, the life of a sailor aboard a Canadian frigate at sea in peacetime.
At midnight on the first night, we met in the ship's operations room to follow, on computer monitors, an air defence exercise, which is used to exercise the above-water warfare team in the procedures used to counter air threats, be they anti-ship missiles or fighter bomber raids.
The Ville de Québec's crew went through the whole procedure from detection to engagement. During that specific exercise, we were using a rising superpower's subsonic, sea-skimming, anti-ship missile as our threat template. You could have heard a pin drop in the ops room as missiles were fired at us and at our sister ships.
Another night at sea was spent in a simulated anti-submarine warfare exercise to train our sonar operators in the detection and tracking of an underwater contact. The team used an MK 39 Expendable Mobile Anti-Submarine Warfare Training Target, EMATT, which can simulate a submarine.
[Translation]
Canada has always been known to have the best anti-submarine navy in the world. But ironically, while we have been instrumental in developing some of the best anti-submarine warfare technologies, we do not have the means to buy them to equip our own ships.
We spent many interesting hours talking with the crew, and had the opportunity to share our meals with our fellow sailors, non-commissioned officers and the commander.
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One morning we served breakfast. Ordinary Seaman Gerstein took the orders, and I fried the potatoes.
[English]
Unique to the Ville de Québec is the fact that she was the first Canadian patrol ship to be assigned both a mixed gender ship's company and to be distinguished as a francophone unit.
In the wardroom, on occasions such as "spiffy dins" where the dress is Red Sea rig, the officers wear the ceinture fléchée instead of the cummerbund.
We heard how proud they are to be part of an organization that is involved in doing good deeds. We heard how proud the crew is to protect both our country and our friends. I am proud that the outstanding men and women I met on the Ville de Québec patrol our shores.
Winners Walk of Hope 2009
Hon. Terry M. Mercer: Honourable senators, this past Sunday I participated in the Winners Walk of Hope 2009, a yearly event organized by Ovarian Cancer Canada. This year, $2.15 million was raised to fund research and programs to support women suffering from this terrible disease.
On July 16, 1996, my wife Ellen underwent surgery to investigate a lump in her lower abdomen. At that time, Ellen was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the silent killer. This disease sneaks up on women and can disguise itself in symptoms that look like other smaller problems. Ovarian cancer often goes undetected by doctors. The survival rate is not good, but after six rounds of very strong chemotherapy, my wife started down the road to recovery. We have been very lucky, and 13 years later, Ellen is treatment-free and enjoying retirement from one of Canada's leading software companies.
Honourable senators, we know the real cure to ovarian cancer will come through research, and we want as many people as possible to join us in that fight. On Sunday, September 13, hundreds of walkers joined me in Halifax, where I walked in support of Team Ellen Mercer, along with my son and my daughter-in-law. Other Winners Walk of Hope took place in 14 cities across Canada. In Halifax, I met and surpassed my fundraising goal, bringing in over $3,000 worth of donations.
On behalf of Ellen and the thousands of women across Canada who are living with and fighting ovarian cancer with the help of their families and friends, I offer my sincere gratitude to the many people who supported us in this fight. Your generosity only gets us closer to a cure through more research.
As the ovarian cancer website states: Together we walked for support; together we walked to make a difference. Thank you for helping make a difference.
Second Annual International Day of Democracy
Hon. Consiglio Di Nino: Honourable senators, I am delivering this statement on behalf of Senator Oliver, who did not want to miss the opportunity to make a statement today.
September 15 is a special day. It is the Inter-Parliamentary Union's second annual International Day of Democracy. It is a day set aside to honour democratic ideals. Parliaments from around the world take this day to highlight the central role they play in fostering democracy.
The IPU has been the international organization of parliaments for 120 years. It is the focal point for a worldwide parliamentary dialogue. It works for peace and cooperation among peoples and believes in the firm establishment of representative democracy.
The theme for this year's International Day of Democracy is "Democracy and Political Tolerance." The IPU chose this theme in order to highlight the importance of creating a culture of tolerance in society, particularly in political life. Political tolerance is a key principle of democracy, and parliament is a central institution of democracy.
According to the IPU, ". . . political tolerance means accepting and respecting the basic rights and civil liberties of persons and groups whose viewpoints differ from one's own." The IPU further states that, "The test of courage comes when we are in the minority. The test of tolerance comes when we are in the majority.
The IPU also released the results of research it sponsored on public views of democracy and political tolerance today. WorldPublicOpinion.org conducted a poll of over 21,000 respondents in 24 nations that equate to 64 per cent of the world's population. The results show that there is widespread support for political tolerance. It also indicates that 86 per cent of the respondents polled said that it is important to have the right to express diverse political views, including those that are unpopular.
Today, Dr. Theo-Ben Gurirab, the president of the IPU, said:
There is a huge popular aspiration across the world for more democracy. Dr. Gurirab noted that democracy is the only system of government that can provide better advancement to peoples' fundamental rights and freedoms.
The Conservative government of Prime Minister Harper also believes in such ideals. In a May 2008 speech in honour of Israel's sixtieth anniversary, the Prime Minister said that universal values of all civilized peoples were freedom, democracy, human rights and the rule of law.
Canadians are privileged to live in a country that upholds these universal values. Canada not only respects and promotes these values at home but has been doing outstanding work promoting them abroad. Our Canadian Forces have been defending the right to, and the application of, democracy in many parts of the world, including Afghanistan and Sudan.
Training Programs for Cadets
Hon. Joseph A. Day: Honourable senators, it is good to see you all back.
Honourable senators, I have no doubt that we each share the concern of a lack of work for and the resulting inactivity of our country's youth. I wish to draw to your attention the cadet summer training program, a program available to Canadian youth aged 12 years to 18 years.
The aim of the program is the development of leadership and citizenship qualities and the promotion of physical fitness and stimulation in the interests of sea, land and air activities. Sea cadets, army cadets and air cadets each have their own training programs designed to offer challenging, safe and fun activities while allowing cadets to benefit from increased self-confidence, self-esteem and teamwork.
Approximately 4,200 sea cadets participate in activities such as sailing and seamanship. About 8,000 army cadets receive training in leadership, citizenship and teamwork. Approximately 10,000 air cadets attend summer training and their courses include powered flight, glider pilot training and air traffic control instruction.
There are 24 cadet summer training establishments across Canada. Each is located in a unique setting, such as the Rocky Mountains, north of 60 in Whitehorse and in the Atlantic provinces at Greenwood, Nova Scotia.
In addition to travel within Canada, there are international exchanges for certain selected senior cadets during the summer. They are selected on merit, and their visits include various foreign locations such as the United Kingdom, Europe and Japan. Cadets on exchange represent Canada as youth ambassadors abroad and participate in training or cultural activities with their foreign cadet counterparts.
Honourable senators, cadets are not members of the Canadian Armed Forces. The cadet program is not designed as a recruiting vehicle for the Canadian Armed Forces. Some former cadets do join the Armed Forces, but the vast majority of cadets choose careers outside of the military.
Regardless of the path they choose, most former cadets credit their experience in the cadet program with enabling them to become successful in both their professional and personal lives. This is a wonderful opportunity for the youth of our nation to develop important personal qualities and broaden their interests.
I had the opportunity to visit the Argonaut army cadet camp in New Brunswick this summer. I spoke to both the cadets and their parents, and their comments on the program were positive. Honourable senators may wish to look into this particular possibility for the youth in their regions.
Government Action to Combat Crime
Hon. Fred J. Dickson: Honourable senators, our Conservative government is concerned about the safety and security of our communities and our citizens. Conservatives believe in making our streets safer by cracking down on criminals and investing in law enforcement
Honourable senators, we are standing up for the victims of crime and putting the rights of law-abiding citizens ahead of the rights of criminals.
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To date, we have passed the Tackling Violent Crime Act, which toughened sentencing for those who commit serious gun crimes, raised the age of protection to protect young people from predators, and took action against drug-impaired drivers.
We ended conditional sentences for serious offences, including sexual assault. We are making sure that gang-related murders are treated as first-degree murders, with a mandatory life sentence with no eligibility for parole for 25 years.
We established the National Anti-Drug Strategy to keep our kids away from drugs, and we stood up for law-abiding citizens when we set up the Office of the Federal Ombudsman for Victims of Crime.
These steps are important towards safer streets and safer communities, but our work is not yet complete. We are pressing forward in our battle against crime with several new pieces of legislation. These measures will allow us to fight organized crime better. They will allow us to further restrict conditional sentences and to limit the credit given to convicted criminals for time served in custody prior to sentencing.
They will allow us to repeal the "faint hope clause" and ensure that criminals who commit first-degree or second-degree murder cannot apply for early parole. It will also allow us to combat terrorist activity better and to modernize criminal law procedures.
Honourable senators, as we return to this chamber, Canadians are troubled by the election sabre-rattling of Liberal leader, Michael Ignatieff. We have a chance to make a difference for Canadians. I hope that my Liberal friends will reject their leader's call for a fourth election in five years, and instead help us to make our streets safer for all Canadians.
[Translation]
Fortieth Anniversary of Official Languages Act
Hon. Maria Chaput: Honourable senators, September 2009 marks the 40th anniversary of the coming into force of the Official Languages Act. As the Commissioner of Official Languages, Graham Fraser, said, without this legislation, Canada would not be the country we know today. The act was important to Canada as a whole. Most Canadians now recognize the importance of linguistic duality in Canada and support it.
On September 9 and 10, I attended a symposium on 40 years of official languages in Canada, where I heard from notable lecturers and panellists. We were treated to a round table chaired by Graham Fraser with former commissioners who shared their perspectives on the evolution of official languages.
While there has been significant progress and minority language communities are better equipped to move forward than they were at the end of the 1960s, they are still in danger. We must remain vigilant because the act is still far from being fully enforced.
That same week, in addition to the symposium, I attended the annual general meetings of the Fédération des communautés francophones et acadienne du Canada and the Quebec Community Groups Network.
For me, this 40th anniversary was an opportunity to celebrate our official languages with minority francophone communities and Quebec's minority anglophone community and to look back at how far we have come in the past 40 years.
ROUTINE PROCEEDINGS
Foreign Affairs
Canada's Engagement in Afghanistan—June 2009 Report Tabled
Hon. Gerald J. Comeau (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the June 2009 Report to Parliament concerning Canada's engagement in Afghanistan.
[English]
Study on Credit and Debit Card Systems
Fourth Report of Banking, Trade and Commerce Committee Tabled
Hon. Michael A. Meighen: Honourable senators, I have the honour to inform the Senate that pursuant to the order of reference adopted on March 3, 2009, and to the order adopted by the Senate on June 22, 2009, the Standing Senate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce deposited with the Clerk of the Senate on June 30, 2009, its fourth report entitled: Transparency, Balance and Choice: Canada's Credit Card and Debit Card Systems.
(On motion of Senator Meighen, report placed on the Orders of the Day for consideration at the next sitting of the Senate.)
[Translation]
Study on Application of Official Languages Act and Relevant Regulations, Directives and Reports
Fourth Report of Official Languages Committee Tabled
Hon. Maria Chaput: Honourable senators, I have the honour to table, in both official languages, the fourth report of the Standing Senate Committee on Official Languages, entitled: Reflecting Canada's Linguistic Duality at the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games: A Golden Opportunity.
(On motion of Senator Chaput, report placed on the Orders of the Day for consideration at the next sitting of the Senate.)
[English]
The Senate
Notice of Motion to Recognize "Famous Five" as Honorary Senators
Hon. Ethel Cochrane: Honourable senators, I give notice that, at the next sitting of the Senate, I will move:
That the Senate of Canada,
in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the October 18, 1929 decision of the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council that recognized women as "persons" in law eligible for appointment to the Senate of Canada, and
in acknowledgement of the important contributions women have made in the Senate of Canada,
posthumously recognize Emily Murphy, Nellie McClung, Irene Parlby, Louise McKinney and Henrietta Muir Edwards, popularly known as the "Famous Five", as Honorary Senators.
Notice of Motion to Urge Government to Publicly Defend Canada's Health Care System
Hon. James S. Cowan (Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, pursuant to rule 58(1), I give notice that, at the next sitting of the Senate, I will move:
That the Senate call upon the Government of Canada to publicly defend Canada's healthcare system when it is inaccurately portrayed and unfairly attacked, particularly outside our borders; and
That a message be sent to the House of Commons requesting that House to unite with the Senate to so urge the government.
Fisheries and Oceans
Committee Authorized to Meet During Sitting of the Senate
Hon. Ethel Cochrane: Honourable senators, with leave of the Senate and notwithstanding rule 58(1)(a), I move:
That the Standing Senate Committee on Fisheries and Oceans have the power to sit at 5 p.m., on September 15, 2009, even though the Senate may then be sitting, and that rule 95(4) be suspended in relation thereto.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Is leave granted, honourable senators?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(Motion agreed to.)
Business of the Senate
Hon. Gerald J. Comeau (Deputy Leader of the Government): Given that the Leader of the Government in the Senate is not in the chamber at this time, will honourable senators agree to continuing through Orders of the Day until the senator returns, at which point we will revert back to Question Period?
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I know this is one of the highlights of her day. She would certainly not want to miss it. Could I get unanimous consent to return to Question Period once she returns?
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Is unanimous consent granted?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
[Translation]
QUESTION PERIOD
Delayed Answers to Oral Questions
Hon. Gerald J. Comeau (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, I have the honour to table three answers to oral questions. The first was raised by Senator Moore on May 26, 2009, concerning Official Languages, bilingual signage at the Richmond Olympic Oval; the second by Senator Chaput on June 16, 2009, concerning Canadian Heritage and Official Languages, the Canada Media Fund; and the third by Senator Callbeck on June 17, 2009, concerning Canadian Heritage, the Exhibit Transportation Service.
Official Languages
Bilingual Signage at 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games
(Response to question raised by Hon. Wilfred P. Moore on May 26, 2009)
The Government of Canada (GoC) is committed to the full incorporation of Canada's official languages in the planning, organizing and hosting of the 2010 Winter Games.
It is unfortunate that an opportunity to demonstrate the bilingual nature of Canada was missed with the Richmond Olympic Oval sign. VANOC has publicly expressed that it was an oversight on their part.
The GoC, through Canadian Heritage and its Hosting International Sport Events policy, along with the Province of British Columbia are contributing equally to VANOC's $580M Capital Budget. This capital budget is to fund the construction of venues for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
The GoC and the Province of British Columbia have each contributed $30M towards the Richmond Oval's overall budget of $118M. The remaining budget is funded by the Oval's owner, the City of Richmond.
Under the agreement between VANOC and the City of Richmond, it is only when VANOC will take exclusive control of the sites, for the Games Period, that all signage must be in both official languages.
However, there are ongoing discussions between VANOC and the Department of Canadian Heritage to explore options to install bilingual signage at the Richmond Olympic Oval before the Games Period.
Francophone Representation on Canada Media Fund
(Response to question raised by Hon. Maria Chaput on June 16, 2009)
In creating the Canada Media Fund (CMF), our first principle was to get governance right by putting in place a smaller, fully independent board. With beneficiaries of the Fund, including producers, no longer on the Board, clear conflicts of interest have been eliminated. That means better accountability to Canadians.
The Government is pleased that the newly elected board includes individuals who bring stewardship, business acumen, knowledge of the industry, and strategic thinking to the Canada Media Fund. The Alliance des producteurs francophones du Canada, a group that represents Francophone producers in minority situations, issued a press release responding positively to the announcement of the composition of the CMF Board, stating that Minister Moore had kept his promise to nominate directors who understand the realities facing the Francophone producers.
The new Board will ensure that formal, ongoing, meaningful and inclusive consultations will be undertaken with stakeholders, including Francophone producers in minority situations, as the new Canada Media Fund program is developed.
The Government believes that audience success and quality, diverse content go hand in hand. That is because the Government believes in Canadian content and in the talent of those who create and produce it. Like the Canadian Television Fund, the CMF will reward audience success.
The CMF is about providing Canadian viewers with the content they want, when and where they want it. The Government recognizes that a one size fits all approach to measuring success will not work if we are to get the best for Canadians. The industry will be consulted on effective measures of audience success.
Heritage
Exhibit Transportation Service
(Response to question raised by Hon. Catherine S. Callbeck on June 17, 2009)
The Exhibit Transportation Services (ETS) program ceased operations as of April 1, 2008, for operational and administrative reasons. Museums paid for the services provided by ETS.
Through the Museums Assistance Program (MAP), museums have access to funding to support the costs of developing and receiving travelling exhibitions. Museums that are developing touring exhibitions can include the costs of transportation in their applications. Museums that are receiving touring exhibitions can apply for funding under the Exhibition Circulation Fund component of MAP. The ceiling for projects under this component has recently been raised from $10,000 to $15,000 to support the cost of borrowing exhibits. Museums in remote locations may be eligible for a higher amount if necessary.
[English]
Point of Order
Hon. Claudette Tardif (Deputy Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, I wish to raise a point of order in relation to rule 22(4) and to Senators' Statements. In rule 22(4), it states that:
. . . Senators' statements should relate to matters which are of public consequence and for which the rules and practices of the Senate provide no immediate means of bringing the matters to the attention of the Senate.
I am very concerned about the political statements being made in Senators' Statements. We have just heard Senator Dickson make such a statement in which he is even anticipating some of the bills that are on the Order Paper, which, again, is not a practice that should be followed in Senators' Statements.
The purpose of Senators' Statements is to bring forward matters that are of public interest that cannot be presented in any other way. There is ample time to present and to debate bills when we get to that item.
In Senators' Statements, there is no opportunity for debate or to respond. Therefore, it is not appropriate to anticipate bills and to present a very political point of view in a senator's statement.
Therefore, I consider it to be a point of order, Your Honour.
An Hon. Senator: It is not a point of order.
Hon. Gerald J. Comeau (Deputy Leader of the Government): Honourable senators, from this side, I always welcome any suggestions from the other side that might advance the interest of the chamber and make it more productive.
If Her Honour, in her wisdom and in her deliberations and reflections, wishes to take into consideration the points that were raised by my honourable colleague, by all means, she should take time to reflect on them.
Her Honour might want to go back over past statements made by the other side as well as she reflects on the statements that were made today. If the other side wishes to take exception to comments on this side, what is good for the goose is also good for the gander, and so we should look at statements on both sides. In that process, if we improve the decorum in this chamber and make it more in line with what rule 22(4) states, then, obviously, it would be of benefit to the chamber and all honourable senators.
Hon. Joan Fraser: This is not the first time we have had this discussion, Your Honour. It is my recollection, although I have not had time to go back and check the transcripts, that the Speaker has already recalled to all honourable senators the fact that we all have individual responsibility for maintaining order, decorum and the general climate of civility upon which this chamber has prided itself for many years.
The growing practice of using Senators' Statements for partisan pronouncements has two effects which go against the spirit and possibly the letter of our rules. One is that, as my colleague the Deputy Leader of the Opposition has suggested, it pre-empts time which should have been used in debate. In debate, we discuss the merits or otherwise of proposals before the chamber. That is not what Senators' Statements is for. I believe it is a distortion of the principles upon which our schedules are drawn up to use them in that way.
Second, by using the limited time for Senators' Statements to make purely partisan remarks, we limit our ability to do what the period for Senators' Statements has historically been used, which is, essentially, to pay tribute to Canadians who are not part of this chamber and to draw to the attention of Parliament, of this chamber, accomplishments and actions that have occurred outside this chamber that have been worthy of praise. Sometimes, as Senator Eaton did earlier today, Senators' Statements can be used for a report of activities of a non-partisan nature. I found Senator Eaton's statement extremely interesting — cooking potatoes, she was. That was not a partisan statement, although it was about a senator's activities rather than that of a member of the public.
Honourable senators, if we usurp that one little slot that we now have for those broader, non-partisan statements, we diminish this chamber and we diminish ourselves.
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Hon. Lowell Murray: Honourable senators, permit me to take just a minute of your time.
One of the points that the Deputy Leader of the Opposition has made, and with which I agree, is that Senators' Statements should not be used to anticipate bills that are on the Order Paper either here or in the other place. I agree with that. However, what I want to add is that that same rule applies to the oral question period in most parliamentary assemblies that I am familiar with.
I think Her Honour and all honourable senators might want to reflect on that fact because I have heard, too frequently, debates taking place during the oral question period on matters that are still on the Order Paper in the other house or here, when the proper time for debate is when those matters are before us.
An Hon. Senator: Good point.
Hon. Terry Stratton: Honourable senators, if I may, we went through this not too long ago. Honourable senators on both sides of this chamber have been admonished for this kind of behaviour in statements.
Rather than putting it on the shoulders of the Speaker, because he will come back and give us another lecture, I would suggest that it should be the role of our caucus — each caucus — to have a discussion to clarify this matter and to return next week with that result in mind.
The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: I thank all honourable senators for their comments. We will take them into consideration and return with a decision shortly.
Honourable senators, is it agreed that we proceed to Question Period?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
Health
Public Health Care
Hon. James S. Cowan (Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, over the summer, Canada's health care system has been the victim of a deliberate disinformation campaign south of the border. Thus far, the government has remained silent and refuses to set the record straight.
Will the Leader of the Government in the Senate tell us whether the Prime Minister will seize the opportunity he has tomorrow when meeting with President Obama to stand up and defend Canada's health care system?
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Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government and Minister of State (Seniors)): Honourable senators, it is clear that the ongoing debate in the United States is an internal domestic debate. Canadians are happy with our health care system. The Prime Minister and his family use the public health care system. In the time that the Prime Minister has when he meets with the President of the United States and with congressional leaders tomorrow he will focus on the global economic condition, the "Buy American" problems, the thickening of the border, and important trade and environmental issues. There is nothing to be gained by Canadians or the Canadian Prime Minister engaging in a domestic debate that has absolutely nothing to do with us.
Senator Cowan: Since I did not get a clear answer to my question, perhaps I could rephrase it.
Can the minister tell us if the Prime Minister believes in our publicly delivered health care system or whether he still believes, as he said in 2002, that:
Monopolies in the public sector are just as objectionable as monopolies in the private sector. It should not matter who delivers health care, whether it is private, for profit, not for profit or public institutions . . .
Senator LeBreton: The Prime Minister made it clear yesterday that he supports our public health care system. As a matter of fact, he is one of the few political leaders in this country who uses our public health care system exclusively. He does not use private clinics or facilities as quite a few others do.
Those of us who participated in the major health care study that Senator Keon and I were involved in, along with former Senator Kirby, know that the Canadian health care system is a system where everyone has access to quality health care. Everyone also knows that there is a certain segment of that health care system that is delivered privately. Certain clinics and radiology and other laboratories are privately run, but it is all a single-payer health care system.
To set the record straight, perhaps I could quote from the honourable senator's colleague in the House of Commons, the critic for Foreign Affairs, I believe. I will quote him directly. A month or so ago he wrote:
Keep Canada out of the U.S. debate. We've never suggested exporting our system. We have our own debates and our own issues, and because of the moral choices we made 40 years ago they are different from the American paradigm. . . . hope our friends in the U.S. will find their own answers to the questions that lie at the heart of health care everywhere.
I think that was good advice from the honourable senator's own member of Parliament, Bob Rae, and I totally agree with it. This is an internal debate in the United States and we should leave it there.
The Prime Minister's and the President's time is very valuable. There are many important issues that are clearly on the agenda for their meeting tomorrow and for the Prime Minister's meeting with the congressional leaders, and lecturing them or involving ourselves in the various debates surrounding their system of health care is of absolutely no consequence to this country. That debate has nothing to do with us; it is their internal issue and they should deal with the matter in the United States.
Status of Women
Women's Programs
Hon. Lorna Milne: Honourable senators, recently, in an address to the Conservative membership base in Sault Ste. Marie, the Prime Minister referred to women's equality groups as "left-wing fringe groups." It is not surprising, then, that since becoming Prime Minister he has tried to close Status of Women Canada offices. He has eliminated funding for equality-seeking organizations, cancelled the Court Challenges Program and installed the Women's Community Fund application process.
When will the Prime Minister abandon his plan for a Canada that is backing away from the advances made in most democratic countries, to a Canada where gender equality is trumped by a reformist agenda?
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government and Minister of State (Seniors)): Senator Milne has only a few more months to ask these questions.
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Senator Cordy: Poor taste!
Senator LeBreton: The fact is, as I have answered in this place before, our government was elected to implement the agenda on which we ran. We had a platform and we ran on it. It is absolutely not true that we in any way diminished the role of Status of Women Canada. In fact, we put the money where it is better utilized — in the communities. Rather than having an office here and an office there, with an advocate talking on the phone to another advocate in another centre, we put money into the communities and focused directly on helping women in the communities where they live.
The Honourable Senator Milne keeps trying. It is a trait, the belief that if you say something often enough, people will start to believe it. However, the fact of the matter is that our government increased the budget of Status of Women Canada to its highest level ever. There is currently a call for proposals, ending in September, for the Women's Community Fund. We have a Minister of State responsible for the Status of Women, a position that was not there before, who is putting forward an action plan and who has held meetings with women across the country to seek their input into how to better to serve women all across the country and in the communities where they live.
Senator Milne: Unfortunately for Senator LeBreton I still do have a few months to attempt to get a straight answer.
Senator Mercer: Good luck!
Justice
Composition of Judiciary
Hon. Lorna Milne: Honourable senators, the Prime Minister's contempt is not only restricted to those who seek gender equality. In that same speech, the Prime Minister referred to judges as "left-wing ideologues."
Why does the Prime Minister of this country believe the judiciary should be controlled by right-wing spokespersons rather than by the rule of law? When will he come clean about his plan to undermine the independence of our highly prized, respected judiciary and implement his right-wing agenda again on Canada's justice system?
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government and Minister of State (Seniors)): The fact is that the Prime Minister has great respect for our system of justice.
Senator Milne: It does not sound like it.
Senator LeBreton: The Prime Minister has great respect for Canadians from all walks of life. One only has to look around at our government and at the people who serve the government in major positions in the bureaucracy to know that the Prime Minister values women and has significant support among women.
The idea that the Prime Minister would tell the party faithful in a speech that if we are forced by the Liberal opposition into an unnecessary election, when we should be focusing on the economy and not on the opposition's agenda, the idea that he would tell the party that it is important to urge our own party supporters to help us get a majority — bulletin, bulletin — what leader would not say that to his own followers?
Try as the honourable senator might, the fact is that the people of this country have great faith in the Prime Minister — women and men, and new Canadians.
Senator Mockler: Absolutely.
Senator LeBreton: As a matter of fact, each day we see the evidence that women and men see the Prime Minister for what he is — a hard-working, solid leader of this country who will get us through these economic difficulties, unlike the honourable senator's leader, who wants to get this election over with so he can return to Harvard.
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
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Veterans Affairs
Ste. Anne's Hospital
Hon. Joan Fraser: Honourable senators, I have a question for the Leader of the Government in the Senate with overtones or possible implications for her role in connection with seniors.
This government tells Canadians regularly, and with some pride, how supportive it is of Canada's Armed Forces and its veterans. However, today we learned that there has been a change in the government's policy for veterans who are on the waiting list to be admitted to the veterans' hospital at Sainte-Anne-de-Bellevue, which is a wonderful institution but has a waiting list.
Until now, veterans who were on the waiting list who can no longer live at home and who need to be in a residence someplace have been able to receive a subsidy for the fees of such a residence while they wait to enter the hospital. Apparently, new veterans coming onto the list will no longer be able to receive a subsidy.
Why would this government abandon those veterans at their time of greatest need?
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government and Minister of State (Seniors)): Honourable senators, we have not abandoned veterans; we have not abandoned our Armed Forces. We have strengthened our Armed Forces. The Veterans Independence Program, VIP, has been expanded. We are working with our veterans on a host of issues, such as injuries and mental health issues.
With regard to the facility of which the senator speaks, there is some speculation, and I will take that question as notice.
Senator Fraser: I look forward to the answer about the matter of waiting lists at St. Anne's and veteran subsidies. However, I also ask the leader to confirm or, with any luck, not confirm that the government plans to transfer that hospital to provincial jurisdiction.
Senator LeBreton: As I said in my previous answer to the honourable senator, I will seek the information she requests and take the question as notice.
Ethics Commissioner
Business Affairs of Hon. Peter MacKay
Hon. Terry M. Mercer: Honourable senators, this past summer, Elmer MacKay and his sons, Peter MacKay, the Minister of Defence, and Andrew MacKay received an award for sustainable forestry from a group that said the two sons "assist their father in managing the family woodlands." That means helping, I suppose.
It turns out that Minister Peter MacKay was a director and officer of Beaver Lumber and Lorne Resources, two companies owned by his father, the former federal cabinet minister Elmer MacKay. As a result of this situation, the federal Ethics Commissioner levied a fine for what she said was a serious contravention of the Conflict of Interest Act.
Minister, how is it possible that, months before, he received an award for good management of the forestry sector, then, all of a sudden, he forgot he was a director? Is the process for determining these conflicts flawed?
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government and Minister of State (Seniors)): Honourable senators, all of us who are familiar with Elmer MacKay and his interests in Nova Scotia know that he has been in this business for a long time.
In Minister Peter MacKay's case, he is his father's son but in no way is he involved, or has he been involved, in the operation of the family business. There was obviously an oversight and, like most family businesses, they named their family as members, perhaps for the future.
In any event, Minister MacKay did acknowledge that his name was on the list. He has not participated in any way in any decisions of the company. He agreed with the Ethics Commissioner and paid the fine that she levied.
Senator Mercer: Honourable senators, it seems to me that if you are a director and an officer of a company — as you may be a director or an officer of a charity — you would know that you are involved. I might hold a position as a director or an officer of a number of charities that I have been involved in. I know that I hold that position and I remember.
However, we will take the minister at his word and we will take the Leader of the Government in the Senate at her word on this matter.
I want to follow up. The MacKay senior, Elmer MacKay, owns through these two companies that I mentioned more than 8,000 hectares of woods, mostly in Pictou County in Nova Scotia. Last month, Minister Peter MacKay, the son, announced $7 million in federal funding for Nova Scotia woodlot owners. I want to stress — and I want the minister to hear this point — that such money is very much needed and welcomed by the woodlot owners in Nova Scotia. However, can we be sure that Mr. Elmer MacKay, Peter's father, did not receive any of this money? If Elmer MacKay received any of this money out of the $7 million fund —
Senator Comeau: If you have an accusation, make it.
Senator Mercer: — when will Minister MacKay tender his resignation?
Senator Comeau: If you have an accusation, go out in the corridor and make it.
Senator LeBreton: I was thinking of asking the honourable senator if he did not support the announcement. Senator Mercer, I believe — but I will confirm it, as I said earlier, that Peter MacKay is his father's son; his name was on his family's business. He in no way has participated in this business in any way, shape or form. The honourable senator says he should have known. There was a certain prime minister that owned part of a golf course and he, apparently, did not know about it.
In any event, I will seek by delayed answer to ascertain exactly what businesses were the recipients of these funds.
Parliament
Annual Parliamentary Hockey Game
Hon. Jim Munson: Honourable senators, my question is a serious one. It is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate.
Earlier this year, the Liberals scored a stunning victory against the Conservatives. It was the annual parliamentary hockey game. Liberal MPs, plus one Liberal senator —
Senator Mercer: What was his name?
Senator Munson: — played against Conservative MPs. The Prime Minister was behind the bench for the Conservatives. It was an exciting match. I can even perform a Danny Gallivan play-by-play for you. Tempers were lost, and the Conservatives lost eight to seven.
We now see the Prime Minister has appointed Jacques Demers to the Senate, one of the greatest coaches of all time for the greatest hockey team of all time. Is this a sign, among others, that the Prime Minister is not up to the job, or that he will go to any lengths to win?
Senator Day: It is a sure sign.
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government and Minister of State (Seniors)): It is typical that those on the other side only talk about the game they win; they do not talk about all the ones they lost.
I do not think the Prime Minister will don skates and start playing with the team. Since Senator Demers has probably been a skater more recently than the Prime Minister, perhaps he will join the team and, since he has coached and knows all the various positions and how best to expedite the game, he might end up in goal, on defence, in the centre or on left or right wing.
Senator Comeau: Right wing.
An Hon. Senator: Right wing; never left wing.
Senator Tardif: Centre, centre!
Senator LeBreton: Senator Demers is a great hockey coach. That is the least we could have done because you have always had Senator Mahovlich. I am sure the honourable senator would agree that fair is fair.
Senator Munson: I do not know how, honourable senators, fans of the Montreal Canadiens can accept Jacques Demers as an Ottawa senator.
However, are you ready, because we are prepared to do this now and to make this whole thing work. We will unleash our secret weapon, the Big M, number 27, Frank Mahovlich, who will be backed up by Ken Dryden, so good luck.
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Senator LeBreton: As I said, honourable senators, I was never a Montreal Canadiens' fan. I was a Detroit Red Wings' fan, so I prefer to focus on that part of Senator Demers' career when he coached Detroit.
Of course, I am now an Ottawa Senators' fan, internally in this chamber and externally for the team, so Detroit is now my second choice. However, at the time when I was growing up on our family farm and there was a six-team league, many of the Detroit Red Wings were from the Ottawa Valley, starting with Terrible Ted Lindsay. I was a natural Detroit fan because so many of our compatriots were playing for Detroit.
Prime Minister
Possibility of Election
Hon. Patrick Brazeau: Honourable senators, I think perhaps Senator Munson, in his accolades to Senator Demers, forgot to mention that Senator Demers is also part of the best party of all time.
My question is for the Leader of the Government in the Senate. Could she please share with this chamber the position of the Conservative government with respect to the serious possibility that the opposition parties in the other chamber may lead Canadians to the polls in this global economic downturn?
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government and Minister of State (Seniors)): Senator Brazeau is quite right. It is clear that the Canadian electorate wants the government and all parliamentarians to focus on the economy. Again today, there are more hopeful signs out of the United States and in terms of consumer purchases.
It is clear that the Canadian public wants parliamentarians to work hard to ensure that Canada stays on this solid road to recovery, led by the Prime Minister and our government. Clearly, Canadians trust the Prime Minister to lead them through this difficult time. I think all parliamentarians in the other place and here should work together to achieve the results that every Canadian wants, including dealing with unemployment.
Yesterday Minister Finley announced some very solid measures to assist those people who have probably never drawn Employment Insurance in their life. They are long-tenured workers who have worked hard, paid their bills, looked after their families and been good community contributors. Those are the people that we are here to help. We are not here to have an unnecessary election that will certainly get in the way of our economic recovery.
Hon. Jim Munson: Honourable senators, we have just heard that the Bloc will support the government in its ways and means motion on Friday. Is this a new interpretation of the separatist-socialist-Conservative coalition?
Senator LeBreton: It is interesting, Senator Munson, because you and others say that Parliament should work and put forward policies other parties can support. That is what the government is trying to do.
The government is following our own agenda, putting forward our policies and seeking the support of the other parties.
This plan for the unemployed and the changes to the Employment Insurance system announced by Minister Finley is something that she has been working on since spring. We have been working hard to bring this proposal forward to help our unemployed. Naturally, we would hope that other parties would support these policies.
By the way, the ways and means motion is a regular parliamentary procedure, as the honourable senator well knows. When I heard Ralph Goodale say that ways and means motions are only brought in to raise taxes, I thought to myself that he was the Minister of Finance and Deputy Prime Minister and that is was flatly not true. I thought, "Boy, they really miss Jerry Yanover."
The fact is that we are hoping that there will be support for the policies we put forward in the other place, including from the honourable senator's own party. The ways and means motion contains measures his party actually supported. We are seeking support for our policies from the other parties. What we will not do is sign our names to a letter to the Governor General saying we will be part of a coalition.
Hon. Percy E. Downe: Can the Leader of the Government in the Senate explain why she is opposed to an election in the fall of 2009 when she voted for legislation for that very purpose at this time last year?
Senator LeBreton: We have been over this before, honourable senators. Last fall the government had governed for almost three years. It was clear that it was becoming increasingly difficult to govern. We had a much smaller minority and it was clear it was time to seek a mandate to lead the country. If honourable senators read the government's bill, it is within the purview of the Governor General to agree to call an election and that is what she did.
The circumstances right now are entirely different. We have experienced a world economic downturn. The honourable senator's party has gone through two leaderships — one of them, of course, not contested. However, there is a big difference between the situation that the government faces now, dealing with our partners in the G20 on the global economic downturn, and the situation that was faced at this time last year.
Environment
Clean Energy
Hon. Pana Merchant: Honourable senators, last Friday in the Regina Leader-Post, Saskatchewan's premier disclosed that an important $270 million carbon capture and storage project is set to fail because of the failure of the Harper government to make good on its promise of financial support to the province for this important job creation and environmental project.
The project hinges on $100 million from both the Canadian and American governments. In a pretence of regard for the environment, the Conservatives purported in May to establish a $650 million fund for large scale carbon capture projects. I ask the Leader of the Government in the Senate whether any money has been paid out of that pretence of a fund, although I understand a process for application has not even been established.
Is this another broken promise to Saskatchewan like the equalization promise broken by Prime Minister Harper? That promise was no resource clawback on equalization. Is that imposed resource clawback, resulting in an $878 million loss to Saskatchewan, to now be compounded by another loss in the resource area if this needed carbon storage project fails?
Hon. Marjory LeBreton (Leader of the Government and Minister of State (Seniors)): I thank the honourable senator for the question. I know that the Minister of Environment, Jim Prentice, has been working very collaboratively and cooperatively with the premiers of the various provinces. I have not seen the exact news story that the honourable senator refers to. Minister Prentice is accompanying the Prime Minister to Washington for his meetings with the President and congressional leaders.
Honourable senators, the Economic Action Plan introduced earlier this year will invest $1 billion over five years — a significant sum of money — in a Clean Energy Fund for projects and research, including carbon capture and storage.
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Business of the Senate
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, earlier in the session a disorder was noted. I wish to advise honourable senators that apparently a regrettable miscommunication occurred when a number of honourable senators absented themselves en masse when the Honourable Leader of the Government was speaking and it was anticipated that the Honourable Leader of the Opposition was to speak.
The chair was not aware that the pages were to advise a number of honourable senators to leave, which caused a disruption. I simply wish to say that the chair has taken note of the occurrence and that we should avoid it in the future.
(The Senate adjourned to Wednesday, September 16, 2009, at 1:30 p.m.)