Debates of the Senate (Hansard)
1st Session, 45th Parliament
Volume 154, Issue 1
Monday, May 26, 2025
The Honourable Raymonde Gagné, Speaker
- FORTY-FIFTH PARLIAMENT
- OPENING OF FIRST SESSION
THE SENATE
Monday, May 26, 2025
FORTY-FIFTH PARLIAMENT
OPENING OF FIRST SESSION
The Senate met at 7:45 a.m., the Speaker in the chair.
Parliament, having been summoned by proclamation for the dispatch of business, met this day.
Prayers.
Business of the Senate
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, there have been consultations, and there is an agreement to allow photographers in the Senate Chamber to photograph today’s proceedings.
Is it agreed, honourable senators?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
Communication from Government House
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I have the honour to inform you that I have received the following communication from the Secretary to the Governor General, which reads as follows:
RIDEAU HALL
May 23, 2025
Madam Speaker:
I am commanded to inform you that the Right Honourable Richard Wagner, Chief Justice of Canada, in his capacity as Deputy of the Governor General, will proceed to the Chamber of the Senate to open the First Session of the Forty-Fifth Parliament of Canada at 8:00 a.m. on Monday, the 26th day of May, 2025.
Yours sincerely,
Ken MacKillop, C.D.
Secretary to the Governor General
The Honourable
The Speaker of the Senate
Ottawa
(0750)
Speaker’s Statement
Silent Tribute
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I know that we were all shocked and horrified by the attack on April 26 at the Lapu-Lapu Day festival in Vancouver, which resulted in 11 people losing their lives and 32 other people being injured. I would ask you to rise for a minute of silence in memory of this tragedy.
(Honourable senators then stood in silent tribute.)
[Translation]
Business of the Senate
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, allow me to take this opportunity to welcome you back to the Senate. I am very pleased to see our ranks strengthened by new appointments, which brought the Senate to full complement for the first time in several years.
Some of you may be surprised to see how the chamber has been set up. Due to the limited number of seats in the gallery, benches had to be installed in order to allow as many guests as possible for the historic occasion of a sovereign opening Parliament for the first time in nearly 50 years.
I wish to express my deep gratitude to all those who work with dedication behind the scenes. Their contributions and sustained efforts are essential to the success of this historic event.
Honourable colleagues, I trust that you were able to rejuvenate and spend meaningful time with family and friends within your respective communities during the time that we have been away from Ottawa. Let us hope this break from parliamentary proceedings has allowed us all to reflect on strategies that can help foster a culture of collaboration for the benefit of Canadians.
As many of our new colleagues will come to appreciate, honourable senators play a very important role in our democratic system. I look forward to working with all of you during this new Parliament in a spirit of collegiality.
Thank you, meegwetch.
As there is no business before the Senate, is it your pleasure, honourable senators, that the sitting be suspended to await the arrival of the Right Honourable Deputy of Her Excellency the Governor General?
Hon. Senators: Agreed.
(The sitting of the Senate was suspended.)
(0800)
The Right Honourable Richard Wagner, Deputy of Her Excellency the Governor General, having come and being seated,
The Hon. the Speaker commanded the Usher of the Black Rod to proceed to the House of Commons and acquaint that House that it is the desire of the Right Honourable the Deputy of Her Excellency the Governor General that they attend him immediately in the Senate Chamber.
Who being come,
The Hon. the Speaker said:
Honourable Members of the Senate:
Members of the House of Commons:
I have it in command to let you know that His Majesty the King does not see fit to declare the causes of him summoning the present Parliament of Canada until a Speaker of the House of Commons shall have been chosen, according to law; but tomorrow, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 10:15 a.m., His Majesty the King will declare the causes of his calling this Parliament.
The Commons withdrew.
The Right Honourable the Deputy of Her Excellency the Governor General was pleased to retire.
(The sitting of the Senate was resumed.)
(0830)
Communication from the Canadian Secretary to His Majesty the King
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I have the honour to inform you that I have received the following communication from the Canadian Secretary to His Majesty the King, which reads as follows:
Canadian Secretary to the King
May 26, 2025
Madam Speaker:
I have the honour to inform you that His Majesty the King will arrive at the Senate of Canada Building at 10:15 a.m. on Tuesday, the 27th day of May, 2025.
When it has been indicated that all is in readiness, His Majesty the King will proceed to the Chamber of the Senate to formally open the First Session of the Forty-Fifth Parliament of Canada.
Yours sincerely,
Donald C. Booth
Canadian Secretary to the King
The Honourable
The Speaker of the Senate
Ottawa
[English]
New Senators
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I have the honour to inform the Senate that the Clerk of the Senate has received certificates from the Registrar General of Canada showing that the following persons, respectively, have been summoned to the Senate:
Allister Wilbert Surette
Baltej Singh Dhillon
Martine Hébert
Danièle Henkel
Duncan Renwick Wilson
Katherine Anne Hay
Robert Anthony Ince
Sandra Pupatello
(0840)
[Translation]
Introduction
The Hon. the Speaker having informed the Senate that there were senators without waiting to be introduced:
The following honourable senator was introduced; presented His Majesty’s writ of summons; took the oath prescribed by law, which was administered by the Clerk of the Senate; and was seated.
Hon. Allister W. Surette, of Halifax, Nova Scotia, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. René Cormier.
[English]
The following honourable senators were introduced; presented His Majesty’s writ of summons; took the solemn affirmation, which was administered by the Clerk of the Senate; and were seated.
Hon. Baltej S. Dhillon, of Surrey, British Columbia, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. Bev Busson.
(0850)
[Translation]
Hon. Martine Hébert, of Montreal, Quebec, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. Manuelle Oudar.
Hon. Danièle Henkel, of Dollard-des-Ormeaux, Quebec, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. Amina Gerba.
(0900)
[English]
Hon. Duncan Wilson, of Vancouver, British Columbia, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. Judy A. White.
Hon. Katherine Hay, of Mississauga, Ontario, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. Stan Kutcher.
(0910)
Hon. Tony Ince, of Dartmouth, Nova Scotia, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. Paul (PJ) Prosper.
Hon. Sandra Pupatello, of Windsor, Ontario, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. Clément Gignac.
(0920)
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 Clerk of the Senate, the Commissioner appointed to receive and witness the said declaration.
[Translation]
Visitors in the Gallery
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Martine Béland, Senator Surette’s spouse; Jules Simard Béland, his son-in-law; Celia Spinney, his sister; Aubrey Spinney, his brother-in-law; as well as Pierre Béland and France Hurtubise.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
[English]
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Suroj Kaur Dhillon, Senator Dhillon’s spouse; Onkar and Rasna, their daughters; and Jovin, their grandchild. They are accompanied by friends and other guests of Senator Dhillon.
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 Magella Gagnon, Senator Hébert’s mother; Claire Thiboutot, her spouse; Damien Gagnon, her uncle; and Lucie Croteau, her aunt. They are accompanied by other family and friends of Senator Hébert.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Amel, Kader, Linda and Nawel Mahieddine, Senator Henkel’s children. They are accompanied by their spouses and other guests of Senator Henkel.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
[English]
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Rowly Johnson, Senator Wilson’s husband, as well Katya and Greg Wilson, his siblings. They are accompanied by the Honourable Perrin Beatty, P.C., O.C., former federal minister; Chief Edward John of Tl’azt’en Nation; and other guests of Senator Wilson.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Jeanne Hay, Senator Hay’s mother; Carolyn, her sister; as well as Douglas and Jennifer, her children. They are accompanied by the Honourable Ya’ara Saks, P.C., former federal Minister of Mental Health and Addictions; and other guests of Senator Hay.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Yakira Flynn-Ince and Montell Thauvette, Senator Ince’s children; as well as Yiannis, Yasiah, Daisy, Bo and Theo, his grandchildren. They are accompanied by other guests of Senator Ince.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I wish to draw your attention to the presence in the gallery of Trevor James Bennett, Senator Pupatello’s husband; Ada Pizzolitto, her mother; and Walter Edward Angelo Pizzolitto, her brother. They are accompanied by other guests of Senator Pupatello.
On behalf of all honourable senators, I welcome you to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
New Senators
Congratulations on Appointments
Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, welcome back to the Senate and the Forty-fifth Parliament. It is with great pleasure that I rise today on behalf of the Government Representative Office to welcome eight of our new colleagues to the Senate.
Colleagues, you are joining the Senate at a particularly significant time. As you will see tomorrow, the government will be laying out an ambitious plan to tackle the biggest issues that we face as a nation. Your voices will be very welcome additions to the important debates that this chamber will have in the weeks ahead.
[Translation]
Senator Surette, you bring vast and rich experience in education and governance. Your duties within the Nova Scotia government as Minister of Human Resources, minister of Acadian affairs and Deputy House Leader will be major assets.
I’d also like to highlight your experience as a negotiator and your skill in leading discussions aimed at settling different conflicts in the fisheries, including your most recent work as federal special representative responsible for liaising with Indigenous and commercial fishers in Atlantic Canada to rebuild trust between them.
I welcome the unique insights and passion for francophone and Acadian communities that you’ll bring to our debates.
[English]
Senator Dhillon, we all greatly admire your commitment to serving the people of British Columbia, whether that was through your 30-year career with the RCMP or your work with the Crime Gun Intelligence and Investigations Group of the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of British Columbia.
Senator Dhillon, you have always used your voice to stand up for your fellow Canadians, and I have every confidence you will continue your lifelong public service and advocacy for diversity and inclusion here in the Senate as we tackle the important issues on behalf of all Canadians.
[Translation]
Senator Hébert, you’re joining the Senate following an impressive career that contributed to the economic development of Canada and our province of Quebec. Your 10 years of experience at the Canadian Federation of Independent Business and the time that you spent as Quebec’s delegate in Chicago and Quebec’s delegate general in New York will be an asset to this chamber, particularly given the current political climate. I look forward to hearing your ideas on the important debates to come.
Senator Henkel, you have a remarkable resume that includes business and media experience, as well as a lot of charitable work. As a political and economic advisor at the United States Consulate General in Algeria for 10 years, and given your extensive business experience, you will bring an important perspective to our chamber, particularly in the weeks and months to come.
I’d also like to highlight your commitment to sharing your expertise to improve the lives of others through organizations such as Dress for Success, the Association pulmonaire du Québec, Sclérodermie Québec, CARE Canada, the Fondation Émergence and Leucan. I’ve no doubt that you will continue that work here in the Senate.
(0930)
[English]
Senator Wilson, as a seasoned executive with more than 30 years of leadership experience spanning the maritime sector, government and not-for-profit organizations, you will no doubt make a great contribution to the Senate and to our work. During your 21 years at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, you built long-term relationships, particularly with Indigenous communities, which included the successful negotiation of landmark relationship agreements, and you were a strong advocate for marine conservation, climate action and sustainable development. I hope — and know indeed — we can draw on your extensive experience in the work we do here in this chamber.
Senator Hay, your commitment to public service is extraordinary, whether it was as the president and CEO of the Women’s College Hospital Foundation or your roles at the Art Gallery of Ontario, the Credit Valley Hospital Foundation, the University of Guelph and the University of Toronto. You have always made a great difference.
I would also like to highlight your commitment to supporting youth mental health. As the CEO of Kids Help Phone, you and your team have helped countless individuals access mental health support. It is worth noting that during the entire pandemic, Kids Help Phone was available 24-7 and every day of the year when Canadians needed them most — something which we are all very grateful for. I look forward to you continuing your strong advocacy in the Senate.
Senator Ince, your wealth of experience as a former member of the Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia and the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs, Minister of Communications Nova Scotia, Minister of the Public Service Commission and Minister responsible for the Office of Equity and Anti-Racism Initiatives will be invaluable to your work and our work here in the Senate. Your commitment to social justice, equity and diversity, particularly within African-Nova Scotian communities, is remarkable. I have every confidence that you will continue being a strong voice for these issues here in this chamber.
Senator Pupatello, for over 30 years, you have dedicated yourself to public service, corporate leadership and community engagement. As the elected Member of Provincial Parliament for Windsor West for over 15 years while serving in numerous cabinet positions, including as the Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Minister of Education, Minister Responsible for Women’s Issues and Minister of Community and Social Services, you bring a depth of experience and an important perspective that we will all surely benefit from.
To all our new colleagues, as you all have no doubt already experienced — there’s more to come — the learning curve will be steep, and the work ahead will not always be easy. However, everyone in this chamber has been in this position before, and I have every confidence that any of your new colleagues would be more than pleased to provide advice and support whenever you need it. I look forward to working with each of you in the coming weeks. Once again, on behalf of the Government Representative Office, welcome, dear colleagues.
Hon. Leo Housakos (Leader of the Opposition): Honourable senators, it is nice to see you all again. It’s been far too long. There certainly has been a lot of change over the last while since we last met, and, of course, some might even say there hasn’t been enough change. One thing about democracy is it had its say; it is a beautiful thing, and it is always right.
With that said, it is truly a pleasure and privilege for me to rise as the Leader of the Opposition in the Senate to extend a warm and heartfelt welcome back to all of you and to welcome — for the very first time — our newest colleagues to this august chamber.
I want to take a moment to recognize and congratulate the eight new senators who are joining our ranks today: Senators Surette, Dhillon, Pupatello, Hébert, Henkel, Ince, Wilson and Hay. I have no doubt that each of you will bring a unique and rich tapestry of experience and perspective that will strengthen this institution and enrich the debates we have in this place.
[Translation]
Senator Surette, as a university president, you have demonstrated inspiring leadership in post-secondary education, particularly with regard to preserving and advancing francophone culture in Nova Scotia.
In addition, your experience as a legislator and former MLA will bring invaluable insight to our deliberations, as will your understanding of regional development, education and minority language rights.
[English]
Senator Dhillon, you have long been a trailblazer. From the moment you fought for and won the right to wear your turban while serving in the RCMP, you have shown Canadians what integrity and courage look like. As a lifelong advocate for inclusion, justice and service, the addition of your voice will further elevate the causes of equity, accountability and public safety. Welcome to the Senate.
Senator Pupatello, your name is already well known in public service but also in the world of business. As a former cabinet minister in Ontario, your experience in economic development and international trade will be an asset as we consider legislation with major economic implications for all Canadians. You understand how governments work and how policies land on the ground in real life — the kind of experience that we can never have enough of in this chamber. Welcome.
[Translation]
I’d now like to address my fellow Quebecers. Senator Hébert, as an economist, businesswoman and diplomat, you bring a global perspective and practical vision of the economy. Your leadership at the Canadian Federation of Independent Business and your work representing Quebec on the international stage will undoubtedly help us harmonize our national and regional economic priorities. Welcome to the Senate.
Senator Henkel, your career as an entrepreneur, mentor and advocate for innovation is remarkable. You’ve helped shape the next generation of business leaders in Quebec. In addition, your understanding of the business world, particularly as it relates to women and newcomers, will bring a fresh perspective to this chamber’s work on issues involving opportunity and entrepreneurship. Welcome, senator.
[English]
Senator Ince, you have served your province with dedication in the government as the Minister of African Nova Scotian Affairs. Your deep commitment to social justice, heritage and diversity will serve as a reminder to this chamber of the importance of community-centred public service and cultural identity in shaping Canada’s future. Welcome, sir. I’m looking forward to working with you.
Senator Wilson, your three decades of work in marine policy, Indigenous engagement and sustainability paired with your history of elected service bring a rich civic perspective to this chamber. You have long championed environmental stewardship and social inclusion — values we share and celebrate in this institution. Coupled with your experience in finance, international trade and foreign affairs, you offer a blend of practical leadership and policy insight that will serve your province well along with this great institution. Welcome, sir.
Senator Hay, your extensive experience in the health sector and your not-for-profit leadership positions offer you as a strong advocate for vulnerable populations. Your leadership at Kids Help Phone and in the field of mental health services has already impacted thousands of lives. Your place here in the Senate will allow you to continue to elevate the voices of those too often left unheard. Welcome. I am looking forward to working with you.
Honourable colleagues, we add eight fantastic senators to an already august chamber with a lot of skills. When I was sworn into this place in 2009, it was a momentous occasion for me and my family, as this moment is just as significant for each of you. Enjoy the moment because it’s as good as it gets. After this, it’s just a lot of hard work — I warn you.
You are entering a chamber steeped in history and responsibility, and I want to assure you that the oath we take as senators is not ceremonial or something to be taken lightly. As parliamentarians who are appointed rather than elected, we carry a special responsibility and an independence that is unique in our parliamentary system. We have the privilege of setting and enforcing our own rules and procedures as senators as we work within the parameters of the elected House and, of course, within the parameters of our democracy. This does not diminish our role because we’re appointed; it defines it. Our job is not to rival the elected House but to refine, review and represent the diversity of Canadian perspectives that sometimes goes unheard in the political tides of election cycles and those which may be absent from government from time to time.
(0940)
I am encouraged by the number of new senators who have been politically active throughout their lives. Despite what some may say, this is not a liability — and I believe it isn’t — it is a tremendous asset, even in this unelected and independent chamber. Understanding political systems from the inside often contributes to both perspective and prudence, two virtues essential for sober second thought.
Likewise, the depth of business and economic expertise among our new colleagues — whether those with legislative experience or without — will also serve us well, particularly at a time when Canadians face economic uncertainty and Parliament must navigate an increasingly complex trade and fiscal terrain. You know what it means to manage budgets, build organizations and balance opportunity with accountability.
Colleagues, this chamber is made stronger by our differences and our backgrounds, by our region, profession, opinion and political affiliation or absence thereof.
And although you have been appointed by the governing party — and I stand before you as the Leader of the Opposition — I want to assure you that our caucus is an open one. We are a small group, but we are also a big tent. We believe in the values and principles of debate, dissenting ideas and the kind of constructive engagement that sharpens policies and refines legislation.
Although I note that not all of you have already chosen your group affiliations, you will find that these things can be quite malleable in this institution. If you believe that you find more common ground with that vision than perhaps you thought you might, we welcome your collaboration, and our door is always open to join us.
Colleagues, as you take your seat in this chamber, I encourage you to make it your own. Contribute boldly. Speak thoughtfully. Challenge graciously. And never forget who sent you here. It is not a prime minister who recommended your appointment alone, but the people of Canada who count on you to bring wisdom, reflection and balance to the laws that govern their lives. Welcome, colleagues, to the Senate of Canada. Welcome to the Forty-fifth Parliament.
[Translation]
We look forward to doing great things for Canada and Canadians. Welcome to the Forty-fifth Parliament of the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Raymonde Saint-Germain: Your Honour, colleagues and distinguished guests, I’m pleased to see that our chamber is unanimous on the quality and added value of the eight colleagues joining us today and the four others joining us this week.
On behalf of the Independent Senators Group, I welcome and congratulate these eight senators who were sworn in today.
You’re arriving here at a critical time. At a time when the country and the world are experiencing rapid and unsettling upheaval, the role of the Senate is more important than ever.
Your arrival reinforces our ability to carry out our constitutional responsibilities effectively.
Senator Surette, it is a great pleasure to welcome you to this chamber. You’ve always been a proud and strong advocate for the Acadian community in Nova Scotia, promoting it across the country and throughout the international Francophonie. Your solid experience as a parliamentarian, marked by your leadership as a member, minister and deputy house leader of the legislative assembly, allowed you to play a key role in sensitive files where the skill and ability to build consensus are essential. You did so successfully, so much so that you were assigned the role of facilitator more than once in the sensitive fisheries file in the Atlantic region.
You played a key role in creating and developing Université Sainte-Anne and were a leader in the cultural, social and economic development of our community and the Francophonie as a whole, both in Canada and internationally. With those credentials, you will no doubt be a very active and busy senator.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
[English]
Senator Dhillon, welcome to a leader and groundbreaker. It is so easy to see your outstanding abilities through your long and distinguished career in the RCMP, a career that you devoted to the safety of others and service to your fellow citizens.
While serving your country you have held important responsibilities, investigated major cases and contributed to crime prevention. Your skills are a powerful addition to our team.
You have also contributed remarkably to the public good by staying true to yourself as well as to your religious and cultural identity. In doing so, you have shown to people of the Sikh faith and to many others that preserving and promoting their identity and heritage is a noble cause to fight for. I know you will continue to serve with the same purpose in the Senate of Canada.
Senator Pupatello, at a moment when Canada is involved in trade negotiations and economic uncertainty, Ontario and Canada are lucky to continue to count on your expertise now in the Senate of Canada. Your appointment could not have come at a better time.
Not only do you have a deep understanding of labour, business, trade and global supply chains, but in addition to your economic knowledge you are a veteran parliamentarian. I am looking forward to working alongside you.
[Translation]
I will also have the pleasure of doing so in French, because I have seen how enthusiastic you are to speak that official language with me. Welcome.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
Senator Saint-Germain: Senator Hébert, like many Radio-Canada listeners, I tune in regularly to hear your insightful and timely commentary on the economy, diplomacy and trade. You’re an outstanding analyst.
Everyone in this chamber will now be able to count on your expertise and invaluable analysis of the contemporary issues facing our country.
Throughout your career, you’ve held positions of great importance in both the business community and the public sector. As an economist at the head of the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, Quebec’s delegate in Chicago, and then general delegate in New York, your experience in both business and economic diplomacy is needed, now more than ever, to inform our work. Welcome.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
Senator Saint-Germain: Senator Henkel, your story might have started out in Morocco and Algeria, but it’s still a wonderful and uniquely Canadian tale of success and integration achieved through determination and hard work.
In Quebec, we met you through Radio-Canada’s French-language version of “Dragon’s Den” called “Dans l’œil du dragon.” You were the original, first-ever woman “dragon” and you inspired a new generation of women entrepreneurs to go into business. You pursued your commitment to entrepreneurship through your speaking activities and in many charitable organizations.
We have no doubt that you’ll keep on inspiring us in your new role.
Hon. Senators: Hear, hear.
[English]
Senator Ince, long-awaited was your appointment to this chamber.
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Senator Saint-Germain: It had been far too long since a Black man has been welcomed to the Senate of Canada. Your swearing-in today marks another page of the Senate’s history.
Throughout your life and political career, you have been a proud representative for the African-Nova Scotian communities, constantly advocating for social justice, equity, inclusion and diversity. Your profile and ability are great assets for fulfilling your role as senator.
Recently I heard you say that, as a former elected official, it felt liberating to have the opportunity to speak your mind a little more freely than you could in a partisan caucus. I look forward to hearing you speak freely.
Some Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!
Senator Saint-Germain: Senator Wilson, the Senate is happy to welcome another strong advocate for climate action and sustainable development. As a specialist of the marine sector and its conservation, you will bring a voice to this issue that is also very dear to British Columbians as well as to many of us across Canada.
(0950)
Additionally, with your experience as an executive, having held important positions — notably at the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority — you have been a trailblazer for the 2SLGBTQI+ community and their representation in public service. You had the courage to be one of the first elected officials in the 1990s to speak out loud. As such, you showed the way to countless others and contributed to improving the inclusivity and diversity of the public service for the benefit of all. Welcome.
Senator Hay, the Senate is thrilled to welcome such a leader and innovator as you, with your years of experience in online health care. Under your leadership as president and CEO, Kids Help Phone has significantly reduced barriers to e-mental health support for Canada’s youth, particularly those most vulnerable. In fulfilling your mandate, you have made it a priority to fight against injustice, racism and marginalization. As of now, the youths of this country and their loved ones will be able to count on your support in a different role. I know that you will remain their strong advocate in the Senate of Canada.
You also bring a business lens to the not-for-profit sector. Now as a parliamentarian, your business acumen together with your leadership and dynamism will continue to serve the better good of all Canadian youth. Through my voice, all members of the Independent Senators Group congratulate all of you, our new colleagues. We extend our hands to all eight of you. Thank you, meegwetch.
Hon. Scott Tannas: Honourable senators, it’s good to see so many familiar faces after such a long time. It feels like the first day of school — though they forgot the desks, but that’s okay.
Continuing with the school parallel, watching new folks come through the doors reminded me of going to Grade 1. Some big kids from the neighbourhood took me to my first day of Grade 1, to a world of new friends, learning, work and working together.
I am delighted to provide words of welcome to eight of our new Senate colleagues. It has been several years since we had so many new senators all arrive at the same time.
For a short time, the Senate was at full strength with all 105 Senate seats being filled. A Senate with so many leading Canadians from different backgrounds, as well as lived professional experience and views on issues affecting the daily lives of individuals in this country, is a benefit to fulfilling this institution’s role of scrutinizing legislation, conducting important studies and bringing our regions’ interests to the national stage.
I want to provide a special welcome to Senators Ince and Pupatello, who are new members of the Canadian Senators Group. We are pleased that you have chosen to sit with us to further the modernization and independence of the Senate while actively representing regional interests in the Senate Chamber and committees.
One of my staff members tells me — and you can probably figure out which one — that when pairing a wine with food, you can either complement or contrast flavours. A good fresh white wine will accentuate the richness of a plank salmon, while a nice Pinot Noir will blend nicely with a mushroom risotto. My favourite is a Chianti with a good Alberta steak. Matching wine is like building a modern Senate; you can have individuals who can blend naturally into our deliberations with their experience and notable careers in politics, government and the private sector. On the other side, you have incoming senators coming in with fresh new ideas, challenging the status quo and questioning if this is the best way to do things in a constantly changing world.
Our new, modern Senate welcomes individuals with an abundance of legislative experience, like Senator Surette, who served as a member of the Nova Scotia House of Assembly for many years and held several cabinet posts. His experience as Vice-President and Vice-Chancellor of Sainte-Anne University will guide us when examining issues touching education and minority language rights.
We welcome the experience of Senator Pupatello, who brings 16 years of experience in the Ontario Legislature, including time as Minister of Economic Development and Trade and other cabinet posts involving education, women’s issues and community and social services. This is in addition to 30 years of experience in corporate leadership and community engagement. I hope she will help lead the charge to new opportunities across Canada and around the world.
Senator Hébert comes to the Senate as an economist and a former Quebec diplomat who also has a wealth of business experience. I am sure that she will be a strong voice for small- and medium-sized businesses in Canada. During these trying times with our neighbour to the south, we will need to hear her counsel as we adapt the Canadian economy to new harsh realities.
Senator Hay takes her seat in this place with decades of experience in health care and financial services. Her leadership in organizations that exist to help people in need, like Kids Help Phone and the Women’s College Hospital Foundation, will provide us as parliamentarians with a window into that world while we debate legislation and policies to help improve the lives of those who desperately need a hand up.
On the other side of the ledger, we have the trailblazers, the advocates and those who demand that the system change to make it more inclusive to all. They take their seats with the zest of a fresh wind blowing into this place.
Senator Ince is very familiar with the ins and outs of a parliamentary body, having served as a member of the Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia. Throughout his public life, he has advocated for social change by pushing for equity, diversity and inclusion. He has put this into practice by co‑founding the Canadian Congress of Black Parliamentarians and through his ongoing involvement with African-Nova Scotian communities.
We have Senator Dhillon, who made waves with his courage, dignity and perseverance by opening doors which were closed to some Canadians who wish to serve their country in law enforcement. Following his successful career in the RCMP and with his leadership in violence prevention programs, I plan — and I hope my colleagues here will also — to pay very close attention to his ideas and proposals during his time in the chamber.
Another trailblazer is Senator Henkel, a businesswoman and respected author. She is an example of triumph over adversity. As a media personality and a mentor for entrepreneurs, she leaves her mark everywhere by inspiring others with style and honour. I look forward to hearing more about her story and her views on the issues before the Senate.
Last, but not least by any measure, is Senator Wilson, who was sworn in today. He is our newest representative from British Columbia and a very respected executive leader in his field. Senator Quinn makes sure to remind us of this fact very often. His representation of and continued advocacy for the 2SLGBTQIA+ community add greatly to the important voices in this place.
According to his biography, he has “. . . three decades of experience . . . fostering collaboration in multi-interest environments. . . .” We will be putting that experience to the test, Senator Wilson.
As you take your seats, new senators, we will depend on you to enhance the flavour of this place by your words and ideas. Too often, we tend to look at issues as simply having two sides: yes or no; black or white; or, for some, red and blue. However, the world is more complicated and multi-faceted. We count on you, new senators, to remind us of this.
On behalf of my colleagues in the Canadian Senators Group, I welcome you all to the Senate of Canada.
Hon. Brian Francis: Honourable senators, it is wonderful to be with you all in this chamber. I am honoured to rise here today as the new leader of the Progressive Senate Group so that I can welcome you all back and join the other leaders in welcoming the first batch of our newest colleagues.
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It is certainly an unusual situation, as these senators have waited so long to take their seats among us. I have no doubt that they are as eager as the rest of us to get down to business. Although you’ve all had some time to get used to your new titles, the real work is about to begin as you embark on your Senate learning journey.
These moments of transition are important. We each remember that feeling of entering the chamber for the first time and the responsibility we felt to our communities to bring their voices to the floor. We have an impressive array of new voices joining us over the next few days, starting with the eight who have sworn their oaths this morning.
Francophones and Acadians now have another champion in this chamber through Senator Allister Surette. His multidisciplinary experience, especially in provincial government, will certainly serve him well in his new role as he continues to work for Nova Scotians.
Welcome, Senator Surette.
Senator Baltej Dhillon brings an impressive dedication to public service, and we are grateful he will continue that work here, in the Senate. For decades now, British Columbians have benefited from his leadership and community work, and we look forward to him representing his province in this chamber.
Welcome, Senator Dhillon.
It feels very timely to have gained the expertise of Senator Martine Hébert. Her impressive experience in varied fields, including economic development, international relations and public affairs, is appropriately paired with an ability to explain and balance competing priorities. Quebecers and Canadians alike are eager to see what this new chapter holds.
Welcome, Senator Hébert.
Senator Danièle Henkel brings a wealth of entrepreneurial and leadership experience. Though Quebecers may know her best from her time on their province’s version of “Dragons’ Den,” I have no doubt that they will see a new side of her here. As both an accomplished author and speaker, her contributions to the Senate are certain to be thoughtful and well articulated.
Welcome, Senator Henkel.
The appointment of Senator Tony Ince brings more provincial legislature experience to our chamber. His impressive career of serving Nova Scotians is commendable. His committed advocacy for diversity, social justice and inclusion is evident in how he leads by example, fostering a sense of community.
Welcome, Senator Ince.
Senator Duncan Wilson is a champion of collaboration and inclusion who has demonstrated experience in delivering balanced and innovative solutions to complex problems. His leadership helped earn global recognition for the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority, and I am certain he is determined to use his impressive background to its fullest potential as he navigates his new role.
Welcome, Senator Wilson.
Senator Katherine Hay has successfully implemented world-leading system change through innovation in the e-mental health space. The impact her work has had — particularly for women, children and youth — is undeniable, and it is clear she is not done yet. Her devotion to public service is the Senate’s gain.
Welcome, Senator Hay.
Finally, Senator Sandra Pupatello is also joining us at a very appropriate moment, given her background in economic development and trade as well as her work on Reshoring Canada to encourage Canadian supply chain modernization and resiliency. I’m sure she has already noted the differences between the Legislative Assembly of Ontario and the Senate of Canada, but I’m equally certain that she will fit right in.
Welcome, Senator Pupatello.
As others have noted, this is an impressive group of Canadians. Though these are not our usual seats, it is still nice to see you all take your places in this chamber. Your contributions will help shape the ongoing modernization of this institution, and, more importantly, you will help advance public policy as we all work together to best serve the communities we are here to represent.
On behalf of the Progressive Senate Group, it is my pleasure to offer a warm welcome to each of you, and we look forward to working with all of you.
Wela’lin. Thank you.
Adjournment
Motion Adopted
Hon. Patti LaBoucane-Benson (Legislative Deputy to the Government Representative in the Senate): Honourable senators, I move:
That the Senate do now adjourn until tomorrow, Tuesday, May 27, 2025, at 10 a.m.
(Motion agreed to.)
(At 10:05 a.m., the Senate was continued until tomorrow at 10 a.m.)