House of Commons Hansard #25 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.) The word of the day was liberals.
This summary is computer-generated. Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.
Citizenship Act Second reading of Bill C-3. The bill amends the Citizenship Act, drawing debate on its provisions. It aims to restore citizenship to lost Canadians and grant automatic citizenship to adopted children born abroad. Conservatives oppose removing the "first-generation limit" for citizenship by descent, fearing it weakens Canadian citizenship with a weak 'substantial connection' requirement and lacks security checks. Liberals argue the bill ensures fairness, embraces diversity, and rectifies past errors, particularly regarding family reunification. 7800 words, 1 hour.
Financial Administration Act First reading of Bill C-230. The bill requires the government to publicly disclose corporate debt write-offs exceeding $1 million, addressing Conservative concerns about secrecy regarding large amounts owed by corporations. 200 words.
Youth Criminal Justice Act First reading of Bill C-231. The bill amends the Youth Criminal Justice Act to clarify measures for youth addiction treatment, allowing courts to delay sentencing or include program attendance as a condition, helping young people access treatment. 200 words.
Corrections and Conditional Release Act First reading of Bill C-232. The bill amends the Corrections and Conditional Release Act to require dangerous offenders or those convicted of multiple first-degree murders to be assigned and confined in maximum security penitentiaries. 200 words.
Export and Import Permits Act First reading of Bill C-233. The bill amends the Export and Import Permits Act to close loopholes in arms export controls. It seeks to prevent Canadian weapons from contributing to war crimes and human rights abuses by strengthening export criteria and transparency. 400 words.
Carol Anstey Conservative Long Range Mountains, NL
Mr. Speaker, the requirement for the criminal record check is not written within the legislation. This is something that I am extremely concerned about. It is something that I hear.
I am just curious if my colleague would like to speak to that or expand on that a bit more. I would give him the opportunity to respond if this is a concern that he also has.
Scott Anderson Conservative Vernon—Lake Country—Monashee, BC
Mr. Speaker, the answer presents itself in our history.
We have let numerous people who should not be here through. Often, the problem is the lack of criminal record check. We must safeguard our borders. We have to do that for our own sake and we have to do it for international reasons. We cannot simply open the gates and let people in without any sort of criminal record check at all.
Kelly Block Conservative Carlton Trail—Eagle Creek, SK
Mr. Speaker, could the hon. member advise the House if, in his review of this legislation, he has seen a plan to solve the new influx of citizenship applications, if we are going to add 30% more in just five years?
Scott Anderson Conservative Vernon—Lake Country—Monashee, BC
Mr. Speaker, there has been no analysis. We have no idea whether it is 30%. We have no idea what the actual number of new Canadian citizens will be, and this is at a time when our immigration system is buckling, frankly, from too many people coming in. To add to that is reckless, as I said in the speech. It is irresponsible and it is reckless. There has been no analysis done whatsoever.
This is kind of the way the Liberal government has operated: Do things because they sound good on paper, without any analysis. They end up creating a new disaster. There are several disasters that we are dealing with right now because of that problem.
Kevin Lamoureux Liberal Winnipeg North, MB
Mr. Speaker, I want to go back to the hypothetical example that I gave to the member.
Often, when we look at legislation, we reflect on the need for that legislation based on what is happening abroad or in our communities. I have a legitimate question and I ask the member for, at the very least, his own personal opinion. In the case that I raised about Anna, should her grandson or granddaughter be allowed to have Canadian citizenship? She should not have to go to a court to make that determination. We are saying, yes, Anna's granddaughter or grandson would in fact be able to have Canadian citizenship.
Does the member believe that should be the case?
Scott Anderson Conservative Vernon—Lake Country—Monashee, BC
Mr. Speaker, I am not going to make a judgment on a hypothetical. Again, a hypothetical question has been put to me that I have no answer for. The courts certainly do have an answer for it.
I would simply ask the member to reflect on some of the people we have let in who should not be here.
Stéphane Lauzon Liberal Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, QC
Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise today to speak to Bill C-3 and the transformative power of Canadian citizenship. Fundamentally, this bill is about people from real families, as well as their history, their sacrifices and their deep and lasting ties with Canada, regardless of where their careers or lives take them.
In my role as an MP since 2015, I have had the opportunity to meet many families in my riding who were reunited through immigration. I did not experience that with my own family. The Lauzons in Notre‑Dame‑de‑la‑Paix, Petite‑Nation and Gatineau have no family ties with people in other nations. However, I have been able to learn about this through the cases that we have handled in my office and through the assistance that we have been able to provide to families. We have seen how important family reunification is.
Fundamentally, this bill is about people from real families. Citizenship is a legal status, of course, but more than that, it is about belonging to a diverse, welcoming community bound by shared democratic values. This is something that reaches across borders and, in an ideal world, we would be able to unite all families, but that is not possible. However, in today's interconnected world, where migration and mobility are facts of modern life in Canada, we have a chance, as Canadians, to lead by example and show the rest of the world how important family unification is.
While some countries are restricting access to citizenship, Canada is taking a more principled approach, one that embraces diversity, cross-border families and the lasting ties Canadians have abroad. Many Canadians live and work abroad in international development, the arts, culture, science, education, global commerce or humanitarian aid, to name a few. These citizens have their own deep ties to Canada, often returning here to raise their children, care for loved ones and create new communities. Ensuring that their children, whether born or adopted abroad, can share in this identity is not only a matter of fairness, it also strengthens our country's unity and global reach.
Today, I want to share with the House what new Canadians have told us about the importance of their citizenship, what they have told me since 2015. We have had conversations with new Canadian families about the importance of reuniting children and grandchildren, about the impact citizenship has had and about how we must continue to protect the rights, responsibilities and shared value of citizenship. Becoming a Canadian is a privilege, and it is often described as a source of great pride.
Our government carefully designed this bill to fill a gap that has existed since 2009. People are proud to call Canada their home and proud of the journey they took to get here. Becoming a Canadian citizen represents the culmination of years of sacrifice, hard work and perseverance, not only by individuals, but often by their entire families. A lot of compromises may have had to be made, sorely testing these families. Gaining citizenship is also a moment for connection and community, a chance to be part of something bigger than ourselves. Many members of the House have seen first-hand the emotional impact of this moment. Newcomers, often with their children by their side, hold their certificates with pride, knowing that their family's future is more secure here, in this wonderful country.
This sense of pride transcends borders. People all over the world would love the opportunity to make Canada their home. For those fleeing conflict, persecution or hardship, Canadian citizenship represents a fresh start, a new life, a second chance at life. Most people see it as a privilege and do not take it lightly. New citizens often express how profoundly grateful they are. People often talk about the opportunities that Canada has to offer, especially when it comes to education, health care and peace. These pillars of Canadian life are the cornerstones of a better future, not only for new citizens themselves, but also for their children and future generations.
Whether through volunteering, participating in local cultural events or simply getting to know their neighbours, new Canadians play an active role in strengthening the fabric of our society. They embody Canada's spirit of generosity and contribute to the success of their communities in many ways. We all have people like this in our lives today, especially as federal MPs in Ottawa.
As a government, we must remain vigilant to ensure that Canadian citizenship remains a symbol of inclusiveness, fairness and security, as well as a commitment to those values.
Why is Bill C‑3 important for me? It is the reason why we introduced this bill. It is to ensure that access to citizenship remains fair and transparent. At a time when disinformation and division can threaten confidence in public institutions, Canada must show that its commitment to fairness extends across borders.
Providing thoughtful and inclusive pathways to citizenship beyond the first generation affirms that Canadian identity is shaped not only by place of birth but also by connection, contribution and values. The government's role is not limited to protecting the rights of Canadian citizens. It must also clarify the citizenship process and pass laws that take equality and inclusion into account.
This bill aims to automatically remedy the status of individuals who would have been Canadians were it not for the first-generation limit. It also creates a forward-looking new framework for citizenship by descent. In the future, children born abroad beyond the first generation will be eligible for citizenship if their Canadian parent can demonstrate a substantial connection to Canada. In the future, as long as the Canadian parent who was born abroad spends a cumulative total of three years in Canada before the birth of their child, their child will also be born a citizen.
The objective and structure of the Citizenship Act have been that children adopted abroad by Canadians and children born abroad to Canadians are treated as similarly as possible, and this will continue to be the case after Bill C‑3 comes into force.
The great privilege of Canadian citizenship comes with great responsibility. It is a responsibility to engage, to contribute and to build on the values that make our country what it is. Citizenship is not just a destination. It is a journey and a commitment to community, justice and mutual respect.
In conclusion, Canadian citizenship is an important and emotional occasion. It is a privilege that comes with opportunities and gratitude, along with a responsibility to uphold the values that unite us. Citizenship is not just a legal matter. It is a reflection of who we are and who we include. By passing Bill C‑3, we are choosing connection over exclusion and fairness over restriction. We are telling Canadians around the world and their children that their ties to our country are important, that their history, their contribution and their sense of belonging are part of what makes Canada strong.
Mel Arnold Conservative Kamloops—Shuswap—Central Rockies, BC
Mr. Speaker, we often see that the Liberals do not plan into the future with legislation they bring to the House.
We often hear of indigenous people speaking about the consideration of seven generations into the future. Can the member opposite tell me what work his government has done to determine how many new citizens of Canada the legislation would create seven generations into the future, and what the numbers are of new citizens it would bring in seven generations into the future? Surely the government must have looked at this to see what the numbers are.
Stéphane Lauzon Liberal Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, QC
Mr. Speaker, I am very happy to have the opportunity to answer my colleague's question.
We are talking about family reunification, about a government that cares deeply about helping families reunite. That being said, I would like my colleague to answer a specific question. How many families have not been able to be together since 2009, when the Harper government made changes to the family class rules?
Those measures broke families apart. Now we are trying to fix the Harper government's mistakes.
Kevin Lamoureux LiberalParliamentary Secretary to the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons
Mr. Speaker, my question for the member is with regard to the importance of the legislation, in particular with respect to lost Canadians. Lost Canadians should have Canadian citizenship, which I think all members agree on; at least I believe that to be the case.
I would ask him to comment on the importance of passing the legislation so those individuals in particular would be able to get their citizenship.
Stéphane Lauzon Liberal Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, QC
Mr. Speaker, that is an excellent question. Family reunification is an important value for Canadians, and it is part of the Liberal DNA. One of the primary reasons I entered politics in 2015 is that we are a welcoming country. Canada is known for being inclusive, and we are there for all communities.
Personally, I had the good fortune to live surrounded by family, an entirely Quebec Canadian family whose members all lived roughly in the same area. Since 2015, however, I have been deeply moved by the countless applications from people in my riding that allowed us to help several families reunite, including reuniting children with their parents. To me, that is the essence of life itself.
Bernard Généreux Conservative Côte-du-Sud—Rivière-du-Loup—Kataskomiq—Témiscouata, QC
Mr. Speaker, my colleague talks of past mistakes made by the Conservatives. I have to tell him, in all honesty, that what the Liberals have done over the past 10 years is make one mistake after nother. They welcomed so many people to Canada that now they are forced to send some back, like the temporary foreign workers.
We are hearing heart-wrenching horror stories about families being separated, about people who have been here for years, working and contributing to Canadian society. We are being accused of things we did 15 years ago. In reality, we did not do what we are being accused of, yet my colleague has been making mistakes for the past 10 years and is still making mistakes today as we debate this issue.
Stéphane Lauzon Liberal Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, QC
Mr. Speaker, I would encourage my colleague to brush up on his history. It was decisions made in 2009 that led to a generational break in family reunification. It was written into the law. I cannot make this stuff up. That was when the value placed on family reunification and Canadian citizenship began to be reduced. Today, a court ruling is forcing us to introduce a bill to comply with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, respect human rights and correct the mistakes of the past.
Bill C-3 Citizenship ActGovernment Orders
Bill C-3 Citizenship ActGovernment Orders
The Deputy Speaker Tom Kmiec
If a member participating in person wishes that the motion be carried or carried on division, or if a member of a recognized party participating in person wishes to request a recorded division, I would invite them to rise and indicate it to the Chair.
The Deputy Speaker Tom Kmiec
Pursuant to Standing Order 45, the recorded division stands deferred until Monday, September 22, at the expiry of the time provided for Oral Questions.
Yasir Naqvi Liberal Ottawa Centre, ON
Mr. Speaker, I really hope all members had a fantastic summer in their home communities. Mine was no different. I had some quality time with my family, especially my kids. I also had a lot of engagement with my constituents. In particular, I really took the time to listen to my constituents in terms of their views about the upcoming budget that will be tabled soon in the House.
I sent a householder to all of my constituents and received hundreds of responses back. When it comes to building a strong economy for today and tomorrow, the residents of Ottawa Centre want us to break down internal trade barriers. They want us to invest in nation-building projects and expand trading relationships, not to mention supporting workers through more apprenticeships and training.
My constituents also want to make sure that we are doing everything possible to lower the cost of essentials, speed up the construction of affordable homes and improve access to health care, including mental and dental care services. My constituents want us to have strong partnership with our allies and keep investing in our security—
Ottawa CentreStatements by Members
Richard Martel Conservative Chicoutimi—Le Fjord, QC
In 1971, after playing only six games in the NHL, Ken Dryden won the Stanley Cup and the Conn Smythe Trophy, which is awarded to the best players in the playoffs. That was the first of six Stanley Cups won in an eight-year career with the Montreal Canadiens. The following year, he was named rookie of the year, a feat that has never been matched.
He is well known for his characteristic stance, leaning on his goalie stick while watching his teammates buzz around the opposing net. By the end of his career, he had won five Vezina trophies, awarded to the league's best goaltender. He also played for Canada during the 1972 Summit Series against the Soviet Union. His accomplishments on and off the ice are nothing short of remarkable.
Mr. Dryden was more than just an athlete. He had a law degree. He was elected as the member of Parliament for York Centre and served as minister of social development. Mr. Dryden left an indelible mark on our society. He will always be remembered as a symbol of success, a great Canadian.
Dominique O'Rourke Liberal Guelph, ON
Mr. Speaker, on August 16, Guelph General Hospital celebrated 150 years of service to Guelph and Wellington County. What began with just 12 beds and three nurses has grown into a cornerstone of care for more than 200,000 people in our region. Through its expansions and innovations over the years, Guelph General Hospital has always shown an unwavering commitment to care for the patients and families at the heart of their mission.
To everyone who has contributed to this legacy, the nurses, doctors and all of the staff, volunteers, leaders, and donors past and present, I give my thanks. Day after day, decade after decade, they have given their time, expertise and mostly their hearts to others. This milestone belongs to them.
The next chapter begins now for Guelph General Hospital as it works to secure approval for a new hospital to meet the community's evolving health care needs. This takes patience, perseverance and innovation, but with the spirit that has animated GGH for the last 150 years, we know it is possible.
I send my congratulations to Guelph General.
Eric Melillo Conservative Kenora—Kiiwetinoong, ON
Mr. Speaker, it is great to be back for this fall session of Parliament. I continue to be grateful to the people of northwestern Ontario for their continued support.
I am here with our Conservative team to work with all members of the House. We are committed to holding the government to account by opposing what is wrong and proposing alternatives in the national interest. Some of our priorities this fall are addressing the Liberal cost of living crisis, unemployment and rising crime rates. Conservatives are fighting for stronger take-home pay with lower costs and more jobs for Canadians, and fighting for safer streets by locking up criminals and securing our border. We must also ensure we can open the country for business by cutting taxes and approval times on pipelines, mines, LNG and other major projects to support our economy and sovereignty.
In this Parliament, our purpose remains to restore the promise of Canada that hard work earns a good life with affordable food, homes and fuel, as well as safe neighbourhoods. That is what we are fighting to deliver for all Canadians.
Ginette Lavack Liberal St. Boniface—St. Vital, MB
Mr. Speaker, it is with a heavy heart that I rise today to mark the passing of Paulette Duguay last month in St. Boniface, Manitoba.
Paulette was a tireless advocate for Métis and French-Canadian communities. She served as president of the Union nationale métisse Saint-Joseph du Manitoba for 10 years, promoting reconciliation, preserving Métis culture and strengthening ties within the francophone community. Her commitment and impact were recognized nationally in 2024, when she received the King Charles III Coronation Medal for her exceptional service.
Ms. Duguay influenced many people through her leadership, the relationships she built and the lives she touched. Her colleagues and friends remember her as a warm, generous and caring person. On behalf of the House, I extend my sincere condolences to her husband, Denis, her family, her friends and the many communities she served with such devotion.
Organizations in Côte‑du‑Sud—Rivière‑du‑Loup—Kataskomiq—TémiscouataStatements by Members
Conservative
Bernard Généreux Conservative Côte-du-Sud—Rivière-du-Loup—Kataskomiq—Témiscouata, QC
Mr. Speaker, today, I would like to proudly recognize several organizations in my riding that are celebrating important anniversaries and that, each in their own way, contribute to the vitality of our communities.
Cercle de fermières de Kamouraska is celebrating its 70th anniversary of sharing knowledge and solidarity. Club des 50 ans et plus de Squatec is celebrating its 50th anniversary, as is Magny-Gym, a shining example of half a century of passion for sport. In Saint‑Pascal, the Club des 50 ans et plus is celebrating 55 years of helping seniors.
C.A.R.E Montmagny-L'Islet is celebrating 25 years of support for individuals and employers, while CDC ICI Montmagny‑L'Islet is celebrating 15 years of community outreach. Popote roulante des Aulnaies has been serving the community for 30 years, as has Tandem-Jeunesse and Symposium de peinture du Kamouraska. These are real cultural and social pillars. Finally, Projektion 16‑35 is celebrating 40 years of supporting young adults.
I want to thank all of these organizations, volunteers and partners for their dedication and congratulate them on these anniversaries, which are a testament to the lasting impact they are making on our communities.
