CPAC - Thursday, May 23, 2024 - 10:00 a.m. (ET) - Segment #6

experience, I must say. In my studies we often learnt about the following: The development and the evolution of Canada, especially with regards the creation of confederation. We had excellent and interesting discussions in our classrooms, but something that really struck me at the time were partnerships that were created over a number of years. For example, they started a rebellion in 1837, 1838 in lower Canada. This was a very significant revolt with very negative results for those who participated in this revolt. Especially the 58 Patriots who were exiled to Australia. But their words, their actions left an indelible mark on the future. There was another rebellion in upper Canada that was less pronounced, but this triggered a discussion. A discussion towards responsible government, with full representation in government. People's representation in the government. How important it was, especially for a society in full development. And so they theycreated a partnership to make a push for powers to lead to a responsible and accountable government. They made the request before the British empire at the time. It's very touching because at one point the Lafontaine family looked after Baldwin's children in Quebec, and one of Baldwin's children became a sister in a covenant. So, Madam Speaker, I'm a history buff. I love history. But it's important to realize that the history of our country are the history of real people. Those who felt it was more important to work together than to work apart from one another. And we don't need to go further than the partnership between John A. Macdonald and cartCartier who signed an agreement, a document, which recognized the powers of provinces under the umbrella of a federal government. It's this agreement that respects the power and the significance of having a local and accountable government within their jurisdictions. Education, social affairs, health care. At the same time, it highlighted the importance of the federal government to take care because it was a time of wars in amongst ourselves or neighbors to our south. Or with wars in Europe. It was important for the federal government to have this power to defend itself. To be able to retain good order in society for the safety of all. And so I know that I am going deep into history, but it's to bring us back to today T and. And it's not only great for us, it's also a guarantee of our rights and freedoms that we see in our constitution. Rights that are for everyone. All those who live in Canada. Irrespective of which province they live in. The Constitution of Canada has guarantees. Guarantees that all Canadians have access to the same rights and freedoms as others. But perhaps I should talk about today's business and how this great collaboration continues between the federal government and the government of Quebec.

My colleague mentioned it earlier in the example of childcare. How this was an agreement example of how Quebec went forth on the matter in the past already. I was able to benefit for my daughter from this system, and that was 35 years ago. Madam Speaker, imagine this: I now have a grandchild and my daughter and her husband were in New York. And she said, mom, how am I going to do things for childcare. They moved to Halifax, and imagine how happy I was when she called me and said, I found a spot in a childcare centre for Roy, her son. It's not expensive, and I am able myself to go back to work. That is Quebec's example. Canada needs Quebec. It's a partnership that continues continues, and all of our talent and all of our capacities are being assembled for this. This example of childcare, this agreement, has been able to bring approvementsimprovements not only to Canada but to Quebec. The federal government's capacity to be a partner in support financially of Quebec has allowed Quebec to open more childcare spots. We are very proud of the system. Housing. That's another excellent example. Here is something that is very important in my riding. Not only in Quebec but also in neighboring ridings. In my region I had the opportunity of being at an announcement for housing. 48 housing units were announced. I was there. I was there with the Provincial Member of Parliament, with the mayor, with various stakeholders, and with the member of the riding as well. We were proud to make this announcement. How did this come about? With a $900 million contribution to Quebec. This was part of the envelope to build residential units in Quebec. And the Government of Quebec also invested $900 million, so we're working hand-in-hand, Madam Speaker, to have a critical mass to have move forward with this priority. Which is a priority for both governments. Priorities upon which we have consulted people and through which we've managed to get to this agreement. Sometimes negotiations last a while. I'm fully aware and I agree with that sentiment, but it's important to work together. And we have to think about colleagues in the past who have worked together. Think about Baldwin, Lafontaine, the Patriots. Those who made our country we have today. Thank you, Madam Speaker. [ End of Interpretation ] >> The Speaker: Questions and comments. >> Voice of Interpreter: The Honourable Member. >> Thank you, Madam Speaker. I'm rather perplexed. I'm not quite sure what to say after what I've heard. I cast my mind back to what my colleague said on social media; what's the point of the Liberals if it seems that all they do is spend more for less efficiency. Huge consequences. Question, we've heard this from our colleagues, and the previous colleague boasted about

aerospace progress. But we are the only ones asking for a national strategy, and that's what experts from the industry are asking for as well. The previous speaker boasted about helping seniors. The federal government says they want to help seniors, but they're creating two classes of seniors. We have 74-year-olds who are starving. They're increasing the number of public servants without any benefit to Canada. I have so much more to say, but that's all I'll say for now. >> Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I have a great deal of respect for my colleague. I know that she has fought really hard for seniors in our area, and I have good news. In fact, the dental program is working. It is working! The Honourable Member, you had an opportunity to ask a question. She should be waiting for the answer. The Honourable Member. >> Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I did a tour recently of dinners at the end of the year, and at every table where I stopped, there was someone who thanked me, who said to me, thank you very much, madam Shanahan, for this dental care program. Because I have an appointment and I'll be able to have my teeth taken care of. Thank you. >> The Speaker: Questions and comments. The Honourable Member. >> Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I listened carefully to the historical overview of my colleague, but I'd like to go back to reality and the future also, where we offer services to Quebecers and dental care. They're not creating a federal system, but they pay the bills that people can't afford in Quebec. There are already thousands of people who have received care thanks to this program, including thousands of Quebecers. And for decades people haven't had access to a dentist, so I would like to hear how it will help not only seniors, but also young people will be able to register as of next month in her riding. >> The Speaker: The Honourable Member. >> I agree entirely with my colleague. If you have access to dental care, this affects the whole health chain. Our oral health affects Alzheimer's and heart disease as well, so I'm also thinking about young people. They'll have the opportunity to have a nice smile. That's also priceless. [ End of Interpretation ] >> The Speaker: The Honourable Member. >> Thank you, Madam Speaker. I would like to ask the Honourable Member Honourable Member about the sectors that are very important to Quebec. Like Quebec's efforts to develop a clean economy and its aerospace sector. In the recent budget (inaudible) and another $200 million to support the various companies in sectors such as health care, agriculture, manufacturing, artificial intelligence. Can she explain how that not only benefits Quebec but also helps our communities across Canada? >> Voice of Interpreter: Quick answerer. The Honourable Member [ End of Interpretation ] >> I thank my colleague for that question. Our farmers are at the forefront of technology, which will allow for expanding production, agricultural production, without increasing greenhouse gases. In fact, we have carbon capture companies that are working in this area, and they are very appreciative. They have received federal money for their research, and they're very appreciative to the federal support to continue their work. Thank you. >> Voice of Interpreter: Resuming debate. The Honourable Member. >> Thank you very much, Madam Speaker. I'll be sharing my time with the excellent member from Carleton. What I'll say in the next few minutes is not a personal attack against the Bloc or the Bloc members. It's more a general speech I'll be making with the Bloc today. First I have to say that the motion that has been presented,

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