2016-05-12

Total speeches : 104
Positive speeches : 67
Negative speeches : 20
Neutral speeches : 17
Percentage negative : 19.23 %
Percentage positive : 64.42 %
Percentage neutral : 16.35 %

Most toxic speeches

1. Gérard Deltell - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.654832
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Mr. Speaker, in your case, when you travel, you properly assume your responsibilities.Can the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons set the record straight for Canadians? How many people were there and how much did it cost? When they say that it cost $25,000, they are taking Canadians for fools.
2. Alexandre Boulerice - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.51228
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Mr. Speaker, no money is going there. I hope that the Liberals are doing something for culture somewhere, but the money is not going there.It is shameful, but the 40 government members from Quebec are asleep at the wheel. I have two examples. First, the Government of Quebec made a proposal regarding the Senate and was treated like garbage by the government. Second, a study has finally been completed regarding the construction of a rail bypass in Lac-Mégantic, which would help the people of that community to finally put this unspeakable tragedy behind them. However, instead of listening to them, the minister is ordering geography courses.Rather than acting like immature, pathetic pawns, will the 40 Liberal members from Quebec stand up and defend the people of Lac-Mégantic?
3. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.360746
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I am not really sure, Mr. Speaker, where you cut me off.
4. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.308983
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Mr. Speaker, my colleague is completely right to say that what happened to Mr. Magnitsky is simply horrible.I note that we are able to stop the perpetrators of this crime with the current Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, because it is checking eligibility at the border. We have this capacity.The committee will have to review, very carefully, the Special Economic Measures Act to address this kind of problem.
5. Steven Blaney - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.272062
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Mr. Speaker, this is the ultimate irony. The Liberals have made a complete mess of this.We have gone from sunny ways to a democratic black hole. First of all, the Liberals give themselves absolute power by stacking the committee. Then they change the rules of democracy by ignoring and thumbing their noses at Canadians. We have seen a Liberal-style benevolent dictatorship. Now we are faced with a selective “consultocracy”.Is the minister trying to engage in some sort of political sleight-of-hand in order to lead Canadians astray?
6. Jason Kenney - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.264485
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Mr. Speaker, their excuses for trying to rig the system are getting more and more ridiculous and transparent with that answer.The minister is talking about a fake consultation process that interest groups will be involved in, maybe a few thousand people. We want the ultimate consultation that allows ten of millions of Canadians to decide how they elect their representatives.Why is the current Liberal government so determined to be the first government of a major democracy to change the electoral system without a direct popular mandate expressed in a referendum?
7. Blake Richards - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.230893
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Mr. Speaker, the Liberals are once again flip-flopping so much that they cannot even keep the same talking points together for a whole press conference. On the one hand, the Liberal House leader stated that all options are possible when asked if maintaining the current system was on the table. But then, a mere minute later, he stated that 2015 was the last first-past-the-post election. Flip flop. Maybe they can make it clear on one thing. Will the Liberals commit to giving each and every Canadian a direct say through a referendum?
8. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.21621
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Mr. Speaker, on the one hand, members' opposite ridicule the idea of listening to Canadians and on the other hand, they criticize us for not listening to Canadians. Let me make this clear. The first point of contact for all of us will be hearing from those Canadians who do not normally engage in the democratic process, those who have often been marginalized. A healthy democracy is one that includes their voices.The final decision will be made by members of the House as well as those in the other place.
9. Hélène Laverdière - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.213785
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Mr. Speaker, the Liberal government's messaging around selling weapons to Saudi Arabia is really disturbing.We have a video that clearly shows the kind of armoured vehicle we are going to sell to Saudi Arabia being used as we speak to crush the civilian population. The minister said that we are not selling those particular armoured vehicles and that we have not yet sold any to Saudi Arabia. That is not very convincing. He also said that there was an element of risk in the contract, but that it was a calculated risk.Can the minister tell us how many dead civilians it will take for him to recalculate? What number would that be?
10. David McGuinty - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.210802
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Mr. Speaker, partisan advertising has no place in government. Canadian taxpayers should not be footing the bill for government ads that advance the political interests of any party in power. They should be able to trust that government advertising is legitimate, purposeful, and informative.When I was in opposition, I tabled a bill to put an end to partisan government advertising. It was opposed by the previous Conservative government.Would this government, our government, inform the House what action it is taking to end partisan government advertising and enhance public trust?
11. Gérard Deltell - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.204357
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Mr. Speaker, will the government tell us how much that trip cost taxpayers?From the beginning, the Liberals have been saying that it cost $25,000 for 44 people. However, yesterday, TVA was clear: it cost $13,000 for five people. What did you do with the other 39 people? Did you stash them in your suitcases so that the trip would be cheaper?Your story does not make any sense and you know it.Will the—
12. Ed Fast - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.195771
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Mr. Speaker, as the globe-trotting trade minister embarrassed herself on American late night talk shows at taxpayer expense, Canada's trade performance was floundering. In March, exports plummeted by almost 5% and Canada suffered a record-setting $3.4-billion trade deficit. With that kind of performance, Canadians would be better off if the minister simply stayed at home.There is, however, one thing she can do to improve Canada's trade performance and that is to support the largest trade agreement in the world.Will the Liberals now support the TPP?
13. Todd Doherty - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.195486
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Mr. Speaker, talk about power going to somebody's head. Witness after witness at the trade committee last week agreed that the upcoming presidential election poses a threat to our new softwood lumber agreement. We do not have an agreement, and it is creating all kinds of uncertainty. Canadian job creators need certainty in order to run their businesses successfully. Tick, tick, tick; why are the Liberals standing by and doing nothing on softwood lumber while the clock ticks down?
14. Luc Thériault - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.195294
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Mr. Speaker, Saudi Arabia uses its armoured vehicles against the country's political dissidents, but according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, that is okay because the images we have seen do not show Canadian armoured vehicles. I suppose the Canadian armoured vehicles are used to drive children to school. Yesterday, the Prime Minister justified the sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia by saying that he wanted to protect Canada's business reputation. How many human rights is the Minister of Foreign Affairs prepared to disregard to preserve Canada's business reputation?
15. Jason Kenney - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.183365
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Mr. Speaker, Canadians are fair-minded people, and that is why they know it is wrong for one political party to seek to impose an electoral system on this Parliament, and our entire country, over the objections of other parties and the majority of Canadians.The Liberal governments in B.C., Ontario, and P.E.I. all understood this, which is why they held referenda on electoral reform.Why does the current Liberal government have so much less confidence in the common sense of Canadians? Why will the current Liberal government not follow the provincial precedent of a referendum on electoral reform?
16. James Bezan - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.181019
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Mr. Speaker, today I was joined by Bill Browder, an outspoken critic of government corruption, to announce new legislation. Conservatives have tabled the Sergei Magnitsky law in both the House and the Senate. Sergei Magnitsky was wrongfully arrested, tortured, and killed in a Russian prison. Legislation and sanctions on corrupt foreign officials who violate human rights were supported by the three main parties during the last election. Will the Liberal government now stand against abusive foreign officials and support this legislation, Bill C-267?
17. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.179448
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Mr. Speaker, we are absolutely seized of the issue of softwood lumber. I am working very hard on this issue with my officials, with our ambassador to the United States, and with the industry.I would urge the hon. member to have a coffee with the member for Abbotsford, who will point out that there is no connection between the softwood lumber agreement and the TPP.I also want to say that we are negotiating for a good deal, but not just any deal. We will get a good deal for Canadian producers.
18. Niki Ashton - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.172386
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Mr. Speaker, the government's inadequate changes to EI left 800,000 Canadians behind, and many regions were left out of extended benefits, despite rising unemployment. Today, we find out from internal documents that workers in Edmonton, southern Saskatchewan, and the B.C. interior could apply. This is a positive step. However, the government is still leaving so many Canadians out in the cold. This is about justice. It is about making sure that Canadians can access the EI fund that belongs to them. Will the government step up and show leadership to fix EI for Canadian workers?
19. Chris Warkentin - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.169449
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Mr. Speaker, yesterday the Minister of Agriculture defended his chief of staff, saying that he wanted somebody with agricultural experience. Now his chief of staff has a very specific experience, that of owning a multi-million dollar egg empire.However, that is the very experience that the Conflict of Interest Commissioner has specifically forbidden her from speaking about. If she cannot talk about the explicit experience that the minister said qualified her for the job, why is she still on the payroll?
20. Charlie Angus - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.169186
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Mr. Speaker, Health Canada officials have confirmed that no money was set aside to implement Jordan's principle. This flies in the face of two rulings by the Human Rights Tribunal that ordered immediate action to end the systemic discrimination against indigenous children. The government ignored the ruling with its budget and now it has ignored the deadline with the new estimates, so there is no money to close the funding gap for child welfare and zero for Jordan's principle.What part of the word “immediate” does the government not understand? With $30 billion in extra spending, could it not find a dime to help children who are still being denied their rights?
21. Marjolaine Boutin-Sweet - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.165128
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Mr. Speaker, if the Liberals were really willing to work with the opposition, they would not be ramming bills through the House and giving themselves false majorities on a committee.How can they claim that they want to end first past the post, and then strike a committee that models itself on first past the post?We are talking about a once-in-a-generation voting reform. Will the minister reconsider her decision to give Liberals the power to unilaterally change our voting system?
22. Blaine Calkins - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.157407
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Mr. Speaker, last week we learned the Prime Minister took 44 hand-picked people to Washington for the state dinner. The Liberals claim it had a total cost of $25,000, but no one believes this cost to be true. We know this because it cost $13,000 for three ministers and two staff alone. Therefore, will the Liberals finally come clean and tell taxpayers how much it cost for their five-star Washington vacation?
23. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.154773
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Mr. Speaker, I can assure you that we never miss an opportunity to emphasize the importance of respecting human rights when we are in contact with the Saudi government. We never miss an opportunity, and we have had several of those opportunities. One reason why we have had several opportunities is that we have a relationship with Saudi Arabia. We will not make the mistake that the Conservatives made with Iran by cutting ties with a country.With respect to export permits, as I have said repeatedly, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has the power to cancel them if Canadian equipment is being misused.
24. Marjolaine Boutin-Sweet - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.152658
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Mr. Speaker, this makes absolutely no sense.The Liberals say they want to make our system more democratic, and yet they give themselves a majority on the committee. They want to include the Green Party and the Bloc Québécois, but they do not give those parties the right to vote.How can Canadians be sure that the process is not rigged from the start? Clearly, this reform is not off to a good start.Will the government admit its mistake and give all parties the right to vote in committee?
25. Scott Reid - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.134941
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Mr. Speaker, after 16 years on Parliament Hill, I can say there is no place that we are less likely to find a Canadian with exceptionality, a disabled Canadian, a minority, a disenfranchised person than at a parliamentary committee.The government has articulated two contradictory positions on changing the voting system. The Prime Minister's tiresome oft-repeated line is that the 2015 election will be the last one ever fought on first past the post. That must mean no to a referendum under any circumstances, yet his ministers say that a referendum is a legitimate option. Which of these two positions actually reflect government policy? Will there be a referendum, or will there not?
26. John McCallum - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.133152
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Mr. Speaker, I would question the premise of that question, but we will certainly look into it.On the whole, we have had great success working with provincial governments on the refugees. I can tell the hon. member that, as of today, 98% of the refugees are in permanent housing, and I think I am about to run out of time.
27. René Arseneault - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.12546
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Mr. Speaker, as we all know, Canadians often head to Service Canada offices when they need to engage with our government.For quite some time now, people in Madawaska—Restigouche have been complaining about the service and the long delays they have to deal with when they are applying for essential programs, like EI. Can the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development tell us about what he is doing to reduce wait times?
28. Tom Kmiec - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.123616
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Mr. Speaker, yesterday we learned about the Liberals' plan to change our democracy.What was the first move by the Liberals? They are going to set up a committee with a majority of Liberal members. When you want to change the rules of democracy, the only majority that counts is the majority of Canadians.Why not simply commit to consulting all Canadians through a referendum?
29. Jason Kenney - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.123072
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Mr. Speaker, apparently the minister wants decisions to be made by Twitter. We want decisions to be made by the people.Parliament does not belong to politicians. Parliament does not belong to the Liberal Party. Parliament belongs to the Canadian people. Why is the government not allowing Canadians to make this decision instead of politicians?
30. Ed Fast - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.121875
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Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister has claimed time and again that he is a big supporter of international trade. Yet much like the NDP, every time the Liberals are asked to walk the talk, they are missing in action.The TPP is the largest trade agreement in the world. Conservatives concluded negotiations over seven months ago, yet the Prime Minister will not tell us whether he will support the agreement. Canada must be a leader, not a laggard, on trade.When will the Prime Minister finally tell Canadians whether or not he supports the TPP?
31. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.121129
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Mr. Speaker, the party that is being consistent on this issue is the Liberal Party.The NDP promised to uphold the contract to win seats, but now that it has those seats, it wants to tell the families that depend on the contract they will lose their jobs because it will not sign the export permit for these Canadian vehicles. The issue here is the export permit for a made-in-Canada vehicle, and we have no evidence that it has been wrongly used even though Canada has been selling it since 1993.
32. Georgina Jolibois - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.12079
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Mr. Speaker, it has been almost four months since the shooting in La Loche and the Liberals are still not providing mental health care workers in my riding and many other communities. The government's budget allocated zero additional dollars for mental health care despite the urgent need. What about La Loche? What about Cross Lake? Will the government finally ensure that all first nations communities are able to access the support they need and deserve?
33. Jane Philpott - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.117851
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Mr. Speaker, all Canadians, indigenous or otherwise, need to have access to the mental health care that is necessary and this is a responsibility of all of us.In terms of indigenous communities, I am pleased to inform the member that I am in conversations with my officials and the first nations and Inuit health branch on a daily basis about how we could increase access to mental health services in communities like La Loche and Cross Lake. We are working toward a plan to be able to enhance those services and I will be pleased to report our progress at a further date.
34. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.117543
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Mr. Speaker, listening to Canadians is at the heart of a healthy democracy.We are committed to ensuring that young people, new Canadians, indigenous persons, those with disabilities and exceptionalities, seniors, and those living in the rural and remote regions of our country, have a meaningful opportunity to engage in this process.
35. Steven Blaney - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.117355
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Mr. Speaker, when the Liberals have a problem, their solution is to form a committee. Problems with Canada Post? Form a committee. Problems with defence? Form a committee. Problems with free trade? Form a committee.
36. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.114843
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Mr. Speaker, change and much-needed reform require leadership and vision. Our government has a vision for a healthier democracy, and there is no lack of leadership on this side of the aisle.It is my hope that all members of this House will share in this leadership and help bring our electoral system into the 21st century.
37. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.111978
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Mr. Speaker, we have arrived in this place after the longest federal election in modern Canadian history, during which we were rather clear about our intention to reform our electoral system. Allow me to be clear for hon. members: 2015 was the last federal election conducted under the first-past-the-post system. It is time for a 21st century model of electing individuals to the House. That is what we promised. That is what we will deliver upon.
38. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.111829
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Mr. Speaker, I would like to start by reminding the hon. member that it was his government that left Canadians without a softwood lumber agreement. The previous agreement expired on his government's watch.We are very aware of the importance of this issue. We have focused on it from day one. We raised this issue during our state dinner at the White House. We raised it at the highest levels.I am working closely with the U.S. TR and with the industry. We will get this done.
39. Pierre Nantel - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.109041
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Mr. Speaker, clearly, the honeymoon is quickly drawing to a close.Earlier this week, the Minister of Canadian Heritage proudly reminded members of her investments in the cultural sector. In fact, this year's budget allocates more than $78 million to the NFB, Telefilm Canada, Radio-Canada, and the CBC.Well, surprise, surprise. People can applaud all they want, but the money is no longer in the budget. There is no money. Was the Minister of Canadian Heritage taken for a ride by the Treasury Board? What magic words will she use to explain to cultural groups that they will have to go on waiting?
40. Tom Kmiec - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.107354
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Mr. Speaker, repeating oneself is not the same as answering the question.When we see the Liberal majority on the committee and the government's insistence on not really consulting Canadians, then we wonder what is really going on here.It is simple. Ontario, British Columbia, and Prince Edward Island held referendums in the past, which legitimizes the process.Will the Liberals have the courage of their convictions? Will they promise today in the House to hold a referendum to change the voting system?
41. Todd Doherty - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.105071
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Mr. Speaker, it was the Conservative government that put an end to the longest and most costly trade disagreement in history with the softwood lumber agreement.The United States is Canada's largest market for softwood lumber. There are hundreds of thousands of jobs on the line, yet the Liberals would rather spend the time coming up with ways to stall the trans-Pacific partnership, because they are incapable of making good business decisions that are in the interests of Canadian jobs.Will the Minister of International Trade stand up and commit to bringing home a signed agreement before November?
42. Wayne Stetski - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.101568
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Mr. Speaker, budget 2016 included $65.9 million for a so-called world-class biking and walking trail through Jasper National Park.This came out of nowhere, and yet the Liberal government refuses to give any details. The minister has not consulted the public or stakeholders, in spite of Liberal election promises that it would be open and transparent.A project of this scale needs a robust public environmental assessment process prior to any decision being made. Why is the government following the Conservatives' lead, ignoring transparency, and putting the ecological integrity of a treasured national park at risk?
43. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0978205
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Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the hon. member's desire to hear from Canadians, but I have yet to hear from him or his colleagues on how a referendum could help us hear from those who do not traditionally engage in the democratic process, like young people, women, indigenous persons, those with disabilities and exceptionalities, and those living in remote and rural regions of this country.We need to ensure that we use—
44. Kennedy Stewart - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0957686
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Mr. Speaker, earlier this week, I asked the Minister of Democratic Institutions if she supports the candidate gender equity act. She stated that the Liberals “will study it on its merits when it is debated in the House”. However, yesterday CTV acquired a leaked memo from the minister's office that confirmed that the Liberals were already planning to oppose the bill when she made this statement. Will the minister explain to Canadians why she did not give them a straight answer on Tuesday, and why she is forcing Liberal MPs to oppose a bill aimed at bringing gender equality to the House of Commons?
45. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0942895
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Mr. Speaker, I would like to remind the hon. member that, in fact, in the first quarter of 2016, our exports were $1.2 billion higher than they were during the same period last year. We are reaching further. We are fighting protectionism as we did successfully with COOL, something again not achieved under his watch. We are opening up new markets with CETA, whose legal scrub has now been completed. That agreement will be signed this year, and not done under his—
46. Hélène Laverdière - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0932878
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Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Foreign Affairs said that he would cancel the export permits of military equipment to Saudi Arabia if there were new revelations of human rights abuses. But yesterday, the Prime Minister basically said there will be no cancellations. This is about human rights. This is about Canada's international commitments. The question is simple: Who should Canadians believe?
47. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.092992
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Mr. Speaker, this is indeed an historic opportunity for all of us to go out of our way to engage those Canadians who do not traditionally engage in the democratic process.We are committed to creating a new electoral system that produces a Parliament that Canadians can be confident in, one that ensures their voices are heard and represented in this House. We all share this ideal in this House. I look forward to the contributions of all members towards that end.
48. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0893351
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Mr. Speaker, an independent and constructive media is critical to the success and the health of our democracy. However, this particular reform process is about engaging those who do not have a platform to share their thoughts, their needs, and their aspirations, including young people, indigenous persons, women, those with disabilities and exceptionalities, new Canadians, those living in rural and remote regions of our country, and those of more humble socio-economic background. That is the inclusive approach that Canadians expect from us. That is what we will deliver.
49. Yvonne Jones - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0867693
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member and all my colleagues in the House of Commons for their support toward this issue.It has been a long-awaited move of reconciliation with residential school survivors in Newfoundland and Labrador. We are very pleased that this week the Government of Canada and the survivors of five Newfoundland and Labrador residential schools reached an agreement in the settlement of a class action suit.We are committed to moving past this sad and terrible chapter in our history, advancing—
50. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0862776
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Mr. Speaker, while the premise of the argument that my honourable colleague brings forward is false, I will go on to bring this forward. Yesterday, the first day that we brought forward the conversation on electoral reform, the hashtag, #electoral reform, on Twitter alone, garnered nearly 12 million impressions in one day.This is the 21st century way, and we will ensure that all voices who do not traditionally engage are included in this conversation.
51. Catherine McKenna - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0844316
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Mr. Speaker, Parks Canada places belong to all Canadians.We are committed to the ecological integrity of our national parks. We are also committed to making investments that ensure that Canadians have the opportunity to enjoy our parks. This investment in Jasper National Park follows this principle. We are very excited that in 2017 we are providing all Canadians free access to national parks, national heritage sites, and national marine conservation areas. I encourage everyone to come on out.
52. Chris Warkentin - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0833166
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Mr. Speaker, that is exactly the question. It was not only the minister who thought that it was the chief of staff's experience that qualified her for the job, it was her understanding as well. As a matter of fact, she said, “My background through my family’s business is pretty relevant to (the portfolio) so I think that’s part of how I got the job”.I would ask this of the minister. Why is she still on the payroll if the qualifications that made her qualified for the job are the things that she cannot speak about?
53. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0795226
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Mr. Speaker, they should believe the Government of Canada and the Prime Minister. This is not a party that switches views after the election, after committing to everything before the election. The Prime Minister asked me to make sure that the power that the Minister of Foreign Affairs has to block the export permits, if equipment is built in Canada but is wrongly used regarding human rights or national interests of Canada and its allies, is used with a lot of rigour and transparency, which is what I will do.
54. Scott Simms - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0731526
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Mr. Speaker, the legacy of residential schools has indeed left a stain on Canadian history.It was indeed a great moment when we achieved the residential school settlement in 2008. However, survivors of residential schools in Newfoundland and Labrador were left out.My question is for the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, who is also the MP for Labrador. Can she inform this House what the government is doing toward reconciliation and healing for the survivors in Newfoundland and Labrador?
55. Scott Reid - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0721565
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Mr. Speaker, today's National Post says the government's committee process is no mandate for electoral reform. The Toronto Star's headline is “Let the people vote..”. The media agree that there should be a referendum to approve any change to the voting system, and the people also agree. Polls say that two-thirds believe there should be a referendum. Why does the Prime Minister not agree with Canadians? Why does he refuse to hold a referendum?
56. Rhéal Fortin - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0716826
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Mr. Speaker, if the government wants to fiddle with democratic processes, then tradition, decency, and common sense dictate that it should attempt to build the broadest consensus possible.The government got 39% of the votes in the election, but it hogged 60% of the voting rights in the committee that is supposed to improve representation. If it wants to improve democracy, it should start by looking at its own ways of doing things. Does the Prime Minister want to reform democracy, or does he want to take control of it?
57. Blake Richards - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.070882
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Mr. Speaker, it is time to remind Canadians that they are in charge. That is what the Minister of Democratic Institutions claimed yesterday, but their actions do not match their words. All decisions about electoral reform will be made by six Liberals who form the majority on the committee, and the minister also stated that the ultimate decision on what system is proposed will be made by cabinet, not by Canadians. How can the Liberals claim that Canadians are in charge when the Prime Minister will not even trust them with an opportunity for a referendum?
58. Dominic LeBlanc - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0695301
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Mr. Speaker, this afternoon, we will continue with the Conservative opposition day. Tomorrow will be a further allotted day. Monday, we will begin report stage and third reading stage of Bill C-10 concerning Air Canada until 2 p.m. After question period, we will move on to Bill C-14 concerning medical assistance in dying. I have had productive and optimistic discussions with my colleague House leaders. I am hopeful and optimistic that we will have an agreement on the handling of the debate at report stage and third reading of Bill C-14 next week.Provided we are able to complete debate on Bill C-14 next Wednesday, the House will debate an NDP opposition motion on Thursday. Finally, pursuant to Standing Order 81(4), I would like to designate Monday, May 16, for consideration in a committee of the whole of the main estimates for the Department of National Defence.
59. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.068569
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Mr. Speaker, I would like to remind all members of this House that no changes or reforms have yet been presented to this House.Yesterday, we announced the first step towards hearing from Canadians about how to bring their democracy into the 21st century. We have begun the first step, and that includes listening to Canadians across 338 ridings and making a thoughtful and evidence-based decision that way.
60. Jacques Gourde - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0683472
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Mr. Speaker, the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner was very clear in her ruling on the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food's chief of staff. She must recuse herself from discussions on any files related to eggs. This affects important files on supply management and the trans-Pacific partnership. Why does the minister want to keep his chief of staff when her hands are tied by her private interests?
61. Dominic LeBlanc - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0679675
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Mr. Speaker, my colleague knows very well that all of the expenses associated with all of these international trips are disclosed proactively every quarter. He is aware of that. What he also knows is that this was a historic visit to our most important trading partner. This was a visit where important agreements were signed for things as important to Canadians and Canadian businesses as pre-clearance, agreements on energy, and discussions around how we can grow the most comprehensive and expansive trading relationship in the world. Every dollar spent on that trip was worth it for Canadians.
62. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0678976
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Mr. Speaker, I share, I hope with all members of the House, a great deal of respect for the work of committees in this place. This committee will be shaped by an important set of broad-based principles that include pursuing an effective and legitimate voting system which more accurately reflects Canadians' electoral wishes, a system that better engages all Canadians, one that fosters civility, consensus building, cohesion, an accessible system, one with integrity, and one that enhances the connection between representatives and their constituents.
63. Rodger Cuzner - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.06711
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Mr. Speaker, certainly this government has shown leadership. It stepped up decisively and quickly to respond to that sharp, sustained, sudden shock to the unemployment rate in those 12 regions. With respect to the most recent numbers we have received from StatsCan that have been impacted by the commodity downturn but also the fires in Fort McMurray, we are analyzing those. The minister is looking at them with her staff and will be responding appropriately.
64. Bev Shipley - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0661629
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Mr. Speaker, the issue is not Ms. McFall's knowledge of the industry. It is the fact that she practically owns the industry. She claimed, as my colleague quoted, “my family’s business is pretty relevant to (the portfolio) so I think that’s part of how I got the job”.She got the job because of her family and her company, and apparently the minister, in all due respect, did not see the conflict. However, I have to ask this of the minister. Why hire a chief of staff who has such a direct conflict of interest?
65. Marc Garneau - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0658628
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Mr. Speaker, we are obviously very proud of the 40 Liberal members representing Quebec.Of course, our thoughts are with the people of Lac-Mégantic who are recovering from the terrible tragedy that occurred in July of 2013. I can assure them that we are on their side. I was there just two weeks ago.We have conducted over 100 inspections in the Lac-Mégantic region since 2013. We allocated funding for rail safety in the budget. We have looked at phase one of the rail bypass and we are examining it carefully. We are very much looking forward—
66. Bernard Généreux - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0652612
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Mr. Speaker, times are tough for the forestry industry. Major issues, such as job losses and the renewal of the softwood lumber agreement between Canada and the U.S., are creating uncertainty in this industry, which accounts for least $20 billion of Canada's economy.All regions of Quebec and Canada would be affected if the agreement were not renewed, especially my region of the Lower St. Lawrence.Why is the minister taking so long to finalize an agreement that is so important to our country and to all regions in Quebec?
67. Andrew Scheer - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0637187
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Mr. Speaker, I wonder if the government House leader could give the House an update as to what we will be debating for the rest of this week and for next week as well.
68. Scott Brison - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0636438
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Ottawa South for his leadership on this issue.Today, we are delivering on our commitment to end the partisan use of government advertising. We are introducing third-party oversight of government ads, with a new definition of non-partisan communications: no more ads for government programs not yet approved by Parliament or within 90 days of a set election date.We will work with Parliament, the Auditor General, and stakeholders to entrench third-party oversight legislation and ensure that partisan government advertising is a thing of the past.
69. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0575396
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Mr. Speaker, I came to this process with an open mind, and I certainly understand the challenges that women face in politics. While I congratulate my hon. colleague for his contribution to this important dialogue, this specific initiative is not the best way forward. As we look to evolve our democratic institutions, we we will seek ways to encourage the inclusion of women, persons of other genders, and all individuals who are currently under-represented to be represented in politics. This will be a free vote.
70. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0564823
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Mr. Speaker, we were very clear during the election that we support trade. We were also very clear that the TPP, which was negotiated in secret during the campaign, required broad national consultation. We promised that, and we are keeping our promise.The trade committee, this week, is travelling the country to listen to Canadians. It is in Windsor today. It will be in Toronto tomorrow. It was in Montreal and Quebec City earlier this week.I would also like to remind the hon. member that none of the 12 TPP countries has yet ratified this agreement and that we all have two years for an open, productive debate.
71. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0522588
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Mr. Speaker, we need to ensure that the tools we use to hear from Canadians are in line with the 21st century's needs and the possibilities to make sure that all Canadians across this great nation are included in this important conversation.
72. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0482244
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Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate my hon. colleague across the way cannot focus on agricultural issues, but I can assure him we can. I can assure my hon. colleagues in the House that my chief of staff has completed all of the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will be abiding by all guidelines set forward.
73. Luc Thériault - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0453953
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Mr. Speaker, from the debate that has taken place in the House, I am certain that all democratic members will agree to amend the government's Motion No. 5 concerning the creation of a special committee on election reform, in order to include, exceptionally, one Bloc Québécois member and the member of the Green Party as voting members. I therefore seek the unanimous consent of the House to amend the government's Motion No. 5 as follows: “That the committee be composed of 12 members of which six shall be government members, three shall be from the Official Opposition, one shall be from the New Democratic Party, one shall be from the Bloc Québécois and the—
74. Michelle Rempel - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0444673
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Mr. Speaker, in a letter to the Prime Minister, the Calgary Board of Education indicated that it has spent millions to accommodate the needs of Syrian refugee students.Many of these students have complex learning needs, including overcoming severe language barriers. Alberta is facing difficult times right now, and this school board is already running a deficit. It expects it is going to have difficulty providing ongoing support for these students.Why is the government offloading costs for its Syrian refugee initiative onto local school boards?
75. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0412583
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Mr. Speaker, we are committed to hearing from all Canadians in all 338 ridings across this great nation. We are relying upon a collaborative approach among every single member of the House to ensure that the voices of those constituents in their ridings who do not normally get heard, who do not normally have a platform, are included and recognized in this important dialogue prior to arriving at a final conclusion.
76. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0411104
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Mr. Speaker, our motivation with this whole process is to ensure that—
77. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0407802
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Mr. Speaker, we took the leadership to ensure that non-recognized parties would be at the table.Under our proposal, members of the Bloc Québécois and the Green Party would be able to participate in developing the witness lists, question witnesses, travel with the committee for hearings across the country, and have the opportunity to provide their input into the final report.The committee cannot do this work alone. It will require collaboration from all members of this House. I look forward to the contributions of every single member and every single party represented in this House.
78. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0407511
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Mr. Speaker, I believe all members in the House share an ideal and a goal to enhance our democratic institutions for us and for future generations.Although the Bloc Québécois and the Green Party do not have official party status and do not normally have a seat around committee tables, we believe it is important to have a representative from each party at the table, to call witnesses, to travel, to provide input into the briefs that we will receive. We are looking forward to their meaningful and constructive engagement in this process.
79. Steven Blaney - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0387343
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Mr. Speaker, I, for one, would like Canadians to be involved in democratic reform. Is the Minister of Democratic Institutions prepared to consult with Canadians through a referendum on democratic reform?
80. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0355166
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Mr. Speaker, our government and I understand how important the forestry industry is to Quebec and Canada.That is why I am in regular contact with my American counterpart, Michael Froman, on this issue. We are working hard to figure out how to resolve this issue. Our objective is still to maintain stable access to the U.S. market for our industry.
81. Mélanie Joly - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0354828
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Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that the hon. critic had the opportunity to remind the House that we are investing $1.9 billion in arts and culture, which are so important. In fact, such investments have not been made in 30 years.I am currently working with my colleague at the Treasury Board to ensure that these funds are directed to the organizations concerned.
82. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.032338
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However, the fact of the matter is that my chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community and has a deep commitment to agriculture. Let us not have it that if someone knows something about—
83. Jean-Yves Duclos - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0249262
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Madawaska—Restigouche for his important question and his efforts to support unemployed Canadians.Our government has begun a national consultation to improve employment insurance services. I want to thank my parliamentary secretary, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, and the member for Avignon—La Mitis—Matane—Matapédia in advance for the hard work they will be doing on behalf of Canadians in the coming weeks.The comments and suggestions we receive will help Service Canada find ways to improve its benefit services to unemployed Canadians, and I thank them in advance.
84. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0217612
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Mr. Speaker, again my hon. colleague thinks the only requirement to work for the Department of Agriculture and the Minister of Agriculture is to have no experience in agriculture. I am sorry, but we disagree with that.As I indicated quite clearly, my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will abide by all guidelines set forward. It could not be clearer.
85. Yvonne Jones - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0200078
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Mr. Speaker, we know that child and family services on reserve must be overhauled and we have started working toward that process. We are investing money into child and family services and we are doing it across the board through various departments of government.Our initiatives this year have provided $600 million and more over five years to be invested in children and families on reserve. We are going to continue to do that because we know it is necessary, because we know it is needed, and we are committed to it.
86. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0154975
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Mr. Speaker, all I can say to my hon. colleague is that my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and is willing to abide by all guidelines set forward. Also, this includes—
87. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0147743
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Mr. Speaker, again I can say that my chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community and has a good understanding of agriculture. On the issue that my hon. colleague raised, my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will be abiding by all the guidelines set forward. It could not be clearer. I am lucky to have this lady.
88. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0146218
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Mr. Speaker, democratic reform is about ensuring that all voices are heard in the House. It is about ways that we can work together to ensure that we deliver the best government and the best governance to the people who sent us here.I look forward to working with all members of the House toward that common goal.
89. Dominic LeBlanc - 2016-05-12
Toxicity : 0.0109718
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Mr. Speaker, I have had the privilege of setting the record straight on this historic trip many times.As I have said before, this is the first time since 1997 that Canada has been awarded the honour of a state dinner at the White House. During this visit, a number of government ministers met with their American counterparts and also with members of civil society and the American legislature. At the same time, we made gains for Canadians on the topics of international trade, the environment, and energy.

Most negative speeches

1. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.5
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Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate my hon. colleague across the way cannot focus on agricultural issues, but I can assure him we can. I can assure my hon. colleagues in the House that my chief of staff has completed all of the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will be abiding by all guidelines set forward.
2. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.25
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I am not really sure, Mr. Speaker, where you cut me off.
3. Yvonne Jones - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.2
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member and all my colleagues in the House of Commons for their support toward this issue.It has been a long-awaited move of reconciliation with residential school survivors in Newfoundland and Labrador. We are very pleased that this week the Government of Canada and the survivors of five Newfoundland and Labrador residential schools reached an agreement in the settlement of a class action suit.We are committed to moving past this sad and terrible chapter in our history, advancing—
4. Alexandre Boulerice - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.164286
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Mr. Speaker, no money is going there. I hope that the Liberals are doing something for culture somewhere, but the money is not going there.It is shameful, but the 40 government members from Quebec are asleep at the wheel. I have two examples. First, the Government of Quebec made a proposal regarding the Senate and was treated like garbage by the government. Second, a study has finally been completed regarding the construction of a rail bypass in Lac-Mégantic, which would help the people of that community to finally put this unspeakable tragedy behind them. However, instead of listening to them, the minister is ordering geography courses.Rather than acting like immature, pathetic pawns, will the 40 Liberal members from Quebec stand up and defend the people of Lac-Mégantic?
5. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.145
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Mr. Speaker, I can assure you that we never miss an opportunity to emphasize the importance of respecting human rights when we are in contact with the Saudi government. We never miss an opportunity, and we have had several of those opportunities. One reason why we have had several opportunities is that we have a relationship with Saudi Arabia. We will not make the mistake that the Conservatives made with Iran by cutting ties with a country.With respect to export permits, as I have said repeatedly, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has the power to cancel them if Canadian equipment is being misused.
6. Jason Kenney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.136458
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Mr. Speaker, Canadians are fair-minded people, and that is why they know it is wrong for one political party to seek to impose an electoral system on this Parliament, and our entire country, over the objections of other parties and the majority of Canadians.The Liberal governments in B.C., Ontario, and P.E.I. all understood this, which is why they held referenda on electoral reform.Why does the current Liberal government have so much less confidence in the common sense of Canadians? Why will the current Liberal government not follow the provincial precedent of a referendum on electoral reform?
7. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.133333
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Mr. Speaker, again my hon. colleague thinks the only requirement to work for the Department of Agriculture and the Minister of Agriculture is to have no experience in agriculture. I am sorry, but we disagree with that.As I indicated quite clearly, my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will abide by all guidelines set forward. It could not be clearer.
8. Scott Reid - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.131019
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Mr. Speaker, after 16 years on Parliament Hill, I can say there is no place that we are less likely to find a Canadian with exceptionality, a disabled Canadian, a minority, a disenfranchised person than at a parliamentary committee.The government has articulated two contradictory positions on changing the voting system. The Prime Minister's tiresome oft-repeated line is that the 2015 election will be the last one ever fought on first past the post. That must mean no to a referendum under any circumstances, yet his ministers say that a referendum is a legitimate option. Which of these two positions actually reflect government policy? Will there be a referendum, or will there not?
9. Michelle Rempel - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.122857
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Mr. Speaker, in a letter to the Prime Minister, the Calgary Board of Education indicated that it has spent millions to accommodate the needs of Syrian refugee students.Many of these students have complex learning needs, including overcoming severe language barriers. Alberta is facing difficult times right now, and this school board is already running a deficit. It expects it is going to have difficulty providing ongoing support for these students.Why is the government offloading costs for its Syrian refugee initiative onto local school boards?
10. Marjolaine Boutin-Sweet - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0928571
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Mr. Speaker, if the Liberals were really willing to work with the opposition, they would not be ramming bills through the House and giving themselves false majorities on a committee.How can they claim that they want to end first past the post, and then strike a committee that models itself on first past the post?We are talking about a once-in-a-generation voting reform. Will the minister reconsider her decision to give Liberals the power to unilaterally change our voting system?
11. Scott Brison - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0784091
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Ottawa South for his leadership on this issue.Today, we are delivering on our commitment to end the partisan use of government advertising. We are introducing third-party oversight of government ads, with a new definition of non-partisan communications: no more ads for government programs not yet approved by Parliament or within 90 days of a set election date.We will work with Parliament, the Auditor General, and stakeholders to entrench third-party oversight legislation and ensure that partisan government advertising is a thing of the past.
12. James Bezan - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0718855
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Mr. Speaker, today I was joined by Bill Browder, an outspoken critic of government corruption, to announce new legislation. Conservatives have tabled the Sergei Magnitsky law in both the House and the Senate. Sergei Magnitsky was wrongfully arrested, tortured, and killed in a Russian prison. Legislation and sanctions on corrupt foreign officials who violate human rights were supported by the three main parties during the last election. Will the Liberal government now stand against abusive foreign officials and support this legislation, Bill C-267?
13. Bernard Généreux - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0394841
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Mr. Speaker, times are tough for the forestry industry. Major issues, such as job losses and the renewal of the softwood lumber agreement between Canada and the U.S., are creating uncertainty in this industry, which accounts for least $20 billion of Canada's economy.All regions of Quebec and Canada would be affected if the agreement were not renewed, especially my region of the Lower St. Lawrence.Why is the minister taking so long to finalize an agreement that is so important to our country and to all regions in Quebec?
14. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.03125
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Mr. Speaker, they should believe the Government of Canada and the Prime Minister. This is not a party that switches views after the election, after committing to everything before the election. The Prime Minister asked me to make sure that the power that the Minister of Foreign Affairs has to block the export permits, if equipment is built in Canada but is wrongly used regarding human rights or national interests of Canada and its allies, is used with a lot of rigour and transparency, which is what I will do.
15. Tom Kmiec - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.025
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Mr. Speaker, repeating oneself is not the same as answering the question.When we see the Liberal majority on the committee and the government's insistence on not really consulting Canadians, then we wonder what is really going on here.It is simple. Ontario, British Columbia, and Prince Edward Island held referendums in the past, which legitimizes the process.Will the Liberals have the courage of their convictions? Will they promise today in the House to hold a referendum to change the voting system?
16. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0129167
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Mr. Speaker, we were very clear during the election that we support trade. We were also very clear that the TPP, which was negotiated in secret during the campaign, required broad national consultation. We promised that, and we are keeping our promise.The trade committee, this week, is travelling the country to listen to Canadians. It is in Windsor today. It will be in Toronto tomorrow. It was in Montreal and Quebec City earlier this week.I would also like to remind the hon. member that none of the 12 TPP countries has yet ratified this agreement and that we all have two years for an open, productive debate.
17. Hélène Laverdière - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0126623
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Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Foreign Affairs said that he would cancel the export permits of military equipment to Saudi Arabia if there were new revelations of human rights abuses. But yesterday, the Prime Minister basically said there will be no cancellations. This is about human rights. This is about Canada's international commitments. The question is simple: Who should Canadians believe?
18. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.01
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Mr. Speaker, while the premise of the argument that my honourable colleague brings forward is false, I will go on to bring this forward. Yesterday, the first day that we brought forward the conversation on electoral reform, the hashtag, #electoral reform, on Twitter alone, garnered nearly 12 million impressions in one day.This is the 21st century way, and we will ensure that all voices who do not traditionally engage are included in this conversation.
19. René Arseneault - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.00555556
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Mr. Speaker, as we all know, Canadians often head to Service Canada offices when they need to engage with our government.For quite some time now, people in Madawaska—Restigouche have been complaining about the service and the long delays they have to deal with when they are applying for essential programs, like EI. Can the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development tell us about what he is doing to reduce wait times?
20. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the hon. member's desire to hear from Canadians, but I have yet to hear from him or his colleagues on how a referendum could help us hear from those who do not traditionally engage in the democratic process, like young people, women, indigenous persons, those with disabilities and exceptionalities, and those living in remote and rural regions of this country.We need to ensure that we use—
21. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, change and much-needed reform require leadership and vision. Our government has a vision for a healthier democracy, and there is no lack of leadership on this side of the aisle.It is my hope that all members of this House will share in this leadership and help bring our electoral system into the 21st century.
22. Steven Blaney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, I, for one, would like Canadians to be involved in democratic reform. Is the Minister of Democratic Institutions prepared to consult with Canadians through a referendum on democratic reform?
23. Scott Reid - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, today's National Post says the government's committee process is no mandate for electoral reform. The Toronto Star's headline is “Let the people vote..”. The media agree that there should be a referendum to approve any change to the voting system, and the people also agree. Polls say that two-thirds believe there should be a referendum. Why does the Prime Minister not agree with Canadians? Why does he refuse to hold a referendum?
24. Blake Richards - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, it is time to remind Canadians that they are in charge. That is what the Minister of Democratic Institutions claimed yesterday, but their actions do not match their words. All decisions about electoral reform will be made by six Liberals who form the majority on the committee, and the minister also stated that the ultimate decision on what system is proposed will be made by cabinet, not by Canadians. How can the Liberals claim that Canadians are in charge when the Prime Minister will not even trust them with an opportunity for a referendum?
25. Ed Fast - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister has claimed time and again that he is a big supporter of international trade. Yet much like the NDP, every time the Liberals are asked to walk the talk, they are missing in action.The TPP is the largest trade agreement in the world. Conservatives concluded negotiations over seven months ago, yet the Prime Minister will not tell us whether he will support the agreement. Canada must be a leader, not a laggard, on trade.When will the Prime Minister finally tell Canadians whether or not he supports the TPP?
26. Andrew Scheer - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, I wonder if the government House leader could give the House an update as to what we will be debating for the rest of this week and for next week as well.
27. Blake Richards - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.01
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Mr. Speaker, the Liberals are once again flip-flopping so much that they cannot even keep the same talking points together for a whole press conference. On the one hand, the Liberal House leader stated that all options are possible when asked if maintaining the current system was on the table. But then, a mere minute later, he stated that 2015 was the last first-past-the-post election. Flip flop. Maybe they can make it clear on one thing. Will the Liberals commit to giving each and every Canadian a direct say through a referendum?
28. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0216667
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Mr. Speaker, our government and I understand how important the forestry industry is to Quebec and Canada.That is why I am in regular contact with my American counterpart, Michael Froman, on this issue. We are working hard to figure out how to resolve this issue. Our objective is still to maintain stable access to the U.S. market for our industry.
29. Steven Blaney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0297619
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Mr. Speaker, this is the ultimate irony. The Liberals have made a complete mess of this.We have gone from sunny ways to a democratic black hole. First of all, the Liberals give themselves absolute power by stacking the committee. Then they change the rules of democracy by ignoring and thumbing their noses at Canadians. We have seen a Liberal-style benevolent dictatorship. Now we are faced with a selective “consultocracy”.Is the minister trying to engage in some sort of political sleight-of-hand in order to lead Canadians astray?
30. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0314286
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Mr. Speaker, we took the leadership to ensure that non-recognized parties would be at the table.Under our proposal, members of the Bloc Québécois and the Green Party would be able to participate in developing the witness lists, question witnesses, travel with the committee for hearings across the country, and have the opportunity to provide their input into the final report.The committee cannot do this work alone. It will require collaboration from all members of this House. I look forward to the contributions of every single member and every single party represented in this House.
31. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0395833
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Mr. Speaker, I would like to start by reminding the hon. member that it was his government that left Canadians without a softwood lumber agreement. The previous agreement expired on his government's watch.We are very aware of the importance of this issue. We have focused on it from day one. We raised this issue during our state dinner at the White House. We raised it at the highest levels.I am working closely with the U.S. TR and with the industry. We will get this done.
32. Marc Garneau - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.04
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Mr. Speaker, we are obviously very proud of the 40 Liberal members representing Quebec.Of course, our thoughts are with the people of Lac-Mégantic who are recovering from the terrible tragedy that occurred in July of 2013. I can assure them that we are on their side. I was there just two weeks ago.We have conducted over 100 inspections in the Lac-Mégantic region since 2013. We allocated funding for rail safety in the budget. We have looked at phase one of the rail bypass and we are examining it carefully. We are very much looking forward—
33. Jean-Yves Duclos - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0541667
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Madawaska—Restigouche for his important question and his efforts to support unemployed Canadians.Our government has begun a national consultation to improve employment insurance services. I want to thank my parliamentary secretary, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, and the member for Avignon—La Mitis—Matane—Matapédia in advance for the hard work they will be doing on behalf of Canadians in the coming weeks.The comments and suggestions we receive will help Service Canada find ways to improve its benefit services to unemployed Canadians, and I thank them in advance.
34. Gérard Deltell - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0583333
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Mr. Speaker, will the government tell us how much that trip cost taxpayers?From the beginning, the Liberals have been saying that it cost $25,000 for 44 people. However, yesterday, TVA was clear: it cost $13,000 for five people. What did you do with the other 39 people? Did you stash them in your suitcases so that the trip would be cheaper?Your story does not make any sense and you know it.Will the—
35. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.065625
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Mr. Speaker, on the one hand, members' opposite ridicule the idea of listening to Canadians and on the other hand, they criticize us for not listening to Canadians. Let me make this clear. The first point of contact for all of us will be hearing from those Canadians who do not normally engage in the democratic process, those who have often been marginalized. A healthy democracy is one that includes their voices.The final decision will be made by members of the House as well as those in the other place.
36. Wayne Stetski - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0666667
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Mr. Speaker, budget 2016 included $65.9 million for a so-called world-class biking and walking trail through Jasper National Park.This came out of nowhere, and yet the Liberal government refuses to give any details. The minister has not consulted the public or stakeholders, in spite of Liberal election promises that it would be open and transparent.A project of this scale needs a robust public environmental assessment process prior to any decision being made. Why is the government following the Conservatives' lead, ignoring transparency, and putting the ecological integrity of a treasured national park at risk?
37. Niki Ashton - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0727273
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Mr. Speaker, the government's inadequate changes to EI left 800,000 Canadians behind, and many regions were left out of extended benefits, despite rising unemployment. Today, we find out from internal documents that workers in Edmonton, southern Saskatchewan, and the B.C. interior could apply. This is a positive step. However, the government is still leaving so many Canadians out in the cold. This is about justice. It is about making sure that Canadians can access the EI fund that belongs to them. Will the government step up and show leadership to fix EI for Canadian workers?
38. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.08
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Mr. Speaker, we have arrived in this place after the longest federal election in modern Canadian history, during which we were rather clear about our intention to reform our electoral system. Allow me to be clear for hon. members: 2015 was the last federal election conducted under the first-past-the-post system. It is time for a 21st century model of electing individuals to the House. That is what we promised. That is what we will deliver upon.
39. Tom Kmiec - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0833333
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Mr. Speaker, yesterday we learned about the Liberals' plan to change our democracy.What was the first move by the Liberals? They are going to set up a committee with a majority of Liberal members. When you want to change the rules of democracy, the only majority that counts is the majority of Canadians.Why not simply commit to consulting all Canadians through a referendum?
40. David McGuinty - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0866667
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Mr. Speaker, partisan advertising has no place in government. Canadian taxpayers should not be footing the bill for government ads that advance the political interests of any party in power. They should be able to trust that government advertising is legitimate, purposeful, and informative.When I was in opposition, I tabled a bill to put an end to partisan government advertising. It was opposed by the previous Conservative government.Would this government, our government, inform the House what action it is taking to end partisan government advertising and enhance public trust?
41. Dominic LeBlanc - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0878788
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Mr. Speaker, this afternoon, we will continue with the Conservative opposition day. Tomorrow will be a further allotted day. Monday, we will begin report stage and third reading stage of Bill C-10 concerning Air Canada until 2 p.m. After question period, we will move on to Bill C-14 concerning medical assistance in dying. I have had productive and optimistic discussions with my colleague House leaders. I am hopeful and optimistic that we will have an agreement on the handling of the debate at report stage and third reading of Bill C-14 next week.Provided we are able to complete debate on Bill C-14 next Wednesday, the House will debate an NDP opposition motion on Thursday. Finally, pursuant to Standing Order 81(4), I would like to designate Monday, May 16, for consideration in a committee of the whole of the main estimates for the Department of National Defence.
42. Chris Warkentin - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.1
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Mr. Speaker, yesterday the Minister of Agriculture defended his chief of staff, saying that he wanted somebody with agricultural experience. Now his chief of staff has a very specific experience, that of owning a multi-million dollar egg empire.However, that is the very experience that the Conflict of Interest Commissioner has specifically forbidden her from speaking about. If she cannot talk about the explicit experience that the minister said qualified her for the job, why is she still on the payroll?
43. Dominic LeBlanc - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.105556
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Mr. Speaker, I have had the privilege of setting the record straight on this historic trip many times.As I have said before, this is the first time since 1997 that Canada has been awarded the honour of a state dinner at the White House. During this visit, a number of government ministers met with their American counterparts and also with members of civil society and the American legislature. At the same time, we made gains for Canadians on the topics of international trade, the environment, and energy.
44. Bev Shipley - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.1125
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Mr. Speaker, the issue is not Ms. McFall's knowledge of the industry. It is the fact that she practically owns the industry. She claimed, as my colleague quoted, “my family’s business is pretty relevant to (the portfolio) so I think that’s part of how I got the job”.She got the job because of her family and her company, and apparently the minister, in all due respect, did not see the conflict. However, I have to ask this of the minister. Why hire a chief of staff who has such a direct conflict of interest?
45. Georgina Jolibois - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.115625
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Mr. Speaker, it has been almost four months since the shooting in La Loche and the Liberals are still not providing mental health care workers in my riding and many other communities. The government's budget allocated zero additional dollars for mental health care despite the urgent need. What about La Loche? What about Cross Lake? Will the government finally ensure that all first nations communities are able to access the support they need and deserve?
46. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.118457
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Mr. Speaker, an independent and constructive media is critical to the success and the health of our democracy. However, this particular reform process is about engaging those who do not have a platform to share their thoughts, their needs, and their aspirations, including young people, indigenous persons, women, those with disabilities and exceptionalities, new Canadians, those living in rural and remote regions of our country, and those of more humble socio-economic background. That is the inclusive approach that Canadians expect from us. That is what we will deliver.
47. Jason Kenney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.125
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Mr. Speaker, apparently the minister wants decisions to be made by Twitter. We want decisions to be made by the people.Parliament does not belong to politicians. Parliament does not belong to the Liberal Party. Parliament belongs to the Canadian people. Why is the government not allowing Canadians to make this decision instead of politicians?
48. Charlie Angus - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.127273
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Mr. Speaker, Health Canada officials have confirmed that no money was set aside to implement Jordan's principle. This flies in the face of two rulings by the Human Rights Tribunal that ordered immediate action to end the systemic discrimination against indigenous children. The government ignored the ruling with its budget and now it has ignored the deadline with the new estimates, so there is no money to close the funding gap for child welfare and zero for Jordan's principle.What part of the word “immediate” does the government not understand? With $30 billion in extra spending, could it not find a dime to help children who are still being denied their rights?
49. Jacques Gourde - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.1325
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Mr. Speaker, the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner was very clear in her ruling on the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food's chief of staff. She must recuse herself from discussions on any files related to eggs. This affects important files on supply management and the trans-Pacific partnership. Why does the minister want to keep his chief of staff when her hands are tied by her private interests?
50. Jason Kenney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.136859
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Mr. Speaker, their excuses for trying to rig the system are getting more and more ridiculous and transparent with that answer.The minister is talking about a fake consultation process that interest groups will be involved in, maybe a few thousand people. We want the ultimate consultation that allows ten of millions of Canadians to decide how they elect their representatives.Why is the current Liberal government so determined to be the first government of a major democracy to change the electoral system without a direct popular mandate expressed in a referendum?
51. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.139796
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Mr. Speaker, we are committed to hearing from all Canadians in all 338 ridings across this great nation. We are relying upon a collaborative approach among every single member of the House to ensure that the voices of those constituents in their ridings who do not normally get heard, who do not normally have a platform, are included and recognized in this important dialogue prior to arriving at a final conclusion.
52. Blaine Calkins - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.152778
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Mr. Speaker, last week we learned the Prime Minister took 44 hand-picked people to Washington for the state dinner. The Liberals claim it had a total cost of $25,000, but no one believes this cost to be true. We know this because it cost $13,000 for three ministers and two staff alone. Therefore, will the Liberals finally come clean and tell taxpayers how much it cost for their five-star Washington vacation?
53. Jane Philpott - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.155
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Mr. Speaker, all Canadians, indigenous or otherwise, need to have access to the mental health care that is necessary and this is a responsibility of all of us.In terms of indigenous communities, I am pleased to inform the member that I am in conversations with my officials and the first nations and Inuit health branch on a daily basis about how we could increase access to mental health services in communities like La Loche and Cross Lake. We are working toward a plan to be able to enhance those services and I will be pleased to report our progress at a further date.
54. Ed Fast - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.16
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Mr. Speaker, as the globe-trotting trade minister embarrassed herself on American late night talk shows at taxpayer expense, Canada's trade performance was floundering. In March, exports plummeted by almost 5% and Canada suffered a record-setting $3.4-billion trade deficit. With that kind of performance, Canadians would be better off if the minister simply stayed at home.There is, however, one thing she can do to improve Canada's trade performance and that is to support the largest trade agreement in the world.Will the Liberals now support the TPP?
55. Luc Thériault - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.164286
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Mr. Speaker, Saudi Arabia uses its armoured vehicles against the country's political dissidents, but according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, that is okay because the images we have seen do not show Canadian armoured vehicles. I suppose the Canadian armoured vehicles are used to drive children to school. Yesterday, the Prime Minister justified the sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia by saying that he wanted to protect Canada's business reputation. How many human rights is the Minister of Foreign Affairs prepared to disregard to preserve Canada's business reputation?
56. Yvonne Jones - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.166667
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Mr. Speaker, we know that child and family services on reserve must be overhauled and we have started working toward that process. We are investing money into child and family services and we are doing it across the board through various departments of government.Our initiatives this year have provided $600 million and more over five years to be invested in children and families on reserve. We are going to continue to do that because we know it is necessary, because we know it is needed, and we are committed to it.
57. Hélène Laverdière - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.167766
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Mr. Speaker, the Liberal government's messaging around selling weapons to Saudi Arabia is really disturbing.We have a video that clearly shows the kind of armoured vehicle we are going to sell to Saudi Arabia being used as we speak to crush the civilian population. The minister said that we are not selling those particular armoured vehicles and that we have not yet sold any to Saudi Arabia. That is not very convincing. He also said that there was an element of risk in the contract, but that it was a calculated risk.Can the minister tell us how many dead civilians it will take for him to recalculate? What number would that be?
58. Rhéal Fortin - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.175
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Mr. Speaker, if the government wants to fiddle with democratic processes, then tradition, decency, and common sense dictate that it should attempt to build the broadest consensus possible.The government got 39% of the votes in the election, but it hogged 60% of the voting rights in the committee that is supposed to improve representation. If it wants to improve democracy, it should start by looking at its own ways of doing things. Does the Prime Minister want to reform democracy, or does he want to take control of it?
59. Todd Doherty - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.182702
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Mr. Speaker, talk about power going to somebody's head. Witness after witness at the trade committee last week agreed that the upcoming presidential election poses a threat to our new softwood lumber agreement. We do not have an agreement, and it is creating all kinds of uncertainty. Canadian job creators need certainty in order to run their businesses successfully. Tick, tick, tick; why are the Liberals standing by and doing nothing on softwood lumber while the clock ticks down?
60. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.1875
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Mr. Speaker, the party that is being consistent on this issue is the Liberal Party.The NDP promised to uphold the contract to win seats, but now that it has those seats, it wants to tell the families that depend on the contract they will lose their jobs because it will not sign the export permit for these Canadian vehicles. The issue here is the export permit for a made-in-Canada vehicle, and we have no evidence that it has been wrongly used even though Canada has been selling it since 1993.
61. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.189394
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Mr. Speaker, listening to Canadians is at the heart of a healthy democracy.We are committed to ensuring that young people, new Canadians, indigenous persons, those with disabilities and exceptionalities, seniors, and those living in the rural and remote regions of our country, have a meaningful opportunity to engage in this process.
62. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.2
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Mr. Speaker, our motivation with this whole process is to ensure that—
63. Kennedy Stewart - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.2
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Mr. Speaker, earlier this week, I asked the Minister of Democratic Institutions if she supports the candidate gender equity act. She stated that the Liberals “will study it on its merits when it is debated in the House”. However, yesterday CTV acquired a leaked memo from the minister's office that confirmed that the Liberals were already planning to oppose the bill when she made this statement. Will the minister explain to Canadians why she did not give them a straight answer on Tuesday, and why she is forcing Liberal MPs to oppose a bill aimed at bringing gender equality to the House of Commons?
64. Rodger Cuzner - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.203231
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Mr. Speaker, certainly this government has shown leadership. It stepped up decisively and quickly to respond to that sharp, sustained, sudden shock to the unemployment rate in those 12 regions. With respect to the most recent numbers we have received from StatsCan that have been impacted by the commodity downturn but also the fires in Fort McMurray, we are analyzing those. The minister is looking at them with her staff and will be responding appropriately.
65. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.215152
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Mr. Speaker, I would like to remind the hon. member that, in fact, in the first quarter of 2016, our exports were $1.2 billion higher than they were during the same period last year. We are reaching further. We are fighting protectionism as we did successfully with COOL, something again not achieved under his watch. We are opening up new markets with CETA, whose legal scrub has now been completed. That agreement will be signed this year, and not done under his—
66. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.225
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Mr. Speaker, I would like to remind all members of this House that no changes or reforms have yet been presented to this House.Yesterday, we announced the first step towards hearing from Canadians about how to bring their democracy into the 21st century. We have begun the first step, and that includes listening to Canadians across 338 ridings and making a thoughtful and evidence-based decision that way.
67. Chris Warkentin - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.225
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Mr. Speaker, that is exactly the question. It was not only the minister who thought that it was the chief of staff's experience that qualified her for the job, it was her understanding as well. As a matter of fact, she said, “My background through my family’s business is pretty relevant to (the portfolio) so I think that’s part of how I got the job”.I would ask this of the minister. Why is she still on the payroll if the qualifications that made her qualified for the job are the things that she cannot speak about?
68. Mélanie Joly - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.225
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Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that the hon. critic had the opportunity to remind the House that we are investing $1.9 billion in arts and culture, which are so important. In fact, such investments have not been made in 30 years.I am currently working with my colleague at the Treasury Board to ensure that these funds are directed to the organizations concerned.
69. Gérard Deltell - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.225
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Mr. Speaker, in your case, when you travel, you properly assume your responsibilities.Can the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons set the record straight for Canadians? How many people were there and how much did it cost? When they say that it cost $25,000, they are taking Canadians for fools.
70. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.226607
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Mr. Speaker, my colleague is completely right to say that what happened to Mr. Magnitsky is simply horrible.I note that we are able to stop the perpetrators of this crime with the current Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, because it is checking eligibility at the border. We have this capacity.The committee will have to review, very carefully, the Special Economic Measures Act to address this kind of problem.
71. Luc Thériault - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.234892
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Mr. Speaker, from the debate that has taken place in the House, I am certain that all democratic members will agree to amend the government's Motion No. 5 concerning the creation of a special committee on election reform, in order to include, exceptionally, one Bloc Québécois member and the member of the Green Party as voting members. I therefore seek the unanimous consent of the House to amend the government's Motion No. 5 as follows: “That the committee be composed of 12 members of which six shall be government members, three shall be from the Official Opposition, one shall be from the New Democratic Party, one shall be from the Bloc Québécois and the—
72. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.236161
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Mr. Speaker, I came to this process with an open mind, and I certainly understand the challenges that women face in politics. While I congratulate my hon. colleague for his contribution to this important dialogue, this specific initiative is not the best way forward. As we look to evolve our democratic institutions, we we will seek ways to encourage the inclusion of women, persons of other genders, and all individuals who are currently under-represented to be represented in politics. This will be a free vote.
73. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.25
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Mr. Speaker, all I can say to my hon. colleague is that my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and is willing to abide by all guidelines set forward. Also, this includes—
74. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.25
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However, the fact of the matter is that my chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community and has a deep commitment to agriculture. Let us not have it that if someone knows something about—
75. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.254167
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Mr. Speaker, I believe all members in the House share an ideal and a goal to enhance our democratic institutions for us and for future generations.Although the Bloc Québécois and the Green Party do not have official party status and do not normally have a seat around committee tables, we believe it is important to have a representative from each party at the table, to call witnesses, to travel, to provide input into the briefs that we will receive. We are looking forward to their meaningful and constructive engagement in this process.
76. Marjolaine Boutin-Sweet - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.258929
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Mr. Speaker, this makes absolutely no sense.The Liberals say they want to make our system more democratic, and yet they give themselves a majority on the committee. They want to include the Green Party and the Bloc Québécois, but they do not give those parties the right to vote.How can Canadians be sure that the process is not rigged from the start? Clearly, this reform is not off to a good start.Will the government admit its mistake and give all parties the right to vote in committee?
77. Dominic LeBlanc - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.259091
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Mr. Speaker, my colleague knows very well that all of the expenses associated with all of these international trips are disclosed proactively every quarter. He is aware of that. What he also knows is that this was a historic visit to our most important trading partner. This was a visit where important agreements were signed for things as important to Canadians and Canadian businesses as pre-clearance, agreements on energy, and discussions around how we can grow the most comprehensive and expansive trading relationship in the world. Every dollar spent on that trip was worth it for Canadians.
78. Scott Simms - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.266667
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Mr. Speaker, the legacy of residential schools has indeed left a stain on Canadian history.It was indeed a great moment when we achieved the residential school settlement in 2008. However, survivors of residential schools in Newfoundland and Labrador were left out.My question is for the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, who is also the MP for Labrador. Can she inform this House what the government is doing toward reconciliation and healing for the survivors in Newfoundland and Labrador?
79. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.305208
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Mr. Speaker, we are absolutely seized of the issue of softwood lumber. I am working very hard on this issue with my officials, with our ambassador to the United States, and with the industry.I would urge the hon. member to have a coffee with the member for Abbotsford, who will point out that there is no connection between the softwood lumber agreement and the TPP.I also want to say that we are negotiating for a good deal, but not just any deal. We will get a good deal for Canadian producers.
80. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.307273
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Mr. Speaker, this is indeed an historic opportunity for all of us to go out of our way to engage those Canadians who do not traditionally engage in the democratic process.We are committed to creating a new electoral system that produces a Parliament that Canadians can be confident in, one that ensures their voices are heard and represented in this House. We all share this ideal in this House. I look forward to the contributions of all members towards that end.
81. Pierre Nantel - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.347619
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Mr. Speaker, clearly, the honeymoon is quickly drawing to a close.Earlier this week, the Minister of Canadian Heritage proudly reminded members of her investments in the cultural sector. In fact, this year's budget allocates more than $78 million to the NFB, Telefilm Canada, Radio-Canada, and the CBC.Well, surprise, surprise. People can applaud all they want, but the money is no longer in the budget. There is no money. Was the Minister of Canadian Heritage taken for a ride by the Treasury Board? What magic words will she use to explain to cultural groups that they will have to go on waiting?
82. John McCallum - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.378571
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Mr. Speaker, I would question the premise of that question, but we will certainly look into it.On the whole, we have had great success working with provincial governments on the refugees. I can tell the hon. member that, as of today, 98% of the refugees are in permanent housing, and I think I am about to run out of time.
83. Steven Blaney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.4
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Mr. Speaker, when the Liberals have a problem, their solution is to form a committee. Problems with Canada Post? Form a committee. Problems with defence? Form a committee. Problems with free trade? Form a committee.
84. Todd Doherty - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.4
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Mr. Speaker, it was the Conservative government that put an end to the longest and most costly trade disagreement in history with the softwood lumber agreement.The United States is Canada's largest market for softwood lumber. There are hundreds of thousands of jobs on the line, yet the Liberals would rather spend the time coming up with ways to stall the trans-Pacific partnership, because they are incapable of making good business decisions that are in the interests of Canadian jobs.Will the Minister of International Trade stand up and commit to bringing home a signed agreement before November?
85. Catherine McKenna - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.421875
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Mr. Speaker, Parks Canada places belong to all Canadians.We are committed to the ecological integrity of our national parks. We are also committed to making investments that ensure that Canadians have the opportunity to enjoy our parks. This investment in Jasper National Park follows this principle. We are very excited that in 2017 we are providing all Canadians free access to national parks, national heritage sites, and national marine conservation areas. I encourage everyone to come on out.
86. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.425
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, we need to ensure that the tools we use to hear from Canadians are in line with the 21st century's needs and the possibilities to make sure that all Canadians across this great nation are included in this important conversation.
87. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.510714
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Mr. Speaker, I share, I hope with all members of the House, a great deal of respect for the work of committees in this place. This committee will be shaped by an important set of broad-based principles that include pursuing an effective and legitimate voting system which more accurately reflects Canadians' electoral wishes, a system that better engages all Canadians, one that fosters civility, consensus building, cohesion, an accessible system, one with integrity, and one that enhances the connection between representatives and their constituents.
88. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.511111
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Mr. Speaker, again I can say that my chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community and has a good understanding of agriculture. On the issue that my hon. colleague raised, my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will be abiding by all the guidelines set forward. It could not be clearer. I am lucky to have this lady.
89. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.566667
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, democratic reform is about ensuring that all voices are heard in the House. It is about ways that we can work together to ensure that we deliver the best government and the best governance to the people who sent us here.I look forward to working with all members of the House toward that common goal.

Most positive speeches

1. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.566667
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, democratic reform is about ensuring that all voices are heard in the House. It is about ways that we can work together to ensure that we deliver the best government and the best governance to the people who sent us here.I look forward to working with all members of the House toward that common goal.
2. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.511111
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, again I can say that my chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community and has a good understanding of agriculture. On the issue that my hon. colleague raised, my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will be abiding by all the guidelines set forward. It could not be clearer. I am lucky to have this lady.
3. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.510714
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, I share, I hope with all members of the House, a great deal of respect for the work of committees in this place. This committee will be shaped by an important set of broad-based principles that include pursuing an effective and legitimate voting system which more accurately reflects Canadians' electoral wishes, a system that better engages all Canadians, one that fosters civility, consensus building, cohesion, an accessible system, one with integrity, and one that enhances the connection between representatives and their constituents.
4. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.425
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, we need to ensure that the tools we use to hear from Canadians are in line with the 21st century's needs and the possibilities to make sure that all Canadians across this great nation are included in this important conversation.
5. Catherine McKenna - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.421875
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, Parks Canada places belong to all Canadians.We are committed to the ecological integrity of our national parks. We are also committed to making investments that ensure that Canadians have the opportunity to enjoy our parks. This investment in Jasper National Park follows this principle. We are very excited that in 2017 we are providing all Canadians free access to national parks, national heritage sites, and national marine conservation areas. I encourage everyone to come on out.
6. Steven Blaney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.4
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, when the Liberals have a problem, their solution is to form a committee. Problems with Canada Post? Form a committee. Problems with defence? Form a committee. Problems with free trade? Form a committee.
7. Todd Doherty - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.4
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, it was the Conservative government that put an end to the longest and most costly trade disagreement in history with the softwood lumber agreement.The United States is Canada's largest market for softwood lumber. There are hundreds of thousands of jobs on the line, yet the Liberals would rather spend the time coming up with ways to stall the trans-Pacific partnership, because they are incapable of making good business decisions that are in the interests of Canadian jobs.Will the Minister of International Trade stand up and commit to bringing home a signed agreement before November?
8. John McCallum - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.378571
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, I would question the premise of that question, but we will certainly look into it.On the whole, we have had great success working with provincial governments on the refugees. I can tell the hon. member that, as of today, 98% of the refugees are in permanent housing, and I think I am about to run out of time.
9. Pierre Nantel - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.347619
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, clearly, the honeymoon is quickly drawing to a close.Earlier this week, the Minister of Canadian Heritage proudly reminded members of her investments in the cultural sector. In fact, this year's budget allocates more than $78 million to the NFB, Telefilm Canada, Radio-Canada, and the CBC.Well, surprise, surprise. People can applaud all they want, but the money is no longer in the budget. There is no money. Was the Minister of Canadian Heritage taken for a ride by the Treasury Board? What magic words will she use to explain to cultural groups that they will have to go on waiting?
10. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.307273
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, this is indeed an historic opportunity for all of us to go out of our way to engage those Canadians who do not traditionally engage in the democratic process.We are committed to creating a new electoral system that produces a Parliament that Canadians can be confident in, one that ensures their voices are heard and represented in this House. We all share this ideal in this House. I look forward to the contributions of all members towards that end.
11. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.305208
Responsive image
Mr. Speaker, we are absolutely seized of the issue of softwood lumber. I am working very hard on this issue with my officials, with our ambassador to the United States, and with the industry.I would urge the hon. member to have a coffee with the member for Abbotsford, who will point out that there is no connection between the softwood lumber agreement and the TPP.I also want to say that we are negotiating for a good deal, but not just any deal. We will get a good deal for Canadian producers.
12. Scott Simms - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.266667
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Mr. Speaker, the legacy of residential schools has indeed left a stain on Canadian history.It was indeed a great moment when we achieved the residential school settlement in 2008. However, survivors of residential schools in Newfoundland and Labrador were left out.My question is for the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Indigenous and Northern Affairs, who is also the MP for Labrador. Can she inform this House what the government is doing toward reconciliation and healing for the survivors in Newfoundland and Labrador?
13. Dominic LeBlanc - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.259091
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Mr. Speaker, my colleague knows very well that all of the expenses associated with all of these international trips are disclosed proactively every quarter. He is aware of that. What he also knows is that this was a historic visit to our most important trading partner. This was a visit where important agreements were signed for things as important to Canadians and Canadian businesses as pre-clearance, agreements on energy, and discussions around how we can grow the most comprehensive and expansive trading relationship in the world. Every dollar spent on that trip was worth it for Canadians.
14. Marjolaine Boutin-Sweet - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.258929
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Mr. Speaker, this makes absolutely no sense.The Liberals say they want to make our system more democratic, and yet they give themselves a majority on the committee. They want to include the Green Party and the Bloc Québécois, but they do not give those parties the right to vote.How can Canadians be sure that the process is not rigged from the start? Clearly, this reform is not off to a good start.Will the government admit its mistake and give all parties the right to vote in committee?
15. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.254167
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Mr. Speaker, I believe all members in the House share an ideal and a goal to enhance our democratic institutions for us and for future generations.Although the Bloc Québécois and the Green Party do not have official party status and do not normally have a seat around committee tables, we believe it is important to have a representative from each party at the table, to call witnesses, to travel, to provide input into the briefs that we will receive. We are looking forward to their meaningful and constructive engagement in this process.
16. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.25
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Mr. Speaker, all I can say to my hon. colleague is that my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and is willing to abide by all guidelines set forward. Also, this includes—
17. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.25
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However, the fact of the matter is that my chief of staff is an outstanding member of her community and has a deep commitment to agriculture. Let us not have it that if someone knows something about—
18. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.236161
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Mr. Speaker, I came to this process with an open mind, and I certainly understand the challenges that women face in politics. While I congratulate my hon. colleague for his contribution to this important dialogue, this specific initiative is not the best way forward. As we look to evolve our democratic institutions, we we will seek ways to encourage the inclusion of women, persons of other genders, and all individuals who are currently under-represented to be represented in politics. This will be a free vote.
19. Luc Thériault - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.234892
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Mr. Speaker, from the debate that has taken place in the House, I am certain that all democratic members will agree to amend the government's Motion No. 5 concerning the creation of a special committee on election reform, in order to include, exceptionally, one Bloc Québécois member and the member of the Green Party as voting members. I therefore seek the unanimous consent of the House to amend the government's Motion No. 5 as follows: “That the committee be composed of 12 members of which six shall be government members, three shall be from the Official Opposition, one shall be from the New Democratic Party, one shall be from the Bloc Québécois and the—
20. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.226607
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Mr. Speaker, my colleague is completely right to say that what happened to Mr. Magnitsky is simply horrible.I note that we are able to stop the perpetrators of this crime with the current Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, because it is checking eligibility at the border. We have this capacity.The committee will have to review, very carefully, the Special Economic Measures Act to address this kind of problem.
21. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.225
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Mr. Speaker, I would like to remind all members of this House that no changes or reforms have yet been presented to this House.Yesterday, we announced the first step towards hearing from Canadians about how to bring their democracy into the 21st century. We have begun the first step, and that includes listening to Canadians across 338 ridings and making a thoughtful and evidence-based decision that way.
22. Chris Warkentin - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.225
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Mr. Speaker, that is exactly the question. It was not only the minister who thought that it was the chief of staff's experience that qualified her for the job, it was her understanding as well. As a matter of fact, she said, “My background through my family’s business is pretty relevant to (the portfolio) so I think that’s part of how I got the job”.I would ask this of the minister. Why is she still on the payroll if the qualifications that made her qualified for the job are the things that she cannot speak about?
23. Mélanie Joly - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.225
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Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that the hon. critic had the opportunity to remind the House that we are investing $1.9 billion in arts and culture, which are so important. In fact, such investments have not been made in 30 years.I am currently working with my colleague at the Treasury Board to ensure that these funds are directed to the organizations concerned.
24. Gérard Deltell - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.225
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Mr. Speaker, in your case, when you travel, you properly assume your responsibilities.Can the Leader of the Government in the House of Commons set the record straight for Canadians? How many people were there and how much did it cost? When they say that it cost $25,000, they are taking Canadians for fools.
25. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.215152
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Mr. Speaker, I would like to remind the hon. member that, in fact, in the first quarter of 2016, our exports were $1.2 billion higher than they were during the same period last year. We are reaching further. We are fighting protectionism as we did successfully with COOL, something again not achieved under his watch. We are opening up new markets with CETA, whose legal scrub has now been completed. That agreement will be signed this year, and not done under his—
26. Rodger Cuzner - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.203231
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Mr. Speaker, certainly this government has shown leadership. It stepped up decisively and quickly to respond to that sharp, sustained, sudden shock to the unemployment rate in those 12 regions. With respect to the most recent numbers we have received from StatsCan that have been impacted by the commodity downturn but also the fires in Fort McMurray, we are analyzing those. The minister is looking at them with her staff and will be responding appropriately.
27. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.2
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Mr. Speaker, our motivation with this whole process is to ensure that—
28. Kennedy Stewart - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.2
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Mr. Speaker, earlier this week, I asked the Minister of Democratic Institutions if she supports the candidate gender equity act. She stated that the Liberals “will study it on its merits when it is debated in the House”. However, yesterday CTV acquired a leaked memo from the minister's office that confirmed that the Liberals were already planning to oppose the bill when she made this statement. Will the minister explain to Canadians why she did not give them a straight answer on Tuesday, and why she is forcing Liberal MPs to oppose a bill aimed at bringing gender equality to the House of Commons?
29. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.189394
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Mr. Speaker, listening to Canadians is at the heart of a healthy democracy.We are committed to ensuring that young people, new Canadians, indigenous persons, those with disabilities and exceptionalities, seniors, and those living in the rural and remote regions of our country, have a meaningful opportunity to engage in this process.
30. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.1875
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Mr. Speaker, the party that is being consistent on this issue is the Liberal Party.The NDP promised to uphold the contract to win seats, but now that it has those seats, it wants to tell the families that depend on the contract they will lose their jobs because it will not sign the export permit for these Canadian vehicles. The issue here is the export permit for a made-in-Canada vehicle, and we have no evidence that it has been wrongly used even though Canada has been selling it since 1993.
31. Todd Doherty - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.182702
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Mr. Speaker, talk about power going to somebody's head. Witness after witness at the trade committee last week agreed that the upcoming presidential election poses a threat to our new softwood lumber agreement. We do not have an agreement, and it is creating all kinds of uncertainty. Canadian job creators need certainty in order to run their businesses successfully. Tick, tick, tick; why are the Liberals standing by and doing nothing on softwood lumber while the clock ticks down?
32. Rhéal Fortin - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.175
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Mr. Speaker, if the government wants to fiddle with democratic processes, then tradition, decency, and common sense dictate that it should attempt to build the broadest consensus possible.The government got 39% of the votes in the election, but it hogged 60% of the voting rights in the committee that is supposed to improve representation. If it wants to improve democracy, it should start by looking at its own ways of doing things. Does the Prime Minister want to reform democracy, or does he want to take control of it?
33. Hélène Laverdière - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.167766
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Mr. Speaker, the Liberal government's messaging around selling weapons to Saudi Arabia is really disturbing.We have a video that clearly shows the kind of armoured vehicle we are going to sell to Saudi Arabia being used as we speak to crush the civilian population. The minister said that we are not selling those particular armoured vehicles and that we have not yet sold any to Saudi Arabia. That is not very convincing. He also said that there was an element of risk in the contract, but that it was a calculated risk.Can the minister tell us how many dead civilians it will take for him to recalculate? What number would that be?
34. Yvonne Jones - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.166667
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Mr. Speaker, we know that child and family services on reserve must be overhauled and we have started working toward that process. We are investing money into child and family services and we are doing it across the board through various departments of government.Our initiatives this year have provided $600 million and more over five years to be invested in children and families on reserve. We are going to continue to do that because we know it is necessary, because we know it is needed, and we are committed to it.
35. Luc Thériault - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.164286
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Mr. Speaker, Saudi Arabia uses its armoured vehicles against the country's political dissidents, but according to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, that is okay because the images we have seen do not show Canadian armoured vehicles. I suppose the Canadian armoured vehicles are used to drive children to school. Yesterday, the Prime Minister justified the sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia by saying that he wanted to protect Canada's business reputation. How many human rights is the Minister of Foreign Affairs prepared to disregard to preserve Canada's business reputation?
36. Ed Fast - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.16
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Mr. Speaker, as the globe-trotting trade minister embarrassed herself on American late night talk shows at taxpayer expense, Canada's trade performance was floundering. In March, exports plummeted by almost 5% and Canada suffered a record-setting $3.4-billion trade deficit. With that kind of performance, Canadians would be better off if the minister simply stayed at home.There is, however, one thing she can do to improve Canada's trade performance and that is to support the largest trade agreement in the world.Will the Liberals now support the TPP?
37. Jane Philpott - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.155
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Mr. Speaker, all Canadians, indigenous or otherwise, need to have access to the mental health care that is necessary and this is a responsibility of all of us.In terms of indigenous communities, I am pleased to inform the member that I am in conversations with my officials and the first nations and Inuit health branch on a daily basis about how we could increase access to mental health services in communities like La Loche and Cross Lake. We are working toward a plan to be able to enhance those services and I will be pleased to report our progress at a further date.
38. Blaine Calkins - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.152778
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Mr. Speaker, last week we learned the Prime Minister took 44 hand-picked people to Washington for the state dinner. The Liberals claim it had a total cost of $25,000, but no one believes this cost to be true. We know this because it cost $13,000 for three ministers and two staff alone. Therefore, will the Liberals finally come clean and tell taxpayers how much it cost for their five-star Washington vacation?
39. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.139796
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Mr. Speaker, we are committed to hearing from all Canadians in all 338 ridings across this great nation. We are relying upon a collaborative approach among every single member of the House to ensure that the voices of those constituents in their ridings who do not normally get heard, who do not normally have a platform, are included and recognized in this important dialogue prior to arriving at a final conclusion.
40. Jason Kenney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.136859
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Mr. Speaker, their excuses for trying to rig the system are getting more and more ridiculous and transparent with that answer.The minister is talking about a fake consultation process that interest groups will be involved in, maybe a few thousand people. We want the ultimate consultation that allows ten of millions of Canadians to decide how they elect their representatives.Why is the current Liberal government so determined to be the first government of a major democracy to change the electoral system without a direct popular mandate expressed in a referendum?
41. Jacques Gourde - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.1325
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Mr. Speaker, the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner was very clear in her ruling on the Minister of Agriculture and Agri-Food's chief of staff. She must recuse herself from discussions on any files related to eggs. This affects important files on supply management and the trans-Pacific partnership. Why does the minister want to keep his chief of staff when her hands are tied by her private interests?
42. Charlie Angus - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.127273
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Mr. Speaker, Health Canada officials have confirmed that no money was set aside to implement Jordan's principle. This flies in the face of two rulings by the Human Rights Tribunal that ordered immediate action to end the systemic discrimination against indigenous children. The government ignored the ruling with its budget and now it has ignored the deadline with the new estimates, so there is no money to close the funding gap for child welfare and zero for Jordan's principle.What part of the word “immediate” does the government not understand? With $30 billion in extra spending, could it not find a dime to help children who are still being denied their rights?
43. Jason Kenney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.125
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Mr. Speaker, apparently the minister wants decisions to be made by Twitter. We want decisions to be made by the people.Parliament does not belong to politicians. Parliament does not belong to the Liberal Party. Parliament belongs to the Canadian people. Why is the government not allowing Canadians to make this decision instead of politicians?
44. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.118457
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Mr. Speaker, an independent and constructive media is critical to the success and the health of our democracy. However, this particular reform process is about engaging those who do not have a platform to share their thoughts, their needs, and their aspirations, including young people, indigenous persons, women, those with disabilities and exceptionalities, new Canadians, those living in rural and remote regions of our country, and those of more humble socio-economic background. That is the inclusive approach that Canadians expect from us. That is what we will deliver.
45. Georgina Jolibois - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.115625
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Mr. Speaker, it has been almost four months since the shooting in La Loche and the Liberals are still not providing mental health care workers in my riding and many other communities. The government's budget allocated zero additional dollars for mental health care despite the urgent need. What about La Loche? What about Cross Lake? Will the government finally ensure that all first nations communities are able to access the support they need and deserve?
46. Bev Shipley - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.1125
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Mr. Speaker, the issue is not Ms. McFall's knowledge of the industry. It is the fact that she practically owns the industry. She claimed, as my colleague quoted, “my family’s business is pretty relevant to (the portfolio) so I think that’s part of how I got the job”.She got the job because of her family and her company, and apparently the minister, in all due respect, did not see the conflict. However, I have to ask this of the minister. Why hire a chief of staff who has such a direct conflict of interest?
47. Dominic LeBlanc - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.105556
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Mr. Speaker, I have had the privilege of setting the record straight on this historic trip many times.As I have said before, this is the first time since 1997 that Canada has been awarded the honour of a state dinner at the White House. During this visit, a number of government ministers met with their American counterparts and also with members of civil society and the American legislature. At the same time, we made gains for Canadians on the topics of international trade, the environment, and energy.
48. Chris Warkentin - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.1
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Mr. Speaker, yesterday the Minister of Agriculture defended his chief of staff, saying that he wanted somebody with agricultural experience. Now his chief of staff has a very specific experience, that of owning a multi-million dollar egg empire.However, that is the very experience that the Conflict of Interest Commissioner has specifically forbidden her from speaking about. If she cannot talk about the explicit experience that the minister said qualified her for the job, why is she still on the payroll?
49. Dominic LeBlanc - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0878788
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Mr. Speaker, this afternoon, we will continue with the Conservative opposition day. Tomorrow will be a further allotted day. Monday, we will begin report stage and third reading stage of Bill C-10 concerning Air Canada until 2 p.m. After question period, we will move on to Bill C-14 concerning medical assistance in dying. I have had productive and optimistic discussions with my colleague House leaders. I am hopeful and optimistic that we will have an agreement on the handling of the debate at report stage and third reading of Bill C-14 next week.Provided we are able to complete debate on Bill C-14 next Wednesday, the House will debate an NDP opposition motion on Thursday. Finally, pursuant to Standing Order 81(4), I would like to designate Monday, May 16, for consideration in a committee of the whole of the main estimates for the Department of National Defence.
50. David McGuinty - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0866667
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Mr. Speaker, partisan advertising has no place in government. Canadian taxpayers should not be footing the bill for government ads that advance the political interests of any party in power. They should be able to trust that government advertising is legitimate, purposeful, and informative.When I was in opposition, I tabled a bill to put an end to partisan government advertising. It was opposed by the previous Conservative government.Would this government, our government, inform the House what action it is taking to end partisan government advertising and enhance public trust?
51. Tom Kmiec - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0833333
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Mr. Speaker, yesterday we learned about the Liberals' plan to change our democracy.What was the first move by the Liberals? They are going to set up a committee with a majority of Liberal members. When you want to change the rules of democracy, the only majority that counts is the majority of Canadians.Why not simply commit to consulting all Canadians through a referendum?
52. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.08
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Mr. Speaker, we have arrived in this place after the longest federal election in modern Canadian history, during which we were rather clear about our intention to reform our electoral system. Allow me to be clear for hon. members: 2015 was the last federal election conducted under the first-past-the-post system. It is time for a 21st century model of electing individuals to the House. That is what we promised. That is what we will deliver upon.
53. Niki Ashton - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0727273
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Mr. Speaker, the government's inadequate changes to EI left 800,000 Canadians behind, and many regions were left out of extended benefits, despite rising unemployment. Today, we find out from internal documents that workers in Edmonton, southern Saskatchewan, and the B.C. interior could apply. This is a positive step. However, the government is still leaving so many Canadians out in the cold. This is about justice. It is about making sure that Canadians can access the EI fund that belongs to them. Will the government step up and show leadership to fix EI for Canadian workers?
54. Wayne Stetski - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0666667
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Mr. Speaker, budget 2016 included $65.9 million for a so-called world-class biking and walking trail through Jasper National Park.This came out of nowhere, and yet the Liberal government refuses to give any details. The minister has not consulted the public or stakeholders, in spite of Liberal election promises that it would be open and transparent.A project of this scale needs a robust public environmental assessment process prior to any decision being made. Why is the government following the Conservatives' lead, ignoring transparency, and putting the ecological integrity of a treasured national park at risk?
55. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.065625
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Mr. Speaker, on the one hand, members' opposite ridicule the idea of listening to Canadians and on the other hand, they criticize us for not listening to Canadians. Let me make this clear. The first point of contact for all of us will be hearing from those Canadians who do not normally engage in the democratic process, those who have often been marginalized. A healthy democracy is one that includes their voices.The final decision will be made by members of the House as well as those in the other place.
56. Gérard Deltell - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0583333
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Mr. Speaker, will the government tell us how much that trip cost taxpayers?From the beginning, the Liberals have been saying that it cost $25,000 for 44 people. However, yesterday, TVA was clear: it cost $13,000 for five people. What did you do with the other 39 people? Did you stash them in your suitcases so that the trip would be cheaper?Your story does not make any sense and you know it.Will the—
57. Jean-Yves Duclos - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0541667
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Madawaska—Restigouche for his important question and his efforts to support unemployed Canadians.Our government has begun a national consultation to improve employment insurance services. I want to thank my parliamentary secretary, the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour, and the member for Avignon—La Mitis—Matane—Matapédia in advance for the hard work they will be doing on behalf of Canadians in the coming weeks.The comments and suggestions we receive will help Service Canada find ways to improve its benefit services to unemployed Canadians, and I thank them in advance.
58. Marc Garneau - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.04
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Mr. Speaker, we are obviously very proud of the 40 Liberal members representing Quebec.Of course, our thoughts are with the people of Lac-Mégantic who are recovering from the terrible tragedy that occurred in July of 2013. I can assure them that we are on their side. I was there just two weeks ago.We have conducted over 100 inspections in the Lac-Mégantic region since 2013. We allocated funding for rail safety in the budget. We have looked at phase one of the rail bypass and we are examining it carefully. We are very much looking forward—
59. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0395833
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Mr. Speaker, I would like to start by reminding the hon. member that it was his government that left Canadians without a softwood lumber agreement. The previous agreement expired on his government's watch.We are very aware of the importance of this issue. We have focused on it from day one. We raised this issue during our state dinner at the White House. We raised it at the highest levels.I am working closely with the U.S. TR and with the industry. We will get this done.
60. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0314286
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Mr. Speaker, we took the leadership to ensure that non-recognized parties would be at the table.Under our proposal, members of the Bloc Québécois and the Green Party would be able to participate in developing the witness lists, question witnesses, travel with the committee for hearings across the country, and have the opportunity to provide their input into the final report.The committee cannot do this work alone. It will require collaboration from all members of this House. I look forward to the contributions of every single member and every single party represented in this House.
61. Steven Blaney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0297619
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Mr. Speaker, this is the ultimate irony. The Liberals have made a complete mess of this.We have gone from sunny ways to a democratic black hole. First of all, the Liberals give themselves absolute power by stacking the committee. Then they change the rules of democracy by ignoring and thumbing their noses at Canadians. We have seen a Liberal-style benevolent dictatorship. Now we are faced with a selective “consultocracy”.Is the minister trying to engage in some sort of political sleight-of-hand in order to lead Canadians astray?
62. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.0216667
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Mr. Speaker, our government and I understand how important the forestry industry is to Quebec and Canada.That is why I am in regular contact with my American counterpart, Michael Froman, on this issue. We are working hard to figure out how to resolve this issue. Our objective is still to maintain stable access to the U.S. market for our industry.
63. Blake Richards - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0.01
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Mr. Speaker, the Liberals are once again flip-flopping so much that they cannot even keep the same talking points together for a whole press conference. On the one hand, the Liberal House leader stated that all options are possible when asked if maintaining the current system was on the table. But then, a mere minute later, he stated that 2015 was the last first-past-the-post election. Flip flop. Maybe they can make it clear on one thing. Will the Liberals commit to giving each and every Canadian a direct say through a referendum?
64. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the hon. member's desire to hear from Canadians, but I have yet to hear from him or his colleagues on how a referendum could help us hear from those who do not traditionally engage in the democratic process, like young people, women, indigenous persons, those with disabilities and exceptionalities, and those living in remote and rural regions of this country.We need to ensure that we use—
65. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, change and much-needed reform require leadership and vision. Our government has a vision for a healthier democracy, and there is no lack of leadership on this side of the aisle.It is my hope that all members of this House will share in this leadership and help bring our electoral system into the 21st century.
66. Steven Blaney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, I, for one, would like Canadians to be involved in democratic reform. Is the Minister of Democratic Institutions prepared to consult with Canadians through a referendum on democratic reform?
67. Scott Reid - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, today's National Post says the government's committee process is no mandate for electoral reform. The Toronto Star's headline is “Let the people vote..”. The media agree that there should be a referendum to approve any change to the voting system, and the people also agree. Polls say that two-thirds believe there should be a referendum. Why does the Prime Minister not agree with Canadians? Why does he refuse to hold a referendum?
68. Blake Richards - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, it is time to remind Canadians that they are in charge. That is what the Minister of Democratic Institutions claimed yesterday, but their actions do not match their words. All decisions about electoral reform will be made by six Liberals who form the majority on the committee, and the minister also stated that the ultimate decision on what system is proposed will be made by cabinet, not by Canadians. How can the Liberals claim that Canadians are in charge when the Prime Minister will not even trust them with an opportunity for a referendum?
69. Ed Fast - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, the Prime Minister has claimed time and again that he is a big supporter of international trade. Yet much like the NDP, every time the Liberals are asked to walk the talk, they are missing in action.The TPP is the largest trade agreement in the world. Conservatives concluded negotiations over seven months ago, yet the Prime Minister will not tell us whether he will support the agreement. Canada must be a leader, not a laggard, on trade.When will the Prime Minister finally tell Canadians whether or not he supports the TPP?
70. Andrew Scheer - 2016-05-12
Polarity : 0
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Mr. Speaker, I wonder if the government House leader could give the House an update as to what we will be debating for the rest of this week and for next week as well.
71. René Arseneault - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.00555556
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Mr. Speaker, as we all know, Canadians often head to Service Canada offices when they need to engage with our government.For quite some time now, people in Madawaska—Restigouche have been complaining about the service and the long delays they have to deal with when they are applying for essential programs, like EI. Can the Minister of Families, Children and Social Development tell us about what he is doing to reduce wait times?
72. Maryam Monsef - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.01
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Mr. Speaker, while the premise of the argument that my honourable colleague brings forward is false, I will go on to bring this forward. Yesterday, the first day that we brought forward the conversation on electoral reform, the hashtag, #electoral reform, on Twitter alone, garnered nearly 12 million impressions in one day.This is the 21st century way, and we will ensure that all voices who do not traditionally engage are included in this conversation.
73. Hélène Laverdière - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0126623
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Mr. Speaker, the Minister of Foreign Affairs said that he would cancel the export permits of military equipment to Saudi Arabia if there were new revelations of human rights abuses. But yesterday, the Prime Minister basically said there will be no cancellations. This is about human rights. This is about Canada's international commitments. The question is simple: Who should Canadians believe?
74. Chrystia Freeland - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0129167
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Mr. Speaker, we were very clear during the election that we support trade. We were also very clear that the TPP, which was negotiated in secret during the campaign, required broad national consultation. We promised that, and we are keeping our promise.The trade committee, this week, is travelling the country to listen to Canadians. It is in Windsor today. It will be in Toronto tomorrow. It was in Montreal and Quebec City earlier this week.I would also like to remind the hon. member that none of the 12 TPP countries has yet ratified this agreement and that we all have two years for an open, productive debate.
75. Tom Kmiec - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.025
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Mr. Speaker, repeating oneself is not the same as answering the question.When we see the Liberal majority on the committee and the government's insistence on not really consulting Canadians, then we wonder what is really going on here.It is simple. Ontario, British Columbia, and Prince Edward Island held referendums in the past, which legitimizes the process.Will the Liberals have the courage of their convictions? Will they promise today in the House to hold a referendum to change the voting system?
76. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.03125
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Mr. Speaker, they should believe the Government of Canada and the Prime Minister. This is not a party that switches views after the election, after committing to everything before the election. The Prime Minister asked me to make sure that the power that the Minister of Foreign Affairs has to block the export permits, if equipment is built in Canada but is wrongly used regarding human rights or national interests of Canada and its allies, is used with a lot of rigour and transparency, which is what I will do.
77. Bernard Généreux - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0394841
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Mr. Speaker, times are tough for the forestry industry. Major issues, such as job losses and the renewal of the softwood lumber agreement between Canada and the U.S., are creating uncertainty in this industry, which accounts for least $20 billion of Canada's economy.All regions of Quebec and Canada would be affected if the agreement were not renewed, especially my region of the Lower St. Lawrence.Why is the minister taking so long to finalize an agreement that is so important to our country and to all regions in Quebec?
78. James Bezan - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0718855
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Mr. Speaker, today I was joined by Bill Browder, an outspoken critic of government corruption, to announce new legislation. Conservatives have tabled the Sergei Magnitsky law in both the House and the Senate. Sergei Magnitsky was wrongfully arrested, tortured, and killed in a Russian prison. Legislation and sanctions on corrupt foreign officials who violate human rights were supported by the three main parties during the last election. Will the Liberal government now stand against abusive foreign officials and support this legislation, Bill C-267?
79. Scott Brison - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0784091
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the member for Ottawa South for his leadership on this issue.Today, we are delivering on our commitment to end the partisan use of government advertising. We are introducing third-party oversight of government ads, with a new definition of non-partisan communications: no more ads for government programs not yet approved by Parliament or within 90 days of a set election date.We will work with Parliament, the Auditor General, and stakeholders to entrench third-party oversight legislation and ensure that partisan government advertising is a thing of the past.
80. Marjolaine Boutin-Sweet - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.0928571
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Mr. Speaker, if the Liberals were really willing to work with the opposition, they would not be ramming bills through the House and giving themselves false majorities on a committee.How can they claim that they want to end first past the post, and then strike a committee that models itself on first past the post?We are talking about a once-in-a-generation voting reform. Will the minister reconsider her decision to give Liberals the power to unilaterally change our voting system?
81. Michelle Rempel - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.122857
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Mr. Speaker, in a letter to the Prime Minister, the Calgary Board of Education indicated that it has spent millions to accommodate the needs of Syrian refugee students.Many of these students have complex learning needs, including overcoming severe language barriers. Alberta is facing difficult times right now, and this school board is already running a deficit. It expects it is going to have difficulty providing ongoing support for these students.Why is the government offloading costs for its Syrian refugee initiative onto local school boards?
82. Scott Reid - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.131019
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Mr. Speaker, after 16 years on Parliament Hill, I can say there is no place that we are less likely to find a Canadian with exceptionality, a disabled Canadian, a minority, a disenfranchised person than at a parliamentary committee.The government has articulated two contradictory positions on changing the voting system. The Prime Minister's tiresome oft-repeated line is that the 2015 election will be the last one ever fought on first past the post. That must mean no to a referendum under any circumstances, yet his ministers say that a referendum is a legitimate option. Which of these two positions actually reflect government policy? Will there be a referendum, or will there not?
83. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.133333
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Mr. Speaker, again my hon. colleague thinks the only requirement to work for the Department of Agriculture and the Minister of Agriculture is to have no experience in agriculture. I am sorry, but we disagree with that.As I indicated quite clearly, my chief of staff has completed all the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will abide by all guidelines set forward. It could not be clearer.
84. Jason Kenney - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.136458
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Mr. Speaker, Canadians are fair-minded people, and that is why they know it is wrong for one political party to seek to impose an electoral system on this Parliament, and our entire country, over the objections of other parties and the majority of Canadians.The Liberal governments in B.C., Ontario, and P.E.I. all understood this, which is why they held referenda on electoral reform.Why does the current Liberal government have so much less confidence in the common sense of Canadians? Why will the current Liberal government not follow the provincial precedent of a referendum on electoral reform?
85. Stephane Dion - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.145
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Mr. Speaker, I can assure you that we never miss an opportunity to emphasize the importance of respecting human rights when we are in contact with the Saudi government. We never miss an opportunity, and we have had several of those opportunities. One reason why we have had several opportunities is that we have a relationship with Saudi Arabia. We will not make the mistake that the Conservatives made with Iran by cutting ties with a country.With respect to export permits, as I have said repeatedly, the Minister of Foreign Affairs has the power to cancel them if Canadian equipment is being misused.
86. Alexandre Boulerice - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.164286
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Mr. Speaker, no money is going there. I hope that the Liberals are doing something for culture somewhere, but the money is not going there.It is shameful, but the 40 government members from Quebec are asleep at the wheel. I have two examples. First, the Government of Quebec made a proposal regarding the Senate and was treated like garbage by the government. Second, a study has finally been completed regarding the construction of a rail bypass in Lac-Mégantic, which would help the people of that community to finally put this unspeakable tragedy behind them. However, instead of listening to them, the minister is ordering geography courses.Rather than acting like immature, pathetic pawns, will the 40 Liberal members from Quebec stand up and defend the people of Lac-Mégantic?
87. Yvonne Jones - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.2
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Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member and all my colleagues in the House of Commons for their support toward this issue.It has been a long-awaited move of reconciliation with residential school survivors in Newfoundland and Labrador. We are very pleased that this week the Government of Canada and the survivors of five Newfoundland and Labrador residential schools reached an agreement in the settlement of a class action suit.We are committed to moving past this sad and terrible chapter in our history, advancing—
88. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.25
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I am not really sure, Mr. Speaker, where you cut me off.
89. Lawrence MacAulay - 2016-05-12
Polarity : -0.5
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Mr. Speaker, it is unfortunate my hon. colleague across the way cannot focus on agricultural issues, but I can assure him we can. I can assure my hon. colleagues in the House that my chief of staff has completed all of the requirements of the Conflict of Interest Commissioner and will be abiding by all guidelines set forward.