House Debates Bill C-234 Passes; Bills S-230, C-21 Advance

Debates of April 22nd, 2026

House of Commons Hansard #108 of the 45th Parliament, 1st session. (The original version is on Parliament's site.)
The word of the day was treaty.

Topics

This summary is computer-generated.
Usually it’s accurate, but every now and then it’ll contain inaccuracies or total fabrications.

Statements by Members

UQTR Patriotes hockey championship victory Rebuilding Kamloops Red Bridge Observance of Earth Day Developing Canada's Arctic gateway Quebec City housing project Tribute to Kerry McManus Canada student grants expansion Remembering Vancouver festival tragedy Valleyfield Rotary Club 80th anniversary Earth Day and climate action Concerns over Canadian economy Tribute to Howard Grant Condolences to Wade Grant Canada-US trade tariff failures Portuguese Freedom Day commemoration Critique of gas tax relief Petition on security clearance Question Period

The Conservatives dispute claims that affordability has improved, highlighting G7-leading food inflation and doubled rent costs. They denounce security screening failures and judicial discounts granted to non-citizens within a two-tier justice system. Finally, they urge the government to negotiate trade wins with the United States. The Liberals highlight affordability measures like the groceries and essentials benefit, fuel tax reductions, and the national school food program. They promote their strategy to protect nature and reinvesting in the military. Finally, they defend their record on security screenings and sentencing for violent crimes while advancing measures to combat extortion. The Bloc criticizes the government’s obsession with pipelines and fossil fuel subsidies despite missed climate targets. They also condemn excluding Quebec’s cultural sector from the advisory committee for U.S. trade negotiations. The NDP denounces the government’s failure to expedite entry for graduate students fleeing the destruction in Gaza. National Strategy for Soil Health Act First reading of Bill S-230.

The bill proposes creating a national strategy for soil health preservation, aiming to treat soil as a strategic asset by coordinating research, farming practices, industry, and government efforts across Canada. 200 words.

Petitions

Immigration pathways for LGBTQI individuals Concern regarding rising crime rates Concerns regarding Bill C-9 Xinka rights and Canadian mining Red River Métis Self-Government Recognition and Implementation Treaty Act Second reading of Bill C-21.

The bill, Bill C-21, seeks to正式 Recognize [/debates/2026/4/22/rebecca-alty-1/] the Red River Métis self-government treaty, establishing a government-to-government relationship with the Manitoba Métis Federation. Supporters position it as a historic milestone in reconciliation, formalizing Métis jurisdiction over internal affairs. Conversely, some opposition members express concerns about the lack of meaningful consultation with other Indigenous groups and warn that the treaty’s legal ambiguity may create jurisdictional conflicts or negatively impact the rights of other affected parties. 17000 words, 2 hours.

Living Donor Recognition Medal Act Report stage of Bill C-234.

The bill establishes the Living Donor Recognition Medal to honour those who donate organs. Widely supported by all members, the legislation intends to increase awareness of life-saving transplants needed across Canada. During final consideration, MPs highlighted the profound personal impact of these contributions, after which the House unanimously passed the measure at third reading. 6500 words, 45 minutes.

Adjournment Debates

Drug consumption site policy Dan Mazier argues that drug consumption sites fail to mitigate the addictions crisis and demands a greater focus on treatment. Annie Koutrakis defends the Liberal government's comprehensive, evidence-based approach, which balances harm reduction, prevention, and treatment, arguing that local communities are best positioned to manage specific service delivery. Economic stability and trade Helena Konanz argues that Canada faces an entrepreneurial drought and brain drain, with founders moving to the U.S. due to poor economic conditions. Annie Koutrakis defends the government's record, citing child benefits and affordability programs. Konanz presses further on trade reliance, while Koutrakis promises solutions for small businesses. Accountability for housing affordability Jacob Mantle criticizes the government for housing unaffordability and demands clear accountability measures and key performance indicators to track progress. Wade Grant defends the government's comprehensive strategy, including the creation of Build Canada Homes and various tax incentives, emphasizing investments aimed at increasing supply and lowering costs over time. Was this summary helpful and accurate?
Yes Sort of No 2 p.m.

The Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia

The hon. member for York—Durham will be leading us in the singing of the national anthem.

[Members sang the national anthem ]

Links & Sharing Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières Patriotes Statements by Members

2 p.m.

Liberal

Caroline Desrochers Liberal Trois-Rivières, QC

Mr. Speaker, it is with tremendous pride that I highlight the victory of the Patriotes of the Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières, who were crowned Canadian university hockey champions a few weeks ago.

This remarkable achievement is a testament to the talent, discipline and determination of our student athletes, who represented Trois‑Rivières with honour and passion. Throughout their journey, they have shown exemplary resilience by refusing to give up, even in their darkest moment.

I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to the players, coaches and all the staff who support them. I also want to acknowledge the support of the fans, who help surround the team with such a special energy.

This victory puts Trois-Rivières on the map and fills our community with pride. In fact, we are honoured to host the 63rd U Sports men's hockey championship in March 2027.

Congratulations to the UQTR Patriotes!

Links & Sharing Red Bridge Statements by Members

2 p.m.

Conservative

Frank Caputo Conservative Kamloops—Thompson—Nicola, BC

Mr. Speaker, today I am launching a campaign that gives me great pride, and that is to bring back one of the most iconic landmarks in Kamloops, our Red Bridge. The Red Bridge was built in 1936, based on the Howe truss design. It was one of the few remaining functioning bridges of its type in British Columbia. Unfortunately, it was destroyed by arson in 2024, destroying a vital link between downtown Kamloops and the Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc territory. The loss of this crossing continues to impact commuters, industry and emergency access.

I would like to encourage all people in Kamloops—Thompson—Nicola to sign petitions, write letters and make phone calls to encourage the federal government to support the fast-tracking and rebuilding of the Red Bridge. I am calling on all parties, including Kamloops, Tk̓emlúps te Secwépemc and the province, with the federal government's support, to get the Red Bridge rebuilt.

Links & Sharing Earth Day Statements by Members

2 p.m.

Liberal

Eric St-Pierre Liberal Honoré-Mercier, QC

Mr. Speaker, as co-chair of the environment and climate change caucus and as a member of the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development, I want to wish everyone a very good Earth Day.

I want to commend the remarkable work of businesses, environmental organizations, financial institutions, our young people, our seniors and indigenous groups who are working tirelessly to protect our climate and biodiversity.

Our government has taken meaningful action to protect the environment: a new strategy to protect nature, a strategy for a clean and competitive automobile industry and regulations to reduce methane emissions, while strengthening industrial carbon pricing.

Building a greener Canada also means building a stronger Canada.

I wish everyone happy Earth Day.

Links & Sharing Arctic Gateway Statements by Members

2 p.m.

Conservative

James Bezan Conservative Selkirk—Interlake—Eastman, MB

Mr. Speaker, Canada needs an Arctic gateway to get our energy, commodities and resources from the prairies to the world. Hudson Bay offers two great locations: at Churchill and Port Nelson. Sitting on the shores of Hudson Bay, they offer the shortest shipping routes from the Canadian prairies to Europe, Africa and the Middle East. Energy companies stand ready to move liquefied natural gas through Port Nelson. The port of Churchill is already connected by rail and hydro and has enormous potential to enhance intermodal traffic through CentrePort.

Conservatives have been calling for the renewal of the port of Churchill for years so we can protect Canada's Arctic sovereignty and get our LNG, oil and critical minerals to market. Alberta supports it. Saskatchewan supports it. Even Manitoba's NDP premier supports it.

The Prime Minister is the only one left standing in the way, and his Major Projects Office has completely ignored this underutilized Arctic gateway. He has had all the power he needs for over a year, but we have heard nothing but silence. It is time for the Prime Minister to stop stalling and start delivering for Manitobans, and all western Canadians.

Links & Sharing First Build Canada Homes Project in Quebec Statements by Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Jean-Yves Duclos Liberal Québec Centre, QC

Mr. Speaker, on April 2, we announced that the first Build Canada Homes project in Quebec will be built on the iconic Îlot Saint-Vincent-de-Paul site at the top of Côte d'Abraham, right in the heart of Quebec City.

This project includes 151 community housing units, a child care centre with 80 spots, and a public plaza featuring gardens and scenic views, which will breathe new life into and enhance the value of a unique site at the junction of Old Quebec and the beautiful Saint-Jean-Baptiste neighbourhood.

I would like to congratulate the members of the Saint-Jean-Baptiste citizens' committee, the Old Quebec citizens' committee, and the many partners involved in this project, including Action-Habitation, La Bouée, and the Patrotôt solidarity co-op for their collaboration on this initiative, which is a source of pride for our city and will continue to be so for generations to come.

Links & Sharing Kerry McManus Statements by Members

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

John Nater Conservative Perth—Wellington, ON

Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay tribute to Kerry McManus, a caring teacher, courageous community builder and tremendous public servant to the people of Stratford.

Last week, Kerry was taken from us far too soon by cancer. An educator by profession, but a lifelong learner by vocation, Kerry went above and beyond to support her students and everyone she met to reach their full potential. A passionate champion for the environment, the vulnerable and mental health, Kerry was elected to two terms on Stratford City Council, where she showed unwavering integrity and passionately stood by her convictions. She was never afraid to be the lone voice in a one-to-10 vote. I will miss her warm smile, her compassionate outlook and her collaborative approach to problem-solving.

My heart goes out to her husband John, her father Barry and her entire family. We are diminished by her death, but strengthened by her countless contributions.

Links & Sharing Student Grants in Ontario Statements by Members

2:05 p.m.

Liberal

Iqra Khalid Liberal Mississauga—Erin Mills, ON

Mr. Speaker, students in Mississauga—Erin Mills are already feeling the impact of Doug Ford's cuts to OSAP. At a time when students are struggling to afford school, they are seeing the Ontario government spend millions on private jets instead of investing in our future generation. Students are taking on more debt, working more hours and questioning whether they can even afford to continue their education. Right now, when students need support the most, they are being asked to do more with less.

That is exactly why our federal Liberal government is extending enhanced Canada student grants, with a 40% increase, through the 2026-27 school year, supporting more than half a million students with larger grants in Ontario.

Students deserve a fair chance to succeed, and we will keep standing by them to build Canada strong.

Links & Sharing Tragedy at Lapu-Lapu Day Festival Statements by Members

2:05 p.m.

Conservative

Blake Richards Conservative Airdrie—Cochrane, AB

Mr. Speaker, on April 26, as we commemorate the one-year anniversary of the terrible attacks in Vancouver at the Lapu-Lapu festival, we have in our prayers the victims, their families and the survivors. The entire nation was shocked at the news of the tragedy, and Canadians from coast to coast grieved for those who were lost.

The Filipino community in Canada is an integral part of many communities, where they overwhelmingly volunteer and contribute to their surroundings. The Lapu-Lapu festival is a celebration recognizing Filipino heroes who embody the best values of Filipino culture. The values of family, community and hard work are shared among Filipinos and all Canadians.

Today, we remember those who were lost and those whose lives were changed forever, through either injury or loss. I would also like to thank those in Vancouver and across Canada who stepped up in the aftermath of this awful attack to help all those affected and to start healing the community.

All those affected should please note that the nation stands with them and admires their strength and perseverance.

Links & Sharing Anniversary Wishes Statements by Members

2:05 p.m.

Bloc

Claude DeBellefeuille Bloc Beauharnois—Salaberry—Soulanges—Huntingdon, QC

Mr. Speaker, the Valleyfield Rotary Club is proudly celebrating 80 years of service to the community.

For eight decades, this club, which is made up of dedicated business people, has embodied the values of solidarity, generosity and leadership. Through their involvement, members make a real contribution to improving quality of life in the region. Under the leadership of the current president, Jean‑Michel Montpetit, the Rotary Club is continuing its work with energy and vision. He is doing an outstanding job of supporting many local initiatives with the help of a team of passionate and dedicated volunteers.

This anniversary is an opportunity to recognize the enduring commitment of those who make the Valleyfield Rotary Club an essential force for development and community support. I wish the Valleyfield Rotary Club continued success.

Links & Sharing Earth Day Statements by Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

Shannon Miedema Liberal Halifax, NS

Mr. Speaker, as the newly elected chair of the House Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development, I am honoured to rise to recognize Earth Day.

Today, it is time for all Canadians to think about our shared responsibility for the environment around us. The impacts of climate change are more present in our lives every year. Too many Canadians have suffered from extreme weather events like wildfires and floods, but we have also seen communities come together to rebuild and adapt to a new global reality.

Young Canadians are leading the way on climate action. Earlier today, I co-hosted a reception celebrating the work of the Youth Climate Corps British Columbia and the launch of a national Youth Climate Corps in budget 2025. This program will pay young people a living wage to foster climate resilience and a low-carbon future in their communities. We must all stay committed to reducing our emissions, building resilient communities and creating a more sustainable Canada for future generations.

I wish everybody happy Earth Day.

Links & Sharing The Economy Statements by Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Sukhman Gill Conservative Abbotsford—South Langley, BC

Mr. Speaker, everything costs more. Families are deeper in debt and home ownership is slipping away from an entire generation. Canada now stands alone as the only shrinking economy in the entire G7.

The Prime Minister 's legacy is unfolding right before our eyes. Every country in the G7 faces the same global pressures, but the results are worlds apart and Canadians are left to pay that price. From farmers to tradespeople to seniors and young families, the people of Abbotsford—South Langley deserve a Prime Minister who will fight for them. They are tired of the excuses, the recycled speeches and the broken promises. They simply want results.

Conservatives have been fighting to end the Liberal government's wasteful spending and restore the Canadian dream once again, where hard work leads to a great life. We will never back down from that promise. It is time for the Prime Minister to get his act together, work with us and bring results for Canadians.

Links & Sharing Howard E. Grant Statements by Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

Wade Grant Liberal Vancouver Quadra, BC

Mr. Speaker, this will undoubtedly be the hardest minute in my time as an MP, where I honour my father, who passed away on March 29 this year. He was born Howard Hong to a Musqueam matriarch and Hong Tim Hing, a Chinese immigrant. He grew up without a father; his father died when he was 10. My dad was the greatest father that my five siblings and I could ever have.

He was Dad to many other people because of his large shoulders that we all stand upon. He built bridges between communities and between cultures, and he became a bridge himself, a person who would bring people together. He told me to come here to the House of Commons and to shake the hands of each and every person here because we are all working together. That is the Canada he wanted for his children and his grandchildren.

Today I have a little secret: My name is Howard Wade Grant. He named me after him. If I could say something to him today, I would say that the love that I shared with him, the love that we shared, is so much better because I got to share his name.

Links & Sharing Howard E. Grant Statements by Members

2:10 p.m.

The Speaker Francis Scarpaleggia

My condolences to the hon. member; that was beautiful.

Links & Sharing International Trade Statements by Members

2:10 p.m.

Conservative

Kyle Seeback Conservative Dufferin—Caledon, ON

Mr. Speaker, a year ago, the Liberal Prime Minister said he would have tariffs with the United States removed by July. He failed. The cost of that failure was tens of thousands of jobs in the Canadian auto sector, the Canadian steel and aluminum sector, and the softwood lumber sector, and now expanded tariffs on Canadian manufactured goods, which will have a devastating impact.

Meanwhile, Mexico, it is reported, is close to signing a deal to remove tariffs and have a trade deal. Our Prime Minister 's response is that the trade with the United States is a weakness. There are 2.6 million Canadians whose jobs directly rely on trade with the United States. That is not a weakness. They need action.

I have been told these Liberals have not had a meeting of substance with the Americans to exchange proposals in over six months. These workers deserve better. Our country deserves better.

Why have these Liberals given up on a trade deal with our most important trading partner?

Links & Sharing Freedom Day in Portugal Statements by Members

2:10 p.m.

Liberal

Carlos Leitão Liberal Marc-Aurèle-Fortin, QC

Mr. Speaker, in a few days, on April 25, Portuguese communities in Canada and around the world will celebrate Freedom Day, which commemorates the Carnation Revolution of 1974.

On that historic day, the people of Portugal peacefully ended decades of dictatorship and restored democracy, fundamental rights and freedom of expression. Canada is home to a vibrant and proud Portuguese-Canadian community, whose members make an outstanding contribution to our cultural, economic and social fabric. Their values of hard work, resilience and commitment to democracy enrich our society.

As April 25 approaches, let us pay tribute to those who fought for Portugal's freedom and let us celebrate the lasting bonds of friendship between Canada and Portugal.

25 de Abril, sempre!

Links & Sharing Fuel Taxes Statements by Members

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

Andrew Lawton Conservative Elgin—St. Thomas—London South, ON

Mr. Speaker, I have some good news and bad news. The good news is the Liberals have finally recognized once again that the Conservatives had the answer when it comes to rising gas prices. The bad news is they are not really implementing the whole thing. Once again, it is a half-measure. Actually, it is less than that. They are taking one-third of the taxes off gas for only a third of the year.

Our Conservative proposal would have cut the fuel excise tax, the GST on fuel and the Liberal clean fuel standard, but these Liberals are only giving Canadians a modicum of relief, a small break that pales in comparison to what Canadians need, especially in my riding, where driving is not a luxury; it is a choice. Gas prices today in St. Thomas are $1.63 a litre.

Why are the Liberals not giving Canadians what we would have given them, which is gas that is $1.48 a litre?

Links & Sharing Leader of the Conservative Party of Canada Statements by Members

2:15 p.m.

Liberal

Bruce Fanjoy Liberal Carleton, ON

Mr. Speaker, 42,397 people signed a petition calling on all federal party leaders to seek and maintain top security clearance. With it, leaders can be informed and prepared.

Marc Hachey of Carleton is a retired senior RCMP officer who initiated the petition. Throughout his distinguished career, he worked on national security investigations, so he understands the risks we face.

The Leader of the Opposition has refused to seek top security clearance. He believes the less he knows about national security, the more effective he can be. Wilful ignorance does not make a leader; trust and intelligence do.

This issue is not going away. All federal party leaders, without exception, have an important role to play in national security, and that requires intelligence.

Links & Sharing The Economy Oral Questions

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

Andrew Scheer Conservative Regina—Qu'Appelle, SK

Mr. Speaker, we cannot solve a problem if we deny that it exists. The Prime Minister rejects the fact that Canadians are struggling. He said, “Affordability is the best it has been in...a decade.” Yesterday, he doubled down. Let us take a look at the facts. Rent for a one-bedroom unit has doubled since 2015. The typical Canadian house is up 51%, and in fact, over the last 10 years, housing prices have outpaced incomes in Canada by 29%, which is the worst drop in affordability in the entire G7.

Now that he has had time to learn the facts, is he going to keep telling Canadians that their struggles are all in their imagination?

Links & Sharing The Economy Oral Questions

2:15 p.m.

Thunder Bay—Superior North Ontario

Liberal

Patty Hajdu Liberal Minister of Jobs and Families and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern Ontario

Mr. Speaker, what we are telling Canadians is that no matter the circumstance, we are going to be there for them. I just want to take this moment to say to all Canadian students across the country that there are 100,000 new jobs in the job bank and to please apply for Canada summer jobs in their own community. This is the kind of action, by the way, that these guys vote against all the time. They vote against kids. They vote against moms. They vote against seniors. They vote against tradespeople. What are they in favour of?

Links & Sharing The Economy Oral Questions

2:15 p.m.

Conservative

Andrew Scheer Conservative Regina—Qu'Appelle, SK

Mr. Speaker, we are are in favour of lowering taxes and prices and fighting Liberal inflation. That is what Conservatives are all about. Maybe Liberals believe times are not so bad because their friends around boardroom tables have never had it so good. Lobbyists and consultants are raking it in. Meanwhile, since 2015, visits to food banks in Canada are up 77%. Food prices are up 42% since 2015, and just this week, the newest data confirms food inflation continues to be the highest in the G7, and overall inflation had the worst one-month jump in over a year.

If the Prime Minister still does not believe that grocery prices are rising, maybe he could ask the guy who buys his strawberries for him.

Links & Sharing The Economy Oral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Burlington North—Milton West Ontario

Liberal

Adam van Koeverden Liberal Secretary of State (Sport)

Mr. Speaker, once again, this anti-intellectual approach to policy on behalf of the Conservative Party is not convincing Canadians. This is coming from a guy, the failed former leader of the Conservative Party, the member for Regina—Qu'Appelle, who claimed to be an insurance broker. Actually, the Insurance Bureau of Canada said he was never a broker and asked him if he could take it back; he had to. He also used Conservative Party funds to put his kids in school, or something like that.

I am sorry, but the credibility coming from the other side is just not convincing Canadians. We are cutting taxes, we are lowering gas prices and we are creating a more affordable future for all Canadians.

Links & Sharing The Economy Oral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Conservative

Tim Uppal Conservative Edmonton Gateway, AB

Mr. Speaker, we cannot solve a problem if we deny it even exists, yet the Prime Minister told Canadians that, “Affordability is the best it has been in over a decade.” Yesterday, he doubled down, denying the pain Canadians are feeling at the pumps, in their wallets and at the grocery stores. The fact is, half of Canadians are living paycheque to paycheque. After a year of this Liberal Prime Minister, Canadians are paying more but getting less.

When will the Prime Minister stop denying reality and deliver real results for Canadians?

Links & Sharing The Economy Oral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Gatineau Québec

Liberal

Steven MacKinnon Liberal Minister of Transport and Leader of the Government in the House of Commons

Mr. Speaker, indeed, world events and a number of disruptions around the world have caused prices to increase. The government has been there with a timely reduction in fuel taxes, including on cars, trucks and airplane flights. In the month of June, we will see the first payment under the groceries and essentials benefit. That is all on top of 22 million Canadians getting a tax reduction from this government, which is the first thing we did. We have been there for Canadians on affordability. We know they need it and we will continue to do that.

Links & Sharing The Economy Oral Questions

2:20 p.m.

Conservative

Tim Uppal Conservative Edmonton Gateway, AB

Mr. Speaker, the Liberals want us to believe everything is fine, but Canadians are being crushed by food and fuel costs. After the Prime Minister 's rhetoric, a whole year of it with no results, inflation has jumped again. Families are being forced to cut back, stretch every dollar and, in many cases, rely on the food bank. The government could have adopted our plan to bring down the price of groceries or to remove all the taxes on gas for the rest of the year.

When will it stop with its illusions and deliver real results?

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