Dan Albas

Liberalize supply management

The other end of this axis: Defend supply management

Excerpts repeatedly criticize Quebec protectionism on canola and praise expanded trade access for B.C. cherries and wine.

The Quebec government of the time imposed trade barriers that were considered by many to be protectionist, given that over 40% of Canada's dairy industry is supplied by Quebec producers. Ultimately, this is where the Agreement on Internal Trade comes in.

Slower phase-down, production first

The other end of this axis: Faster fossil phase-down

Excerpts defend oil and gas role in net-zero, criticize advisory body lacking industry representation, and reject policies seen as hostile to the sector.

In fact, the Minister of Natural Resources said, “We're not reaching net-zero without our oil and gas sector in this country. We're not reaching it.” I agree with this minister and expected direct representation from this critical industry on the group advising government.

Expand production and export

The other end of this axis: Restrict new oil and gas

Excerpts endorse pipeline projects like Trans Mountain for economic benefits and criticize opposition.

Why is that a concern? As an example, the Trans Mountain pipeline will generate $13 million annually in tax revenue for the regional district of Thompson-Nicola. Merritt alone, which currently collects $150,000 from the existing Trans Mountain pipeline, would see that increase to $250,000 a year, as a result of the expansion.

Provinces lead

The other end of this axis: Ottawa leads

Excerpts stress respecting unique provincial jurisdictions and partnerships rather than central direction.

It is important to have flexibility to meet the individual needs of provinces and municipalities. I note that the member for Trinity—Spadina has reflected this language within parts of Bill C-305.

Assertive alliances and sanctions

The other end of this axis: Alliance restraint

Excerpts call for coherent framework on China, highlight human rights and arbitrary detentions, and support Ukraine.

Between trade sanctions, arbitrary detention of Canadians, crackdowns on legitimate protests and concentration camps for Uighur Muslims, Canadians are questioning our current relationship with China. Last night at the Canada-China committee, we heard from Ambassador Barton, who admitted the relationship was broken, yet he gave us very little reassurance that the Liberal government has a coherent plan or strategy.

More private delivery

The other end of this axis: Expand public coverage

Excerpts oppose new tax on employer-sponsored health and dental benefits that would affect 24 million Canadians.

Taxing these benefit plans will not simplify the tax code, bring more fairness to Canadians or help grow the middle class. It will download complexity onto Canadian employers and leave many Canadians and their families and dependents without the care they need.

Market supply and deregulation

The other end of this axis: Public supply and demand controls

Excerpts criticize mortgage rule changes that hinder ownership and support equity building through markets.

If anything, the government should be focused on measures that increase the supply of housing to help increase affordability. More home owners mean more equity for those home owners down the road, and less need for an expensive payroll tax like big CPP.

Deeper continental integration

The other end of this axis: Diversify away from one partner

Excerpts consistently promote multiple free trade agreements for economic growth.

Our Conservative government has been very clear about the priority it places on implementing free trade agreements. These agreements help Canadians compete in overseas markets.