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Tuesday, May 9, 2017 · sitting No. 173

Liberals move time allocation on budget bill

Liberal House leader Bardish Chagger moved a motion to limit second reading debate on Bill C-44 to one further sitting day. The bill, which implements the March 22 budget and other measures, would then move to committee. Conservative MP Candice Bergen and NDP MP Murray Rankin criticized the move, noting the bill exceeds 300 pages and arguing that only 39 members had spoken.

Finance Minister Bill Morneau said the bill had already received sufficient debate and should proceed to allow further study at committee. He cited positive economic effects from the previous budget and the need to advance measures such as the infrastructure bank.

Decided that day

  • C-44 passed second reading and sent to finance committee
  • Opposition amendment and no-confidence motion defeated

From the Hansard record of the sitting. Full Hansard

No CPAC Question Period upload is on file for this day. CPAC’s channel goes back to December 2019.

Who held the floor · 2017-05-09

Government (Liberal)OppositionOver the day: government 50%, opposition 50% of the words spokenGovernment businessQuestion PeriodGovernment business▲ Government side held the floor▼ Opposition held the floorOpened 10:0011:0012:0013:0014:0015:0016:0017:0018:00Last speech 19:40Time of day, Ottawa · the House sat 9 h 40 min · each dot is a stretch of debate, placed at the minute it began
65Budget bill advances, confidence motions failThe House devoted most of its time to the budget implementation bill and moved it forward to committee. Opposition attempts to amend the bill or express no confidence in the defence minister were defeated, while question period answers were largely deflected.AI-rated Score out of 100; the verdict and the answer ratings behind it are a model’s reading. How the AI rates this

AI-rated The sitting score and the rating of each answer come from a language model reading Hansard. How the AI rates this

Other moments

Infrastructure

Conservative Leader Rona Ambrose asked why the government is creating an infrastructure bank when private investors are already active and the Liberals have struggled with existing projects. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau replied that additional leverage is required beyond the $180 billion already committed.

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Ethics

Conservative MP Blaine Calkins questioned the use of $30,000 in public funds for Broadway tickets to Come From Away for the Prime Minister's guests. International Trade Minister Chrystia Freeland listed Newfoundlanders honoured at the event, including mayors and volunteers who assisted stranded passengers.

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Framework on Palliative Care in Canada Act

Liberal MP Marilyn Gladu moved third reading of her private member's bill to create a national framework on palliative care. She noted that 70 per cent of Canadians lack access and that the bill has cross-party support.

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Flooding

Bloc Québécois MP Xavier Barsalou-Duval described unprecedented flooding in Quebec that has forced evacuations and closed roads. Liberal MP Stéphane Lauzon expressed thanks to municipal officials, first responders and volunteers assisting affected communities.

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Request for Emergency Debate

Conservative MP Michelle Rempel sought an emergency debate on the rise in asylum seekers crossing the land border, warning of doubled claims this year and strains on housing, legal aid and health services.

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Question Period, exchange by exchange

AI-rated Each answer’s rating (answered, partly answered, deflected, answered something else) is a model’s reading of the exchange. How the AI rates this

  1. deflected
    InfrastructureRona Ambrose (Conservative) asked Justin Trudeau (Liberal). loaded question.The answer restates the $180 billion plan and consultations without addressing why the bank is needed given existing private investment.That is why we consulted the Federation of Canadian Municipalities, the provinces, unions, and various construction and engineering firms in order to develop a mechanism to respond to infrastructure needs.
  2. deflected
    InfrastructureRona Ambrose (Conservative) asked Justin Trudeau (Liberal). loaded question.The answer repeats the investment commitment and partners consulted but ignores the accusation of a vanity project for banks.We understand that even the $180 billion we are going to be putting toward infrastructure in the coming years is not going to be enough to meet all the needs, which is why we are happy to be working with the FCM, unions, construction, and banks to look at how we can leverage dollars even further
  3. deflected
    InfrastructureRona Ambrose (Conservative) asked Justin Trudeau (Liberal). loaded question.The answer pivots to criticizing the previous government instead of addressing the conflict-of-interest concerns raised.We are going to deliver for Canadians what, unfortunately, 10 years of Stephen Harper was unable to.
  4. misdirected
    EthicsRona Ambrose (Conservative) asked Justin Trudeau (Liberal). loaded question.The answer discusses Canada-U.S. ties and the play instead of explaining the use of taxpayer funds for the tickets.This is something worth celebrating, something worth highlighting, and a big part of demonstrating the strength of Canada-U.S. friendship.
  5. deflected
    Foreign AffairsRona Ambrose (Conservative) asked Justin Trudeau (Liberal). rhetorical question.The answer begins a general statement on re-engagement but cuts off without addressing the cardboard cut-outs.we made a commitment to re-engage on the world stage, and since I spend so much time in the House of Commons—
  6. partly answered
    InfrastructureThomas Mulcair (NDP) asked Justin Trudeau (Liberal). substantive question.The answer acknowledges user fees exist in some infrastructure but does not clearly state whether the bank will lead to new tolls for private profit.Canadians need a broad range of infrastructure investments across the country in public transit, where they buy tickets; in delivering power lines, for which they pay fees; and in infrastructure, such as roads and bridges that are toll-free.
  7. deflected
    InfrastructureThomas Mulcair (NDP) asked Justin Trudeau (Liberal). loaded question.The answer lists consultations but avoids confirming or denying secret meetings with corporations on privatization.That is why, in establishing the infrastructure bank, we did not just consult with financial institutions.
  8. deflected
    International TradeThomas Mulcair (NDP) asked Justin Trudeau (Liberal). loaded question.The answer emphasizes standing up for Canadians but does not address the specific claim about the NAFTA call being a PR stunt.Canadians expect us to stand up for the interests of Canadians at all times, and that is exactly what we are doing.
  9. deflected
    Softwood LumberThomas Mulcair (NDP) asked Justin Trudeau (Liberal). rhetorical question.Answer discusses meetings on softwood but avoids the Kushner premise and inaction claim.in every single meeting I have ever had with an American president, I have brought up softwood lumber as one of the very first things that we want to address
  10. partly answered
    Softwood LumberDenis Lebel (Conservative) asked Chrystia Freeland (Liberal). loaded question.Answer rebuts expired agreement and affirms court action plus provincial work but does not address leadership failure directly.The U.S. Department of Commerce's countervailing duties are punitive and unfair.
  11. misdirected
    FinanceDenis Lebel (Conservative) asked Ginette Petitpas Taylor (Liberal). loaded question.Answer pivots to job creation and middle-class investments instead of addressing deficit promises or generational debt.Over the last year, more than 250,000 new jobs were created, and the unemployment rate dropped from 7.1% to 6.5%.
  12. misdirected
    EthicsMr. Blaine Calkins (Conservative) asked Chrystia Freeland (Liberal). loaded question.Answer lists guests at the event rather than addressing taxpayer cost or rule double-standard accusation.One of them was Claude Elliott, the mayor of Gander, who oversaw the set-up of the emergency operations.
  13. misdirected
    EthicsMr. Blaine Calkins (Conservative) asked Chrystia Freeland (Liberal). loaded question.Answer again lists honoured individuals instead of responding to the $30,000 Broadway tickets criticism.Beulah Cooper was there, whose generosity led her to be nicknamed "Florence Nightingale".
  14. deflected
    Foreign AffairsMr. Ben Lobb (Conservative) asked Chrystia Freeland (Liberal). loaded question.Answer redefines seriousness around US outreach and Newfoundland honour rather than addressing cardboard cut-outs or travel spending.Getting serious means working incredibly hard in a whole-of-government approach and an approach that has been bipartisan to reach out to our U.S. allies and neighbours
  15. deflected
    Foreign AffairsMr. John Brassard (Conservative) asked Chrystia Freeland (Liberal). rhetorical question.Answer emphasizes national interest work and thanks diplomats but ignores the cut-outs and question-period attendance jab.our government is absolutely committed to working hard to advance the Canadian national interest and Canadian values around the world.
  16. partly answered
    National DefenceMs. Hélène Laverdière (NDP) asked Mr. Jean Rioux (Liberal). substantive question.Answer affirms legal compliance on detainees and notes prior reviews but does not address the minister's recusal or conflict-of-interest decision.Canada's policies and procedures on detainees have already undergone various reviews, including by the Federal Court of Canada and under CAF internal mechanisms.
  17. deflected
    National DefenceMr. Randall Garrison (NDP) asked Mr. Jean Rioux (Liberal). substantive question.The answer discusses past document reviews and investigations instead of addressing whether the minister informed the commissioner.No less than six investigations were held by the appropriate agencies, including one that is ongoing.
  18. deflected
    National DefenceMr. James Bezan (Conservative) asked Mr. Jean Rioux (Liberal). loaded question.The answer praises the minister's regard for troops and funding policy instead of addressing the call to resign.Today, it is the minister's responsibility to ensure that the members of the Canadian Armed Forces have all the equipment, training, and care they need to carry out their missions, abroad and in Canada.
  19. deflected
    National DefenceMr. James Bezan (Conservative) asked Mr. Jean Rioux (Liberal). loaded question.The answer addresses benefits and compensation rules instead of responding to accusations of misleading Canadians or calls to resign.Our government is working hard to review the compensation rules and find a long-term solution to fix the mess we inherited and to ensure a fair and equitable process for all.
  20. deflected
    National DefenceMr. Pierre Paul-Hus (Conservative) asked Mr. Jean Rioux (Liberal). loaded question.The answer focuses on the minister's mandate and new defence policy instead of addressing the integrity violation or resignation demand.One of the key elements of his mandate is to put together a new defence policy for Canada.
  21. deflected
    National DefenceMr. Pierre Paul-Hus (Conservative) asked Mr. Jean Rioux (Liberal). loaded question.The answer discusses the new defence policy and listening to Canadians instead of addressing the truthfulness or resignation accusations.He will soon be unveiling a new defence policy that includes making sure military personnel have the right equipment and everything they need when they are deployed.
  22. answered
    Public SafetyMr. Richard Cannings (NDP) asked Ralph Goodale (Liberal). substantive question.The answer directly reassures that federal assistance will be provided if needed and is being monitored.The situation is being monitored very carefully, and we have indicated to the Province of British Columbia that if it needs federal assistance, it will be provided, and we will give our answer instantly.
  23. partly answered
    The EnvironmentMr. Romeo Saganash (NDP) asked Catherine McKenna (Liberal). substantive question.The answer addresses working with provinces and indigenous peoples on caribou but does not specifically confirm receiving or responding to the Algonquin request.we are committed to working with the provinces, territories, and indigenous peoples on the protection and recovery of Canada's species at risk, including caribou, in a timely manner using conservation measures based on sound science and robust recovery plans.
  24. deflected
    InfrastructureMs. Dianne L. Watts (Conservative) asked Amarjeet Sohi (Liberal). loaded question.The answer discusses infrastructure support and annual reporting instead of addressing the conflict of interest or shutdown of debate.As far as reporting is concerned, the bank will report to this Parliament on an annual basis.
  25. deflected
    InfrastructureMr. Alain Rayes (Conservative) asked Amarjeet Sohi (Liberal). rhetorical question.Question is a broad accusation without a factual query; answer discusses consultations and public documents instead of conflicts.the presentation made to institutional investors is publicly available.
  26. deflected
    InfrastructurePierre Poilievre (Conservative) asked Amarjeet Sohi (Liberal). loaded question.Question assumes a rigged profit-loss split; answer pivots to general infrastructure benefits and past neglect without addressing loan guarantees.When we do not maintain the infrastructure we have, the economy hurts, jobs are not created, people are stuck in traffic
  27. deflected
    InfrastructurePierre Poilievre (Conservative) asked Amarjeet Sohi (Liberal). loaded question.Question repeats the rigged-bank premise; answer opens with an insult then explains municipal roles without engaging the $35 billion or design influence claim.I am amazed by the lack of understanding on the part of the hon. member.
  28. partly answered
    Citizenship and ImmigrationMs. Jenny Kwan (NDP) asked Mr. Serge Cormier (Liberal). substantive question.Question asks for a halt and repeal; answer acknowledges room for improvement and mentions consultations but does not commit to any action.Our government consulted the stakeholders and looked at the current policies with a view to making improvements to the current asylum system.
  29. deflected
    International DevelopmentMr. Robert Aubin (NDP) asked Marie-Claude Bibeau (Liberal). loaded question.Question accuses the government of diverting aid; answer defends the new institute structure without addressing the $300 million claim or South Sudan funding.This will enable us to form new partnerships with the private sector.
  30. partly answered
    Citizenship and ImmigrationMichelle Rempel (Conservative) asked Mr. Serge Cormier (Liberal). substantive question.Question asks when illegal crossings will be stopped; answer highlights compassionate system and efficiency measures but does not address border enforcement.The Citizenship Commission recently introduced new measures, including shorter hearings for simple cases, in order to make the process more efficient and productive.
  31. deflected
    Rail TransportationMrs. Kelly Block (Conservative) asked Mrs. Karen McCrimmon (Liberal). substantive question.Question asks why grain measures are not renewed; answer stresses future collaboration without explaining the decision not to renew before August 1.Consultation and collaboration with stakeholders has been key to helping develop a solid agenda for transportation in Canada.
  32. deflected
    Rail TransportationMr. David Anderson (Conservative) asked Mrs. Karen McCrimmon (Liberal). loaded question.Question accuses deliberate delay favoring railways; answer repeats commitment to consultation without addressing timing or power shift.Now what we are trying to do is get the people to the table, consult, collaborate, and come up with a solution that works for everyone.
  33. answered
    Foreign AffairsPeter Kent (Conservative) asked Chrystia Freeland (Liberal). loaded question.The answer directly explains the purpose of engaging with Iran in response to the why question.the best way to advance human rights and consular issues in Iran is by talking directly with the regime.
  34. deflected
    SeniorsMs. Rachel Blaney (NDP) asked Jean-Yves Duclos (Liberal). substantive question.The answer ignores the specific tax credit and demographic concerns, instead listing general seniors policies.We have put into place measures that take hundreds of thousands of seniors out of vulnerability through the increase in the CPP.
  35. partly answered
    Interprovincial TradeMr. John Barlow (Conservative) asked Navdeep Bains (Liberal). substantive question.The answer addresses the trade deal and alcohol liberalization but does not confirm action as intervenor in the court case.Part of that Canadian free trade agreement is a working group to liberalize alcohol, so we were very clear.
  36. misdirected
    Interests of QuebecMr. Xavier Barsalou-Duval (Bloc) asked Ginette Petitpas Taylor (Liberal). loaded question.The answer shifts entirely to job numbers and unemployment instead of addressing Quebec influence or the finance minister.Over the last year, more than 250,000 new jobs were created.
  37. partly answered
    Interests of QuebecMr. Gabriel Ste-Marie (Bloc) asked Mélanie Joly (Liberal). substantive question.The answer highlights Quebec infrastructure spending but does not address whether Quebec MPs will assert influence over Toronto.